The Real Budget Sheet: Where Wedding Money Actually Goes

Budgeting

Wedding budget planning worksheet with figures and a pen on a desk

We reviewed twelve fully-planned weddings from the last two seasons (60–600 guests) to see where money really went.

The big three

  • Venue + F&B: 42–55% of total spend
  • Decor & florals: 12–20%
  • Photography & video: 8–12%

Where couples overspend

Invitation suites nobody keeps, favours nobody takes home, and last-minute add-ons in the final fortnight. Set a 'final 14 days' rule: no new spends above a threshold without both partners approving.

Where couples were glad they spent

A great emcee, a longer bar hours extension, and — overwhelmingly — a second photographer for candid coverage across multi-day events.

Building your budget? Our planning packages include full budget stewardship.

Discuss Your Wedding