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Wedding Budget Calculator
Enter your total wedding budget and expected guest count. The calculator splits the budget across the usual categories using typical percentages (which you can edit), shows the amount for each, and works out your cost per guest, which is the number venues and caterers usually quote in.
| Category | % of budget |
|---|---|
| Venue & catering | |
| Photography & video | |
| Attire & beauty | |
| Flowers & decor | |
| Music & entertainment | |
| Rings | |
| Stationery | |
| Transportation | |
| Favors & gifts | |
| Officiant & fees | |
| Buffer for surprises |
Runs entirely in your browser. Nothing you type is sent or stored.
How to split a wedding budget
The fastest way to lose control of a wedding budget is to book the first big vendor before deciding how much each part of the day should cost. A percentage split solves that: decide the total first, divide it into categories, and then shop for vendors that fit each number.
The default percentages in this calculator reflect a common pattern. The venue and catering category is by far the largest, often 40–50% of the total, because it scales with guest count. Photography and video come next, followed by attire, flowers and decor, and entertainment. We include a 10% buffer because almost every couple meets costs they didn't plan for: service charges, tips, alterations, extra rentals and last-minute changes.
Guest count is the biggest lever
Most venue and catering quotes are per person, so the guest list drives the budget more than any single choice. The calculator shows your venue and catering budget per guest. Compare it with the per-person prices venues quote, remembering to add tax and service charges, which can add 20–30% on top of the menu price in many places. If your per-guest figure is lower than real quotes, either trim the guest list or move percentage points from other categories.
Adjusting the categories
Every couple prioritises differently. If photography matters most to you, raise it to 15% and lower decor. A destination wedding may need a travel line; a backyard wedding may need much more for rentals and less for the venue. Edit the percentages; the calculator tells you if they don't add up to 100%.
Practical tips
- Agree on the total first, including who is contributing what, before you visit venues.
- Track deposits and due dates. Vendors are paid in stages, so a schedule prevents surprise bills near the date.
- Get everything in writing, including what is and isn't included, overtime rates and cancellation terms.
- Protect the buffer. Don't spend it in the planning stage; it exists for the final weeks.
- Off-peak dates (Fridays, Sundays and winter months) often cost significantly less for the same venue.
For more detail on categories and percentages, see our guide Wedding Budget Planner Spreadsheet.
Want this as a spreadsheet you can keep?
The Wedding Planner spreadsheet tracks your budget by category, vendor payments and due dates, and your guest list with RSVPs in one file.
Get the Wedding Planner spreadsheetWorks in Excel and Google Sheets · instant download via Gumroad
FAQ
What percentage of a wedding budget goes to the venue?
Venue and catering together commonly take 40–50% of the total budget, because they scale with the number of guests.
How much should I set aside for unexpected wedding costs?
A buffer of about 10% of the total budget is a sensible starting point for service charges, tips, alterations and last-minute changes.
How do I calculate cost per guest?
Divide the total budget by the number of guests. For venue quotes, compare your venue and catering amount divided by guest count with the per-person price, including tax and service.
Is my information saved?
No. The calculator runs locally in your browser and nothing is stored.
This calculator is for general education and planning only. It is not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important decisions with a qualified professional.