Free wedding budget breakdown and 12-month planning checklist
Rough guidelines, not rules. Adjust to your priorities and region.
Typical budget split
| Category | Typical share |
|---|---|
| Venue and rental | 25-35% |
| Food and drink | 20-30% |
| Photo and video | 8-12% |
| Music or DJ | 5-10% |
| Attire and rings | 8-10% |
| Flowers and decor | 8-10% |
| Cake or dessert | 2-3% |
| Invitations and stamps | 2-3% |
| Officiant and license | 1-2% |
| Transport | 1-2% |
| Favors and gifts | 1-2% |
| Buffer | 10% |
Shares overlap because every wedding differs. Keep a 10% buffer for surprise costs.
12-month checklist
12 to 9 months out: set the budget, pick a date range, draft the guest list, book the venue, choose the wedding party, hire a photographer.
8 to 6 months out: book caterer, DJ or band, order attire, send save-the-dates, book officiant, plan the honeymoon.
5 to 3 months out: send invitations, order cake, book transport, pick rings, plan the ceremony, arrange a hotel block.
2 months to 1 week out: apply for the marriage license, final headcount, seating chart, confirm every vendor, pay final balances, pack.
8 ways to cut cost without cutting the day
Cut the guest list first (cost scales per head). Pick an off-peak date or a Friday or Sunday. Choose one venue for ceremony and reception. Use seasonal flowers. Skip the printed programs. Ask vendors for off-season rates. Borrow or rent decor. Set a hard limit on each category before you shop.
More guides: https://patreon.com/123black
Free copy on GitHub: https://github.com/BlacksGit/wedding-budget-checklist-free
