What to Plan, What to Expect, and What to Skip

Planning your wedding budget can feel like juggling cake, flowers, and spreadsheets all at once — but don’t worry, I’ve got you. Whether you’re just getting started or fine-tuning the details, this guide breaks down every area you’ll want to consider — from your ceremony shoes to your sealing-day flowers — so you can plan with confidence (and a little less stress).

Ceremony

Start with the sacred center of your day — your temple sealing or chapel ceremony. Consider:

• Ceremony site fee

• Officiant’s fee and gratuity

• Guest book, pen, or keepsake holder

• Ring bearer pillow and flower girl basket

Big-sister tip: Budget a small “extras” line for unexpected details like program printing or aisle decorations. They sneak up faster than you think!

Wedding Attire

From the dress you’ll cherish forever to the groom’s formal wear, include:

• Bridal gown and alterations

• Headpiece or veil

• Shoes and jewelry

• Groom’s attire

• Hair, makeup, and pre-wedding pampering (hello, mani-pedi!)

Remember: comfort is elegant. The right fit and shoes you can actually dance in will make your day infinitely sweeter.

Photography & Videography

Your photos will tell the story of your day for generations, so plan for:

• Engagement and bridal sessions

• Main wedding video and extra hours

• Albums and digital files

• Titles, montages, and keepsake copies

Pro tip: Ask your photographer if they include temple exit shots — those joyful steps out of the temple doors are pure magic.

Stationery

Even in a digital world, printed details matter.

• Invitations, response cards, and announcements

• Ceremony programs and seating/place cards

• Thank-you notes and stamps

• Calligraphy, napkins, or custom matchbooks

Want to save? Combine announcements and invitations into one elegant card or send digital RSVP links.

Reception

Here’s where the fun (and a lot of the budget) lives:

• Venue fee and catering

• Hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and dessert

• Bartending or beverage service setup

• Linens, tables, chairs, and rentals

• Party favors, gratuities, and parking services

Sweet reminder: always include meals for your photographer, DJ, and helpers. A fed vendor is a happy vendor!

Music & Entertainment

Set the tone for the celebration with:

• Ceremony music (live or pre-recorded)

• Reception playlists, bands, or DJs

If your venue allows, ask for an early sound check — no one wants feedback squeals mid–first dance.

Flowers & Décor

Create your dream atmosphere with:

• Bride and bridesmaids’ bouquets

• Boutonnieres and corsages

• Table centerpieces and altar arrangements

• Floral delivery/setup fees

Budget tip: repurpose ceremony flowers for your reception — double the charm, half the cost.

Transportation & Rentals

Don’t overlook logistics:

• Transportation for couple and family

• Tents, heaters, lanterns, and dance floor rentals

Remember: even if you’re having a local reception, your vendors may charge mileage or delivery fees.

Gifts & Parties

Small gestures that mean so much:

• Bridesmaids’, groomsmen’s, and family gifts

• Rehearsal dinner

• Bridesmaids’ luncheon

• Marriage license and small taxes

Sweet moment: write your thank-you notes early — post-wedding brain fog is real! And yes! I have an app for that too-it's inside the program, waiting for you.

Bonus: Plan Smarter with the Free LDS Wedding Budget App

If you’re starting to feel like you need a spreadsheet for your spreadsheet, I’ve got you covered. The LDS Wedding Budget App  is inside the Wedding Planning Studio, with everything in one simple place — no downloads, no ads, no stress.

You’ll find it inside your free account when you sign up at Church of Jesus Christ Wedding Planning — so you can plan your day and stay on budget, all with a few easy clicks.

Remember: this is your sacred celebration, not a spending competition. Whether you go simple or grand, what matters most is the covenant you’re making and the joy you’ll share with those who love you most.

Now take a deep breath, grab your favorite computer (or phone), sign up, and start planning your beautiful forever day — one budget line at a time.