Your excitement about your engagement is soon followed by eagerness to begin wedding planning. Unfortunately, that eagerness may be accompanied by the dread of establishing the wedding budget. No need to be concerned. Simply follow a few guidelines and you’ll be ready to shop for products and services in no time at all.

Before you begin, it is important that you have taken steps to determine just what you both want most of all. Establish these priorities and you will be able to make good budgeting decisions together. Next, you need to know the amount you will be able to spend. Traditionally the bride’s family has paid most of the wedding costs, but today it is not unusual for those costs to be shared by the couple and the groom’s family. Each of you should plan a conversation with your family to determine what their financial involvement will be. Whatever your situation, it will make planning much easier if the budget is established as soon as possible.

Budget Helper

50% Ceremony and Reception (includes sites, rentals, food, drink, cake, and service)
10% Attire
8% Music
12% Photography/Videography
8% Flowers
12% Miscellaneous (includes invitations, transportation, and gifts)

Once you know what you want and what you have to spend, use the chart on this page to figure the appropriate amounts in each area. Of course, these are only suggested numbers. Adjust them as necessary to agree with your priorities. If you use more in one area, simply change other areas to make the totals work for you. Remember, your budget is just a tool for you to use as you plan. Used wisely, it will work for you and help you get the most for your money.