When the Engagement Glow Fades, the Money Questions Start
In Canada, the average wedding costs about $30,000—but averages can be misleading. Whether you're planning a backyard wedding in Nova Scotia or an elegant Toronto ballroom affair, your wedding budget should reflect your values, not just national stats.
This guide walks you through building a realistic, personalized budget—along with tips from professional wedding photographers who’ve seen what’s worth it and what’s not.

Start With Your Total Budget
Before diving into a spreadsheet:
- What’s your absolute maximum?
- Is family contributing?
- What kind of wedding are you imagining? (Elopement in Banff? Vineyard celebration in Kelowna?)
Once you’ve settled on a total, begin allocating percentages based on your top priorities. Need help defining those? Read: How to Create a Wedding Vision That Feels Like You
Typical Canadian Wedding Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough guide based on how many couples in Canada allocate their spending:
- Venue & Catering: 35–45%
- Photography & Videography: 10–15%
- Planner/Coordinator: 5–10%
- Florals & Décor: 8–12%
- Attire & Beauty: 5–8%
- Entertainment: 5–10%
- Stationery & Invites: 2–4%
- Transportation, Rentals, Misc: 5–10%
- Contingency Buffer: 5%
Want a deeper look? Read: Canadian Wedding Budget Breakdown: Where Your Money Actually Goes

What’s Actually Worth the Splurge?
Photography
After the last glass is empty, your photos are what remain. Choose a photographer whose style and personality align with yours.
Read: Photographer Horror Stories (and How to Avoid Becoming One)
Planner or Day-Of Coordinator
Prevent stress—for you and your family.
Read: Should You Hire a Wedding Planner?
Read: Planner vs. Day-Of Coordinator: What’s the Real Difference?
Entertainment
The energy of your wedding depends on it. A skilled DJ or live band keeps the night flowing—and the dance floor full.
Where You Can Save Without Regret
- Stationery: Digital RSVPs are modern, accepted, and budget-friendly.
- Décor: Highlight the venue’s natural aesthetic. Read: How to Choose a Wedding Venue That Photographs Well
- Favours: Often forgotten. Redirect those dollars toward something guests (and you) will remember—like photos or dessert.

Tips to Stick to Your Budget (Without Feeling Restricted)
- Add a 5–10% buffer for surprise costs
- Track everything using a Canadian wedding budget app or spreadsheet
- Prioritize emotionally: Spend more on what means the most
Photographer Insight:
“I’ve had couples tell me they regretted hiring a budget photographer who missed key moments or over-edited their photos into something unrecognizable.”
Need a Photographer That Fits Your Budget and Your Vision?
We feature vetted Canadian wedding photographers across every price point—from intimate elopements to lavish full-day celebrations. Explore our directory to find a match that aligns with your style and your budget.