Wedding Cost Breakdown Calculator
Plan your perfect wedding without financial stress
Tip: Start with your total budget, then allocate to categories below. We'll help you stay on track!
Wedding Expense Categories
Venue & Related
Food & Beverage
Other Expenses
Your Wedding Budget Breakdown
Total Budget:
Total Allocated:
Remaining Budget:
Cost Per Guest:
Venue Percentage:
Food Percentage:
Top 3 Expenses:
Potential Savings:
0% of budget allocated
Budget Allocation Advice:
Money-Saving Tips:
Wedding Budget Planning Guide
Creating a realistic wedding budget requires understanding all potential costs. Our calculator helps you allocate funds appropriately while avoiding common financial mistakes.
Standard Wedding Budget Allocation
Essential Categories:
- Venue & Rentals: 40-50%
- Food & Beverage: 25-35%
- Photography: 10-15%
- Attire & Beauty: 5-10%
Additional Categories:
- Flowers & Decor: 8-12%
- Entertainment: 5-10%
- Stationery: 2-5%
- Miscellaneous: 5-10%
Key Money-Saving Strategies
1. Guest List Management
Each guest adds $100-$300 to your costs. Consider an intimate wedding or limiting plus-ones to immediate family.
2. Off-Peak Dates
Friday/Sunday weddings or off-season dates (Nov-Apr) can save 20-30% on venues and vendors.
3. Alternative Dining
Buffets or food stations cost 15-25% less than plated meals. Consider brunch or cocktail receptions.
4. Digital Solutions
Digital invitations and RSVPs can save $500-$1000 compared to traditional paper options.
Wedding Budget FAQs
What's included in venue costs?
Venue costs typically include the space rental, but may exclude tables, chairs, linens, and staff. Always ask what's included and budget 10-15% extra for unexpected venue expenses.
How much should we tip vendors?
Plan to tip 15-20% for catering staff, $50-$100 per musician, $100-$200 for photographers/videographers, and 15-20% for hair/makeup artists.
What payment schedule should we expect?
Most vendors require a deposit (25-50%) to book, with final payment due 1-2 weeks before the wedding. Venues often have 3-4 payment installments.
How can we reduce floral costs?
Use in-season flowers, greenery-heavy arrangements, or potted plants that double as favors. Repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception.
Should we get wedding insurance?
For weddings over $15,000, $200-$500 insurance is recommended to protect against cancellations, vendor no-shows, or weather issues.