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Lifestyle

A Practical Guide to Wedding Budget Planning in India

Date 16 July 2025 Reading time: 7-10 mins

A wedding is a momentous occasion, steeped in joy and tradition, yet it often comes with a hefty price tag - especially in India. From breathtaking venues to intricate attire, the costs can mount swiftly, turning dreams into financial burdens if left unchecked. Establishing a wedding budget in India is your key to balancing celebration with sensibility.



This guide delves into Indian wedding costs, unpacks typical wedding expenses in India, and equips you with strategies to craft a memorable day that respects your finances. Whether you’re planning a grand affair or a modest gathering, a well-thought-out wedding budget in India ensures your focus remains on love, not stress.

1. Understanding the Concept of a Wedding Budget in India

In a country where weddings are often grand affairs infused with cultural richness, keeping a check on wedding costs becomes essential. A wedding budget in India isn’t just about crunching numbers - it’s about aligning your vision with financial reality. With wedding expenses in India ranging from venue bookings to bridal trousseau, every element adds up fast.


Having a clear budget helps you prioritise what truly matters, avoid unnecessary wedding expenses in India, and maintain control over your finances. It’s a proactive approach that ensures your celebration is joyful, not financially overwhelming.


2. The Average Indian Wedding Costs: A Breakdown

So, how much does an Indian wedding actually cost? The answer can vary widely based on factors like location, guest list size, and personal preferences. On average, Indian wedding expenses can range from ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh, with luxury celebrations easily crossing the ₹1 crore mark.

Flat lay of groom's wedding essentials including embroidered sherwani, cream-colored mojaris with brooch, soft pink dupatta, and gift box with golden ribbon

Key Wedding Expenses in India

Here’s how Indian wedding costs typically break down. This is just an indicative break up; actuals may differ greatly:

  • Venue & Accommodation: 20%-30%. Think luxurious hotels or scenic destinations - often the heftiest slice of wedding expenses in India.
  • Catering: 25%-30%. A feast for hundreds, featuring diverse cuisines, drives up costs.
  • Decor: 10-15%. Floral arches and ambient lighting elevate Indian wedding costs.
  • Photography & Videography: 5%-10%. Professional services to capture memories contribute significantly.
  • Bridal Outfits: 5%-10%. A luxurious bridal lehenga or wedding saree can be a notable expense.
  • Groom’s Attire: 2%-5%. Designer sherwanis or men's suits add to the budget.
  • Jewellery: 10%-20%, reflecting craftsmanship and materials.
  • Entertainment:5%-10% for DJs or live bands.
  • Planning Services: 5-10% of your wedding budget in India. Professional coordination ensures a seamless event.
  • Miscellaneous: 5%-10%. Invites, transport, beauty treatments, and other small expenses round out the budget.

Remember, these are just ballpark figures. Your actual wedding budget in India will depend on your unique vision and priorities. The key is to allocate your funds wisely and make informed choices at every step.

Traditional South Indian temple gold jewelry set with intricate goddess Lakshmi motifs, including a choker necklace and jhumka earrings, displayed on a red satin cloth with roses

3. How to Plan a Budget-Friendly Indian Wedding

Ready to start sketching out your wedding expenses in India? Follow these practical tips to create a budget that works for you:


Determine Your Non-Negotiables

  • Make a list of your top 3 must-haves, whether it's a dream venue, a celebrity makeup artist, or a designer bridal lehenga.
  • Allocate a larger chunk of your budget to these priority items.
  • Be willing to compromise on the less critical aspects.

Get Clear on Funding Sources

  • Have an honest discussion with your partner and families about who will contribute what.
  • Consider your savings, investments, and potential loans.
  • Be upfront about your financial boundaries from the start.

Factor in Hidden Indian wedding costs

  • Indian wedding expenses often include sneaky extras like tips, taxes, and transportation.
  • Allocate a buffer of 10-15% for unforeseen Indian wedding costs that may crop up.

Limit the Guest List

  • More guests = higher Indian wedding costs for catering, favours, and seating.
  • Trim your list to include only your nearest and dearest.
  • Consider an intimate wedding now and a larger reception later.

Hire a Wedding Planner

  • A professional planner can save you money by negotiating with vendors and avoiding costly mistakes.
  • Look for a planner who specialises in budget-friendly Indian weddings.

Choose Off-Peak Dates

  • Venues and vendors often offer discounts for weekday or off-season weddings.
  • You could save lakhs by avoiding peak dates like December and February.

DIY Wisely

  • Take on simple decor projects like welcome signs or photo booths.
  • But leave the heavy-duty tasks to the professionals to avoid last-minute disasters.

Shop Smart for Your Trousseau

  • Scout for deals and discounts on your bridal lehenga, saree, or groom's sherwani.
  • Rent outfits and jewellery for pre-wedding functions.
  • Mix high-end pieces with more affordable options for a budget-savvy look.

4. Tips for Staying on Track with Your Wedding Budget

Congratulations, you've created your wedding budget in India! Now, the real work begins.


Here's how to make sure you stick to your wedding budget in India:


Track Every wedding expense in India

  • Note down every payment in a budgeting app or spreadsheet.
  • Review your spending weekly to catch any overspending early on.

Communicate with Vendors

  • Discuss your budget upfront and get all quotes in writing.
  • Negotiate politely but firmly, and don't be afraid to walk away.

Assign a Budget Buddy

  • Pick a money-savvy friend or family member to help you stay accountable.
  • Give them permission to question any unnecessary splurges.

Schedule Regular Check-Ins

  • Set aside time each week or month to review your expenses as a couple.
  • Adjust your allocations if needed, but avoid adding to the total wedding budget in India.

Prepare for Peer Pressure

  • Well-meaning friends and relatives may encourage you to splurge.
  • Stay strong and remember your financial goals as a couple.

Find Creative Compromises

  • If you overspend in one area, find ways to cut back in another.
  • Look for alternative options that still capture the essence of your vision.

The Art of Smart Planning

Creating and sticking to a wedding budget in India may seem daunting, but it's the key to enjoying your dream day without financial baggage. By understanding the typical Indian wedding costs, allocating your funds mindfully, and using savvy savings strategies, you can plan a celebration that's high on joy and light on stress.


Your wedding is a beautiful celebration of your love story and the start of a new chapter together. Focus on what truly matters, and let your budget be a tool to help you create a day that's authentically yours.


Ready to embark on your wedding planning journey? Find everything you need for your dream day at Manyavar, your one-stop destination for exquisite Indian wedding wear. From regal sherwanis and dapper men's wedding outfits to resplendent bridal lehengas and sultry wedding sarees, we have everything you need to look and feel your best on your wedding day.

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