
It Starts with an Honest Look at the Numbers.
Step 1:This Conversation is Key!
Who's Contributing?
Discuss openly: Will it be just the two of you? Are parents or other family members offering to help?
Pro-Tip: If family is contributing, have a clear, kind conversation early to understand if their contribution comes with expectations and what the specific amount is.
What's the Grand Total?
Add up all confirmed contributions and what you plan to save/spend. This is your Total Wedding Budget.
Be realistic:
If your dream wedding costs more than your current total, consider a longer engagement to save or revisit your priorities (which we'll discuss!).
The Bottom Line:
You MUST have this total figure finalized before you start signing contracts or making deposits.
Step 2: The People Conversation – Building Your Guest List
Simultaneously, start thinking about who you want to share this day with. Your guest count is the single biggest factor influencing your budget.
The Dream List:
Start big! Both of you should write down everyone you would ideally invite if money and space were no object.
The Reality Check: A, B (and maybe C) Lists:
This is crucial. Go through your dream list together and categorize:
A-List: Your absolute must-haves. These are the non-negotiables – immediate family, best friends, wedding party.
B-List: People you really want there, but it wouldn't be world-ending if they couldn't come.
C-List (Optional): People you'd invite if the budget/venue allows after the A and B lists are covered.
Navigating Family Input:
If parents are contributing, they may have a list. Discuss this openly. Understand their wishes but align them with your vision and your budget. Set clear boundaries early.
Tackling Tricky Questions:
Decide on your policies together and stick to them: Will you allow "plus ones"? Will children be invited? Will you invite work colleagues?
Step 3: The Balancing Act – Making Budget & Guests Align
Now, see how your desired guest count (likely your A-list + some/all of your B-list) stacks up against your budget.
Understand "Per-Head" Costs:
Catering and bar costs are usually charged per person. This is where a large guest list quickly inflates the budget.
Making Tough Choices:
If your desired list is too big for your budget, you have choices:
Trim the guest list (start with the C-list, then move to B).
Re-evaluate your budget (can you save more?).
Adjust your wedding style (e.g., brunch instead of dinner, beer/wine instead of full open bar, off-season date).
Venue Impact:
Remember, your guest count also dictates your venue size options.
Step 4: Allocating Your Funds – Where Does the Money Go?
Once you have a target guest count and budget, you can start assigning funds. Remember, the percentages below are guides, not rigid rules! Your priorities will shape your spending.
(Here, you'll write a few paragraphs discussing the major categories and their typical impact. You can mention the average percentages but don't list all the sub-items)
The Big Chunks:
Typically, your Venue & Catering (including alcohol) will consume the largest portion, often around 40-50% combined.
Capturing Memories:
Photography & Videography are significant investments, often around 10-15%.
Setting the Scene:
Flowers & Décor, Planner/Coordinator, and Music/Entertainment also represent important allocations.
Personal Touches:
Don't forget Attire, Rings, Stationery, Hair/Makeup, Gifts, and Favors.
Your Priorities Rule!
This is where you insert your excellent points: You can absolutely customize this! If you're a foodie, splurge on catering. Love music? Get a great band. Not fussed about video? Skip it! DIY flowers? Go for it! This is your wedding; spend money on what matters most to YOU.
“By setting a clear budget and thoughtfully building your guest list early on, you create a solid foundation for your entire wedding plan. Use these tools and guidelines not as restrictions, but as a framework for making intentional choices. This approach empowers you to create a beautiful, personal, and financially comfortable celebration that you'll cherish for years to come.” - Cynthia