Budget Breakdown: Where to Spend and Where to Save for Your Wedding
- A Brand Nu Day
- Mar 10
- 4 min read
Planning a wedding is one of the most exciting yet financially significant moments in a couple’s journey. Knowing where to splurge and where to save can make all the difference in achieving a dream wedding while staying within budget. At A Brand Nu Day LLC, we’ve worked with couples across Nashville, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, and Gallatin, Tennessee, helping them navigate their wedding budget breakdown strategically. In this guide, we’ll walk you through smart spending decisions so you can allocate your funds wisely without sacrificing style or quality.
Understanding Your Wedding Budget Breakdown
Before diving into where to spend and where to save, it's essential to understand how wedding budgets are typically allocated. While all couple's priorities differ, here’s a general percentage breakdown to consider:
Venue & Catering: 40-50%
Photography & Videography: 10-15%
Wedding Attire: 5-10%
Decor & Florals: 10-15%
Entertainment: 5-10%
Invitations & Stationery: 3-5%
Transportation & Lodging: 2-5%
Favors & Miscellaneous: 2-5%
Wedding Planner: 5-10%
Now, let’s dive into where to allocate your budget for the biggest impact and where you can cut costs without compromising the beauty of your special day.
Where to Splurge in Your Wedding Budget Breakdown
1. Venue & Catering: The Foundation of Your Event
Your venue sets the stage for your entire wedding, so choosing the right location in Nashville or the surrounding areas is key. High-demand venues book quickly, and a well-chosen setting reduces the need for excessive decor.
Consider full-service venues that include tables, chairs, and linens to save on rentals.
Catering is another area where quality matters—great food leaves a lasting impression on guests.
Splurge Tip: If you’re dreaming of a specific venue in Nashville, book early to secure your date and consider off-peak seasons for better rates.
2. Photography & Videography: Capturing Timeless Memories
A professional photographer and videographer ensure you’ll relive your wedding day through stunning visuals.
Hire experienced professionals who specialize in Tennessee weddings and understand local lighting and landscapes.
Quality wedding photography is worth the investment—poorly captured moments can’t be recreated.
Splurge Tip: If choosing between photography and videography, prioritize a photographer but consider a videographer for at least a highlight reel.
3. Wedding Planner: Your Expert Guide
A professional wedding planner in Tennessee helps navigate vendor contracts, budgets, and unexpected challenges.
An experienced planner saves time and money by leveraging industry connections and negotiating deals.
They ensure a seamless, stress-free wedding day.
Splurge Tip: Hiring a planner for full-service coordination can be a game-changer, but at the very least, invest in a day-of coordinator to manage logistics.
4. Entertainment: Setting the Mood
A live band or experienced DJ can elevate the energy of your celebration.
Live music adds a unique ambiance, especially for ceremonies and receptions.
A great DJ keeps the dance floor packed all night.
Splurge Tip: If hiring a live band, consider a mix of live and DJ services to manage costs while maintaining quality entertainment.
Where to Save in Your Wedding Budget Breakdown
1. Wedding Attire: Find Your Dream Look for Less
While your wedding dress or suit is important, there are ways to save without sacrificing style.
Shop sample sales at Nashville bridal boutiques.
Rent or buy gently used dresses or designer tuxedos.
Consider non-traditional attire options that fit your aesthetic but cost less.
Save Tip: Accessories like shoes and veils can add up—opt for simple, elegant pieces that won’t break the bank.
2. Flowers & Decor: Focus on Impact, Not Excess
Florals and decor enhance your wedding’s aesthetic, but strategic choices can yield the same effect at a lower cost.
Use seasonal and locally sourced flowers to save on import fees.
Repurpose ceremony florals for the reception.
Opt for candlelit centerpieces instead of elaborate floral arrangements.
Save Tip: Greenery is often more budget-friendly than fresh flowers and adds a lush, elegant feel to your decor.
3. Invitations & Stationery: Go Digital or DIY
Beautiful invitations set the tone, but they don’t need to consume a large portion of your budget.
Digital invitations or simple printed designs can be just as elegant.
Consider DIY calligraphy or local printing shops instead of high-end designers.
Save Tip: Save-the-dates can be sent electronically to cut printing and postage costs.
4. Wedding Favors: Thoughtful, Not Expensive
Guests appreciate meaningful gestures, but expensive favors aren’t necessary.
Choose edible gifts like locally made honey or homemade cookies.
Skip favors altogether and donate to a local charity in guests’ names.
Save Tip: DIY favors, such as personalized notes or seed packets, add a thoughtful touch without breaking the budget.
Making Smart Budget Choices for Your Tennessee Wedding
The key to a well-balanced wedding budget breakdown is prioritizing what truly matters to you as a couple. Consider these strategies:
Rank your top three must-haves and allocate funds accordingly.
Look for package deals from vendors in Nashville, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, and Gallatin.
Be open to weekday weddings or off-season dates for cost savings.
By strategically balancing splurges and savings, you’ll create a wedding that feels luxurious without unnecessary financial stress.
Need Assistance with Your Wedding Budget?
At A Brand Nu Day LLC, we specialize in helping couples create seamless, effortless, and innovative weddings while staying within budget. If you’re planning a wedding in Nashville, Murfreesboro, Brentwood, or Gallatin, let’s connect! Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and let’s make your dream wedding a reality.