Calculate your wedding or party budget from the guest count, the catering cost per person and the main fixed items (decoration, photography, music, attire, ceremony and favors).
How the calculation works
Catering cost is calculated by multiplying the guest count by the per-guest cost. Add to that the fixed amounts entered for each category to get the estimated total budget.
Suggested budget breakdown
Based on references commonly used by wedding planners, a typical total-budget breakdown is: catering/reception around 40%, decoration around 15%, photography and video around 10%, music around 10%, attire around 10%, and the remainder (~15%) for ceremony, favors and contingency. This is only a reference — every couple has different priorities.
Tips to avoid going over budget
Always keep a 10-15% safety margin of the total for contingencies (vendor price adjustments, last-minute extra guests, forgotten items). Vendor quotes tend to vary a lot by region and season — research ahead of time.
Frequently asked questions
Does the per-guest catering cost include drinks?
It depends on the vendor — some catering packages already include non-alcoholic drinks or even an open bar, others charge separately. Enter the value that already reflects what you booked or plan to book.
Is the suggested percentage breakdown a mandatory rule?
No — it is just a common reference in the events industry. Every wedding has different priorities; some couples prefer to invest more in photography, others in decoration.
What if guests confirm after the budget is set?
Recalculate the catering cost with the new guest count — that is exactly why it is worth keeping a safety margin in the total budget.