Wedding Budget Planner
Plan your wedding budget with detailed cost categories including venue, catering, photography, attire, décor, entertainment, transportation, and contingency.
Wedding budget formulas
The wedding budget planner uses simple formulas to estimate your total wedding cost.
1. Base cost
Base cost = Venue + Catering + Photography + Attire + Décor + Entertainment + Transportation + Misc
2. Contingency
Contingency = Base cost × (Contingency % ÷ 100)
3. Total wedding cost
Total cost = Base cost + Contingency
These formulas help you understand how each category contributes to your overall wedding budget.
How to plan a realistic wedding budget
Weddings are deeply personal — and deeply variable in cost. This planner helps you estimate your total wedding budget by breaking down major categories and adding a contingency buffer for unexpected expenses.
Venue
The venue is often the largest single expense. Costs vary based on location, season, and whether the venue includes tables, chairs, or décor.
Catering
Catering costs depend heavily on guest count and menu style. Buffets, plated dinners, and cocktail‑style receptions vary widely in price.
Photography & videography
Professional photography preserves your memories. Videography adds another layer of cost but can be worth it for many couples.
Décor & florals
Décor includes flowers, centerpieces, lighting, linens, and ceremony decorations.
Worked example
Example: A wedding with 120 guests:
- Venue: $6,000
- Catering: $9,000
- Photography: $3,500
- Attire: $2,500
- Décor: $2,000
- Entertainment: $1,800
- Transportation: $600
- Misc: $1,200
- Contingency: 10%
Base cost = $27,600. Contingency = $2,760. Total = $30,360.
Practical tips
- Get multiple quotes for major vendors.
- Use contingency to avoid last‑minute stress.
- Track real expenses to refine your budget.
- Use saved scenarios to compare venues or guest counts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this include rehearsal dinner?
You can include rehearsal dinner costs in the miscellaneous category.
How do I estimate décor costs?
Many couples allocate 5–15% of their total budget to décor and florals.
Can I use this for destination weddings?
Yes. Include travel and lodging costs in the miscellaneous category.
Does this include inflation?
No. You can manually increase costs to account for rising prices.
Is this financial advice?
No. This tool is for education and planning only.
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Information on this site is for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Calculations are estimates and may not reflect actual results. See our Privacy Policy and Disclaimer.