Start from the total, not the wish list
Weddings are easy to overspend because each vendor quote seems reasonable on its own. Setting the total first and then giving each category a share keeps the whole within reach. This calculator uses typical shares based on how couples commonly spend; adjust them to your priorities.
The default split
After setting aside a buffer, the budget is divided as follows:
- Venue and catering: 45%, adjustable, usually the largest item
- Photography and video: 12%
- Attire, hair and makeup: 10%
- Music and entertainment: 9%
- Flowers and decor: 10%
- Rings: 4%
- Stationery, favors and gifts: 4%
- Transport, officiant and other: 6%
If you change the venue and catering share, the other categories are scaled so the total still adds up to your spending budget.
Example
A couple has $30,000 for 120 guests and keeps a 10% buffer:
- Buffer: $3,000, leaving $27,000 to spend
- Budget per guest: 27,000 ÷ 120 = $225
- Venue and catering: $12,150, about $101 per guest
- Photography and video: $3,240
- Attire and beauty: $2,700; flowers and decor: $2,700
- Music: $2,430
- Transport and other: $1,620; rings and stationery: $1,080 each
Where the money goes
The guest count drives most costs: catering, rentals, invitations, favors and often the size of the venue. Cutting 20 guests often saves more than any negotiation. Food and drink quotes in the US usually exclude a service charge of 18 to 25% and sales tax, so ask for all-in prices and include tips for vendors.
Ways to make it work
- Choose an off-season month, or a Friday or Sunday, when venues charge less.
- Serve a buffet, family-style meal or brunch instead of a plated dinner.
- Prioritize the two or three things you care most about and economize on the rest.
- Rent or buy pre-owned attire and decor.
- Track every deposit and payment date in one place.
Remember costs that are not part of the day itself, such as the engagement ring, the honeymoon and wedding insurance, which most budgets treat separately.