01
Agree on the total first.
Before you look at venues, decide what you can spend in total. Include your savings and any money family members want to give, and agree on it together.
Write the number down. Every later decision is easier when it is measured against one agreed total.
02
Split it into categories.
Divide the total into categories. A common starting point gives the venue about 30 percent, catering and bar about 25 percent, and photography and video about 10 percent, with smaller shares for attire, music, flowers, stationery, transport, and gifts.
Move money between categories according to what matters most to you, and keep a small amount for surprises.
- Venue: about 30 percent.
- Catering and bar: about 25 percent.
- Photography and video: about 10 percent.
03
Plan for deposits and final payments.
Most vendors ask for a deposit when you book and the rest closer to the wedding. Record both payments with their due dates as soon as you sign, so the final balances do not arrive as a surprise.
Compare quotes before you commit. A lower base price can end up higher once travel fees, tax, and tips are added.
04
Track every cost as it happens.
Add each expense when you agree to it, not when you pay it. Then you always see what is already promised, not only what has left your account.
Check the budget once a week during busy planning months. When one category goes over, decide straight away where the money comes from. In DJENETE, alerts tell you when a category is close to its limit and when a payment is due.