2017 has arrived

The champagne bottles are empty.  The confetti has fallen and we are in full swing of 2017.  The meaning of this falls far beyond "where were you when the ball fell?"  We are into another year of life and here at the park, preparing for another season of picnics, parties and especially weddings.  

What's unique about a Harrybrooke wedding is that most are not planned out 4 years in advance.  Engagements are shorter these days and there's just no need to take forever to lock down your venue, caterers and so on.  Here are a few facts for you to consider:

*The average wedding budget is $20,000
I don;t know about you, but I don't have $20k socked away under the mattress.  That's a significant downpayment for a house.
*The bride's parents traditionally pay for the wedding.
This tradition has become less and less a reality.  Last yeat only 17% of bride's parents paid for the wedding and over 30% of couples pay for their big day themselves.  
*Most wedding guests spend between $70 and $100 on a gift
So much for covering the cost of their plate, right?  If the average gift is $85, then (and using the $20k mentioned above) you're welcoming 236 guests to cover the expenses.  S omuch for gaining ground or putting cash aside for a honeymoon.  
*Finally, the average Honeymoon costs $3,657.  
Considering 99% of couples take a Honeymoon, and the average trip is 7 to 9 days long, IF you can both get that much time off from work.  

What do all of these numbers mean?  It means the trend in wedding is now outside the church.  20% of couples now find an alternative location for their celebration.  More and more people are shifting from 200 guests to under 100.  

It means, more than anything, that you shouldn't live beyond your means for one day of celebration. While the "big wedding dream" is engrained in us all, it's not financially smart.  Why spend $20K on a wedding when you can have a gorgeous day and an incredible celebration for half of that if not less.  Places like our own Harrybrooke Park allow you to have a beutiful destination while maintaining a budget that allows for a Honeymoon and some cash in your bank account when you get back.  

We have dates open for 2017 and 2018 available for you in all seasons, providing the museum for the bride to get preparred on the grounds, and a staff ready to help you plan as much as you want.  Give us a call and see how stress freeyour wedding day can be! 

-Billy Buckbee
Executive Director 
Harrybrooke Park & Harden House Museum

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