How to Create a Wedding Budget (with an example)

One of the first (and most important) steps in wedding planning is setting your wedding budget. Whether you’re planning a small intimate affair or a weekend-long celebration, knowing how to create a wedding budget will guide your decisions, reduce stress, and help you focus on what matters most.

Here’s your guide to building a realistic wedding budget—plus a sample breakdown to help you get started.

Step 1: Determine Your Total Budget

Before you can begin allocating funds, figure out how much you have to work with. Ask yourself: 

1. Will you be receiving contributions from family?

2. Are you and your partner paying for everything yourselves?

3. What’s your max spend?

Once you’ve landed on a number, stick to it. This will be your foundation for every decision.

Step 2: Prioritize What Matters Most

Talk with your partner about what matters most to both of you. Is it the venue? The band? The food? The guest experience? Knowing your top 2–3 priorities allows you to invest more in those areas and scale back on others that aren’t as meaningful.

Step 3: Understand the Average Wedding Cost

The average wedding in the U.S. costs between $30,000–$35,000, but costs can vary widely based on location, guest count, and wedding style.

For example, a wedding in the Texas Hill Country might cost less than one in downtown Chicago, but you’ll still want to account for rentals, accommodations, and travel.

Step 4: Build a Wedding Budget Breakdown

Here’s a general wedding budget breakdown to help guide you. The below is based on $35,000 budget and a 75 person guest count:

Step 5: Track Every Expense

Use a wedding budget spreadsheet or tool to track actual spending vs. projected. This keeps you honest and helps you reallocate funds if needed.

Step 6: Revisit and Adjust

Your wedding budget isn’t set in stone. As you get quotes and book vendors, you may need to shift funds around. That’s totally normal! What matters is that you’re intentional and proactive throughout the planning process.

Need Help Planning Within Your Budget?

Whether you’re planning a chic city wedding or an outdoor celebration under the stars, I’m here to help you make the most of every dollar while creating a day that feels 100% like you. Let’s build your dream day—without the budget stress.