You enter a total wedding budget, guest count, and percentage allocations for each category. The tool computes dollar amounts by multiplying the total budget by each percentage, except catering, which uses a per-guest flat rate. The default percentages follow common industry splits but are fully adjustable. Note: category percentages plus catering may exceed 100% of the budget — the tool does not enforce a cap so you can spot overruns.
According to The Knot's annual survey, the average U.S. wedding cost was approximately $35,000 in 2024, though this varies widely by region and guest count. Urban weddings and those in high-cost areas can easily exceed $50,000.
The venue often includes not just the space rental but also tables, chairs, linens, and sometimes catering and bar service. The default 40% reflects industry-wide averages, but all-inclusive venues may deserve a higher share.
The calculator intentionally does not cap the total. If your allocations plus catering exceed your budget, it means you are planning to overspend — a useful signal to trim categories or increase the budget.
Yes. Most wedding planners recommend setting aside 5–10% of the total budget for unexpected costs. You can use the "Other" category to build in this buffer.
Estimate only. Results reflect your inputs and standard formulas — they are not financial, tax, legal, health, or investment advice. Verify important decisions with a qualified professional.