Talking about money may not be the most romantic part of wedding planning but it’s one of the most important.
A clear and realistic wedding budget is the foundation of a smooth, stress-free celebration.

As an experienced wedding planner in Provence, I’ve helped many couples plan their dream day while keeping finances under control.
Here’s how to create a realistic wedding budget and actually stick to it without losing the magic.

1. Start by Defining Your Overall Budget

Before choosing your venue or booking vendors, determine your total spending limit the amount you’re comfortable investing in your wedding.

This depends on several factors:

• The number of guests
• The type of venue (château, villa, vineyard, beach, etc.)
• The style and level of service (casual, luxury, fine dining)
• The location and season

Wedding planner tip:
Always include a 10–15% buffer for last-minute costs or unexpected extras. This small cushion helps avoid unnecessary stress.

2. Identify Your Priorities as a Couple

Every couple is different for some, the most important element is the venue, for others, it’s the photographer, the music, or the food.
Discuss your top three priorities together early on.

Examples:

• Venue, catering, and photography
• Décor, food, and entertainment
• Guest experience, atmosphere, and setting

Once your priorities are clear, you can allocate your budget strategically, spending more on what truly matters to you.

Wedding planner tip:
A professional planner helps you find the right balance between emotion and practicality, ensuring every euro is well spent.

3. Break Down the Main Budget Categories

After setting your total amount, it’s time to divide your budget by category.
Here’s an average breakdown for a 100-guest wedding in Provence:

Average percentage of total budget

Venue: 40%

Catering & drinks: 25%

Photographer & videographer: 10%

Flowers & decoration: 10%

Outfits & accessories: 5%

Music & entertainment: 5%

Stationery & guest gifts: 2%

Miscellaneous / contingency: 3%

These proportions may vary depending on your style, priorities, and location but they provide a realistic starting point.

4. Track Your Expenses Closely

One of the biggest mistakes couples make is losing track of payments and balances.
Create a simple budget tracker (Excel, Notion, or Google Sheets) with the following columns:

• Category
• Estimated cost
• Actual cost
• Deposit paid
• Balance due
• Payment deadline
  

This keeps everything transparent and helps you avoid unpleasant surprises.

Wedding planner tip:
Add all payment dates to your calendar especially vendor balances due right before or after the wedding day.

5. Compare Quotes and Negotiate Wisely

Don’t rush to accept the first quote you receive.
Request at least two or three offers per vendor category, and take time to compare not only prices but also quality, professionalism, and inclusions.

Important:
A cheaper option is not always better eliability and experience matter more, especially for destination weddings.

Your wedding planner can help you analyse each quote and negotiate fair, transparent terms.

6. Include the “Hidden” Costs

It’s easy to forget some smaller or one-time expenses that can quickly add up.

Don’t forget to budget for:

• Accommodation for you or your guests
• Transportation (guest shuttles, transfers, car rentals)
• Setup and breakdown fees for rentals or venues
• Wedding insurance (required by some venues)
• Service fees and tips

Wedding planner tip:
An experienced planner anticipates all these costs in advance, so you’re never caught off guard.

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7. Work with a Wedding Planner to Stay on Budget

Setting your budget is one thing sticking to it is another.

A professional wedding planner helps you:

• Get the best value through trusted local vendors,
• Prioritise your spending according to your vision,
• Avoid costly mistakes,
• And keep your entire event organised and stress-free.

Hiring a planner is an investment that saves you time, money, and energy while ensuring a smooth and unforgettable celebration.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Budget = A Stress-Free Wedding

A well-planned budget gives you freedom.
It allows you to make confident decisions, enjoy the process, and celebrate without financial pressure.

At Pantaia Events we help couples plan their wedding in Provence and the South of France with transparency, creativity, and balance.

Our mission: a beautiful, elegant, and stress-free wedding perfectly aligned with your vision and budget.

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