Your Dream Wedding,
Without the Budget Stress

The average wedding cost varies widely depending on location and size. A small intimate wedding (under 50 guests) typically costs between $10,000-$20,000, while a medium wedding (50-100 guests) ranges from $20,000-$40,000. Large celebrations with 100+ guests can cost $40,000-$80,000+. Major cities like NYC and LA tend to be 30-50% more expensive than smaller markets.

Venue and catering combined typically account for 50-60% of the total wedding budget. The venue rental alone usually takes 25-30%, while food and beverage costs add another 20-30%. This is why choosing the right venue and managing guest count are the two most impactful ways to control your overall wedding costs.

Ideally, you should start planning your wedding budget 12-18 months before the wedding date. This gives you enough time to research costs, book vendors, and save strategically. However, even if you have less time, our budget calculator can help you quickly estimate costs and create a realistic financial plan.

Top money-saving strategies include: (1) Choose an off-peak month like January, February, or November for lower rates. (2) Reduce your guest list to the most important people. (3) Consider a non-traditional venue like a public park or community center. (4) DIY certain elements like invitations or decor. (5) Book vendors during their off-season. Our calculator helps you see exactly where your money goes so you can make informed trade-offs.

Yes! Our wedding budget calculator and expense tracker are 100% free with no registration required. Unlike TheKnot, Zola, and WeddingWire which often push paid upgrades and vendor commissions, we keep everything simple, unbiased, and free. Just enter your details and get instant results you can trust.

Our estimates are based on aggregated industry data from WeddingWire, The Knot, and real wedding surveys. While actual costs vary by vendor, region, and personal choices, our calculator provides a reliable starting point. Think of it as a compass, not a GPS destination. Use it to set your budget direction, then adjust based on local quotes you receive.