Junior Rasmussen
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to budgeting. The venue and catering services are typically the largest expenses, with the average wedding costing $30,000, excluding the engagement ring, which costs an additional $6,000 on average. However, costs can vary drastically depending on location and the number of guests. To budget effectively, it is essential to prioritize must-haves, such as the venue, catering, and rentals, and allocate funds accordingly. Couples should also consider additional costs, such as transportation, stationery, entertainment, and decorations, which can quickly add up. By creating a detailed plan and being mindful of expenses, couples can successfully manage their wedding budget.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Venue | The largest chunk of the wedding budget. No more than 40% of the overall budget should be spent on the venue, rental fees, food and alcohol combined. |
| Catering | Another big-ticket item, contributing to 24% of the average wedding budget. |
| Cake | If not included in the catering package, couples often outsource the dessert portion of their wedding. |
| Alcohol | If not included in the venue package, a chunk of the budget should be allocated for alcohol. |
| Photography | One of the best investments for your wedding. Couples may opt out of videography to save money. |
| Videography | Includes different cuts of the wedding video, such as a full video and a highlight reel. |
| Floral Design | On average, 9% of the wedding budget is dedicated to decor, including floral and non-floral elements. |
| Decor | Includes lighting, candles, statement lighting installations, signage, table displays, non-floral centerpieces, etc. |
| Live Band | Live entertainment makes the wedding memorable. |
| Guest Entertainment | Unique experiences, such as live painters, dancers, musical performers, tarot card readers, etc. 3% of the budget should be set aside for this. |
| Transportation | Couples may hire transportation for guests, such as a bus or shuttle, or a limo for the wedding party. At least 2% of the budget should be saved for transportation. |
| Stationery | Wedding invitations and paper goods are important details. Couples may opt for digital invitations to save costs. |
| Wedding Planner/Coordinator | A wedding planner can help save money by leveraging relationships with vendors to get the best prices. |
| Wedding Attire | How much to spend on attire is a personal choice. Couples may decide to rent gowns or do their own hair and makeup to save costs. |
| Honeymoon | Not included in the wedding budget but should be noted. |
| Gifts and Favours | Includes gifts for the wedding party and party favours for guests. |
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What You'll Learn
Catering and rentals
When budgeting for catering, it's important to consider the per-head cost, which will depend on the number of guests you plan to invite. The size of your guest list will also impact the cost of rentals, as you will need to ensure you have enough tables, chairs, dishes, and glassware for everyone. Some venues include rentals in the cost of the venue, but this is not always the case. If your venue does not provide rentals, you will need to hire a separate company, which will add to the cost.
In addition to the basic catering and rental costs, there may be additional fees to consider, such as cake-cutting fees, corkage fees, labour, travel, set-up, and breakdown. Be sure to read your contract carefully and ask questions to avoid any unexpected costs.
To save money on catering and rentals, consider choosing a venue that offers all-inclusive packages. These venues typically include catering and services from other vendors as part of the rental package, which can help you save money on the overall cost of the wedding. Additionally, having your ceremony and reception in the same venue can also reduce costs, as you will only need to pay for one rental space and won't need to worry about transportation for your guests.
When creating your budget, it's recommended to spend no more than 40% of your overall budget on the venue, rental fees, food, and alcohol combined. This will ensure that you have enough funds allocated to other important aspects of your wedding, such as photography, entertainment, and attire.
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Guest list size
The size of your guest list will have a huge impact on your wedding budget. The number of guests will determine the size of your venue, and the amount of food and drink you will need to supply. It will also influence the number of invitations, favours, and any other items you plan to give guests.
As a general rule, plan to budget at least $100 per guest. This will allow you to cover the basic costs associated with each guest, such as food and drink, and any small gifts or favours you wish to provide.
The number of guests you invite will also impact the cost of your venue. The venue will typically be one of the largest expenses in your wedding budget, so it's important to choose a space that is the right size for your guest list. If you are working with a smaller budget, consider opting for a more intimate wedding with a reduced guest list. This will allow you to allocate more funds to other aspects of your wedding, such as catering, entertainment, or decorations.
When creating your guest list, it's important to consider the probability that invited guests will attend. There may be a 10% drop-off, depending on factors such as the time of year and location of the wedding. It's also worth noting that some venues have headcount minimums, so be sure to check the requirements of your chosen venue.
By carefully considering your guest list size and the associated costs, you can effectively allocate your budget and ensure a memorable celebration for you and your guests.
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Venue type
The type of venue you choose for your wedding will depend on your priorities, preferences, and budget. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a venue type that fits within your budget:
Location
The location of your wedding venue will have a significant impact on the cost. Venues in major metropolitan areas or popular wedding destinations tend to be more expensive than those in rural or less touristy areas. Consider looking at venues in different areas to find the best value for your budget.
Size and Capacity
The size of the venue and the number of guests you plan to invite are crucial considerations. Larger venues that can accommodate a higher number of guests will typically be more expensive. When creating your guest list, consider the probability of attendance, as there is usually a drop-off, depending on factors such as the time of year and location.
Inclusive Packages
Some venues offer inclusive packages that bundle various services, such as catering, bar services, staff, rentals, taxes, and even accommodations. These packages can sometimes be more cost-effective than sourcing individual vendors for each service. Compare the costs of inclusive venues with those that require separate vendors to determine which option fits your budget better.
The type of venue you choose can also impact your budget. Hotels, resorts, and popular wedding venues tend to be pricier. Consider unique venues like farms, barns, historical buildings, or outdoor spaces, which may offer more flexibility and potentially lower rates.
On-Site Accommodations
If you're planning a wedding that requires guests to travel, consider venues with on-site accommodations or those that offer group rates at nearby hotels. This can help reduce transportation costs and provide convenience for your guests.
Seasonal Availability
The time of year you choose to get married can also impact venue costs. Off-season weddings or certain times of the year may offer potential venue discounts. Consider checking with venues about their low-season rates or any promotional packages they may have available.
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Photography and videography
Photography:
Wedding photographer prices typically range from $1,150 to $3,000, with an average cost of around $2,000. However, prices can vary substantially depending on various factors. If you're hiring a newer photographer with less experience, you can expect to pay as little as $1,500. On the other hand, renowned photographers who produce work for high-end magazines can charge $30,000 or more. The cost of living in the area where your wedding is located and the photographer's base also impact the price. For example, a photographer in New York or San Francisco will likely be more expensive than one in a rural area.
It's recommended to start researching and booking your photographer about 11 months before your wedding day. This will give you ample time to explore different photography styles, such as photojournalism, which focuses on capturing candid, emotional moments. Consider whether you want a second photographer to capture multiple angles and moments, especially if your wedding has multiple locations. The cost of a second photographer varies, but it's typically an additional expense. Don't forget to include meals for your photographer and their team in your budget, which can range from $15 to $30 per person. Lastly, tipping your photographer between $100 to $200 is customary.
Videography:
The average cost of a wedding videographer in the US is around $1,799, with most couples spending between $1,000 to $2,500. However, prices can vary widely depending on factors such as the videographer's experience, the amount of time they are present at the wedding, and the location. Basic videography packages can start at $1,200, while high-end packages can reach $7,000 or even $20,000 or more. Additional services like drone footage and a second shooter can significantly increase the cost, with drone footage typically costing between $2,000 to $3,000 extra, and a second shooter adding $500 to $1,500 to your budget.
When deciding on a videography package, consider what memories you want to capture. Most videographers will produce an edited wedding movie, but some offer multiple clips of varying lengths, such as a wedding trailer for social media. You may also want to request the raw footage for personal use. It's recommended to hire your videographer at least eight months in advance, as they tend to book up quickly. Don't forget to include meals and tips for your videographer in your budget, similar to the photographer's budget.
Budgeting Tips:
- Photography and videography can be a significant expense, so it's essential to prioritize them in your wedding budget.
- Consider allocating about 10-12% of your total budget specifically for wedding photography.
- If you're on a tighter budget, you can opt for basic coverage by a skilled photographer and videographer, focusing on key moments like the ceremony and main speeches.
- Remember to read contracts thoroughly before making final decisions to ensure you understand what is included in the package and avoid unexpected costs.
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Entertainment
When it comes to budgeting for your wedding, it's important to remember that the venue, catering, and event rentals are typically non-negotiable and will make up the majority of your budget. However, entertainment is also an important aspect of your wedding and should be considered when allocating funds.
The amount you allocate for entertainment will depend on your priorities and the overall size of your budget. A common guideline is to set aside around 7% to 10% of your total budget for music and entertainment. This can include a DJ or live band, who often act as the MC for the night, as well as unique experiences like live painters, dancers, additional musical performers, poets, tarot card readers, and more.
If you're working with a smaller budget, there are ways to save money on entertainment. For example, you could opt for a solo musician or a small ensemble instead of a full band, or you could create your own music playlist. Additionally, you could ask friends or family members who are DJs or musicians to provide their services as a wedding gift.
On the other hand, if you have a larger budget and want to splurge on entertainment, you can consider hiring well-known bands or DJs, adding special effects like fireworks or confetti cannons, or incorporating interactive elements like photo booths or caricature artists.
Remember, the most important thing is to create a wedding that reflects your style and priorities. If entertainment is high on your list, make sure to allocate a significant portion of your budget to it and get creative with your choices to make your wedding memorable for you and your guests.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that no more than 40% of your overall budget should be spent on the venue, rental fees, food and alcohol. However, some couples have spent up to 53% or 70% of their budget on these areas.
The size of your guest list will influence your wedding budget. The number of guests will determine the space required for your venue, as well as the cost of catering, which is usually charged per head. It is also worth noting that some venues have headcount minimums.
The venue budget usually includes the rental fee for the ceremony and reception space, as well as any furniture or equipment rentals. Some venues may also include catering, drinks, cake, staff, taxes and accommodation within this cost.
