Planning your wedding in Denver, Colorado? Congratulations! Once you’ve celebrated saying “yes,” it’s time to tackle one of the most important parts of planning: your budget. It might feel overwhelming at first, but with the right steps, it can be a smooth and even empowering process.
Denver is a beautiful place to get married, but like many major cities, wedding costs can add up quickly. Whether you’re planning a lavish celebration or a budget-friendly affair, understanding the costs specific to Denver will help you make informed decisions.
Let’s walk through how to set a wedding budget that works for you—and how to stick to it without sacrificing the details that matter most.
How to Set a Wedding Budget in Denver
Step 1: Start the Money Talk
Sit down with your partner to have an honest conversation about finances. How much can you both comfortably spend without creating stress? Are family members contributing? If so, clarify how much they’re offering and whether they have any specific expectations.
Having a clear idea of your total budget upfront will keep you grounded as you plan.
Step 2: Decide What’s Most Important
Think about what will make your wedding feel truly “you.” Is it the dream venue, amazing food, or an incredible photographer? Rank your priorities together and allocate more of your budget to those areas. For everything else, you can look for creative ways to save.
Step 3: Break It Down
Creating a detailed breakdown of your budget is key. Here’s a typical percentage guide to help you get started:
- Venue and catering: 40–50%
- Photography and videography: 10–15%
- Attire: 8–10%
- Flowers and décor: 8–10%
- Entertainment: 8–10%
- Miscellaneous (favors, invites, etc.): 10%
These numbers are flexible—adjust them to match your priorities. For help with creating a personalized budget, check out The Knot’s wedding budget advisor.
Denver-Specific Costs to Consider:
- Venue Rental: In Denver, popular wedding venues range from $3,000 to $15,000+.
- Catering Per Person: Expect to pay $40–$100 per guest for catering.
- Photography/Videography: Most Denver photographers charge $2,500–$6,000+ for wedding packages.
- Florals: Seasonal flowers from Denver florists typically start at $1,500 for bouquets and centerpieces.
Step 4: Track Everything
Whether you’re using an app, a spreadsheet, or even a notebook, tracking your expenses is crucial. Keep tabs on every deposit, balance, and due date. Seeing the numbers in one place will help you avoid overspending and catch any discrepancies early.
Step 5: Be Realistic About Your Guest List
Your guest count has a huge impact on your budget—more guests mean more food, drinks, and seating. If you’re looking to save, consider keeping the celebration more intimate. It’s easier to create a meaningful, memorable experience for a smaller group of your closest people.
Denver Tip:
Looking for a small wedding venue in Denver? Consider:
- Clock Tower Events – An intimate space with stunning city views.
- The St. Vrain – A charming venue for a cozy, romantic vibe.
- Denver Botanic Gardens – Perfect for a picturesque outdoor ceremony.
Step 6: Plan for the Unexpected
Surprises happen. Set aside 5–10% of your budget for unexpected costs like last-minute changes, vendor tips, or alterations. This buffer will save you from scrambling later.
Step 7: Find Smart Ways to Save
Not every dream requires a splurge. Consider in-season flowers for a lower cost or scale down the hours for your photographer to fit your budget. Little adjustments can make a big difference without sacrificing quality.
Budget-Friendly Denver Wedding Vendors:
- Florals: Something Styled Floral, Plum Sage Flowers
- Catering: Footers Catering, Biscuits & Berries
Step 8: Keep Perspective
Planning a wedding is a lot, but remember why you’re doing this: to celebrate your love. Things don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Focus on what matters most to you, and don’t forget to enjoy the process.
Step 9: Explore DIY and Secondhand Options
Not everything for your wedding has to be brand-new or professionally made. If you’re crafty, consider DIYing elements like centerpieces, signage, or wedding favors. Handmade details can add a unique and personal touch while saving money. For bigger-ticket items, look into secondhand options. Wedding dresses, décor, and even tableware can often be found at a fraction of the cost through resale sites, thrift stores, or wedding Facebook groups. Many couples sell gently used items after their big day, making it a budget-friendly and sustainable choice.
Step 10: Time it Right
The date and time of your wedding can significantly impact costs. Peak wedding season, usually late spring through early fall, comes with higher prices for venues and vendors. If you’re flexible, consider a Friday, Sunday, or even a weekday wedding to score discounts. Daytime receptions or brunch weddings can also help cut costs, as catering and bar packages tend to be less expensive earlier in the day. Being strategic with your timing can free up room in your budget for the things that matter most to you and your partner.
Complete Weddings + Events Denver Helps You Save on Your Wedding Budget
With a solid plan and a clear understanding of your priorities, Complete Weddings + Events Denver is here to help make your wedding everything you want it to be—without breaking the bank.
Contact us today to learn more about our “book more, save more” service bundles so you and your fiancé can focus on making memories that last! For more wedding tips and tricks, visit our blog page.