Plan the wedding,
not the spreadsheet.

How much should you budget for a wedding?

There's no single right number — a wedding can be joyful at $5,000 or $100,000. What matters is deciding your total first, then splitting it deliberately instead of paying for each thing as it comes up. The percentages Confetti starts with are typical U.S. averages, and they're a starting point, not a rule. Move money toward what you care about (great photos, an open bar, a live band) and away from what you don't.

Want the full picture first? Read how much a wedding actually costs by guest count — with real per-guest figures and the four decisions that move the number most.

Typical wedding budget breakdown

Most couples find their spending lands roughly here:

• Venue & rentals — ~22%. Usually the single biggest line. Booking it first anchors everything else.
• Catering & drinks — ~22%. Priced per head, so your guest count is the biggest lever you control.
• Photography & video — ~12%. The part you keep forever; many couples spend up here.
• Flowers & décor — ~10%. Highly flexible — seasonal blooms and reused arrangements cut this fast.
• Music & entertainment — ~8%. A DJ costs far less than a live band; both work.
• Attire & beauty — ~7%. Dress, suit, alterations, hair and makeup.
• Everything else — ~19%. Planner, rings, cake, stationery, transport, favors, officiant, and a buffer.

Common questions

Is Confetti really free and private? Yes. There's no sign-up and nothing you type is uploaded — your plan is saved only in your own browser. The "share link" packs your plan into the URL itself, so you choose exactly who sees it.

How do I save or share my budget? Your numbers save automatically on this device. Tap Share / save link to copy a link that rebuilds your entire plan — bookmark it, or send it to your partner.

How much should I keep as a buffer? Around 5%. Alterations, overtime, gratuities and small surprises almost always appear near the end.