Budgeting your Wedding in 2024

Planning a wedding? Don’t worry, lovebirds, you’re not alone in the budgeting jungle. We’ve got the lowdown on where your hard-earned moolah is likely to go on the big day, with a healthy dose of fun (and maybe a sprinkle of sarcasm).

Venue: Rent Your Castle – 37%

Surprise! The biggest chunk of your budget disappears faster than Aunt Matilda’s third glass of champagne. That’s because you’re basically renting a temporary castle (unless you’re marrying royalty, in which case, bow down, your majesties!). Think fancy barns, trendy warehouses, or your grandpa’s backyard – whatever floats your (boat-themed) wedding boat.

Wedding Venue Costs In Los Angeles

Catering: Feed the Beast – 29%

Food glorious food! This is where you decide between Michelin-star canapés or finger-licking barbecue. Remember, your guests are here to celebrate your love, not judge your culinary adventurousness. So unless you’re serving edible gold flakes as hors d’oeuvres, keep it reasonable.

Best Kosher Venues In Los Angeles

Band or DJ Music  – 20%

Live music adds that extra oomph, but let’s be honest, your grandma might prefer the Macarena to some head-banging metal. Consider a DJ, Hire a DJ who can turn your dance floor into a sweaty disco inferno without charging you like they’re Beyoncé herself.  A DJ who can mix the new and the old songs for Grandma to bust a move.

10 things you didn’t know a DJ could

Wedding Rings: Bling – 9%

Diamonds are forever, but your bank account doesn’t have to be. Explore alternative stones, vintage finds, or even DIY options (if you’re crafty, not clumsy). Remember, the real sparkle is in your eyes, not on your fingers.

Photography: Memories That Last a Lifetime (and Beyond) – 9%

This is where you splurge! A good wedding photographer captures the magic, the tears, the flying cake (hopefully not), and all the embarrassing dance moves. Think of it as an investment in giggles for future you.

Alcohol: Cheers! – 8%

Liquid courage can flow freely, but keep an eye on the budget. Open bars can turn into bottomless black holes of your savings. Consider signature cocktails, beer and wine, or even a BYOB option (check with your venue first).

Flowers: Pretty Petals – 8%

Flowers add beauty, but they can also drain your wallet faster than a Kardashian at a sale. Opt for seasonal blooms, DIY arrangements, or even potted plants that guests can take home (double duty!).

Wedding Flowers Ideas

Videography: Relive the Magic (and the Mishaps) – 7%

A wedding video is like a time capsule of your love story. You get to see all the smiles, the tears, and maybe even your uncle doing the worm on the dance floor. Just promise not to watch it every night for the rest of your lives.

Attire: Dress to Impress – 7%

Your wedding outfit is your moment to shine (literally, with sequins), but remember, you’re not Cinderella going to the ball. Sample sales, vintage finds, or even borrowing from a stylish friend can save you a bundle.

Wedding Planner: Your Fairy Godmother  – 6%

A wedding planner can be a lifesaver, handling all the stress and leaving you free to sip margaritas and contemplate which shade of lipstick goes best with your vows. But their magic comes at a price, so weigh the cost against your sanity level.

Event Rentals: Tables, Chairs, and Other Essentials  – 6%

From chairs that don’t collapse to plates that don’t crack, rentals are the unsung heroes of your wedding. But they can also be budget vampires. Shop around, consider DIY options, or ask your venue if they include anything in their package.

Lighting – Set the Mood  – 6%

Fairy lights, disco balls, lasers and festival light beams or just good old-fashioned candles can transform a space. Get creative with DIY projects, borrow from friends, or even use nature as your decor (just don’t steal any squirrels).

Decoration – 4%

Wedding decorations aren’t just about dressing up a room; they’re the stage curtains for your love story. cascading flower vines, fairy lights weaving constellations across the ceiling, Think vibrant blooms adding a burst of color to your “I do’s,” whimsical paper lanterns whispering secrets in the breeze, or a canopy of stars twinkling above your first dance. So don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed pomander or a strategically hung banner. Let your decorations be the brushstrokes that paint your wedding day into a masterpiece of love and magic.