As you approach your wedding plans, you have to ask yourself some tough questions. How much are you comfortable spending? Are you willing to eat Ramen Noodles for every meal while you plan this shin-dig? Will there be money left when you are done? This is your chance to sketch out the framework for the wedding.

First, make a list of wants and needs. You need someone to officiate the ceremony, but do you really need the chocolate fountain or the white doves? You need to entertain your guests, but do you need an orchestra?

How many guests do you expect? The more guests, the bigger the venue and the more food and alcohol you will have to provide. Do you need to invite your coworkers in accounting? Don't forget your aunt from Toledo. How many people will be in your bridal party? The bigger the wedding party, the more bouquets and thank you gifts you will have to buy.

As you shop and book services, keep track of everything. If you are not the type of person to keep receipts, use a notebook, a spreadsheet on your computer, or an app on your phone. This will keep you conscious of how much money is really leaving your wallet.