How to split your wedding budget
Start with the total you can spend, not with what each thing costs. Choose two or three priorities that will get more of it, split the rest across the other categories, and work out the cost per guest, because catering usually depends on the number of people. Keep some margin for the unexpected and write down every payment as you make it.
First, the total
Agree on how much you can and want to spend, including any help from family, before asking for quotes. With a total in mind, every decision becomes a question of priorities rather than a string of separate yeses.
Your priorities
Choose the two or three things that matter most to you (the food, the photography, the music, the venue) and give them more room. Anything that isn't a priority can be simplified without guilt.
Split it into categories
- Venue and catering, usually the biggest item.
- Photography and video.
- Music.
- Clothing and rings.
- Flowers and decoration.
- Invitations and stationery.
- Transport and accommodation, if you provide them.
- A margin for the unexpected.
The cost per guest
Many items, especially catering, are charged per person. Work out how much each guest costs you: it helps you decide on the guest list and see the effect of adding or removing an invitation.
Keep track
Write down each quote, each deposit and each payment, with its date. That way you know at all times what's committed and what's still to pay, and you don't get surprises in the last few weeks.