The President's Tender Trap

Sunlight streamed through the curtains onto Su Wan and Lu Ming's dining table, a warm and bright glow. The two sat together, their faces spread out with various wedding planning documents and checklists. While their previous discussions had filled them with anticipation, as preparations deepened, practical issues began to surface, particularly regarding the wedding budget.

"Lu Ming, we need to seriously discuss the wedding budget." Su Wan picked up a list and frowned slightly, "I feel like we may have exceeded our expectations."

Lu Ming nodded, the smile on his face gradually fading. "I feel the same way. All the projects we've discussed before, when added up, are really scary."

"Let's start with the most basic items." Su Wan flipped through the documents and listed the wedding expenses item by item: "Venue, catering, photography, wedding dress, decorations...each item will cost a lot."

"The venue is one of our biggest expenses," Lu Ming said. "I remember the rent for the garden venue we chose was not cheap."

"Yes, and we also need to consider the cost of catering. The quality of the dishes and the number of people we're entertaining directly affect the budget." Su Wan took a deep breath and continued, "There's also the wedding dress, suit, makeup, photographer... these are the big expenses."

"I will try my best to find some cost-effective suppliers, but even so, adding up all the expenses will still make people feel stressed." Lu Ming put his hand on his forehead helplessly and began to look through the list.

"We can find ways to save money in each item." Su Wan suggested, "For example, if we can decorate the venue ourselves, we may save a lot of money."

"That's a good idea." Lu Ming nodded in agreement. "Also, if any of the relatives or friends we invite are good at photography, we can consider asking them to help take photos. This will also save a lot of money."

"Also, regarding the wedding dress, I could consider renting a second-hand one, or borrowing one from a friend." Su Wan pondered, "Many people are willing to share their wedding dresses, especially if their wedding has already passed."

After hearing this, Lu Ming had an idea. "Right! We can also look for some wedding resources online, such as rental platforms. We might find something unexpected."

The two began to analyze the budget line by line, trying to find room for savings. Although they felt a little uneasy, they both understood that they had to face reality.

"I remember that wedding banquet dishes can be divided into several categories. We can choose relatively affordable dishes." Su Wan suggested as she looked through the list of dishes, "This way we can ensure the quality and we don't have to pursue overly high-end dishes."

"Well, I agree. We can choose some reputable catering companies that can guarantee the quality of the dishes while keeping the budget under control." Lu Ming said seriously, "Also, you can consider bringing your own drinks for the wedding day. Many places allow it."

As the discussion deepened, Su Wan and Lu Ming gradually sorted out their thoughts and the pressure in their hearts eased a little. They decided to divide the budget into several categories, set upper limits for each item, and list priorities.

"I think we can divide the budget into three parts: highest priority, second highest priority, and optional," Su Wan suggested. "For example, the venue and catering are essential, while some decorations and small details can be considered for a lower budget."

"That's a good idea. This way we can clearly know which money must be spent and which can be flexibly adjusted." Lu Ming agreed.

Together they marked off the list, analyzing it item by item. After some discussion, they finally settled on a preliminary budget that, while still tight, was a viable path for both of them.

"Although it is still a little beyond our expectations, we have found some ways to save money." Su Wan said with a hint of relief in her tone.

"Yes, we can also consider some ways to raise funds." Lu Ming thought about it, and the gradually clearer ideas made him cheer up again. "For example, explain the situation to relatives and friends in advance and see if they are willing to support us in the form of gifts."

"This is a good idea. Everyone will definitely understand our situation." Su Wan responded, feeling a little relieved.

"We could also consider sharing our preparation process on social media platforms to attract the attention of sponsors or suppliers," Lu Ming continued. "Perhaps we could get some discounts or free services that way."

"This way, there might be unexpected gains." Su Wan's eyes flickered with hope. "We can write down these ideas and form a plan."

Time slipped by quietly, and sunlight streamed through the curtains onto their workstations, bringing a touch of warmth. Su Wan and Lu Ming smiled at each other. Despite the pressure, their hearts were filled with anticipation for the future.

"I think we can make a timetable and implement each expense step by step. This will be more organized." Su Wan suggested.

"Yes, we can start with the most urgent projects, such as venues and catering, and make sure these basic things are in place." Lu Ming nodded seriously.

"Then we will gradually implement other projects, such as wedding dresses, photography, decoration, etc." Su Wan added, her mind gradually becoming clear.

After a long discussion, the two finally developed a detailed budget plan, with priorities and room for adjustment for each expense. Although the expenses were still tight, they both understood that only by facing reality could they better plan for the future.

"I think our plan is already very complete, and we will implement it step by step." Lu Ming said with satisfaction, with a determined light in his eyes.

"Yes, we can definitely do it." Su Wan responded, her heart full of confidence.

As time went by, wedding preparations continued. Despite frequent budgetary concerns, Su Wan and Lu Ming worked hand in hand, striving to overcome every obstacle. They knew that a wedding was more than just a ceremony; it was a testament to their love and a commitment to their future life together.

"As long as we work together, nothing can stop us." Lu Ming said firmly.

"That's right. No matter how difficult the future is, we will face it together." Su Wan responded with a smile, with a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

During this challenging preparation process, their relationship grew stronger and their hearts were filled with anticipation for the future. Although budgetary concerns still existed, with each other's company, they believed that everything would get better.

The excitement of wedding planning gradually subsided after the budget struggles. Su Wan and Lu Ming eagerly planned the upcoming big day. However, just when they thought everything was going well, unexpected news struck like a bolt from the blue, disrupting their plans.