Wedding budget guide
How to build a wedding budget by guest count.
Separate the costs that stay mostly fixed from the costs that repeat for every guest. Then add a contingency only after both parts are visible.
Use this formula: fixed costs + (per-person cost × expected guests) + contingency = working budget. Replace every example number below with an actual quote or a deliberate allowance.
Three scenarios using the same assumptions
The example below uses $12,000 of fixed costs, $145 per guest and an 8% contingency. It is a comparison model—not a statement about what weddings should cost.
| Expected guests | Fixed costs | Per-person costs | 8% contingency | Working total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | $12,000 | $7,250 | $1,540 | $20,790 |
| 100 | $12,000 | $14,500 | $2,120 | $28,620 |
| 150 | $12,000 | $21,750 | $2,700 | $36,450 |
What belongs in fixed costs
Venue or room rental, photography packages, entertainment minimums, attire and the officiant often change slowly—or not at all—when the guest list moves. Confirm minimums and overtime rules before labeling any item fixed.
What belongs in per-person costs
Food, beverage, place settings, many rentals, stationery and favors usually rise with attendance. Use the contracted count rule: invited guests, accepted RSVPs, guaranteed minimum or final headcount may not be the same number.
Choose the count before comparing venues
A low headline rental can become expensive after catering minimums, rentals and service charges. Compare the total cost at the same guest count, service level and event length.
Wedding To Do List
Replace the examples with your real wedding.
Use the budget planner to connect actual vendor quotes, deposits, payments and due dates.