1. Define your overall investment (before thinking about vendors)

It’s not about how much a wedding “costs,” but about how much you are willing to invest. Every couple is different, and there is no correct figure: what matters is that it’s realistic, agreed upon, and aligned with the experience you want to have.

Tip: Set a maximum figure from the start, even if you adjust individual items later. This number will serve as your guide.

2. Identify the major spending categories

A wedding consists of many elements, but some key items take up the bulk of the budget. Identifying them allows you to prioritize based on what matters most to you.

Main categories:

• Venue and catering

• Decoration and ambiance

• Photography and videography

• Music and sound

• The couple’s attire

• Transportation

• Coordination and planning

3. Leave room for the unexpected (because something always comes up)

One key to avoiding surprises is to allocate a small percentage of the total budget for unforeseen expenses. This could be extra flowers, last-minute transport, or additional services that arise during planning.

Practical tip: Set aside 5–10% of the total budget as a safety cushion.

4. Consider the timing

Wedding payments are not all made at once. Some vendors request a deposit upon booking, others split their fees into multiple installments, and some charge shortly before the event. Having a clear schedule is essential to avoid surprises.

At Daniela Henao Weddings, we use a private platform to track the entire process: from scheduled payments to tasks at each stage. We share this access with couples so they can see in real time what has been completed, what’s pending, and when each step is due. It’s a useful, visual, and secure tool to keep everything organized and stress-free.

5. Where it’s worth investing

Sometimes cutting the budget in certain areas may seem logical, but it can directly impact the overall experience. The key is to know your priorities and ensure these essential elements are well covered.

Examples of smart investments:

• A high-quality culinary experience

• A professional audiovisual team

• A comfortable and well-located venue

• A solid backup plan for rain

6. Our role as Wedding Planners

From the very beginning, we work with complete transparency so that every couple knows exactly what they are investing and where. We collaborate with trusted vendors, which allows us to guarantee quality, prevent surprises, and optimize the budget without losing value.

Additionally, we handle requests for quotes, organize meetings, review conditions, and ensure everything is perfectly managed from the first consultation to the wedding’s conclusion.