1. Average budget by number of guests
The number of guests is the factor that has the biggest impact on your total budget:
- Intimate wedding (30-50 guests): €8,000 - €18,000
- Classic wedding (80-120 guests): €15,000 - €30,000
- Large wedding (150-200 guests): €25,000 - €50,000
- Very large wedding (300+ guests): €40,000 - €80,000+
For multicultural weddings with large families, the budget can exceed these estimates because of specific traditions (negafa, orchestra, multiple outfits, etc.).
2. Detailed breakdown by category in 2026
Here is the recommended breakdown of your budget:
- Reception venue (30-40%): €4,500 - €14,000 - includes hall rental, any accommodation and the cocktail reception
- Caterer / meal (25-35%): €3,750 - €12,250 - budget €60 to €150 per person depending on the type of meal
- Photographer / videographer (8-12%): €1,200 - €4,200 - photo coverage + video
- Music / entertainment (5-8%): €750 - €2,800 - DJ, band, entertainment
- Flowers / decoration (5-10%): €750 - €3,500 - bouquets, table centerpieces, arch
- Outfits (5-10%): €750 - €3,500 - dress, suit, accessories, alterations
- Administrative / ceremony (2-4%): €300 - €1,400 - officiant, town hall, church
- Contingency (5-10%): €750 - €3,500 - always plan for a margin
3. The costs people often forget
Some expenses are frequently underestimated:
- Stationery: invitations, menus, seating chart - €200 to €800
- Fittings and alterations: €200 to €500 on top of the price of the dress
- Tips: 5 to 10% of the service for the caterer, the DJ, etc.
- Guest accommodation: if you rent an estate with rooms
- Transport: shuttles, wedding car - €300 to €1,500
- Wedding insurance: €100 to €300 - covers cancellations and incidents
4. Tips for optimizing your budget
Here are some concrete strategies for saving money without sacrificing quality:
- Choose an off-season date: weekday weddings or weddings from November to March cost 20 to 30% less
- Compare quotes: request at least 3 quotes per category. On NUPLY, you can easily compare vendors
- Consider a brunch: a wedding brunch costs 30 to 50% less than a seated dinner
- Selective DIY: make your own stationery, guest favors or simple decorations
- Negotiate packages: some vendors offer discounts if you book several services together
5. Managing your budget with NUPLY
The NUPLY Budget module lets you:
- Create custom categories (venue, caterer, photo, etc.)
- Track every expense in real time
- Visualize the breakdown by category with charts
- Compare your planned vs. actual budget
- Share access with your partner and your collaborators
Free for all couples registered on NUPLY.
In summary
The budget for a wedding in 2026 depends on your choices and priorities. What matters is setting your overall envelope from the start, splitting it wisely and keeping a close eye on your spending. With NUPLY, you have all the tools to master your budget and find the best vendors at the right price.
Read also: Complete guide: planning your wedding · How to choose your photographer · The best multicultural caterers