How to Budget for Your Wedding and Hire the Right Vendors Without the Stress
Planning your wedding should be exciting—not overwhelming. But between budgeting, quotes, Pinterest inspiration and well-meaning advice from every direction, it can feel like a minefield. One minute you’re looking at flower arrangements, the next your spreadsheet’s having a meltdown.
So let’s break it down.
After photographing nearly 1,400 weddings over 20 years, I’ve seen what works—and what causes couples the most stress. Whether you’re just starting to plan or knee-deep in decisions, here are 20 essential tips to help you budget smart and hire vendors you’ll actually love working with.
💰 Budgeting Basics for a Wedding That Works
1. Set your total budget before you book anything
Don’t fall in love with a venue or vendor without knowing your ceiling. Start with a ballpark figure based on what you can actually afford.
2. Prioritise where the money goes
If photography is high on your list (it often is!), allocate more there. Not all vendors need equal slices of the pie.
3. Use a budget tracker or app
Keeping tabs on where the money goes gives you peace of mind. A simple Google Sheet or app like WeddingWire can do wonders.
4. Watch out for hidden extras
Think: delivery charges, permit fees, vendor meals, or even wet weather plans. These can sneak up quickly if not accounted for.
5. Create a ‘just in case’ buffer
Set aside at least 10% for those last-minute “oh, we didn’t think of that” expenses. Trust me, they happen.
6. Get every quote in writing
Verbal quotes don’t hold water. Request clear breakdowns and save all emails and documents.
7. Compare value, not just price
A cheaper photographer might include less coverage, fewer images, or no experience with your venue. Value beats cost every time.
8. Ask about off-peak pricing
Mid-week or winter weddings often come with better rates, especially from venues and florists.
9. Be honest about your budget
Good vendors want to help, not upsell. Ask what they can tailor to suit your price range instead of asking for a discount.
10. Know your payment timelines
Most vendors require a booking fee up front and final payment before the day. Get clear on when and how much is due.
📸 Hiring the Right Wedding Vendors
11. Book priority vendors early
Venues, photographers, and planners are often snapped up 12–18 months ahead. Don’t wait—secure your essentials early.
12. Read reviews, then ask to see full galleries
Pretty Instagram feeds are one thing. Ask for a full wedding gallery and testimonials to see the real experience.
13. Meet them (even if it’s via Zoom)
A quick call can tell you everything about how they communicate, how they work, and whether they’ll fit your vibe.
14. Choose experience where it matters
Photographers, videographers, and coordinators are with you all day. You want someone who can adapt, problem-solve, and support you calmly when it counts.
15. Ask detailed questions
What’s their backup plan if they’re sick? Do they have insurance? How do they handle rainy days or tight schedules?
16. Trust your gut
Sometimes the most important thing is how someone makes you feel. If something seems off, it probably is.
17. Read every contract carefully
Understand cancellation terms, what's included, and image usage rights. If you're unsure—ask.
18. Don’t get swept up in trends
Hire people who align with your vision, not just the trendiest name on Instagram this week.
19. Set communication expectations
Ask how and when they’ll check in before the wedding. Clear, responsive vendors make life so much easier.
20. Once you trust them—let go
Hiring the right people means you don’t have to micromanage. Relax and enjoy your day knowing you’re in good hands.
🧠 The Emotional Side of Planning
Here’s the truth most blogs don’t talk about: your emotional state affects how and when you book vendors.
Many couples reach out right after the proposal, when emotions are high… or during a moment of stress, wanting to just tick boxes.
That’s okay. But slow down, take a breath, and come back to what matters to you both. The best decisions are made with a clear head and a full heart.
🎯 Final Thoughts from Thierry
At Thierry Boudan Photography, I get that photography is more than just pretty pictures—it’s preserving real, unfiltered moments. The laughter, the tears, the hugs that matter most. And part of my job is helping you feel relaxed and supported before the big day even begins.
So if you’re still on the hunt for someone you can trust to capture it all without the awkwardness—reach out and let’s chat. Whether we work together or not, I’m always happy to help.
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