Planning your dream wedding can be the ultimate exhilarating journey filled with love and excitement, but let’s keep it real, it can also put a little strain on those fabulous finances.
In Ireland, there’s a wide range of budgets for weddings, and here at ‘I Do’ we’ve got a treasure trove of ways to cut those costs.
We’ve got you covered with the ultimate wedding budget breakdown, ensuring you have the day of your dreams without sacrificing an ounce of style or romance.
Let’s dive right in!
The Venue
Your wedding venue sets the stage for your enchanting day, and finding the perfect spot is an absolute must. From charming country houses to luxurious ballrooms, exclusive hire rental costs between €2,000 to €12,000+.
To cut those catering costs, consider offering specific drinks for free or hosting a morning ceremony followed by a swoon-worthy, yet moderately priced brunch. Food trucks and non-sit-down meals are bang on trend, and can save some pretty pennies too!
Oh, and refine that guest list—it’s the simplest way to trim the venue budget.
Planning between January and March or hosting a mid-week wedding can also be a money-saving dream come true!
Want some venue gems that won’t break the bank? Check out options like Fitzgerald Woodlands House Hotel, Harvey’s Point, and Charlotte Quay. And if you’re in the mood for a touch of luxury, see our top wedding venues in Ireland.
The Entertainment
No wedding is complete without the right entertainment to keep those dance floors lively! Set aside €2,000 to €3,000 for a sensational DJ or band to sweep everyone off their feet, and an additional €800 for delightful ceremony music.
Try mixing things up by curating your own playlist or even enlisting a musically talented friend to DJ for the night. Dance the night away without dancing away your budget!
The Wedding Dress
Every bride deserves to feel like an absolute princess in her dream wedding dress, and there’s no need to compromise on style! Prices for stunning bridal gowns can range from €1,500 to €2,300. We’ve got your back with all the brands we love.
And here’s a secret to feeling like a million dollars without spending it; consider renting a gown or shopping for a pre-loved dress.
Capture the Magic
Preserve the precious memories of your big day with top-notch photography and videography. Allocate between €2,000 to €4,000 each for these professional services.
Image: Unsplash
The Florals
Flowers infuse weddings with mesmerizing colour and charm, and it’s a must-have for any romantic celebration! Budget around €1,500 for beautiful blooms that perfectly complement your dreamy theme.
Oh, and did we mention that garlands and greenery can be budget-friendly alternatives? Consider blooms like baby’s breath (gypsophila) or foliage to make your wedding day bloom without breaking the bank!
Image: Unsplash
Rings
Let your love shine with exquisite wedding rings that perfectly capture your romance. Prices range from €800 to €2,000, depending on your style and budget.
The Desserts
Wedding cakes and treats are not only delicious, but also add flair to your reception. Allocate around €700 for delightful desserts that sweeten your celebrations.
If you want to indulge in savings while indulging in treats, consider providing alternative, cheaper priced desserts like cupcakes or doughnuts arranged in a tier for a stunning and budget-savvy display. For an adorable and wallet-friendly option, single-tiered wedding cakes are a delightful choice, and you can even try making one yourself!
Image: Margot & Bees Stationary
The Little Details
Finer details like stationery, decor, gifts, and favours contribute to the overall experience. Budget approximately €750 for each of these elements to ensure everything is picture-perfect on your special day.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some DIY magic! Create affordable favours like seasonal fruit bags or homemade cookies, and let your creativity soar with DIY or creative decor using ribbons, lace, or paper lanterns. It’s the little details that add up to create a dreamy wonderland!
Image: Unsplash
Beauty and Elegance
Be an ethereal vision on your wedding day with fabulous hair and makeup; set aside around €550 for bridal beauty that will leave you feeling like an absolute goddess.
Image: Sparrow Bridal
A Touch of Glamour
Complete your bridal look with stunning accessories and shoes, costing around €500. Remember there’s always the option to choose pre-loved or wear some family heirloom pieces to save money here too!
Check out our list of iconic bridal shoes for more inspiration.
Image: Olga Hogan Photography
Groomsmen
Your groomsmen deserve to look their best too! Budget approximately €500 for their dashing ensembles, and €800 for the groom’s suave attire.
Bridesmaids’
Budget around €750 for beautiful bridesmaids’ dresses and attire.
Wedding Day Transportation
Ensure you make a grand entrance by reserving €500 for wedding day transportation. And if you want to cut this expense, consider choosing a venue close to home.
Unforeseen Expenses
Weddings can surprise us in various ways, so set aside €4,500 (approximately 12.5% of your total budget) for any unexpected expenses. From hair and makeup trials to last-minute beauty expenses, alterations, cake-cutting, and staff meals, it’s always wise to plan for those delightful surprises!
In the end, no matter what the cost, your wedding day is all about celebrating the love you share with your partner. With our budget breakdown, you can plan your perfect day without stress, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Happy planning and best wishes for your magical day!
Mackenzie & the I Do team x
