Budget Percentages

When you begin planning your wedding, determine how much you can spend and prioritize how to spend it. Thoughtful planning and organization is the key to your success in staying within your

budget. Consult with both families and decide who is willing and able to pay for the wedding or for specific expenses. Couples may opt to pay for their own wedding. It is important to remain realistic, communicate openly and be courteous. All weddings regardless of the budget or number of guests have the same basic percentages spent on individual category items as it relates to the total budget. The following wedding budget breakdown includes all aspects of the wedding celebration regardless of who is responsible for the item.

Breakdown of Wedding Expenses

- Wedding dress and accessories

- Announcements, invitations (costs depend on the quality of paper and fee for printing, letter press or engraving).

- Wedding consultant services if used

- Ceremony fees

- Reception costs. Some vendors may negotiate prices depending on season, day and time. January and February weddings will generally be less expensive as will weddings held on days and times other than Saturday evening.

- Photographer and Videographer

- Musicians

- Wedding cake

- Transportation costs to ceremony and reception

- Bridesmaids' luncheon, their gifts and bouquets

- Groom's wedding ring and gift

- Flowers (flowers in season are typically less expensive)

- Lodging for out-of-town attendants (optional)

- Engagement and wedding

- Rings for bride

- Rehearsal dinner expenses

- Officiant's fee

- Marriage license

- Bride's bouquet, corsages and boutonniere' for immediate family members

- Groom's wedding attire

- Wedding gift for bride

- Honeymoon expenses

- Accommodations for out-of-town ushers and best man

The Wedding Attendants

- Transportation, if coming from out-of-town

- Apparel and accessories / Rental of formalwear

- Gift for bride / Gift for groom

- Bridal shower; girl's night out / Bachelor party