Wedding Budget Breakdown: South Africa Edition 2025/2026

When planning your dream wedding, one of the first and most important steps is to set a realistic budget. Many couples aren’t sure what a wedding typically costs, especially when planning a year or more in advance. That’s why it’s crucial to have open and honest conversations early on about what you’re comfortable spending — and stick to it.

It’s also wise to include parents or key family members in these discussions, as they often contribute financially or offer guidance based on experience.

A budget of R250 000 is a solid amount for a beautiful South African wedding for around 100 Guests  — but how should that amount be allocated? Let’s break it down.

🏛 Venue & Catering – 50% of your total budget

Let’s begin with the biggest chunk: the venue and catering. Aim to allocate half of your budget — around R125 000 — to this category. You can expect to spend around R50 000 to R60 000 on an elegant venue. Then, with R45 000 for catering (based on 100 guests at approximately R450 per head), you’ll be well on your way.

If you're looking to scale back, consider dropping a course from the meal — like removing the starter — and ensuring a generous canapé service during cocktail hour.

Tip: Always ask about hidden charges such as kitchen rental or extra chef fees if the venue doesn’t have its own catering setup.

📸 Photography & Videography – 20% of your budget

Once the venue and food are sorted, shift your focus to hiring your photo and video team. A quality wedding photographer typically starts at around R20 000 to R28 000, with R25 000 being a safe estimate for a full-day package that might include engagement sessions or an album.

Videography has become just as essential as photography. Being able to share and relive your wedding with a simple video link is priceless. Budgeting another R25 000 for video means you’re spending R50 000 total, or 20% of your full wedding budget.

📜 Marriage Officiant – R3 500

Hiring a licensed marriage officer usually costs about R3 500. They’ll arrive around 30 minutes before the ceremony and handle all the legalities for your wedding registry.

🌸 Flowers & Décor – 15% of your budget

Set aside 15% for flowers and décor. To keep costs manageable, consider working with florists near your venue to minimize travel fees and keep your arrangements fresh.

It’s a myth that doing flowers yourself is easy — professional florists are artists who can completely transform a space. Décor also includes details like table settings, signage, candles, seating plan easels, and napkins — all of which need to tie in with your overall floral theme.

🎧 DJ & Music – 3.5% of your budget

A trusted wedding DJ costs around R8 500, which accounts for about 3.5% of your wedding spend. This typically includes playing music from two hours before the ceremony all the way to midnight. Just be aware that additional hours beyond that may come at a premium.

🎂 Wedding Cake – 2% of your budget

Expect to spend between R3 500 and R5 500 for a professionally made cake, or roughly 2% of your total budget. While some guests may skip dessert, others — especially family members like grandparents or older relatives — really appreciate this tradition. If you’re going minimalist, consider a simple one-tier cake to satisfy tradition without breaking the bank.

💄 Hair & Makeup – R2 500 (Bride), up to R6 000 extra (Bridesmaids)

Investing in a professional makeup artist is non-negotiable. Bridal hair and makeup packages typically cost R2 500, including trial sessions. If you’re considering covering your bridesmaids too, budget an extra R6 000. You could also ask your bridal party to contribute towards their styling as part of their gift to you.

🎯 Wedding Coordinator – 2% of your budget

Hiring a wedding coordinator helps ease the stress and lets you (and your family) enjoy the day. They usually charge between R5 000 and R7 000, or roughly 2% of your total spend. A good coordinator will manage all vendors, keep your timeline running smoothly, and act as your go-to person on the day.

Many venues can recommend coordinators they’ve worked with before — a huge bonus when assembling your dream team.

✉️ Stationery & Signage – 1% of your budget

While digital invites and websites are budget-friendly or even free, printed wedding stationery still plays a role — think menus, seating charts, welcome signs, or personalised name cards.

Allocate 1% of your budget here, whether you go DIY or hire a designer. A clearly displayed seating chart can make guests feel valued and reduce confusion at the reception.

👗 Wedding Attire – 4% of your budget (as a guide)

Wedding attire is deeply personal, and every couple’s preferences vary. That said, for planning purposes, you can earmark about 4% of your total budget for the bride’s gown and groom’s suit. Some may spend more, others less — your style and comfort should be the deciding factor.

Final Thought 

A budget of R250 000 can truly deliver a stunning wedding in South Africa — as long as you stay strategic and organised. Don’t forget to keep communication open, especially with family members helping you plan or pay. Prioritise what matters most to you as a couple, and let your budget follow your values — not just tradition