Your $40,000 Wedding Budget: Where Should the Money Go?

One of the hardest parts about planning your wedding is setting your wedding budget. Your next most difficult decision? Figuring out how to divide your budget to cover all of your costs. We're breaking down the details for couples that have $40,000 to spend. For couples looking to spend less, we have 53 tips on how you can slash the budget.

Dress & Style: $5,200

You have a generous $2,400 to spend on the wedding dress, so start browsing designer galleries and determine what style will suit your best! But remember this number should include alternations, too. If you're planning to accessorize with a headpiece or veil, you have $400 to spend, and another $400 for your shoes, extra accessories, and jewelry. As for getting glam on your big day, you've got $800 in the budget for hair and makeup. And for your wedding bands, you should plan to spend no more than $800 on both.

Paper Products: $1,600

Plan to spend around $1,200 on your invitations and thank-you cards. Make sure to factor in escort cards, menus, and ceremony programs since you have $400 total to spend on those items.

Ceremony & Reception: $22,000

You'll need someplace to get married and someone to officiate, so plan to spend $800 total on any ceremony fees and officiant donations, plus $600 to spend on ceremony music. Your reception, including the venue, rentals, food service, and beverages should set you back about $16,800. You've then got $800 to put towards a delicious wedding cake and $3,000 for a DJ or band that will get all of your guests out on the dance floor.

Accommodations & Transportation: $1,200

If you're planning an amazing entrance or getaway, you'll need a rental car or limo to drive you to and from the reception. You have $600 to spend here, plus another $400 to spend on any guest shuttles. Once the party is all over, you'll want to unwind in your hotel room—book a space that will set you back no more than $200.

Flowers & Décor: $3,600

Start with your bouquet since you have about $300 to spend on blooms. Then pick out bouquets for the bridesmaids for a total of $400. Choose boutonnieres that will cost no more than $120 total, and spend $40 on an arrangement of loose petals for your flower girl. As for ceremony and reception décor, including a chuppah, aisle runner, or centerpieces plan to spend no more than $2,740.

Photo & Video: $4,800

Booking a great photographer to capture all of your wedding memories is a must. You've got $2,800 to spend here and another $2,000 to spend on a videographer.

Favors & Gifts: $1,600

You've got $800 to spend on tokens for your bridal party. Whether you're giving out favors or donating to a charity in honor of your friends and family, you have $400 to spend on any gifts for guests. And if you want to thank your parents, plan to spend no more than $400 here.