Planning your wedding can be one of the most exciting times of your life – but without a solid budget, it can also become one of the most stressful. From dreamy venues to once-in-a-lifetime florals, costs can add up fast. So, where do you even begin?
Start here, with seven simple but important questions to help you build a wedding budget that actually works for you. Whether you’re going all out or planning something more intimate, this guide will help you spend where it matters and save where it makes sense.
1. What do weddings in Ireland actually cost?
Before you start planning, it’s helpful to get a ballpark idea of what other couples are spending. It gives you a frame of reference – but don’t worry, there’s no “one size fits all” here. If your priorities or financial situation are different, that’s totally fine. Your wedding, your rules. Make the budget reflect your reality, not someone else’s.
Related: weddingsonline’s Annual Survey Reveals What Couples Spent On Their Wedding Last Year
2. What matters most to you on the big day?
Sit down with your partner and have an honest chat about the parts of the day that are most important to each of you. For some couples, it’s all about the food and music. For others, it’s the dress, the flowers, or the dream honeymoon. Aligning on your priorities early will make decisions easier down the line – and help you spend in the right places.
3. Where are you willing to splurge?
Is there something you absolutely must have, no matter the cost? Maybe it’s a gourmet meal, a designer gown, or a five-piece band. Identifying your non-negotiables upfront lets you build the rest of the budget around them without surprises later.
Related: Save Or Splurge? Wedding Budget Tips!
4. Who’s contributing – and how much?
It’s not always the easiest conversation, but it’s an essential one. Are you and your partner footing the bill? Are family members contributing? Having a clear understanding of who’s paying for what (and how much they’re comfortable offering) helps you plan more accurately and avoid awkward conversations later on.
5. What’s your total wedding budget?
Once you’ve tallied up any contributions and looked at your own finances, decide how much you’re willing to spend overall. Are you saving month-to-month or considering a loan? Keep in mind that your wedding location and guest list size will heavily influence the final figure.
6. How will you divide your budget?
With a number in mind, it’s time to break it down by category. Think venue, catering, attire, décor, entertainment, stationery, transport, and more. Start with a general guideline or an online budget planner, and adjust based on your own priorities and preferences.
7. How will you stay on track?
Setting a budget is one thing – sticking to it is another. Whether you’re spreadsheet-savvy or more of a pen-and-paper person, choose a system that works for you. Regularly update your spending as you go and give yourself a little wiggle room for unexpected costs.
Related: The Free weddingsonline Wedding Planning App Includes A Budget Tracker
đź’ˇ Final tip: Always add a buffer of 5–10% for last-minute extras or price changes – because trust us, there will be a few!
