Wedding Budget Calculator

Plan and estimate your total wedding costs by category with guest-count-based projections.

Wedding Budget Summary

$29,600

Total Wedding Budget

120 guests · $247/guest

Budget Breakdown

Compare to Averages

Wedding Budget Summary

CategoryAmountPercentage
Venue$5,00016.9%
Catering$9,60032.4%
Photography$3,00010.1%
Flowers$2,0006.8%
Music/Entertainment$2,0006.8%
Attire$3,00010.1%
Rings$2,0006.8%
Decorations$1,5005.1%
Miscellaneous$1,5005.1%
TOTAL$29,600100%

Planning Your Wedding Budget

The average wedding in the United States costs approximately $30,000, though this varies significantly by region and guest count. The largest expense is typically the venue and catering, which together account for 45-55% of the total budget. Photography and videography (8-12%), flowers and decor (8-10%), and entertainment (5-8%) round out the major categories. Smart budgeting starts with determining your total budget first, then allocating percentages to each category. A common rule is to reserve 5-10% as a contingency fund. Ways to save include choosing off-peak dates (January-March, Fridays/Sundays), reducing guest count, prioritizing your top 3 must-haves, and being flexible on the rest. Destination weddings can sometimes cost less despite travel, as they naturally limit guest count.

Practical Example

Scenario: 120 guests, mid-range wedding.

Venue: $5,000 | Catering: $9,600 ($80/guest)

Photo: $3,000 | Flowers: $2,000 | Music: $2,000

Attire: $3,000 | Rings: $2,000 | Decor: $1,500 | Misc: $1,500

Total: $29,600 ($247/guest)

Questions Fréquentes

What is a realistic wedding budget?

In the US, the average wedding costs $28,000-$34,000. A budget wedding can be done for $10,000-$15,000, while luxury weddings often exceed $60,000.

What is the biggest wedding expense?

Venue and catering combined typically represent 45-55% of the total budget. Guest count is the single biggest cost driver since catering, rentals, and some decor scale per person.

How can I reduce wedding costs?

Reduce guest count, choose off-peak dates, opt for a Friday or Sunday, consider a brunch wedding, use seasonal flowers, and prioritize your top 3 must-haves while being flexible on the rest.

How much should I spend on a wedding ring?

The traditional "two months salary" guideline is a marketing creation, not a rule. Spend what you can comfortably afford. Average wedding band costs $500-$2,000.

Should I hire a wedding planner?

Wedding planners typically cost 10-15% of your budget but can save you money through vendor relationships and help you avoid costly mistakes. For budgets over $25,000, a planner often pays for themselves.

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on industry averages. Actual costs vary by location, vendor, and personal preferences. Costs shown are in USD.

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