100 Person Wedding Budget: Real Costs & Smart Savings

Planning a wedding for 100 guests can feel like a money puzzle, but you don’t need to break the bank to make it memorable. The trick is to know where every pound goes and where you can trim without sacrificing style. Below is a realistic breakdown for a Bristol wedding and practical tips you can use right away.

Key Budget Categories

Venue & Reception – The biggest chunk, usually 30‑40% of the total. In Bristol you can find community halls, garden venues, or boutique hotels for £2,000‑£4,000 for a full‑day hire. Ask if they include tables, chairs, or basic linens – that can save you a separate rental cost.

Catering – Expect about £45‑£70 per head for a plated dinner or buffet, which totals £4,500‑£7,000. To keep it lower, consider a family‑style service or a cocktail menu with finger foods. Don’t forget service charges and taxes; they add roughly 15%.

Photography – A professional photographer typically charges £1,200‑£2,500 for 8‑10 hours. Look for packages that include a second shooter or an engagement session, which can be more cost‑effective than hiring separate vendors.

Flowers & Décor – For 100 guests, budget £800‑£1,200. Prioritise key tables (head table, ceremony arch) and use greenery or seasonal blooms to stretch your budget. Many Bristol growers offer bulk discounts if you order in advance.

Attire – Groom’s suit, bride’s dress, and outfits for the parents typically run £1,000‑£2,000 total. Renting a suit or buying a pre‑owned dress can cut this down dramatically.

Invitations & Stationery – As seen in our post about 100 wedding invitations, expect £300‑£500 for quality prints, envelopes, and postage. Opt for digital RSVPs for part of the guest list to save on printing.

Entertainment – A DJ costs £500‑£800, while a live band can be £1,200‑£2,000. If you have a friend who DJs, a modest equipment rental can bring the price under £300.

Adding everything up, a comfortable budget for a 100‑person wedding in Bristol sits around £12,000‑£18,000. Adjust the numbers based on your priorities – maybe you splurge on photography but keep décor simple.

Top Money‑Saving Hacks

1. Book Off‑Season – Venues and vendors often lower rates by 15‑20% for weddings in November or February.

2. Combine Services – Some venues include catering and tables in one fee; ask for bundled quotes.

3. DIY Elements – Create your own centrepieces using local market flowers or repurpose candles you already own.

4. Trim the Guest List – A smaller list reduces all variable costs. If you’re close to 100, see who you can comfortably edit out without hurting feelings.

5. Negotiate – Vendors expect some back‑and‑forth. Ask for a discount if you pay a deposit upfront or agree to a quick turnaround on decisions.

Use this checklist to track each line item and stay on target:

• Venue & reception fee
• Catering per head
• Photography package
• Flowers & décor
• Attire costs
• Invitations & postage
• Entertainment
• Contingency (5‑10% for unexpected expenses)

When you see the numbers laid out, you’ll feel more in control and less stressed. Remember, a beautiful wedding isn’t about splurging on every item – it’s about creating moments that matter. Use the tips above, keep an eye on Bristol‑based vendors for local discounts, and enjoy the planning process. Happy budgeting!