An Example Budget Breakdown for a $40k Wedding
Setting a realistic budget is one of the first things you should do before planning your wedding. But, how are you supposed to create a budget if you have no idea what anything costs?
There are plenty of articles out there sharing tips and advice on managing your wedding budget. The only problem is, nobody ever includes actual dollar figures. Until now 😉
If you’ve ever wanted to sneak a peek at what a real wedding budget *actually* looks like, this blog is for you. From flowers to catering and stationery, read on as I share an example budget breakdown for a $40k wedding below.
But First, a Bit of Context!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, it’s important to have some context.
Your wedding budget will be influenced by SO many things, which is why it’s often tricky to pinpoint exact costs. For example: how many guests are attending? What’s included in the venue package? Is accommodation needed? Etc.
This particular budget breakdown is based on a 40k wedding for 100 guests. In this example, the couple has chosen a venue that doesn’t require much additional decor, as tables, chairs, linen and tableware are included in their package. The venue in this example also includes 2 nights on-site accommodation, which cancels out any extra transport costs.
For florals, we’ve gone with simple centrepieces in the middle of the tables. It will be a sit-down reception, and the venue doesn’t include a caterer, so the couple needs to bring one in.
Okay – now that you have the background info, let’s get into it!
An Example Budget Breakdown for a 40k Wedding
*All figures are approximates only
- Venue: $5387
- Wedding planner: $6397
- Wedding photographer: $3152
- Videographer: $2287
- Celebrant: $770
- Decor hire: $550
- Catering (includes food, beverages and cake): $8895
- Entertainment: $750
- Invitations: $760
- Florist (includes bouquets, buttonholes and table centrepieces): $2910
- Attire (includes gown, suit, shoes, rings, hairpieces and jewellery): $5916
- Hair and makeup: $400
- Other/Miscellaneous (includes wedding favours, bridal party gifts, marriage certificate and emergency fund): $1891
Customising Your Wedding Budget
Remember, the above figures are a great starting point but will look different for each couple based on their priorities for the day. Ultimately, we want to invest more of your budget into the details that matter the most to you, and less of your budget into the details that don’t.
You might prefer to scrap guest favours and splurge more on entertainment, or use digital invitations and spend more on flowers. It’s really up to you! This is why it’s important to determine your wedding priorities at the very beginning of your planning journey, so you can allocate your budget accordingly.
I will say – this is where a wedding planner can be worth their weight in gold. They’ll listen closely to your vision for the day, help you create a realistic wedding budget and find ways to get the best value for your money.
Wedding Budget Support
If you’d love some support with creating your wedding budget, my new Power Planning Sessions might be a great option for you. You can book in for a 2-hour virtual wedding planning pow-wow and walk away with a custom wedding budget, custom wedding timeline and a detailed checklist to keep you on track.
Book in for your Virtual Power Planning Session here, or learn more about working with me as your Brisbane wedding planner!
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