Wedding budget calculator
Every line of the budget in one place, with the cost per guest made visible, because the guest list drives more of the total than any other decision.
How this is calculated
Catering is multiplied by the guest count. Everything else is treated as a fixed cost that does not change much whether eighty or a hundred people attend.
The cost per guest divides the whole budget by the guest count, which is a more useful number than the catering rate alone, because it shows what each additional invitation really represents.
The saving from cutting ten guests uses the catering rate, since that is the part that falls immediately. In practice a smaller list can also unlock a cheaper venue.
Nothing here includes the honeymoon, which is usually budgeted separately and is better handled by the holiday budget calculator.
Rates used · 2026/27
| Biggest lever | guest count |
| Scales with guests | catering, stationery, favours, often venue tier |
| Fixed regardless of guests | photography, attire, rings, music |
| Honeymoon | not included |
Last checked July 2026. Source: HMRC and gov.uk.
Worked example
Eighty guests at £95 a head is £7,600 of catering. Add £5,000 venue, £2,200 outfits, £2,000 photography and the rest and the total is £22,800, which is £285 per guest. Cutting ten names saves £950 on catering alone, before any change of venue.
Common questions
Where does the money actually go?
Venue and catering together usually account for more than half. Everything else, however visible, is a smaller share than people expect.
What is the fastest way to cut the budget?
The guest list. Every name removed takes the catering cost with it, and a shorter list can move you into a cheaper venue bracket entirely.
Should I get wedding insurance?
It is inexpensive relative to the deposits at risk, and covers supplier failure and cancellation. Worth pricing before paying large deposits.
How much should I keep back?
A contingency of around 10% is sensible. Wedding budgets overrun through small additions rather than one large surprise.