How to Create a Wedding Budget (with a Little Inspiration from Castle McCulloch)
Photo by: Brian Anthony Photography
Planning your dream wedding is one of life’s most exciting adventures—but without a budget, it can also become one of the most stressful. A wedding budget isn’t about limiting your vision; it’s about creating a clear financial plan so you can make informed decisions, avoid last-minute surprises, and fully enjoy the day you’ve dreamed of.
Here’s your guide to building a wedding budget that works for you—complete with a little inspiration from one of North Carolina’s most magical venues: Castle McCulloch in Jamestown.
Step 1: Start with the Big Picture
Before you dive into spreadsheets and itemized lists, define your priorities. Ask yourselves:
What’s non-negotiable? (Venue? Photographer? Food?)
Where can you be flexible?
Fun fact: When couples tour Castle McCulloch, one of the most common priorities they share is ambiance. With its grand ballroom, stained-glass windows, and medieval stonework, the venue’s atmosphere often becomes the anchor for the rest of the budget. Once you know your priorities, you can funnel funds into the details that matter most.
Step 2: Set Your Total Budget
Be realistic. Combine your savings, any family contributions, and how much you’re willing to set aside from future income.
A simple formula:
Venue + Catering often make up 40–50% of a wedding budget.
Photography & Videography: 10–15%
Attire & Beauty: 5–10%
Florals & Décor: 10–15%
Entertainment: 5–10%
Miscellaneous & Contingency: 5%
Step 3: Research Costs Early
If you’ve fallen in love with a specific venue—say, the gold-accented Great Hall at Castle McCulloch—get a quote early. Not only does this help you set a realistic budget, but it also gives you insight into available dates, package inclusions, and potential add-ons (like using the romantic stone bridge for photos).
Step 4: Allocate and Adjust
Once you know your top priorities, assign percentages to each category and plug in actual numbers. Be prepared to adjust. For example, if you choose a higher-end caterer, you might balance by simplifying décor or selecting a smaller cake.
Example:
A couple hosting a fall wedding at Castle McCulloch opted for a candlelit ceremony in the Great Hall. Because the venue’s architecture was already so rich and ornate, they saved thousands by keeping floral arrangements minimal—reallocating those funds to hire a live string quartet for the reception.
Step 5: Don’t Forget Hidden Costs
Factor in taxes, service fees, gratuities, overtime rates, and rentals. Even with a stunning all-in-one venue like Castle McCulloch, you may need to budget for items such as upgraded linens, specialty lighting, or valet service.
Step 6: Track Every Expense
Use a shared spreadsheet, a budgeting app, or even a dedicated wedding planner notebook. Record deposits, due dates, and final payments. Staying organized will prevent those “I thought we already paid that!” moments.
Step 7: Include a Contingency Fund
Things happen—whether it’s unexpected weather leading to tent rentals or deciding on a last-minute dessert table. Set aside at least 5% of your budget for surprises.
Castle McCulloch Budget Tip
Because of its historical architecture and built-in elegance, many couples find they can reduce their décor budget significantly. The venue itself becomes part of the “wow” factor—meaning your money can go toward personal touches that guests will remember, like signature cocktails, live music, or a custom photo booth under the castle’s twinkling chandeliers.
Final Thought:
Your wedding budget is more than numbers—it’s a reflection of your values and vision. By setting clear priorities, doing your research, and staying flexible, you can plan a celebration that feels abundant, joyful, and uniquely yours. And if you happen to exchange vows beneath the soaring stone arches of Castle McCulloch, you’ll already have the perfect backdrop for a day worth every penny.
