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Getting married is no easy task. A lot of effort needs to be put in before you can say the long-awaited “I do”. And before you even plan on which dress to say yes to, and which ring to forever hold on to, you need to establish your wedding budget.

Crafting a well-thought-out wedding budget is one step closer to your perfect wedding. Will it be overwhelming? Yes. Stressful? You bet. But manageable if done properly. 

So, what are the steps in ensuring you are allocating your budget the way it’s supposed to be? In this post, we will help you figure out the breakdown of wedding costs for your big day.

First things first, how much are you willing to spend for your wedding? According to The Knot, the total average wedding cost is $33,900. But yours need not be the same amount. It still depends on how big you want your wedding to be. 

Regardless of your starting number, divide your budget so you can determine where to allocate the funds. To better show you, here’s a guide for spending your funds and how to distribute them.

Wedding Budget Allocation

Reception – 50%

This includes your venue rental fee, catering, bar and drinks, cake and cutting fee, site rentals, and after-party.

Music and Entertainment 10%

This would be for your ceremony musicians and reception band/DJ. 

Dress and Attire – 10% 

For your wedding dress, alterations, accessories, hair and makeup, tux, or suit.

Photo and Video – 10% 

For your photographer, videographer, albums, engagement shoot.

Flowers and Decor – 10%

Includes flowers, lighting, decors rentals.

Ceremony – 5%

Includes location rental, officiant fee, rings, marriage license.

Stationary and Guest Details – 5%

For your invitations, save the dates, postage, name cards, favors, transportation, welcome bags.

If you have different priorities, you can adjust the percentages in these categories. 

Once you’re set on how much you want to spend on each category, don’t forget to keep track of your spending. Create a spreadsheet and fill in columns with the necessary information. Input your vendor’s contact information, costs (estimated and actual), tips, and taxes. By doing this, you can keep tabs on your spending.

 

Wedding Guide Budget
Wedding Budget Guide

 

References:

Wedding Budget Breakdown

The Knot Real Wedding Study