Creating a wedding budget is essential for ensuring your wedding goes smoothly and stays within your financial limits. Here’s a general breakdown of how you can go about it:
1. Set Your Total Budget
Decide on the overall amount you are comfortable spending. Consider your savings, and whether you’ll be getting financial help from family or other sources. Be realistic about what you can afford, and factor in any unexpected costs.
2. Breakdown by Categories
Next, allocate portions of the total budget to different areas of your wedding. Here’s a general list of categories and their approximate percentages (you can adjust these based on your priorities):
- Venue (10–20%): The location where your ceremony and reception will take place.
- Catering (20–25%): This includes food, drinks, and service.
- Attire (5–10%): Bride’s dress, groom’s attire, accessories, and alterations.
- Photography/Videography (10–15%): Professional photos and/or video of the day.
- Entertainment (5–10%): DJ, live band, or other forms of entertainment.
- Flowers (5–10%): Bouquets, arrangements, ceremony decorations, etc.
- Invitations & Stationery (2–5%): Invitations, save-the-dates, and programs.
- Transportation (2–5%): Transportation for the couple and/or guests.
- Cake (2–5%): Wedding cake and any dessert alternatives.
- Favors (1–3%): Gifts for guests as a thank you for attending.
- Hair & Makeup (2–5%): Beauty services for the bride and bridal party.
- Miscellaneous (5–10%): Tips, officiant fee, marriage license, and any last-minute expenses.
3. Track Expenses
Keep track of all payments and deposits. This can be done with a spreadsheet or wedding planning apps that have budget-tracking features.
4. Prioritize Your Wants
Make sure to spend more on the areas that matter most to you (whether that’s a dream venue, a specific photographer, or extra entertainment) and trim back on others that might be less important.
5. Account for Hidden Costs
Many wedding costs are easy to overlook, like taxes, service fees, overtime charges, and gratuities. Always check your contracts carefully to avoid surprises.
6. Build in a Contingency Fund
It’s a good idea to set aside around 5-10% of your total budget for unexpected expenses. Weddings often have last-minute needs, and having that cushion can help ease any stress.
7. Consider DIY or Alternative Options
You can save money by opting for DIY projects (like centerpieces, invites, etc.) or exploring less traditional alternatives (such as a smaller guest list, less formal attire, or an off-peak wedding date).
To find a helpful wedding budget spreadsheet go to: Wedding Planning Tools • The Hills Wedding Guide.
