Wedding Budget Calculator
Break your total budget into standard wedding categories
Cost Per Guest
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This wedding budget calculator splits your total budget across the standard categories couples plan for — venue and catering, photography, attire, flowers, music, rings, and extras — and shows your cost per guest so you can right-size the guest list.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I budget for a wedding?
The average U.S. wedding costs about $30,000–$35,000, though this varies enormously by region and guest count. A useful anchor is cost per guest: many weddings run $150–$300 per guest once venue, catering, and everything else is included.
What percentage of the budget goes to the venue?
Venue and catering together are the largest expense — typically 40–50% of the total. This calculator allocates 40% to venue and catering combined, which is a common industry benchmark.
How do I lower my wedding cost?
The biggest lever is the guest count — fewer guests means lower catering, larger tables, and a smaller venue. Off-season dates (November–April), weekday or Sunday weddings, and all-inclusive venues also cut costs significantly.
What is the biggest hidden wedding cost?
Taxes and service/gratuity fees on catering and venue can add 20–25% on top of quoted prices. Alterations, postage, overtime for vendors, and day-of transportation are also commonly forgotten. Keep 5–10% as a buffer.
Should I include the rings and honeymoon?
Wedding rings are usually part of the wedding budget (this calculator allocates 5%). The honeymoon is typically budgeted separately since it varies so much by destination and length.