One of the first things I always encourage couples to think about is their wedding budget.

Not because I want to know how much you’re spending, but because it’s one decision that has a knock-on effect throughout your entire planning journey.

Once you have a realistic budget in mind, every other decision becomes much easier. You can start approaching suppliers with confidence, receive quotations that are relevant to your plans, and avoid wasting time looking at options that simply aren’t the right fit.

Without a budget, it’s easy to find yourself sending enquiries to lots of different companies, receiving completely different quotes, and feeling even more confused than when you started.

If you’re looking for a bespoke wedding designer, one of the first questions you’ll probably be asked is, “What’s your budget?”

I know some people find that uncomfortable because it can feel like the quotation will simply be built around the number you give.

In reality, it’s the opposite.

When I know your budget, I’m able to design with purpose. I can recommend where your investment will have the biggest impact, suggest alternatives where needed, and create a proposal that’s realistic from the very beginning.

The truth is, if you’ve never planned a wedding before, it’s incredibly difficult to know what your vision actually costs. The beautiful tablescape or floral installation you’ve saved on Pinterest might be achievable or it might require a completely different level of investment. That’s where my experience comes in.

Having an open conversation about your budget helps bridge the gap between the ideas you’ve fallen in love with and what’s realistically possible.

It also saves time for both of us.

Every proposal I create is carefully considered. I spend time understanding your venue, looking through your inspiration, reading your notes and thinking about how to bring everything together in a way that feels personal to you. If we haven’t spoken about budget, there’s a chance I could design something that’s completely outside your expectations, meaning we both end up going back to the drawing board.

I’d much rather spend that time creating something that’s right for you from the very beginning.

For me, asking about your budget isn’t about putting a price on your wedding.

It’s about understanding your priorities, respecting your investment, and helping you create the most beautiful celebration possible within it.

Written by Necla Ates the Founder of Loving Events Luxury Event Styling and Event Design in London.