Spending money = the fun part. Spending your money = slightly less fun… unless you’ve got a plan. Below are rough estimates on what percentage of your overall budget should be spent on what. If you’ve got to have that couture dress, move the percentages around to accommodate its hefty price tag. Remember, if you’re using a wedding planner, they may be able to get you discounts with vendors they have relationships with. Get that calculator ready:

Stationery 4%: Your total budget x 0.04 = The available amount for stationery.

Announcements

+ Save-the-date cards

+ Invitations (including any inserts)

+ Calligraphy (if using)

+ Postage (remember to take a complete invitation to the Post Office and have it weighed for accurate postage)

+ Place cards

+ Programs

+ Thank-you notes

=

 

Wedding Attire 10%: Your total budget x 0.1 = The available amount for wedding attire.

Your gorgeous dress

+ Alterations

+ Headpiece or veil

+ Lingerie

+ Jewelry

+ Shoes

+ Bag

+ Hair

+ Makeup

+ Groom’s ensemble

=

Reception 50%: Your total budget x 0.5 = The available amount for the reception.

Reception location fee

+ Catering (including tax, tip, etc.)

+ Bar & drinks

+ Wedding cake & dessert

=

Music 10%: Your total budget x 0.1 = the available amount for music.

During ceremony

+ During cocktail hour

+ During reception

=

Flowers 10%: Your total budget x 0.1 = The available amount for flowers.

Ceremony site flowers

+ Your bouquet

+ Flowers for the wedding party

+ Reception centerpieces

=

Photography 10%: Your total budget x 0.1 = The available amount for photography.

Photography

+ Videography

+ Wedding album package

=

Additional Expenses 6%: Your total budget x 0.06 = The available amount for additional expenses.