You best wedding budget guide for 2026 and 2027

Every wedding is different, so think of these percentages as a starting point. Shift money toward what matters most to you. Our goal is to help you focus on guest experience, lasting memories, and a day that feels like you.

Quick tip: Keep a running “must‑have vs nice‑to‑have” list. If an item doesn’t add joy or meaning, trim it and move that budget to the things that do.

1) Venue — 20%

Your venue shapes the whole day—flow, comfort, logistics, and atmosphere. Visit with a short checklist:

Capacity, layout, access (older guests, suppliers), on‑site coordination
Lighting (natural + evening) and photo‑friendly spaces
Supplier rules (corkage, external catering, noise limits), finish times
If the vibe isn’t right, walk away—no spreadsheet can fix a poor fit
A Few local options: Southend Barns (Chichester) – polished, modern barns with on‑site team and flexible spaces; we've shot there a lot and love it. Upwaltham Barns (near Petworth) – family‑run flint barns in the South Downs; consistently praised by couples and we love them, nestled away

2) Catering — 15%

Food sets the tone. Some venues insist on in‑house catering; some allow external. Ask about:

Menu tastings, dietary options, service style (sharing, plated, buffet)
Staffing ratios, bar service, and late‑night snacks
(If you’re shortlisting venues that allow outside caterers, create a “venues that allow external catering” note and link it from here.)

3) Wedding Rings — 10%

You’ll wear them daily, so balance beauty with practicality. Alternatives to diamonds—emerald, garnet, sapphire, quartz—can be gorgeous and meaningful. Remember:

Comfort (profile), maintenance, resizing, warranties
Insure them (often via home insurance or a specialist policy)

4) Photography — 10%

Memories fade; photos bring them back. Look for a photographer whose style you love, who you’d happily spend the day with, and who fits your budget. Prioritise:

Story‑driven coverage, natural colour, and relaxed direction for portraits
Clear deliverables (hours, number of images, turnaround, usage rights)
(Link here to your “How to choose a wedding photographer” post and to your wedding photography packages.)

5) Live Band — 5%

Live music lifts the energy. Confirm:

Power access, set lengths/intervals, first‑dance rehearsal
Venue noise limits and wet‑weather plans for outdoor sets

6) Drinks — 5%

Think welcome drinks, table wine, toasts, water stations, and soft/mocktail options. Check corkage vs bar packages and what’s included for glassware/staffing.

7) Flowers — 5%

Seasonal florals go further. Re‑use ceremony pieces at the reception, and consider keepsake alternatives (dried stems, potted plants, paper or silk) if sustainability matters to you.

8) Dress & Suits — 8%

You don’t have to spend a fortune to look incredible. Pre‑loved/charity finds plus good tailoring can be perfect—and planet‑friendly. Don’t forget shoes, alterations, and undergarments.

9) Lighting & Décor — 8%

The “feel” of a room is often light + small details: festoon strings, lanterns, candles/LEDs, table runners, signage. Check venue rules for naked flames and install times.

10) DJ — 2%

A good DJ reads the room and handles transitions/announcements. If you DIY a playlist, budget for sound equipment hire and nominate an MC.

11) Guest Entertainment — 2%

Optional extras that add fun: lawn games, photobooth, caricaturist, glitter bar, kids’ corner. Nice‑to‑have if budget allows—skip if it steals from your must‑haves.

12) Hair & Makeup — 2%

Professionals remove pressure from friends/family and keep timelines smooth. Book a trial, build a morning schedule, and plan for the wedding party too.

13) Cake — 2%

Home‑baked can be wonderful; professionals bring reliability and transport. Decide whether it’s dessert, a photo moment, or a small cutting cake + traybakes. Label allergens.

14) Transport — 2%

Even if everything’s on one site, think through logistics: arrivals, parking, accessibility, umbrellas/blankets, and a special getaway car if that matters to you.

15) Wedding Favours — 2%

Absolutely optional. If you do them, consumables (mini bakes, local honey) or charity donations often go down best.

16) Officiant — 1%

Whether registrar or celebrant, meet in advance. You want someone whose tone fits your ceremony and who guides you confidently through the legal bits.

17) Extras & Personal Details — 1%

Jewellery, cufflinks, keepsakes—and a tiny contingency for the unexpected (delivery fees, overtime, last‑minute umbrellas).