What was your overall budget? 33k

Did you use a budgeting software to stay on track? If so, what percentages did you allot to each category? Yes, we used wedding wire primarily, and their recommendations for our area.

What was the budget breakdown for your wedding?

Venue: $18k (included planning, food, DJ, rentals, cake, flowers, package add-ons for food/decorations/flowers)
Alcohol: $2k
Transportation: $2. 5k
Save the dates/Invitations: $1k
Photography: $3k
Attire: $1. 5k
Rings: $2. 5k
Pastor: $600
Gifts: $600
Hair/Makeup: $250
Misc: $1k

What were the most important "must-have" elements for your wedding? Photographer, Tuscan themed menu options and full bar

What are your tips for the best cost saving "swaps"? I used a "sample shop" to purchase my dress. It was roughly half the cost of the retail price. Also, choose a venue with an all inclusive package. Inquire what the package actually includes. Ours had an array of decoration choices and included all of the basics, as well as flowers, decor, planning, food, dj, rentals, etc. Go with a venue that will allow you to host your own bar, Purchasing your own alcohol significantly reduces price.

What did you DIY? Any good sources for supplies and material? We DIY'ed ourWedding favors, our bread bar and all of the special signs.

What was your most memorable moment from your wedding? The communion at our ceremony. A very intimate and special moment.

Any fun or quirky details that you infused? Everything was tuscan themed. We have a great love for Italy and definitely incorporated that into our wedding.

Biggest budget regrets? We ordered two buses for transportation to make it easy on our guests but probably could've just done one bus!

Best advice for budget savvy brides? Don't overthink every little detail. Choose your top three music haves and put most of your focus on those. The rest will fall into place!