One of the first questions couples ask me is, “Where do we even start with our budget?” And I get it, it can feel overwhelming. There are Pinterest boards full of inspiration, Instagram trends that make you want everything, and family members offering their opinions on what you “have” to include.
But here’s what I’ve learned: the weddings that feel the most genuine aren’t the ones that follow a perfect formula. They’re the ones that reflect the couple’s priorities.
Start with What Matters to You
Think about the pieces of your wedding that you can’t imagine your day without. Is it a photographer who captures every laugh and tear so you can relive it for years? Is it food that feels like gathering around a family table? Is it music that keeps the dance floor packed all night?
Whatever comes to mind, those are your non-negotiables. That’s where you start.
Spend Where It Feels Right, Save Where It Doesn’t
You don’t have to splurge on everything. If florals make your heart skip a beat, let’s pour into that. If cake isn’t your thing, choose something smaller, or swap it for a dessert that feels personal to you.
Your budget isn’t about checking boxes, it’s about reflecting you.
Real Couples, Real Choices
One couple I worked with knew photography mattered most to them. They booked their dream photographer early, even if it meant keeping florals minimal with lots of candlelight. Their day was still stunning, because it was true to them.
Another couple cared most about food and drinks. They wanted the whole night to feel like an elevated dinner party, so we focused on the menu and kept décor timeless and simple. It was perfect because it was theirs.
Leave Room for the Unexpected
No matter how much we plan, there are always little surprises, extra transportation, gratuity envelopes, last-minute rentals. I always suggest setting aside about 5–10% of your budget for those things. It gives you peace of mind when the unexpected pops up.
My Best Advice?
Your budget should tell your story. When you build it around your priorities, you’re not just spending money, you’re investing in the moments that will matter to you years down the road.
So take a quiet evening, pour a glass of wine, and write down your top three priorities together. Start there. Let everything else fall into place.
