Getting Realistic with Your Wedding Budget

Finding ideas for your dream wedding can be one of the best parts of the planning process, but understanding how it falls within your budget can be a bit overwhelming. As a bride you begin creating a mood board, clipping images from magazines, printing photos off the internet, and saving oodles of pins to Pinterest showcasing gorgeous things for your wedding. You compile all of these ideas presenting them eagerly upon our first meeting.

When the subject of your budget comes up, you proudly announce you have set aside a budget of $10,000 for your 150 guests. And this is when reality sets in.

Knowing where and how your budget is spent will help you understand the cost of your wedding. I will list some common wedding items and approximate expenses involved.

Ceremony fees vary and may be as high as $2,500 depending upon the location selected. If you choose to have your ceremony at your church, you may incur mandatory donations including such things as contributions to your parishioner and altar boys. By selecting the ceremony site at the same location as your reception, you may lower delivery fees and transportation expenses.

Hiring a photographer is very important and should not be taken lightly. These images will be your memories in the years to come. Be prepared to spend a minimum of $2,500 for a professional photographer. Albums and prints may be included in some photographers' packages so be sure to compare added items and additional expenses.

Invitation prices will depend upon the quality of the paper and the intricacy of the design. Expect to spend between $5 and $25 per invitation set (invite, outer and inner envelope, reception card, response card and return envelope). Postage will be an additional expense to add into your budget.

Flowers can be one of your higher budget items. Consider a bouquet will be between $175 and $350, bridesmaid bouquets $75-$125 each, boutonnieres $18-$25 each, centerpieces $175-$550 each. That's just the basic flowers. You could have corsages, altar arrangements, flowers for the cake or buffet and gift tables, etc. Lighting, draping and additional decor will increase this allowance.

Entertainment for your reception and music for your ceremony will range from $650 for a harpist to $1,800 or more for a band. A good DJ will run about $1,200.

The reception will be the largest part of your budget. About 50% of your budget goes into your reception category. Many venues will have a food and beverage minimum that you will be required to meet before they add on the 21% gratuity and sales tax. Some start as low as $7,500 others are as high as $40,000. Keeping your guest list small may help reduce these minimums.

I have seen menus starting at $35 per person on up to $145 per person for food alone. Adding an open bar increases the per person cost by at least $21 a head. Appetizer and hors d'oeuvres are additional. If your venue is not at a hotel or banquet hall, chances are you may need to consider the cost of renting tables, chairs and linens.

Some other budget items you will incur include, your gown and accessories, the groom's tuxedo and his accessories, wedding bands, guest favors and welcome bags, beauty services, wedding cake and desserts, bridal party gifts, unity candle or sand ceremony supplies.

Working with a wedding planner can help alleviate the stress and misunderstanding associated with working on a limited budget. We will be able to help reduce the costs by suggesting vendors and venues we are familiar with and negotiating to get you to stay reasonably within your budget.

Knowing what to omit, how to cut corners without losing your vision and staying on track with your budget makes it worth having a wedding planner working on your behalf. Our primary goal is to make sure the soon-to-be couple is happy and stress-free!

Crafting Your Dream Day: A Wedding Planner’s Guide to a Perfect Celebration

Planning a wedding is like composing a symphony—every detail, from the venue to the vows, plays a critical note in creating a harmonious and unforgettable day. As a wedding planner, I’ve had the privilege of turning countless love stories into reality, and I’m here to share tips, inspiration, and a sprinkle of magic to help you craft your dream wedding.

Why Hire a Wedding Planner?Weddings are joyous, but let’s be real—they can also be overwhelming. Between budgets, vendors, timelines, and family dynamics, the to-do list can feel endless. That’s where a wedding planner steps in. We’re your advocate, organizer, and creative partner, ensuring every piece of your vision comes together seamlessly. From scouting the perfect venue to coordinating the cake cutting, we handle the details so you can focus on the moment—saying “I do.”Step 1: Define Your VisionEvery great wedding starts with a vision. Are you dreaming of a rustic barn celebration with mason jar centerpieces? A sleek, modern affair in a city loft? Or perhaps a romantic beachside ceremony with waves as your soundtrack? Sit down with your partner and brainstorm what reflects you as a couple. Create a mood board (Pinterest is your friend!) to pin down colors, themes, and vibes. Pro tip: Keep it cohesive but don’t be afraid to add personal touches—like incorporating a family heirloom or a nod to your first date.Step 2: Budget WiselyLet’s talk numbers. A clear budget is the backbone of your wedding plan. Allocate funds based on your priorities—maybe you splurge on a live band but save on simpler florals. On average, U.S. weddings in 2025 cost around $30,000, but you can create magic at any price point. A planner can help you stretch your dollars, negotiate with vendors, and avoid hidden costs. Transparency is key, so track every expense and build in a 10% buffer for surprises.Step 3: Choose the Perfect VenueYour venue sets the stage. Whether it’s a grand ballroom, a vineyard, or your backyard, consider guest count, accessibility, and ambiance. Outdoor venues are stunning but need a weather backup plan (tents are lifesavers!). Visit venues with your planner to assess logistics like parking, power supply, and vendor access. Bonus: Many venues offer all-inclusive packages, simplifying coordination.Step 4: Curate Your Vendor TeamVendors are the unsung heroes of your wedding. From photographers capturing candid smiles to caterers serving mouthwatering dishes, each plays a pivotal role. Lean on your planner’s network to find trusted professionals who align with your style and budget. Always meet vendors beforehand, review their portfolios, and sign clear contracts. Fun fact: Couples who book vendors early often snag better rates and availability.Step 5: Personalize the DetailsThe magic is in the details. Think custom signage, signature cocktails named after your pets, or a dessert bar featuring your favorite treats. These touches make your wedding uniquely yours. For 2025, trends lean toward sustainability—think locally sourced flowers, digital invites, or eco-friendly favors like seed packets. And don’t forget the timeline: A well-planned schedule keeps the day flowing smoothly, from the first look to the last dance.Step 6: Enjoy the JourneyWedding planning is a marathon, not a sprint. There will be moments of stress, but take time to savor the process. Go on date nights, laugh over cake tastings, and trust your planner to handle the chaos. On the big day, let go of perfectionism—small hiccups won’t dim your glow. Surround yourself with love, and let the joy of the moment shine through.Let’s Create Your Love StoryAs a wedding planner, my passion is bringing your vision to life while keeping the process stress-free and fun. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to start? Reach out for a consultation, and let’s make your dream wedding a reality.
Happy planning, and here’s to love that lasts a lifetime!

Connect with us at www.weddingsbystephanie.com for personalized wedding planning services, or follow us on @weddingsandeventsbystephanie for daily inspiration and tips. Share your wedding vision in the comments below—we’d love to hear about your dream day!