Wedding budget: Plan the costs of your wedding

How much does a wedding cost?

There’s no standard answer to how much a wedding costs, as it depends entirely on your preferences. In Sweden, many couples spend between 50,000 and 200,000 Swedish kronor on their big day, but it is, of course, possible to celebrate both more budget-friendly and more lavishly. The biggest items in a wedding budget are usually:

• Venue and catering: Food, drink and venue hire often account for around 50 per cent of the total budget.
• Attire and rings: Wedding dress, suit, jewellery and wedding rings.
• Photography and videography: A professional wedding photographer or videographer.

How to draw up a sustainable wedding budget

Start by deciding on a total amount that you feel comfortable with. A good tip is to create your own spreadsheet where you list all possible items. Transparency is key – talk openly about how much you can save together and whether you’ll receive any financial support from your families.

Prioritise what matters most to you

Before you start booking suppliers, you should pick out three things that are absolutely most important to you specifically. Is it the dining experience, a specific photographer, or having a big party with all your friends? By prioritising these, you can cut back on other items that feel less important.

Don’t forget the hidden costs

Many couples overlook the small expenses that, when added together, can amount to a significant sum. Remember to factor in:

• Postage and printed materials: Invitation cards, thank-you cards and programmes.
• Transport: Hiring a wedding car or transport for guests.
• Extra expenses: Dry-cleaning of clothes afterwards, shoes, underwear and late-night snacks for the reception.

Expert tip: How to keep wedding costs down

There are plenty of ways to have a fantastic wedding without breaking the bank. Consider getting married during the off-season (November–March) or on a weekday, when many venues offer lower prices. You can also save money by choosing seasonal flowers and making some of the decorations yourselves.

Do you need help finding quotes from professionals? Visit our supplier directory to contact photographers, venues and caterers directly.