So you know how much money is in your total wedding budget, but just how much should you expect to allocate toward each element of the wedding? Unfortunately, there is no one answer that will fit every wedding as each couple is unique, their wants and needs even more so. However, we can give you a basic guideline of how couples before you have spent their money, as well as a general idea of what a traditional wedding might cost. That being said, your wedding is your own, so decide on what is most important to you and adjust your budget accordingly.

Venue – 27%

For the majority of people, the largest part of the wedding budget will be put toward the venue. Unless you are getting married at a family member’s private residence or on public property, renting a wedding venue is likely to cost thousands of dollars. Average venue prices vary greatly depending upon location, ranging from around $5,000 in states like Utah, Idaho, and Mississippi to $20,000 or higher in states like New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. In Alabama, venues average around $7,000, but the actual cost can vary greatly based on the type and size of the venue, as well as the duration of the rental and the number of services provided. Many venues offer a few different packages at varying price points to help you meet your budget, and some will even offer all-inclusive packages that include catering, entertainment, and decor, so be sure to factor in all these features while comparing prices. 

Food & Drink – 25%

After the cost of the venue, the next largest part of your budget should be put toward food and drink. This category includes catering, alcohol, bartending services, and the wedding cake. Catering takes up the majority of this category with meals ranging from $35 to over $100 per person. Again, this number varies greatly depending on location, type of food, and extent of service. It stands to reason that ordering a catering tray from your favorite fast food restaurant or local barbeque joint will cost significantly less than a high-end catering service, and serving food buffet-style is certainly less expensive than booking a plated meal with table service. Bartending pricing can also vary based on the type and volume of alcohol served. Sticking to beer and wine is a great way to keep costs down, but you can always consider offering specialty cocktails or an open bar if your budget allows. 

Photography – 12%

When your vows are said and the party is over, the most concrete reminder of your big day, other than the ring on your finger and the partner by your side, is your collection of photos that capture every moment. A good photographer is a must for every wedding, so be sure to set aside enough of your budget to hire the right person. Average wedding photography prices start around $2,500 and can get as high as $10,000 for premium experiences. As with everything the price can vary based on the length of shooting, the number of photographers, and the services provided. Some photographers offer packages that include an engagement shoot, others offer videography services. Do your research beforehand to see exactly what services to expect before booking, and be sure to check out each photographer’s previous work to make sure their photography and editing style align with your expectations.

Flowers & Decor – 10%

Your wedding decor is where you really get to let your personality shine, so give yourself enough room in the budget to pull off the look you really want. In general, most couples spend an average of $2,700 on wedding florals, including bouquets, centerpieces, and other floral arrangements, and around $1,900 on other decor. Of course, this can vary based on the seasonality of florals, the size of arrangements, and the type of decor. The decor category is also where many people decide to try a bit of DIY, which can certainly save a lot of money in exchange for spending some extra time and energy.

Entertainment – 8%

Entertainment is another area that is highly customizable. Most couples include an experienced DJ or a live band in this category, average prices for which can range from $1,700 to $4,500, but the options for wedding entertainment are almost unlimited. Want to hire a mobile petting zoo, rent a putt putt course, or employ live performers? The sky – and your wallet – is the limit! Just do your research for what your chosen entertainment typically costs, and factor it into your budget.

Wedding Planner – 6%

A good wedding planner can relieve a lot of planning stress and help you avoid going over budget and missing deadlines, and a good day-of coordinator can be the difference between a well-run event and a chaotic one. Average prices range from around $700 for day-of coordination to around $4000 for planning services and event coordination. Again, expect this price to vary widely based on location, extent of services, and experience. 

Beauty & Attire – 6%

Wedding attire, hair, and makeup are all important expenses, so be sure to include them in your budget. Wedding hair and makeup services for the bride average around $290, but expect this price to go up if you want to include your bridal party in the services or if your stylists have to travel. The cost of wedding attire can vary widely, and wedding dresses in particular can range from a couple hundred dollars to several thousands. On average, though, most brides spend around $2,000 on their gown. You know better than anyone the style of attire you want for your wedding, so be sure to do your research and adjust your budget accordingly so you are not hit with sticker shock when you actually place your order.

Rentals – 5%

Your rental budget is how you fill in the blank for what your other vendors don’t supply or what you do not want or cannot afford to buy. This could be as little as a cake stand and a couple candelabras, or it could include tables, chairs, tablecloths, dishware, a portable bar, and a dance floor. The average couple will spend around $2000 on wedding day rentals, but this number can be much higher or much lower depending on your needs. 

Stationary – 1%

One of the very first things you’ll purchase for your wedding is fittingly one of the least expensive. The cost of wedding stationary, including save-the-dates, invitations, and thank-you notes, will vary based on how fancy you want to go and how many guests you want to invite, but these items on average cost around $500.