Start with a realistic framework
Instead of chasing prices first, set priorities (photo/video, styling, food, entertainment). Allocate your budget by percentage, then request quotes.
Sample allocation (adjust as needed)
- Venue + Catering: 35–45%
- Photo/Video: 10–15%
- Styling/Florals: 8–12%
- Planner/Coordinator: 8–10%
- Attire & Beauty: 8–12%
- Lights & Sounds/Entertainment: 6–10%
- Host/Program & Misc: 3–5%
- Stationery/Website/Signage: 2–4%
- Contingency (unseen costs, overtime): 8–10%
Tip: Keep a 10% buffer for rush fees, upgrades, and weather-related changes.
Season & location considerations
- Dry months (Nov–May): Higher demand; book suppliers early.
- Wet months (Jun–Oct): Indoor or tented setups; consider dehumidifiers, flooring, and covered walkways.
- Destination (Boracay/Palawan/Siargao, Tagaytay/Baguio/Antipolo): Factor permits, supplier travel, and accommodation.
Vendor checklist (Philippine context)
- Planner/Coordinator: Full or on-the-day? Ask for a sample run-sheet and emergency plan.
- Ceremony Venue/Officiant: Requirements, rehearsal, allowed décor.
- Catering: Menu tasting, corkage, staff ratio, supplier meals.
- Photo/Video: Shot list, prenup schedule, raw file policy.
- Styling/Florals: Rain plan, layout, teardown time, candles policy.
- Lights & Sounds: Power load, backup generator, mic count.
- Host/Entertainment: Program flow, cultural segments, breaks.
- Attire & HMUA: Fittings timeline, retouch hours, travel fees.
- Transport/Logistics: Bridal car, entourage buses, load-in/out windows.
- Legal/Docs: Marriage license steps and timelines—verify with your LGU for the latest requirements and validity.
- Guest Experience: Welcome area, signage, kids’ table, photobooth, after-party transport.
Tracking template (columns to use)
Item | Supplier | Package | Qty | Cost | Deposit | Balance | Due Date | Notes | Status
Maintain this in Google Sheets or your site’s client portal; share with all stakeholders.
Ways to save without looking “budget”
- Fewer tables, better styling. Invest in focal pieces over many small items.
- Dual-purpose elements. Ceremony florals repurposed for reception.
- Shorter guest list. Quality over quantity.
- Timebox hours. Avoid overtime for photo/video/L&S with a tight run-sheet.
- Local suppliers. Reduce travel and lodging fees.
Want a plug-and-play tracker and vetted supplier shortlist? Message us for our Philippines Wedding Kit (budget sheet + run-sheet + day-of checklist).