Planning a wedding can be an overwhelming task, especially when it comes to budgeting. On average, loved-ones spend 15-30k USD on their wedding (The Knot’s 2021 wedding survey). That is more than an average used car. But it does not have to be like this. A wedding budget spreadsheet is a great tool to help you keep track of your expenses and ensure that you stay within your budget. In this article, we will walk you through 9 steps of creating a budget spreadsheet and give you tips on how to use it to plan the perfect wedding.
1 - Start with a wedding budget spreadsheet
Before you start planning your wedding, it's important to create a wedding budget spreadsheet. This will help you keep track of all of your expenses, and ensure that you stay within your budget. You can find templates online, or create your own using a program like Excel or Google Sheets. Make sure to include all of the major expenses, such as the venue, food, and photography, as well as any smaller items like wedding favors and decorations.
2 - Wedding guest list
Your guest list is one of the most important factors in determining your wedding budget. The larger your guest list, the more expensive your wedding will be. When planning a wedding, your total cost will directly depend on the wedding guest list. How many people you invite affects the variable costs (e.g. foods, drinks). Before starting out, you should make a back-of-the-envelope calculation for the total costs by multiplying the expected amount of guests with the estimated cost per head. This way, you can see how your budget changes based on the number of people, for example, 100 guests * $100 per head vs 50 guests * $100 per head.
Next, we will go through the main costs of a wedding. This way you can prioritize your cost savings accordingly within your marriage budget plan.
3 - Wedding venue
The venue is one of the most significant expenses in a wedding, making up on average the largest cost component, According to The Knot's 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding venue in the United States is around $16,000, however this number can vary greatly depending on location, season, and other factors. Some venues can be as low as a few thousand dollars, while others can reach tens of thousands of dollars. So it's important to research different venues and compare their prices, as well as factor in additional costs such as rentals and catering, when determining your overall budget. Consider whether you want a traditional wedding, or if you're open to more unique options like a backyard or beach wedding. These venues are often cheaper or even free. However, it is possible to find unique wedding venues by being creative. For instance, outdoor venues (e.g. parks, beaches), historical buildings, religious venues. Also, be sure to factor in the cost of rentals, such as tables and chairs, if they are not included in the venue fee.
4 - Food and beverages
Food and drinks are another major expense in a wedding, making up on average around 40% of the total wedding budget. According to The Knot's 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of food and beverages for a wedding in the United States is around $12,000. Be sure to factor in the cost of the meal, as well as any additional expenses like a cake or open bar. Consider if you want a sit-down dinner, buffet, or a food station. It's important to research different catering options and compare their prices, as well as factor in additional costs such as taxes, gratuities, and service charges, when determining your overall budget for food and beverages.
5 - Photographer
A photographer is an essential part of any wedding, so it's important to budget for professional photos. According to The Knot's 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost for a wedding photographer in the United States is around $2,400. Be sure to factor in the cost of the photographer, as well as any additional expenses like prints or photo albums. The cost of prints and photo albums can vary depending on the size, style and number of items you want to purchase, so be sure to ask your photographer for a detailed breakdown of costs and options. Additionally, some photographers offer package deals that include engagement and bridal photos, which can save you money. It's important to research different options and compare prices when determining your overall budget for photography, and keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on the location and photographer's level of experience.
6 - Decoration
Decorations can add a special touch to your wedding, but they can also add up quickly. The cost of decorations can vary greatly, but on average it can be around $2,000 according to The Knot's 2021 wedding survey. Be sure to budget for decorations, such as flowers, lighting, and other special touches and make sure to shop around for the best deals.
7 - Clothing
Clothing is another important aspect of wedding planning. According to The Knot's 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding dress in the United States is around $1,600. Be sure to budget for your wedding dress or suit, as well as any additional expenses like alterations, accessories, and shoes. Alterations can add hundreds of dollars to the cost of a wedding dress, and accessories such as a veil, jewelry, and gloves can also add to the expense. Don't forget to budget for the groom's attire, as well as any additional costs such as rentals, cleaning and pressing fees, and any fees for last-minute fittings or changes. Keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on the location and designer, so it's important to research different options and compare prices when determining your overall budget for clothing.
8 - Music
Music is an essential part of any wedding, so it's important to budget for a DJ or band. According to The Knot's 2021 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of music for a wedding in the United States is around $1,200. Be sure to factor in the cost of the music, as well as any additional expenses like lighting or sound equipment. In addition to the cost of hiring a DJ or band, consider the cost of renting equipment such as speakers, amplifiers, and microphones, which can add up quickly. It's important to research different music options and compare prices, and also factor in any additional costs such as taxes, gratuities, and service charges, when determining your overall budget for music.
9 - The rest
There are many other expenses to consider when planning a wedding, such as wedding favors, transportation, and lodging. Be sure to budget for these items, and make sure to account for any additional expenses that may come up.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but with a budget spreadsheet, you can ensure that you stay within your budget and have the perfect wedding. By including all of the major expenses, such as the venue, food, and photography, as well as any smaller items like wedding favors and decorations, you can have a clear understanding of where your money is going. With a budget spreadsheet, you can have peace of mind and enjoy your special day.
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