Planning your wedding? 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. Let’s walk through how to set a wedding budget that works for you—and how to stick to it.
How to Set a Wedding Budget and Stick to It?
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, it’s essential to clarify how much they’re offering and whether there are any specific expectations attached. 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.
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.
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.
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: Research and Compare Vendors
Take the time to research multiple vendors for every service you’ll need, from catering to florists. Don’t just settle for the first option; request quotes, ask about package deals, and read reviews. Many vendors are open to negotiating, so don’t hesitate to inquire about discounts or substitutions that could save you money. Additionally, consider working with new or up-and-coming vendors who might offer competitive pricing while delivering excellent results. By comparing your options, you’ll maximize value without sacrificing quality.
Step 10: Stick to Your Payment Schedule
To avoid last-minute financial strain, stick to the payment schedules agreed upon with your vendors. Create a timeline of due dates and align your savings or income flow to meet these deadlines. Paying on time not only helps maintain your budget but also fosters a good relationship with your vendors, ensuring a smoother planning process. If any adjustments are needed, communicate openly and early to find a solution that works for both parties.
Complete Weddings + Events in Northern Virginia Helps You Save on Your Wedding Budget
With a solid plan and a clear understanding of your priorities, Complete Weddings + Events in Northern Virginia 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.