Your budget is the most important element in your planning, setting the stage for every other decision you make. So it pays to set a firm number right away -- and to stick to it, even when that entails making difficult decisions.

Who's going to pay? How much can you comfortably afford? What are you going to shell out the big bucks for? How are you going to spend wisely?

Breaking Down the Budget
Whether you're throwing a celebration that's bare-bones or blowout, here's how Washington, D.C.-area planner Carol Marino, of A Perfect Wedding in Fairfax, Virginia, suggests divvying up your budget. Just remember to include sales tax in your calculations.

Reception (Food, Beverages, Rentals, and Site)
40 percent to 50 percent

Flowers
10 percent

Photography/Videography
10 percent

Bride's and groom's attire
5 percent to 10 percent

Music
5 percent to 10 percent

Planner or Coordinator
10 percent to 15 percent

Miscellaneous (Invitations, Officiant Fees, Favors, Transportation, Etc.)
10 percent

Cushion
5 percent to 15 percent

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