Wedding budget calculator

A wedding budget calculator can help you organize your spending and stay on track throughout the planning process. Here's a simple breakdown of what you might want to include in your budget:

Wedding Budget Categories

1. Venue

   • Ceremony venue

   • Reception venue

   • Additional costs (parking, permits, cleaning fees)

2. Attire

   • Wedding dress (and accessories like veil, shoes, etc.)

   • Groom’s suit

   • Bridesmaid dresses

   • Groomsmen suits

   • Alterations

3. Photography & Videography

   • Photographer’s package

   • Videographer’s package

   • Engagement shoot (if applicable)

   • Albums and prints

4. Hair & Makeup

   • Bridal hair & makeup

   • Bridesmaid hair & makeup

   • Groom’s grooming

   • Trials and touch-ups

5. Flowers

   • Bridal bouquet

   • Bridesmaids’ bouquets

   • Ceremony flowers (e.g., aisle décor, altar arrangements)

   • Reception flowers

6. Catering

   • Food and drink (per head cost)

   • Cake (and cake cutting fees)

   • Bar service (open bar, wine pairing, etc.)

7. Entertainment

   • DJ or live band

   • Ceremony music

   • Wedding party entertainment (e.g., games, photo booths)

8. Stationery

   • Wedding invitations

   • Save-the-dates

   • RSVP cards

   • Thank-you cards

9. Favors & Gifts

   • Wedding favors for guests

   • Gifts for bridal party

   • Gifts for parents

10. Transportation

    • Wedding car (for the bride and groom)

    • Transportation for bridal party or guests

    • Additional vehicles for guest travel

11. Officiant & Legal Fees

    • Officiant’s fee (or donation)

    • Marriage license or permit

12. Wedding Planner

    • Full wedding planning services

    • Partial planning or coordination

    • Day-of coordinator

13. Miscellaneous

    • Additional décor (e.g., signage, centerpieces, lighting)

    • Insurance

    • Contingency for unexpected costs

Useful Tools:

• The Knot's Wedding Budget Calculator – Allows you to enter your total budget and adjust each category's cost estimate.

• WeddingWire’s Budget Planner – Offers a detailed budget breakdown and tracks your expenses as you book your vendors.

• Zola’s Wedding Budget Tool – Lets you create a custom budget based on your specific wedding details and gives spending recommendations.

Top Tips to Stay on Budget:

1. Prioritize: Identify what’s most important to you (e.g., venue, photography, catering) and allocate your funds accordingly.

2. Create a contingency fund: Set aside a small portion (5-10%) of your budget for unexpected expenses.

3. Track spending: Keep an eye on your spending to avoid going over budget. Use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to track payments.

4. Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with vendors or shop around for the best prices on services and items.