Building a wedding budget: prioritizing what matters most
- Katelyn Pike

- Jan 5, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 23
The journey into wedding planning is full of excitement, inspiration, and big dreams. At Honeycomb, we know just how important it is to create a day that reflects you, your love, your story, your style. And it all starts with the budget.
Start with your dream team
Before diving into details, start with the big picture. Build your dream vendor team by allocating your budget to the essentials: a planner, your venue, and a photography and videography duo you fully trust. These are the pillars that support a beautiful, stress-free, and well-documented wedding day.
Research real numbers early
Wedding costs can vary widely, so be proactive. Reach out to vendors early for accurate pricing. This allows you to create a realistic budget around your must-haves and those vendors who will bring your vision to life. Waiting too long can mean missing out on the vendors you truly connect with.
Photo & Video: a unified investment
One of the biggest misconceptions in wedding planning is undervaluing videography. In reality, your video is the only way to hear your vows, relive your speeches, and feel those in-between moments again. Cinematic storytelling often requires additional coverage time for things like drone shots and establishing scenes.
We recommend allocating equal time and resources to photography and videography. Better yet—choose a company that offers both under one roof. At Honeycomb, we deliver cohesive storytelling with consistent style and seamless coordination. One team, one vision. Even offering Content Creation as well.
Budget with purpose, not pressure
Your budget isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about making choices that reflect your values. Start with an overall number, then allocate based on what matters most to you and your partner. Every dollar should bring joy, purpose, or ease to your day.
Key categories to include in Your wedding budget:
Wedding Planner
Photo / Video / Content Creation
Venue
Catering and Bar
Ceremony Decor
Reception & Table Decor
Rentals (linens, furniture)
Transportation
Getting Ready Spaces
Florals
Hair and Makeup
Wedding Attire
Stationary
Gifts for Wedding Party & Family
Honeymoon
Extra Expenses (tips, morning-of food, etc.)
Bonus Tips:
Stationery sets the tone! Invest in thoughtful pieces like menus, programs, and signage in addition to your invitations.
Florals: Prioritize quality over quantity. A simple bouquet of real flowers beats an overdone arrangement of faux any day.
Tipping Vendors is a kind gesture, even if not expected. But make sure to research the ettiquet when it comes to who should be tipped and who you can tip if you would like.
Gifts for your bridal party should be meaningful, not just pretty. It is only worth spending your money on a gift if they are going to use it more than just one day.
Planning a wedding is a balancing act between dreams and dollars, but it can be joyful and empowering. We’re here to help. If you're looking for a team who will walk alongside you, preserve your memories, and celebrate what matters most, we’d love to hear from you.

































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