Planning a wedding with 100 guests on a $20K wedding budget might sound impossible — but with the right priorities and a little creativity, it’s totally doable. In this guide, I’ll walk you through a realistic wedding budget breakdown, show you what’s actually affordable at this price point, and help you avoid common budget traps couples fall into.
- If you’re just starting out, don’t miss our guide on how to tour a wedding venue like a pro.
- Need help finding the perfect space? Check out our cheap wedding venues in Houston, Texas for budget-friendly ideas.
- Want a different price point? See our wedding budget calculator to build your own custom plan
Sample $20K Wedding Budget for 100 Guests
This sample budget shows how real couples are dividing costs across essential categories. Use it as a starting point and tweak it to fit your priorities.
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue and Catering | $12,000 |
| Photography/Videography | $2,000 |
| Attire (Bride and Groom) | $1,500 |
| Flowers and Decorations | $1,200 |
| Music and Entertainment | $1,000 |
| Invitations and Stationery | $500 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $1,800 |
| Total | $20,000 |
Wedding Budget Breakdown ($20K)
Tips to Stay Within Your $20K Wedding Budget
1. Venue & Rentals – ~$6,000
Your venue is the backbone of your wedding day — it affects your theme, photos, guest experience, and even what vendors you can hire. At this price point, aim for venues that either include extras (tables, chairs, lighting) or allow you to bring your own vendors to control costs. Local community centers, park pavilions, historic homes, and even micro-wedding packages at larger venues are great places to start.
How to Save:
- Host your wedding in an off-season month (January–March or summer in the South)
- Book a Friday evening or Sunday afternoon
- Consider an all-inclusive venue that bundles rentals, catering, and staffing
2. Embrace Buffet-Style or Food Truck Catering – ~$5,000
Catering is a top cost driver, but it doesn’t have to consume your whole budget. Instead of a formal plated dinner, consider a buffet, family-style meal, or creative food station setup. Think: taco bar, pasta station, BBQ, or brunch. Don’t forget to ask if staffing, setup, and cleanup are included in your quote.
Sample per-person budgets:
- $35/person = $3,500
- $45/person = $4,500
- Leave 10–15% buffer for tax, tips, and delivery
3. Photography – ~$2,000
These are the memories you’ll look back on for the rest of your life, so even on a $20K wedding budget, quality photography is worth protecting. Luckily, many photographers offer partial-day coverage or elopement-style packages that fit within your budget.
What to ask before booking:
- Can you add a second shooter later if budget allows?
- Do they offer a 4–6 hour package?
- Are engagement sessions included or optional?
- How long does photo delivery take?
4. Attire – ~$1,200
You don’t need to spend thousands on “the dress” to feel amazing on your wedding day. Try bridal outlet stores, trunk sales, sample gowns, or resale websites like StillWhite, Nearly Newlywed, or Lulus Bridal. For grooms, a classic navy or charcoal suit is timeless—and can often be bought for less than a rental.
Sample costs:
- Shoes, jewelry, veil: $200–$300
- Wedding dress: $600–$800
- Groom’s suit/tux: $150–$300
5. Florals & Decor – ~$1,200
Want your wedding to look like Pinterest without a Pinterest price tag? Focus your floral budget on high-impact areas like your bridal bouquet, ceremony arch, and sweetheart table. Use greenery or dried flowers to fill in the rest, and repurpose florals from ceremony to reception when possible.
Budget hacks:
- Mix real + faux florals (use silk for centerpieces)
- Use candles or string lights to create ambiance
- Rent big-ticket decor pieces like backdrops or vintage furniture
6. DJ / Entertainment – ~$1,000
Music makes or breaks your reception vibe. A great DJ will not only play music but also keep your night running smoothly as an emcee. If you’re keeping things intimate or casual, you could create your own playlist and hire someone to run the equipment instead.
What to look for:
- Reviews, demo clips, or a sample playlist
- Setup and teardown included?
- Do they offer uplighting or extra gear?
A $20K wedding budget doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty, elegance, or the things that matter most. With smart planning, intentional choices, and a clear idea of your priorities, you can absolutely host a wedding for 100 guests that feels like you—without going into debt.
Whether you’re getting married in a backyard, a barn, or a boutique venue, this breakdown proves you don’t need a six-figure budget to have an unforgettable day. Use this guide as a starting point, then make adjustments to reflect your unique vision and values. Every wedding looks different—and that’s exactly how it should be.
Plan Your Own Wedding Budget in Minutes
Our free tool helps you build a personalized budget based on your actual guest count and total spend. Adjust categories, percentages, and get a breakdown you can email to yourself.
👉 Try the Wedding Budget Calculator for $20K and 100 Guests
Related Resources
- Browse Wedding Venues Near You
- Wedding Venues Lake Charles
- Wedding Venues Lafayette
- How to Tour a Wedding Venue Like a Pro
📍 Planning your wedding in Louisiana? Here’s a detailed guide to what a $20K wedding budget looks like in Lafayette, Baton Rouge, New Orleans & Lake Charles — including local venue ideas and sample costs.
