One of the first steps in wedding planning is setting a budget—and sticking to it! 💡 It can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can create the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.

Read on for tips on how to manage your wedding finances and stay on track!

Why Budgeting is Essential

Creating a budget for your wedding is something many would rather skip, but setting a realistic budget is crucial as it helps you on the rest of your journey.

It doesn’t matter if you are planning to spend just a few thousand or even a million, having a number in mind will make it so much easier to stay on track, narrow down your options when looking at venues and vendors, and help you spend your money on the right things.

We all know talking about money can be uncomfortable, especially when you have to be honest with yourself. That’s why we created this guide—to make the process less complicated!

After following these steps, you should be able to continue your wedding planning knowing exactly what you have to spend.

Step 1: Determine Your Total Budget

Calculate how much money you can set aside for your wedding each month and use that as a starting point.
Consider any savings or money already set aside for the wedding.
NEVER take a loan to pay for your wedding. Starting a marriage with debt is not a good idea.
Only count gifted money if you have already received it; don’t rely on potential wedding gifts.

There is no right or wrong amount when it comes to the total cost of a wedding. It all depends on what is included in the budget, how many guests you are inviting, and what elements you choose to prioritise.

Download the Priority Planner

Step 2: Keep Your Guest List in Mind

Your guest count directly impacts your overall wedding budget. More guests mean higher costs for catering, rentals, and venue size. Before finalising your budget, create a guest list to get an estimate of these expenses.

Step 3: Identify Your Top Priorities

Decide on the three most important aspects of your wedding. Is it the venue, photography, or an incredible dining experience? Knowing your top priorities will help you allocate your budget wisely and cut costs in areas that matter less to you.

Step 4: Create a Wedding Budget Spreadsheet

Stay organised by listing all expected expenses in a spreadsheet. Include columns for:

Item/Service/Product
Estimated Cost
Actual Cost
Paid/Unpaid Status

This will help you track your spending and avoid surprises!

Step 5: Categories for Your Wedding Budget

Legal & Administrative

Wedding insurance
Prenup
Certificate of no impediment
Setting up a joint bank account
Name changes (passport, ID, etc.)

Planning Services

Wedding coordinator or planner

Attire

For the Bride:

Dress
Veil
Alternate outfit
Lingerie
Shoes
Bag
Accessories
Jewellery
Cover-ups

For the Groom:

Suit or tuxedo
Shoes
Accessories (tie, bow tie, cufflinks, etc.)

For the Wedding Party:

Bridesmaids' dresses & accessories
Groomsmen's suits & accessories

Rings

Wedding bands
Polishing of engagement rings
Ring box

Beauty

Makeup
Hairstyling
Manicure & pedicure
Skin treatments
Teeth whitening
Spray tans

Stationery & Signage

Save the date cards
Invitations & envelopes
Ceremony & reception signage
Seating chart & place cards
Thank you cards

Ceremony

Venue hire
Officiant
Furniture & decor rentals
Sound & technical equipment

Reception

Venue hire
Rentals (tables, chairs, linens)
Staff
Sound & lighting

Food & Drinks

Canapés
Wedding dinner
Cake or dessert
Late-night snacks
Wedding toast
Beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic)

Flowers & Decorations

Bouquets & corsages
Ceremony arrangements
Table decor
Candles & holders

Photography & Videography

Photographer
Videographer
Albums & prints

Transportation & Parking

Transportation for you to the ceremony location
Transportation between the ceremony location and reception venue
Transportation from the reception venue at the end of the night
Couriers for decor and travel costs for your vendors (remember to think about the day after too)

Entertainment

Guestbook
Photo booth
Games
Dance lessons
Dj
Band

Guest Gifts

Accommodation

Honeymoon

Rehearsal Dinner & Day-After Brunch

Final Thoughts

A well-planned budget allows you to enjoy the wedding planning process without stress. Focus on what truly matters to you and be mindful of unnecessary expenses. By following these steps, you can have a wedding that reflects your vision while staying within your means.

Start planning today and make your dream wedding a reality without financial worries! 🌟

Wedding budget advice