Filipino Wedding Budget Breakdown: How to Plan Smart

Planning a wedding budget in the Philippines requires understanding local costs and cultural expectations. This guide will help you create a realistic budget and stick to it.

Average Wedding Costs in the Philippines

Metro Manila

• Small Wedding (50-100 guests): ₱300,000 - ₱800,000
• Medium Wedding (100-200 guests): ₱800,000 - ₱1,500,000
• Large Wedding (200-500 guests): ₱1,500,000 - ₱3,000,000+

Provincial Areas

Costs are typically 30-50% lower than Metro Manila, but still vary by location.

Budget Allocation Guide

1. Venue & Catering (40-50%)

This is your biggest expense. Consider:

• Reception Venue: ₱50,000 - ₱300,000
• Catering per head: ₱500 - ₱2,000
• Lechon: ₱8,000 - ₱25,000
• Beverages: ₱200 - ₱500 per head

Tips:

• Book venues 12-18 months in advance
• Negotiate package deals
• Consider off-peak dates
• Ask about BYOB policies

2. Photography & Videography (15-20%)

• Photography: ₱30,000 - ₱150,000
• Videography: ₱40,000 - ₱200,000
• Same-day edit: ₱20,000 - ₱50,000
• Drone coverage: ₱15,000 - ₱40,000

Tips:

• Book early for best rates
• Ask for raw files
• Consider package deals
• Review portfolios carefully

3. Attire & Beauty (10-15%)

• Wedding Dress: ₱20,000 - ₱150,000
• Groom's Suit: ₱15,000 - ₱80,000
• Hair & Makeup: ₱8,000 - ₱25,000
• Bridal Party Attire: ₱5,000 - ₱15,000 per person

Tips:

• Consider renting or buying pre-owned
• Shop during sales
• DIY some beauty services
• Negotiate group rates

4. Decorations & Flowers (10-15%)

• Floral Arrangements: ₱30,000 - ₱150,000
• Ceremony Decor: ₱20,000 - ₱100,000
• Reception Centerpieces: ₱15,000 - ₱80,000
• Lighting & Sound: ₱20,000 - ₱100,000

Tips:

• Use local flowers (sampaguita, kalachuchi)
• DIY simple arrangements
• Reuse ceremony flowers at reception
• Rent instead of buy

5. Entertainment (5-10%)

• Live Band: ₱20,000 - ₱100,000
• DJ: ₱15,000 - ₱50,000
• Sound System: ₱10,000 - ₱40,000

6. Miscellaneous (5-10%)

• Invitations: ₱5,000 - ₱30,000
• Wedding Favors: ₱50 - ₱200 per guest
• Transportation: ₱10,000 - ₱50,000
• Wedding Rings: ₱20,000 - ₱200,000+
• Marriage License: ₱500 - ₱2,000

Money-Saving Strategies

1. Set Priorities

Decide what matters most:

• Large guest list vs. intimate celebration
• Premium venue vs. budget-friendly option
• Professional photography vs. friend with camera
• Elaborate decor vs. simple elegance

2. Negotiate Everything

• Ask for package deals
• Request discounts for cash payments
• Negotiate off-peak rates
• Ask for freebies (extra hours, upgrades)

3. DIY Where Possible

• Invitations and stationery
• Simple decorations
• Wedding favors
• Some floral arrangements
• Photo booth props

4. Smart Timing

• Off-Peak Season: January-March, June-August
• Weekday Weddings: 20-30% savings
• Morning Ceremonies: Lower venue costs
• Avoid Holidays: Higher demand = higher prices

5. Family Contributions

In Filipino culture, family often contributes:

• Parents: May cover venue or catering
• Sponsors (Ninong/Ninang): May sponsor specific items
• Extended Family: May help with decorations or favors

Budget Tracking Tips

1. Use a Budget Tracker - Tools like WedPlannr help you track expenses

2. Set Up Separate Accounts - Keep wedding funds separate

3. Track Everything - Even small expenses add up

4. Review Regularly - Check your budget weekly

5. Build in Buffer - Add 10-15% for unexpected costs

Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid

1. Underestimating Guest Count - Filipino weddings grow quickly

2. Forgetting Hidden Costs - Taxes, service charges, tips

3. Not Accounting for Family Contributions - Plan for what you can afford

4. Last-Minute Changes - Changes cost money

5. Emotional Spending - Stick to your priorities

Final Budget Checklist

• [ ] Total budget determined
• [ ] Budget allocated by category
• [ ] Buffer for unexpected costs (10-15%)
• [ ] Tracking system set up
• [ ] Payment schedule planned
• [ ] Family contributions discussed
• [ ] Priorities identified
• [ ] Cost-saving strategies implemented

Remember, your wedding budget should reflect your values and priorities. Don't feel pressured to spend beyond your means. A beautiful wedding doesn't have to break the bank!

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*Use WedPlannr's budget tracker to monitor your expenses and stay on track throughout your wedding planning journey.*