Getting married in 2025 and wondering how to make a $12,000 wedding budget work for you? Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you allocate funds and explore cost-saving options, while still creating a memorable day.
Venue
At Ridgewood Event Center, we offer a small wedding package for 60 guests starting at $3,750 for a Monday through Thursday event. This rental includes tables, linens, chairs, silverware, and glasses, a value of $1,200. This sets a solid foundation for your wedding budget, covering essential venue amenities.
Catering
Catering costs can range from $1,600 for buffet-style service to $3,000 for plated meals. If this feels like a significant portion of your budget, consider a DIY option such as a taco bar. Guests can customize their meal with proteins, toppings, rice, beans, salsa, and chips. Ingredients purchased in bulk or from wholesale clubs like Costco can cost as little as $500. To simplify the day, prepare components like rice and beans ahead of time, and enlist family or friends to help with setup. Ridgewood Event Center also offers staff for serving and cleanup for an additional $100.
Photography
Professional wedding photography typically costs $2,000–$4,000, depending on the photographer’s experience and the scope of coverage, including photos and videos. For a more budget-friendly option, hire a photographer for just the cocktail hour, with hourly rates averaging $200–$400. Alternatively, ask guests to take candid photos throughout the day and share them with you afterward.
Music
Decide whether you’d like a DJ or a DIY playlist. A local DJ costs around $800 and provides a seamless experience, handling everything from ceremony music to reception dancing. If that feels like an unnecessary expense, you can rent Ridgewood’s speaker system for $100. Create a playlist in advance or set up a song queue for your guests to contribute to throughout the event.
Flowers
Floral arrangements are another major cost consideration. Here’s a breakdown of professional services:
– Bridal bouquet: $100–$350
– Bridesmaid bouquets: $50–$110 each
– Boutonnieres: $10–$30 each
– Centerpieces: $50–$600 each
– Ceremony arrangements: $130–$1,800
– Floral arch or chuppah: $200–$1,000
– Cake flowers: $30–$170
To save money, consider a DIY approach. Purchase flowers in bulk for $500–$700, and enlist friends and family to help with the arrangements. While professional services provide expert design and stress-free setup, DIY offers creative control and cost savings. Keep in mind that DIY can be time-consuming and requires coordination.
Desserts
The average cost of a traditional wedding cake is $300–$700, with prices per slice ranging from $2.50 to $8. For alternatives, consider these creative options:
– Cupcakes: $2–$4 each
– Donuts: $1–$3 each
– Pies: $15–$35 each
– Dessert buffet: $5–$15 per guest
– Cheese wheel cakes: $200–$500 for a unique savory option
To cut costs further, simplify the design of your cake, serve smaller portions, or make desserts at home with help from friends or family.
Final Thoughts
With thoughtful planning, a $12,000 wedding budget can stretch to cover your dream day. By prioritizing your spending, embracing DIY options where possible, and choosing vendors carefully, you can create a memorable celebration that fits within your financial goals. For more details or assistance with planning, contact Ridgewood Event Center to see how we can help make your special day unforgettable!
