Setting Your Wedding Budget: Tips for Making It Work

Weddings come in all shapes and sizes, and the good news is that you can create an amazing day on any budget. What matters most is being realistic, knowing what you can comfortably afford, and planning wisely to avoid unnecessary stress.

As a Glasgow wedding photographer, I’ve seen incredible weddings with budgets ranging from modest to extravagant. One thing I’ve learned is that it’s not about how much you spend, but about how personal and authentic your day feels.

In fact, when my wife and I got married, it was the second time for both of us. We planned our wedding for less than £1,000, and it was no less epic than if we’d spent ten times that amount. The joy, love, and meaning of the day were what made it unforgettable—and that’s something money can’t buy.

Start With What You Can Afford

Sit down with your partner and take an honest look at your finances. Ask yourselves:

How much can we comfortably afford without taking on debt?

Are there any savings we’d like to use for the wedding?

If your parents or other family members have expressed an interest in contributing, now is the time to have a conversation with them. While it was once traditional for the bride’s family to foot the bill, that’s far from the norm today. Approach these conversations with gratitude, but don’t assume contributions will be made.

Be Realistic About Your Vision

Once you have a rough figure in mind, think about the kind of wedding you want:

Are you imagining a grand event at a luxurious venue?

Or is an intimate celebration with close friends and family more your style?

Your vision will shape how you allocate your budget, but remember: incredible weddings come in all styles and price ranges. What makes your day special is how personal it feels, not how much you spend.

Splitting Your Budget: The Big Three

To keep things manageable, start by dividing your budget into major categories. Here’s a general guide to help you get started:

Venue: 40-50% of your budget. This often includes the cost of catering, so check with your chosen venue.

Photography/Videography: 10-15%. These are the memories you’ll treasure forever, so it’s worth prioritising quality.

Attire: 5-10%. This includes the dress, suit, and accessories for the big day.

Don’t Forget the Extras

Little things can add up quickly, and it’s easy to forget about them during the initial planning stages. To stay on track, add 15% to your overall budget as a contingency for:

Last-minute changes or upgrades.

Items you may have forgotten, like wedding favours or stationery.

Price increases for goods or services.

Practical Tips for Sticking to Your Budget

Track Everything: Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to monitor expenses.

Set Priorities: Allocate more funds to the areas that matter most to you and scale back on others.

DIY Where It Makes Sense: Personal touches can save money, but don’t overcommit.

Final Thoughts

Your budget sets the foundation for your wedding, so take the time to get it right. Remember, the amount you spend doesn’t determine how meaningful your day will be. A well-planned wedding that reflects your love story will always leave a lasting impression.

Next week, we’ll dive into finding your perfect venue and how to make the most of your search.