Creating a budget for your wedding might feel like a chore, but it’s a must-do as you start the planning process.

Your wedding budget doesn’t have to be a complicated math equation or involve multiple spreadsheets, though. Starting to budget can be as simple as totaling how much money you have to work with, figuring out expected costs, and finding creative ways to save along the way.

Here are our top five tips to get started budgeting for the wedding of your dreams.

1. Total Exactly How Much Money You Have to Work With

Step one is figuring out a set budget. Total up how much you and your fiance are willing to contribute to the wedding budget, plus add up any other potential contributions from family and loved ones.

2. If Necessary, Cut Down the Guest List

How much you’ll spend on the wedding really comes down to the cost per guest. So, typically the fewer guests you have, the less your wedding will cost. Finalize your guest list and, if necessary, make cuts.

3. Write Out All Expected Costs

Make a list of every expected wedding day expense, including everything from a wedding planner, to the dress and tux rental, to tips for vendors. You may not know the exact cost of everything yet, but this will give you an idea of what to expect as you start to fill out your budget.

4. Budget for Unexpected Costs

You can write out every expense you can think of, but there are likely some unexpected costs that are going to come up. Don’t forget to allocate some funds for these.

5. Do Your Research

If you’re looking to cut costs, a Friday evening ceremony or venue located just outside your city could save you a lot of money. Do your research early on, and think of creative ways to save.

Even though a wedding budget can feel like a lot of work, it’s necessary so you can track your spending and stay on budget as you go through the planning process. For more budget tips check out Zola’s Expert Advice.