Wedding Budget Calculator
Enter your total wedding budget and instantly see the recommended allocation across every major category — venue, catering, photography, flowers, attire, and more.
Track Every Wedding Expense
Knowing your budget split is step one. Track actual spending vs. your plan with our free budget template — so you never go over budget on your big day.
Get the Free Budget Template →How to Use This Wedding Budget Calculator
- Enter your total wedding budget — this should include everything you and your families plan to spend.
- The calculator instantly shows the recommended dollar amount for each category based on industry-standard percentages.
- Use these numbers as a starting point and adjust based on your priorities (e.g., spend more on photography and less on flowers).
Average Wedding Costs in 2026
The average U.S. wedding costs around $33,000, but costs vary dramatically by location. New York City and San Francisco weddings can exceed $60,000, while weddings in the Midwest or South may cost $20,000-$25,000. This calculator works for any budget size.
Tips for Staying on Budget
- Set a hard ceiling — decide your absolute maximum before you start booking vendors.
- Track every payment — deposits, tips, and last-minute additions add up fast.
- Build in a buffer — keep 5-10% of your budget unallocated for surprises.
- Prioritize ruthlessly — pick 2-3 categories that matter most and allocate more there.
Related Resources
- Complete Wedding Budget Planning Guide
- How to Track Expenses in Notion
- Common Budgeting Mistakes to Avoid
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of the budget should go to the venue?
Industry guidelines suggest 30% for venue and rentals, making it the single largest expense. However, if you choose an all-inclusive venue that bundles catering, the venue percentage may be higher while catering drops.
How much should I budget for a wedding photographer?
Plan for about 12% of your total budget for photography and videography combined. For a $30,000 wedding, that is roughly $3,600. Quality photography is one of the few things you cannot redo after the day.
Should I include the honeymoon in my wedding budget?
Most planners recommend keeping the honeymoon as a separate budget. Mixing the two makes it harder to track wedding-specific costs and can lead to overspending in both areas.