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Wedding budget planner for Australia: plan, track deposits and RSVPs

Wedding budgets blow out one deposit at a time. The fix is to set the total first, split it into categories, and log every quote and payment as it happens.

1. Set the total, then the guest count

Agree on the total you can spend without debt, then the guest count. Many costs are per head (catering, drinks, chairs, favours), so the guest list drives the budget more than anything else.

2. Split it into categories

Typical categories: venue, catering, drinks, celebrant, photographer and video, attire, rings, flowers, music, cake, stationery, hair and makeup, transport, accommodation and a contingency. Use your own quotes rather than "average wedding cost" figures, which vary hugely by city and season.

3. Log every quote, deposit and due date

For each supplier, record the quote, deposit paid, balance and the date the balance is due. Many suppliers want final payment a few weeks before the day, which is exactly when cash is tight.

4. Don't forget the legal paperwork

In Australia you must give a Notice of Intended Marriage to your authorised celebrant at least 1 month and no more than 18 months before your wedding, according to the Attorney-General's Department's Get married page. Put it in your timeline early.

5. Track RSVPs alongside the budget

Keep the guest list in the same file, with RSVP status and dietary needs, so your per-head costs update as replies come in.

Free tip: Add a contingency line of around a tenth of your budget from day one and don't touch it until the last month. There is always something you didn't plan for.

Want it done for you? Wedding Budget Planner Australia (AUD) Spreadsheet

Budget, deposits, RSVPs and supplier contacts in one AUD spreadsheet, with overdue flags on payments and a dashboard.

  • 8 tabs; 20 editable categories with flat or per-head costs
  • Payments with OVERDUE flags
  • Guest list, vendor contacts and dashboard
  • You enter your own quotes (no made-up averages)

US$7.99 one-time on Whop. Instant download.

See it on Whop →

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General information only, not financial or legal advice. Confirm dates and requirements with your celebrant. Last checked 16 Nov 2026.