Time to Make a Budget!
Everyone's budget breakdown is going to be a little bit different, but we have included some averages for you to help you get started! Laying out a detailed budget is one of the first things you want to do. It lets you know what is most important to you, where to spend a little extra, and where to lean DIY! It will also help to show how far your money goes because unfortunately, weddings are NOT CHEAP!
Find out how much money you have to spend! Who all is contributing, and how much. Find that magic number!
Make a list of all major components of your wedding and break them down in order of what is most important to you. Then assign them a rough % of your budget you expect to spend in that area. These will fluctuate, but you have to start somewhere! We have listed the average percentages for you below: Photography/Videography: 12% Attire: 9% Beauty: 2% Flowers and Decor: 8% Music Ceremony and Reception: 9% Transportation: 2% Rings: 2% Favors/Gifts: 2% Cake: 2% Drinks: 8% Food: 18% Paper: 2% Venue and Rentals: 18%
Make more detailed lists of all things you will have to buy under each category! For example: Photography: Album, Second Shooter, Tip Attire: Dress, Suite, Shoes, Jewelry, Veil Paper: Save the Dates, Invitations, Programs, Menus Here is a link to an awesome list of sub items on a budget sheet you may not have thought of! Go through and only include the ones you expect yourself to use: https://www.freebiefindingmom.com/free-printable-wedding-budget-planner-worksheet/utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&utm_term=414013740_13943002_464394
Once you have all your categories, split up the money to make sure everything is covered! There will always be lots of changes throughout the process, but giving yourself a starting amount will help you to not spend too much in one place.
Start doing research and get creative! Look into how much the vendors and decor are going to cost. Then get creative to find ways to make your budget stretch in the areas you don't care about as much to have more money for the areas you do!