How to Write a Proposal to Friends & Family to Sponsor a Wedding

For many people, the stress that comes along with paying for a wedding can turn what should be an enjoyable experience into one giant argument. No one should have to stress out about getting married, as there are a variety of different ways to pay for a wedding. One of the best ways to cover the costs of a wedding is to have it sponsored by family and friends. Writing a sponsorship proposal doesn't have to be difficult, so long as you go about it in a methodical manner.

Begin your proposal by addressing it specifically to the individual you are sending it to, rather than "to whom it may concern" or another general form of address. Explain that you are getting married and are looking for sponsorship in order to cover the costs. For example, you may write something similar to "We would like to invite you to the ceremony, and urge you to consider sponsoring the event." Ensure that you do not list any details in terms of exactly how much money you are looking for in the beginning section of the proposal.

Explain clearly the specific type of sponsorship you are in need of. For example, you may write something such as "In order for the event to go as planned, we are in need of a sponsor to pay for our wedding cake." It is best to ask for something different from each person you send a proposal to. For example, you may want to ask another person to sponsor the photographer.

Outline what the person will get in return for sponsoring your wedding. Ideas for repaying a sponsor can include listing the sponsor's name in the back of the wedding program, placing advertisements for his or her business throughout the room during the wedding or placing insert cards in the wedding invitations that are sent out. You may write something along the lines of "In return for sponsorship, your business/company logo will be prominently featured on page 4 of the wedding program." Detail the amount of money you are in need of if it is known. If not, leave this part out of the proposal.

Thank the individual for considering your proposal and politely end the letter by reiterating that sponsorship is completely optional, and would be appreciated but is not necessary. Ensure that at least two people proofread the letter before sending it out.

Send out the proposal at least six months before the date of the wedding, as some people may be slow to respond. If you have not heard back from a potential sponsor within three months, it is fair to attempt follow up, which normally comes in the form of a short, polite letter. The sponsor should have the choice to either give money directly to the bride or donate services such as photography or catering.