Wedding Expenses India: A Real‑World Budget Guide
Planning a wedding in India can feel like a money maze. You hear stories of lavish parties, but not every couple needs a million‑rupee extravaganza. Let’s strip away the hype and look at the actual costs you’ll face, from venue to photography, so you can set a budget that works for you.
Big Ticket Items You Can’t Skip
The venue usually eats up the biggest chunk of the budget. In major cities, a decent banquet hall costs anywhere from ₹80,000 to ₹2,00,000 for a day‑long event. If you choose a destination wedding, add travel and accommodation for you and a few close relatives – expect an extra ₹50,000‑₹1,00,000.
Catering comes next. Indian weddings love big feasts, and prices range from ₹300 to ₹1,000 per plate depending on the cuisine and service style. For a guest list of 200, that’s roughly ₹60,000‑₹2,00,000. To keep costs down, consider a combo of buffet and live stations, or trim the guest list a bit.
Photography, Décor, and Hidden Extras
Photos are forever, so most couples allocate 10‑15% of the total budget for a professional photographer. A good wedding photographer in India charges between ₹40,000 and ₹1,20,000, usually including pre‑wedding shoots and an album.
Decoration can swing wildly. Simple floral setups might be ₹20,000‑₹50,000, while intricate themes can soar past ₹2,00,000. Talk to a few decorators, ask for a detailed list, and prioritize the areas you love most – like the mandap or entrance.
Don’t forget the small but pricey items: wedding outfits (₹30,000‑₹1,00,000 per set), makeup artists (₹10,000‑₹30,000), and licenses (₹1,000‑₹5,000). These add up quickly, so list them early and compare a few vendors.
Transportation for the bride, groom, and guests also matters. Hiring a few cars or a small bus can cost ₹15,000‑₹40,000. If you’re using a luxury car for the couple, expect to pay another ₹10,000‑₹25,000.
Finally, set aside a contingency fund – about 5‑10% of your total budget – for unexpected expenses like last‑minute changes or extra treats for guests.
By breaking down each category and comparing a few quotes, you can see where to splurge and where to save. Remember, the most memorable weddings focus on love and togetherness, not just the price tag.
Ready to start budgeting? Write down the number of guests, pick a venue type, and allocate a rough percentage to each cost area. Adjust as you gather real quotes, and you’ll have a clear picture of your wedding expenses in India.