Keep receipts in a special folder or binder. Receipts are evidence of money paid and help you keep track of actual expenses. Get price quotes from vendors and keep them in a folder so you can compare them when making a final decision. Shop around for wedding rings and attire and keep business cards and ads in your wedding folder. Create a guest list so you know the number of people to budget for. Remember, the longer your guest list the more money you are likely to spend. Ask for referrals from family and friends. Often the people you know will know someone else who is willing to extend a good deal to you.

Decide which items are priorities for both of you so you know what you will focus on. Remember items such as photographs and wedding rings are with you long after the party ends. Consider saving money by creating your own centerpieces, making pew markers and sending handmade invitations.

Setting a wedding budget should never impact your long-term financial goals as a couple. Your wedding expenses should not cause you to max out your credit cards or wipe out your house savings fund. A realistic wedding budget is excellent practice for the future as a married couple.

Discipline and organization are skills that will serve you well for many years. Setting a wedding budget is practice for the main events of buying a house, planning for a family and saving for the future.