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The Groom’s Guide to Wedding Budgets (What That Big Number Actually Covers)
- Love Struck
- Sep 30
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When most grooms first see a wedding budget, the reaction is usually the same:
“Isn’t the ceremony just walking down an aisle with someone officiating?”
“Why do we need flowers if we’re getting married in a garden?”
“Isn’t the reception just dinner and drinks?”
“Why do we need lighting if the restaurant already has lights?”
At first glance, those questions make sense. But the reality is that weddings — even micro-weddings of 50 guests — are built on dozens of details that aren’t obvious until you’re deep in planning. Each one has a cost attached, and together they create the total budget.
Here’s what’s realistic (and not inflated, like the numbers you might see on Pinterest or in generic calculators). This is the real deal — a breakdown of what that big number actually covers.
Ceremony: More Than “Just Walking Down an Aisle”
Even the simplest ceremony has layers of costs: a site fee (yes, even for gardens), chairs, a sound system so guests can actually hear you, and some sort of décor like an arch or floral accents. Suddenly “just walking down the aisle” comes with invoices attached.
Micro-wedding range: $500–$1,000
Flowers: Why They Matter Even in a Garden
Florals aren’t just pretty — they’re functional. Bouquets and boutonnieres distinguish the wedding party, altar flowers frame the ceremony space, and reception arrangements make tables feel intentional instead of empty. Even a minimalist look requires a florist’s time, labor, and design.
Micro-wedding range: $750–$1,500
Reception: It’s Not “Just Dinner and Drinks”
This is where most of the budget lands. You’re not only paying for entrées and cocktails but also staff, rentals, linens, setup, and cleanup. Private event menus often include per-person surcharges, and don’t forget service fees, taxes, and gratuities. That $60-a-head entrée quickly becomes $100+ when it’s all tallied.
Micro-wedding range: $3,500–$6,000
Lighting: Why It’s Not Redundant
Yes, restaurants and venues have lights — but usually overhead and unflattering. Uplighting, candles, and string lights soften the atmosphere, set the mood, and make photography possible. Good lighting is one of the easiest ways to elevate an otherwise ordinary space.
Micro-wedding range: $250–$600
Photography & Videography: The Lasting Investment
Skilled photographers and videographers don’t just show up the day of; they scout locations, direct you and your guests, and spend weeks editing. The right pro ensures you don’t just remember the day — you get to relive it.
Micro-wedding range: $1,500–$2,500
Planner or Coordinator: The Hidden Hero
Even for micro-weddings, someone needs to wrangle vendors, watch the clock, and troubleshoot. Day-of coordinators are often the unsung heroes — they’re the ones making sure your DJ shows up, your cake gets delivered, and your ceremony starts on time.
Micro-wedding range: $800–$1,200
The Real Bottom Line
For a micro-wedding of 50 guests, the realistic budget often falls between $10,000 and $15,000, depending on priorities. Yes, it’s more than “just dinner and drinks.” But every piece contributes to a day that feels seamless, beautiful, and personal.
The good news? You don’t have to overspend. Once you know the real breakdown, you can make intentional choices — splurge where it matters to you, save where it doesn’t.
Continue Reading: Behind the Price Tag — Wedding Budget Breakdown Series
If you want to go deeper, we’ve created a full series breaking down each category, complete with tips to save without sacrificing style.
Ready to plan your own small celebration? Join our list and get the free 2-page Micro-Wedding Starter Checklist →
