Congratulations! You’re engaged and extremely excited about marrying the love of your life! Suddenly your mind shifts to all things wedding….. One of your first decisions you should be the Wedding Budget!
The average US wedding costs approximately $44,000 for 167 guest, according to the 2018 Brides American Wedding Study. If you haven’t put that amount of cash aside, don’t fret you can still have the wedding of your dreams based on your personal budget.
First thing is to sit down with your fiancé and figure out together how much money you are willing and comfortable to spend on your wedding. Consider whether other people are going to contribute financially to your wedding as well.
To make the best budget, you will need to review your savings, currently income and keep a detailed spreadsheet so you don’t go over during the planning process, prepare for unexpected costs, and be willing to make cuts if you exceed your total budget.
Here is a sample of what a wedding budget could look like it you’re not planning on spending $40,000.
- Venue/officiant: $7,000
- Attire: $1,000
- Sit-down meal catering, cake, and other hospitality: $3,800
- Alcohol and drinks catering: $850
- Invitations (Etsy): $200
- Photographer: $2,250
- DJ: $1,650
- Day of Coordinator: $1,200-1500
- Flowers: $750
- Decor/rentals: $500
- DIY makeup and professional hairstyle: $150
- Other umbrella expenses: $800 (i.e. tips)
