From Engagement to “I Do”

Once you’ve decided to get married, your financial conversations shift from “what if” to “how.” This is when you move from talking about the big picture to actually managing money together, starting with the wedding itself.

Your wedding budget is your first joint project. Whether you’re planning something intimate or an all-out celebration, set a total amount you’re both comfortable with. Then decide how to allocate it. Maybe the venue is most important to you, or perhaps photography tops your list. Adjust your budget to reflect your priorities.

Sample Budget Breakdown

Here’s an example of how a $30,000 wedding budget might break down:

• Venue: $9,000

• Catering: $7,000

• Attire: $2,500

• Photography/Videography: $3,000

• Flowers & Decor: $2,000

• Entertainment: $1,500

• Invitations & Stationery: $500

• Cake: $500

• Transportation: $1,000

• Favors: $300

• Hair & Makeup: $800

• Officiant: $300

• Miscellaneous: $1,600

Decide how you’ll handle your money as a couple. Will you combine all your accounts? Keep some separate? Use a hybrid approach? There’s no one “right” way, it’s about what feels fair and functional for you both.

Build your first budget together. Figure out your combined income, shared expenses, and savings goals. Assign responsibilities for paying bills, use a shared budgeting tool to track spending, and check in regularly, think monthly “money dates” rather than tense sit-downs.

Face debt as a team. If you have outstanding loans or credit cards, decide on a repayment plan. Focus on the high-interest debts first, avoid adding new debt during your first year, and celebrate small wins along the way.

Protect your future with an emergency fund. Start building savings that could cover three to six months of expenses. It’s not just about security, it’s peace of mind, knowing you can handle whatever life throws your way.