8 Splurges You Won't Regret on Your Wedding Day

Coming up with a wedding budget is one of the first steps you should take after getting engaged. After all, it’s essential to secure vendors and prioritize your wants. But that means picking and choosing where to concentrate your finances. Creating a budget doesn’t mean that you can’t spend lavishly in some areas to enhance your wedding, though. Here are eight splurges you won’t regret taking on your big day.

Hire a Wedding Planner

Although some folks see dollar signs when thinking about hiring a wedding planner, the benefit far outweighs the cost. Plus, a planner can save you money in the long run. A quality planner will help you stay on budget and connect you with other trusted wedding vendors. Having someone by your side every step of the way is a comfort, and many planners also act as wedding day coordinators. On the big day, they can field any problems and keep your ceremony and reception running smoothly.

Choose the Appropriate Venue

Your wedding venue sets the tone for your day. Things like layout, colors, and overall style—ballroom, rustic, garden, or urban—are determined by the space you select. Some venues may seem like a big splurge, but check and see what your location has to offer. Many sites have chairs, tables, linens, dinnerware, and centerpieces. A well-stocked venue means you don’t have to hire a rental company to bring in wedding day essentials.

Hire a Quality Photographer

After the big day, food spoils, flowers fade, and the dress gets put away. All you’ll have left is your memories. Although you’ll look back on your day fondly, having photos of your wedding is a way to preserve those feelings. Dash any thoughts of having your friend or uncle take pictures unless they’re a true professional. Wedding day photography is one area that is well worth the splurge. Not only will you be able to display your images, but they’ll also be passed down for generations to come.

Capture the Day on Video

Of course, your photographer can capture all of your well-thought-out details and get still images of your ceremony and reception. However, having a video of your wedding is like having a time capsule of your wedding. Capturing moments throughout the day—your partner wiping a tear from their cheek as you walk down the aisle or the funny antics of your ring bearer—is a way to hone in on the small moments. Then, years later, you’ll be able to watch your wedding video and savor the love you share.

Use a Professional Hair and Makeup Artist

Sure, your BFF from high school or uber-talented sister could apply makeup or style your hair for a date night., but date nights only last a few hours. Hiring a professional to create a lasting look ensures you feel confident and look fabulous in your photos.

Select the Right Music

Your reception can either be hopping or a snooze fest—and this is largely determined by your entertainment. Set the tone for your wedding reception with the type of music you select, but also choose someone who can keep things flowing. Often a DJ or lead singer will act as an emcee by announcing the wedding party. Hiring someone with a vibrant personality is a must.

Make Your Wedding Guests Comfortable

If your guests are sweating at your July outdoor wedding or freezing at your November outdoor wedding, they definitely won’t forget your day. Maya Angelou was right when she said that people remember how others made them feel. Of course, you need to keep your guests comfortable, entertained, and well-fed, but there are other areas to consider.

While you’re in the wedding planning stages, look at your decisions from the guests’ perspective. Doing so will go a long way in making your day memorable in a positive way.

Add Something Important to You as a Couple

Talk to your partner about what you want for your wedding, and go for it! Pick one area to splurge that will make your day unique for the two of you. Spring for the lavish floral installations, budget for specialty cocktails, or hire that sought-after doughnut truck to keep your guests satiated well into the night. Concentrate on whatever is important to you, and then pull back in other areas. For example, if you splurge on upscale catering, you may have to skimp on something else, such as foregoing that designer wedding dress.

Splurging in some areas on your wedding day is well worth it—if you spend in the right places. Preserving your memories, making your guests feel special, and having an expert by your side can help elevate your big day. Talk to your significant other about what’s important to you as a couple. You both deserve a day that is uniquely and beautifully yours.