Question 1

How much does a wedding for 100 guests cost on average?

Accepted Answer

In the United States a wedding for 100 guests runs around US$ 15,000 on a DIY budget, US$ 30,000 to US$ 40,000 for a classic reception with full catering and photography, and above US$ 65,000 for a luxury or destination wedding. Costs drop considerably outside the largest cities.

Question 2

What share of the budget should go to the venue and catering?

Accepted Answer

The rule of thumb is 45% to 50% of the whole budget for the venue and the food and drink together. Those two lines are the biggest part of any couple's spending.

Question 3

Why keep 5% to 10% as a contingency fund?

Accepted Answer

Unexpected costs pile up in the final weeks: licence fees, music licensing, staff gratuities, generator hire, overtime for the DJ or photographer, and last-minute alterations. A contingency fund keeps a couple off overdrafts and credit cards.

Question 4

How do I cut costs without cutting quality?

Accepted Answer

The most effective saving is a shorter guest list, because nearly every catering and venue cost scales with the number of people. Marrying on a Friday or a Sunday can take up to 30% off the venue, and seasonal flowers cost a fraction of imported ones.

Question 5

Which costs do most couples forget?

Accepted Answer

The usual surprises are corkage, meals for the supplier crew during the party, delivery charges for furniture, lighting design and the overtime charged after the contracted hours.

Question 6

How far ahead should I start paying suppliers?

Accepted Answer

Book your suppliers 12 to 14 months out. Most of them let you pay in instalments up to 15 or 30 days before the date at no interest, which makes the monthly amounts far gentler.

Question 7

How does Noiva 10 keep me from overspending?

Accepted Answer

Noiva 10 compares, in real time, what you planned to spend, what you actually signed for and how much is already paid. It warns you before each instalment falls due, so nothing catches you out.

Wedding Budget Calculator: What Will It Cost?

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How to split the budget (the 100% rule)Amount in USD

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Frequently asked questions about wedding budgets