Wedding Budget Basics: Your Complete Guide to Planning a Wedding in Melbourne

Many Melbourne couples create a simple spreadsheet that lists categories such as venue, catering, photography, flowers, attire, and extras. For a wedding with around 100 guests, total costs usually range between $40,000 and $50,000 depending on your choices. Prioritise essential elements like venue and catering first, then allocate funds for photography and décor.

A 100 guest wedding in Melbourne can cost between $40,000 and $50,000. Venue hire in the city ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, while catering averages $120 to $180 per head. Don’t forget smaller expenses such as signage, favours, and transport, which can add up quickly.

Focus on elements guests will experience directly and that you’ll remember. Venue and catering usually take the largest share, followed by photography. If your budget is tight, consider a weekday wedding or venues with in-house styling to reduce extra costs.

Yes, Friday weddings are often more affordable. Many Melbourne venues offer lower rates, and catering packages may also be discounted. This is a smart way to enjoy a full wedding experience while staying within budget.

Hidden costs can include service fees, cleaning charges, corkage fees, extra hours for DJs or photographers, and gratuities. Melbourne venues sometimes charge additional fees for furniture hire or outdoor setups, so always request a detailed quote.

Couples typically spend between $3,500 and $6,500 on floral arrangements and décor. Using seasonal flowers and combining ceremony and reception styling through a single supplier can reduce costs.

DIY projects can save money but require time. Melbourne couples often DIY invitations, table signage, or favours. Plan ahead to source materials and allow enough time for assembly before the wedding day.

Set aside around 10% of your total budget for unexpected costs such as last-minute décor, vendor changes, or extra catering.

When comparing wedding packages, look beyond the headline price. Check what’s included such as catering, décor, furniture, staff, and clean-up. A slightly more expensive package may save money overall if it bundles in items you would otherwise need to hire separately. Always request a detailed breakdown so you can compare fairly between venues and suppliers.

Consider seasonal flowers, weekday ceremonies, local venues, and smaller guest lists. You can also hire a photographer who covers both ceremony and reception or choose venues that include in-house décor to reduce costs.