The biggest reality check in planning your wedding is the issue of money! It’s hard for many people to discuss money and with emotions running high; money can be the source of a lot of anxiety in the planning process. Add to that the fact that the average wedding budget in the USA can run from $25,000 to $40,000 and you can understand why. As husband and wife, you will have frequent discussions about your budget, so this is a great time to learn to balance your wedding budget together.
Before you work on the following Wedding Budget Worksheet, take the time to sit down and define your budget priorities. Make a list of the five most important elements (to both of you) of your wedding day, the things that you are willing to spend significant amounts of your budget on. Next, make a list of the five least important (to you both) elements of your day, the things you are willing to do without if your budget requires it.
For each item on the budget worksheet, list who’s paying for that item, what are you budgeting for it, and then the actual amount you spend. Some items on the list might not figure in your wedding budget at all—for instance, it’s customary for the bridal party to pay for their own attire.
Wedding Budget Worksheet
1. Engagement announcement
2. Engagement party
3. Ceremony site
4. Ceremony décor
5. Officiant’s fee
6. Marriage license
7. Pre-wedding counseling/classes
8. Reception site
9. Rentals for reception site
10. Preparation of reception site
11. Additional permits for parking and other
12. Wedding gown
13. Wedding gown fittings
14. Accessories and shoes
15. Bride’s manicure, pedicure, hairstyling, and makeup
16. Bridesmaids’ dresses (if applicable)
17. Bridesmaids’ hairstyling and makeup (if applicable)
18. Groom’s clothing
19. Groom’s accessories
20. Wedding coordinator
21. Rehearsal dinner (if applicable)
22. Invitations
23. Postage
24. Programs
25. Thank-you notes
26. Caterer costs
27. Liquor
28. Cake
29. Flowers
30. Reception décor
31. Reception entertainment
32. Photography
33. Videography
34. Wedding cameras
35. Limousines or classic cars
36. Other guest transportation
37. Favors
38. Gifts (for bridal party, parents, each other, guests’ hotel room baskets)
39. Toss-its (items such as bubbles or birdseed for guests to toss at you after the ceremony)
40. Honeymoon
41. Travel expenses and lodging for couple
42. Travel expenses and lodging for guests
43. Travel expenses and lodging for bridal party
44. Daycare for children of guests
45. Tips
46. Other:
47. Other:
48. Other:
This worksheet was taken from the book; your day, your way by roth, roth, and naylor. It is full of practical planning advice.
Professional Bridal Consultants are experienced in discussing wedding budgets in a calm, frank manner. We can offer guidance on how to get the most out of your money. Just remember, don’t be embarrased if you have a small budget–it does not reflect the depth of your love or the joy of your wedding day!
