This topic is very dear to my heart: budget.
Every couple I work with wants to know the bottom line, and they should because budget will determine everything about your wedding. One of the keys to determining a budget is guest count.
There are two elements to any budget, the fixed costs and the variable costs. Fixed costs remain the same whether you decide to invite 50, 150 or 200 people. Variable costs increase as you add to your bridal party and guest count.
Fixed costs include:
Variable costs include:
It is variable costs that change the scope and price of your wedding.
As a planner in the Charlotte, NC area I often advise couples that an overall budget can be safely set at $300-$350 per guest. This cost per guest factors in the venue, catering, bar services, and all your professional vendors, including planner. If you think I exaggerate take a look at this barebones wedding budget for 100 guests:
Venue Rental | $5,000 |
Photographer | $4,000 |
Videographer | $3,000 |
Caterer | $5,000 ($50 pp) |
Bar Service | $2,000 ($20 pp) |
Stationery | $800 |
Florist | $6,000 |
Rentals | $3,000 |
Officiant | $350 |
DJ (Ceremony/Reception) | $2,000 |
Planner | $4,000 |
Baker | $900 |
Bride and Bridal Party MUA & Hair | $500 |
Total | $36,550 |
We also need to take into consideration a few things that weren’t added to this budget. Additional costs include things like:
This is why a wedding budget can escalate faster than you think–and managing your budget is one of the best reasons to hire a certified wedding planner. A good planner understands your budget and your priorities for your big day. With established relationships in the wedding industry, a planner will make sure you get the right vendors at the right prices.
There is no doubt that weddings are expensive but a good planner will keep your costs inline with your budget and deliver the day of your dreams.
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