BUDGET CATEGORIES

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Attire → 7%

What this may include:

• Engagement, bridal shower, bachelor/bachelorette, rehearsal, wedding, and post-wedding outfits (plus shoes and accessories).
• Wedding dress/suit alterations, specialty undergarments, veil, bridal jewelry, and cleaning/preservation services.
  Tip: Borrow outfits for pre-wedding events or use budget-friendly rental services to cut costs.

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Beauty → 2%

What this may include:

• Pre-wedding haircuts, color, facials, waxing, mani-pedis, spray tans, lash extensions, and professional shaving.
• Hair and makeup trial appointments and day-of services.
  Tip: Schedule trials on the same day as engagement photos for double-duty savings.

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Cake → 2%

What this may include:

• Wedding cake, specialty designs, cake topper, cutting utensils, delivery, and extra desserts.
  Tip: Display a small two-tier cake and serve guests with a more affordable sheet cake.

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Ceremony → 2%

What this may include:

• Venue, officiant fee, marriage license, and ceremony accessories.
  Tip: Combine ceremony and reception at the same location to save on transportation and vendor costs.

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Drinks → 8%

What this may include:

• Cocktail hour, reception drinks, champagne toast, bar services, and gratuities.
  Tip: Offer an open beer and wine bar with an optional signature cocktail instead of a full open bar.

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Favors & Gifts → 2%

What this may include:

• Wedding favors, gifts for the wedding party, parents, and standout vendors.
  Tip: Opt for affordable, thoughtful favors—many ideas are under $1 each.

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Flowers & Décor → 8%

What this may include:

• Bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, ceremony/reception décor, and rentals.
  Tip: Choose seasonal, local flowers to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

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Food → 18%

What this may include:

• Catering (meal styles, hors d’oeuvres, rentals, and vendor meals) plus taxes and gratuities.
  Tip: Skip passed appetizers and set up a self-serve station with charcuterie and crudités.

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Invites & Paper → 2%

What this may include:

• Invitations, save-the-dates, ceremony programs, menus, place cards, thank-you cards, and postage.

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Music → 8%

What this may include:

• Ceremony musicians, DJ/band for reception, microphones, and lighting.
  Tip: Choose an all-inclusive DJ package for cost-effective, seamless entertainment.

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Photos/Video → 10%

What this may include:

• Engagement sessions, day-of coverage, albums, prints, and highlight reels.
  Tip: Look for photographers who grant full rights to your digital photos for flexible, affordable printing.

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Reception Venue → 18%

What this may include:

• Room rental, deposits, dance floor, parking, and service fees.
  Tip: Book during the “off-season” or on a weekday to score discounts.

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Transportation → 2%

What this may include:

• Wedding party and guest transportation, valet services, and gratuities.
  Tip: Consider carpooling or creative alternatives like a bicycle built for two for unique photos.

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Wedding Planner → 3%

What this may include:

• Day-of, month-of, or full-service coordination, vendor referrals, and timeline management.
  Tip: Use à la carte services like hourly consultations for affordable expert advice.

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Wedding Rings → 2%

What this may include:

• Wedding bands, resizing, insurance, and customizations.
  Tip: Explore Etsy for unique, budget-friendly ring options.

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Emergency Fund → 5%

What this may include:

• Vendor tips, overtime fees, hidden costs, and unexpected rentals.
  Tip: Plan for surprises by padding your budget—like fees for outside vendors not on the venue’s preferred list.

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