Since this is a long-winded and important topic, I decided to break this into three parts. Here is the remaining breakdown of your budget which includes: photography, alcohol, rentals, and more.
5. Photography & Videography
In my opinion, photography is the most important part of the wedding because, in the end, it is what holds the memories of your special day. The photographer gets to hold 8% of your budget making things easy to remember. If you choose to go the DJ route, keep in mind, that you can splurge a little on a videographer which would take up the 7% additional budget picked up from not having a live band. Also, make sure to ask your photographer about packages! They may offer additional savings for bundling engagement or adding on videography!
Floral usually is 8% of your overall budget and Videography is 7%.
6. Alcohol
In the last few years, trends with alcohol have been shifting. If you choose to have alcohol at your event, it is recommended to allocate about 8% towards this category. Talk with your bartender in quantities to buy and be on the lookout for sales at BevMo or Total Wine and more or your local grocery store to start stalling up on the items you wish to have. Also, ask if your bartender is including garnishes and ice in their package. You can also ask your venue if you are allowed to have a self-serve bar to save you money!
Alcohol usually is 8% of your overall budget.
7. Rentals
Rentals come in next which includes: tables, chairs, tableware, bar, linens, etc. This category is allocated 6%. Your caterer may be able to include the plates, flatware, and glassware for the tables along with food serving items and sometimes linens. Your venue may include standard tables, chairs and linens.
Be sure to ask your caterer and venue about these options and compare the costs of renting your own, but keep in mind, if they do offer these items, then they usually include set up as well which is a huge timesaver!
Rentals usually are 6% of your overall budget.
8. Event Planner
Next comes your event planner. If you choose to have an event planner, this category is allocated 6% as well. Your planner can assist with vendor coordination and communication; provide money-saving tips; assist with set-up and tear-down; and keep the event flowing with ease. The planner can also troubleshoot and resolve any problems that may occur.
A planner usually is 6% of your overall budget.
So, this marks part two of planning your wedding budget. Let me know if you have any questions because I am happy to help!
Thank you for checking out my blog! Happy planning and I hope you enjoy the planning process of your Sweet Soi·rée!
Cheers,
~ Your Event Extraordinaire Em
