Breaking Down the Budget
A few commonly asked weddingcandle'>favors? It's all okay, especially since every wedding is unique.
The bottom line is that you have to draw up your budget first and realistically lay out how much you can afford. You can then break it down accordingly.
Balancing It Out
Figuring out where your money is going is important, especially if parents are contributing to the wedding funds. Below you'll see a breakdown of each thing you'll need to pay for, and the percentage of your budget the item will take up. Keep in mind that the expenditure percentages shown below are not set in stonebook'>photographer. It all depends on the individual.
|}
* '''The Reception''': This is what you'll spend the most money on.
** Average about 40 to 50% of your budget for food, drinks, the location fee, the service fee (for the waiters, bartenders, and valet), the
wedding cake, as well as a cutting fee. Keep in mind that if you would rather spend the money on other things, you can reduce these costs to a mere 30% to 35% of your budget.
* '''Wedding Attire''': You'll spend around 10% of your budget on the
tux, and accessories. Don't forget that you'll have to put down extra money for alterations, hair and makeup, and any other beauty services you want before the wedding.
* '''Photos and Video''': These precious memories will cost you 8% to 12% of your budget. You'll have to factor in not only the services for the day of the wedding (
album, copies, reprints, and additional videos. Often, this is an area where people skimp and regret. These will be your memories, aren't they worth the investment so your grandkids can see how beautiful the wedding was?
* '''Music''': Consider spending between 6% and 8% on music. This includes music for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.
* '''Flowers and Decor''': This costs about the same as the music, ranging from 6% to 8%. Factor in
flowers, and arrangements for the cake table. You may also need something for the flower girl.
* '''Gifts''':
baskets should total about 2% to 3% of your budget.
* '''Ceremony''': You'll need a donation or a gift to give to the location and/or officiant. That should be about 1% to 3%.
* '''Other ''': Don't forget that tipping, obtaining your marriage license, and paying miscellaneous taxes will account for around 5% of your budget.
You May Need...
A few things to help you stay organized throughout the wedding planning process:
Related Guides
*
Wedding Budgeting
*
Money Saving Tips for Weddings
*
Actual Wedding Cost
*
Who Pays for What
*
Wedding Insurance
