Budgeting for a Wedding
A wedding is a really exciting event – but can be quite stressful to plan! Here are some helpful tips to help you keep on top of your budget during this time.
Organisation is key to making the most of your wedding day, and a great starting point is to begin by discussing your expectations with your partner and deciding what kind of wedding you both want.
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Here are a few wedding planning and budgeting tips to help you get organised:
Work out how much you can afford to spend
Weddings don’t have to be expensive, but the range of prices is large, so it is important to ensure your budget reflects your own personal situation. Also, at this point it can be valuable to assess any areas in which you could reduce costs, to ensure your money is spent on things that you value. Additionally, remember to keep a fund for unexpected costs and emergencies.
Once you have set your budget, you can think about ways to finance your wedding.
Create a rough guest list
The size of your wedding list is key to creating your budget and will help you get an idea of how much money you should be putting aside. List everyone you want to invite, and consider how you want to prioritise. This will help you keep the costs down, or even make it possible to host your party in a smaller venue, which could further reduce your expenses.
Decide your priorities and non-negotiables
Is your dream dress a non-negotiable? Think about what matters most to you and your partner. Do your research to get inspired, determine your wedding style, and write down your priorities. This could also help you understand where to assign your budget’s larger portions and where you can compromise and make sacrifices.
Don’t forget hidden costs
Missing things can be easy, especially if you’re excited about planning your wedding. Creating a spreadsheet or detailed list could help you track even the smallest costs. To make the process easier, add in a few columns including estimated and actual costs, additional service fees, taxes and supplier contact information.
Allocating your wedding budget can be a challenging wedding-planning task. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical expenses that you can adjust based on your needs and priorities:
Ceremony: 2%
This cost covers the ceremony venue, registrar’s fee or donation to the church, as well as the marriage certificate. However, having the ceremony and reception at the same venue could help you save a few pounds.
Venue: 25%
The price of hiring a venue will vary – but will typically be one of your wedding’s biggest expenses. You’ll usually need to make a deposit and cover the rental and ceremony fee, but you should also carefully consider what’s included in the price. To pick the best deal, compare multiple venue packages, understand what they include and ask questions about the details.
Catering: 25%
The cost of your catering depends on the length of your guest list and will typically include a service charge. Bear in mind that things like serving multiple courses, offering a free bar and paying staff can push the price up.
Music – performers: 12%
Set aside a realistic amount for the entertainment. Again, the cost can vary depending on various factors, such as the style of music, playing time, number of musicians, location and time of the day. In any case, it’s important to check if your preferred venue has any specific rules or regulations about playing music.
Photography – videography: 10%
The price depends on how many photographers you’d like to have on your wedding, how much time you need them to spend and if you’d like them to create a photo album, video trailer or feature film after the ceremony.
Couple's attire – beauty: 12%
Who doesn’t want to look perfect on their wedding day? Wedding rings, outfits, accessories, shoes, as well as pre-wedding beauty treatments are just a few costs to take into consideration when breaking down your wedding budget.
Flowers – décor: 10%
Flowers and decorations might be an expensive part of your wedding, but can transform your venue and elevate your special day.
Stationery: 2%
Wedding save-the-date cards and invitations, as well as postage, could cost more than you might expect, especially if you choose to use luxurious paper.
Transport: 2%
Depending on the venue, you might need transportation from the wedding party to the ceremony.
Find out more using our wedding budget planner.
Looking to cut your wedding’s costs down? A carefully organised wedding ceremony doesn’t need to cost the earth.
Pick your wedding day wisely
Try to be flexible and practical in your approach. Prices can skyrocket during popular periods, and it’s also important to be sure your guests will be available. To keep the costs down, avoid peak seasons, like summer or major holiday like Christmas and lean towards Fridays and Sundays instead of Saturdays.
Cut the guest list down
Reduce the number of guests, carefully thinking who you’d like to share this special moment with. Keep in mind that catering is typically charged per head, so trimming your list could help you throw a better party for less.
Consider a cheaper wedding package
Do your research to find the best deals from venues that offer affordable packages, which take care of food, drinks and music. These could help you save both effort and money and might be a cheaper option than booking everything separately.
Cut your make-up, hair and dress costs
Look for special deals for brides and bridesmaids, opt for a pre-loved dress or look for high-street bargains.
Get creative
Do your online research to find DIY wedding inspiration. Design your own invitations online and email them to your guests, or make your own decorations to add your personal touch.
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