
Start Planning Your Wedding Budget
Tackling your Budget
Wedding planning can feel overwhelming with tasks like finding a venue, creating a guest list, coordinating decorations, and tasting food. To make it more manageable, focus on one thing at a time.
The best starting point is your budget. Whether you have $2,000 or $200,000, setting a budget is crucial to avoid overspending on unimportant items. A clear budget will guide your spending and help you prioritize what matters most.


What does a wedding budget look like?
Your wedding budget is tailored to you as a couple. While there are standard items to consider, you determine the spending in each category, ensuring all wedding expenses are covered.

Reception & Ceremony Venue
Average Colorado Rate: $11,000 according to 2025 surveys.
Ceremony and reception venues can vary in cost, with reception venues typically being more expensive.
There are three main types of wedding venues: all-inclusive, traditional, and DIY.
All-inclusive venues cover most services like catering, DJ, decor, and coordination, saving you time.
Traditional venues provide basic necessities but require you to hire vendors separately.
DIY venues offer minimal support, often just tables and chairs, leaving you to arrange the rest. The type of venue you choose will impact your overall costs.
Food & Drink
Average Colorado Rate: $25-$150 per person according to 2025 surveys.
Catering for any event is pricey. Most catering companies charge a per-person rate, which can get more expensive with a plated dinner rather than a buffet style. No matter what type of dinner you choose, this is going to be the majority of your spending for your wedding day.





Wedding Planner & Day Of Coordinator
Average Colorado Rate: $1,100 – $5,000 according to 2025 surveys.
Wedding planners come in two levels:
- Complete Wedding Planner: The most expensive option, assisting with all planning, vendor coordination, and timeline.
- Day of Coordinator: Ensures everything runs smoothly on the wedding day and makes decisions while keeping your vision in mind.
The complete planner typically includes a day of coordination, which is highly recommended for a smoother experience.
DJ Or Live Music
Average Colorado Rate: $750-$3,000 according to 2025 surveys.
For a traditional reception with activities like dances and speeches, a DJ or live band can enhance the experience by guiding guests smoothly through the events. Choosing the right entertainment is crucial for your reception!



Videographer & Photographer
Average Colorado Rates: Videography $1,500-$5,000, Photography $1,500-$3,50 according to 2025 surveys.
Many couples feel they must choose one to save money, but if you find a company that offers both, you can often save by bundling. Just ensure the styles of both match your preferences!
Other Wedding Expenses:
- Cake/Dessert: $800-$1,400
- Officiant: $300-$500
- Wedding Attire:
- Dress: $1,800-$2,400
- Groom: $300-$400
- Hair & Makeup: $400
- Invitations & Stationery: $530
- Rings:
- Women: $1,100
- Men: $550
- Transportation: $700-$1,200
- Favors & Gifts: $173-$450
- Decor: $1,000-$3,000
These additional costs can add up quickly!

Break it down
Your wedding budget may vary, but venue, catering, and planner/coordinator are usually the biggest expenses. Start with a solid budget to prioritize what matters most to you as a couple.
Breaking down spending categories helps you avoid overlooking details and makes the planning process more enjoyable. Ultimately, the goal is to celebrate your love and create cherished memories with those closest to you.
Happy planning!
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