(Chapter 2 of “Stuff Every Bride Should Know” by Nicole Maderazo)

Alright, bride to be, it’s time for a little heart to heart. This chapter isn’t as glamorous as dress shopping or cake tasting, but I promise it’s one of the most important things you’ll read before the big day.

Let’s talk about the wedding budget. Not the pretend one where everything magically fits and nobody fights. I’m talking about the real one. Where we sit down, take a deep breath, and get serious about what things cost, what matters most, and how to avoid turning into a ball of stress wrapped in tulle.

I’ve seen too many brides spiral because they didn’t know how to approach this part. So, let’s break it down like I would with a real bride sitting across from me with coffee in hand (or wine, no judgment).

Photographer: Alvin Asayas

What Most Brides Get Wrong About Budgets

First thing I’ll tell you straight: “We’ll figure it out as we go” is not a plan.
That’s a fast track to surprise expenses, stress, and awkward conversations with your fiancé or family.

The truth is, even the most beautiful weddings can go sideways without a clear budget. You need a spending map and you need to stick to it.

The Three-Part Wedding Budget Formula I Swear By:

1. The Total Budget
How much are you really willing to spend? Not Pinterest’s budget. Not Instagram’s. Yours.
This includes what you and your partner can contribute, plus anything your parents or family are giving. Get it in writing if you have to. Misunderstandings happen all the time.

2. The Must-Haves or Non-Negotioables.
Pick your top 3 priorities.
Is it the venue? The food? That dream photographer? Focus your budget on what matters most to you as a couple, not what trends are trending.

3. The Flex Zone
This is where the rest of the budget lives: favors, photo booths, customized slippers, etc. You can shift things around here without losing sleep.

Photographer: Alvin Asayas

Real Talk: The “Hidden” Costs You Didn’t See Coming

Let me just warn you. There are always surprise costs.
Here are a few that sneak up on couples:

  • Corkage fees (yes, just to bring your own wine!)
  • Meals for suppliers (please don’t forget us!)
  • Overtime charges from the venue or band and other vendors
  • Transportation for your entourage
  • Last minute décor add-ons

Plan for these ahead of time. I usually tell my brides to add 10-15% buffer on top of their budget. It’s not overkill. It’s sanity insurance.

Photographer: Ed Durano

Final Thoughts from Nicole:

Money stuff isn’t fun, but it’s freedom once it’s handled.

It gives you peace of mind, helps avoid tension with your partner and family, and lets you focus on the beautiful parts of planning your dream day.

I’ve had brides cry happy tears just because their budget was finally organized and realistic. That could be you too.

Coming in 2 Weeks:

Chapter 3: Choosing Your Dream Wedding Team (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Money)

Missed the Earlier Chapters?

Introduction to the Series – Stuff Every Bride Should Know
Start here to understand why this series was created and what you can expect from each bite-sized chapter.

Chapter 1: Why Wedding Planning Isn’t Just About Pretty Things
Before the flowers and the Pinterest boards, let’s talk about what really matters.