How to Get to your Wedding Budget. A Few Tips to Compose your Budget and Stick to it.

So, you’ve fallen in love with the idea of getting married in Ibiza (we can’t blame you). The sun, the sea, the vibe…

But now comes the slightly less dreamy part: the budget.

This blog is here to make that part a whole lot less scary. Think of it as your friendly roadmap to figuring out what you can spend, where you want to spend it, and how to keep things under control without losing the fun along the way.

Here's our guide to compose your wedding budget:

1. Start with your non-negotiables

Before you touch an Excel sheet or open your calculator app, get super clear on what matters most to you as a couple.

Ask yourselves:

• What’s the vibe we absolutely want?

• What elements make this day ours?

• Are there things we don’t care about at all?

These answers will guide you like a compass. If food is your love language, allocate a bigger chunk there. If you’ve always dreamed of a villa celebration, the venue becomes your priority. It’s all about setting the tone early.

2. Define your total number (yes, the real one)

We know… talking money isn’t sexy. But doing it early saves you from stress later. Think about:

• What is the maximum amount we can ánd want to spend?

• Do we want to spread expenses over a year or two?

• Are family members contributing? (Always good to clarify before you start booking, not after 😉)

Once you have your total number, you can start dividing it into categories that match your non-negotiables.

3. Establish a realistic guest list

Your guest count is the silent budget killer… or saver. Everything depends on it: catering, transport, rentals, even venue possibilities. A little tip from experience: Create three versions of your list – dream "for sure" list, realistic list, and a reserve "if we must” list. Your budget will instantly get clearer.

4. Break your budget down into categories

Now comes the part where your wedding starts to shape itself. Take your total budget and divide it into the main components:

• Venue

• Accommodation

• Catering & drinks

• Decoration & styling

• Flowers

• Music & entertainment

• Sound & technical

• Transport

• Planner fees

• And finally: the fun extras (think welcome party, boat day, recovery brunch, etc.)

Don’t aim for perfection here, this is your starting point, not a binding contract. You’ll tweak as you go (and that’s totally normal). Also we as your planner will help you here (duh!) they can help you set and manage the budget and will find you solutions in case they need to.

5. Get quotes early (and get several)

Ibiza is magical, but it’s also an island with limited suppliers and a high-demand wedding season. Prices vary. A lot.

That’s why getting multiple quotes is key. You’ll quickly see:

• What your must-haves actually cost

• Where your flexibility is

• Where you might need to adjust

And if you work with us, we’ll filter what fits your budget and vision so you don’t drown in options.

6. Expect the unexpected (and budget for it)

There will always be surprises. A last-minute lighting upgrade, extra transport, a dream flower installation you suddenly have to have…Create a buffer of 5–10% for those little “oops” moments.

7. Track everything – but don’t obsess

Keep a simple, shared document with:

• What you’ve booked

• Deposits paid

• Remaining balances

• Payment deadlines

Having a clear overview = calm energy. But remember: planning your wedding shouldn’t feel like managing a corporate budget spreadsheet. That's why we will do this for you so you don't have to worry about that, just open it when you need to see where you stand.

8. Communicate (with each other and your planner)

Budget decisions can stir emotions – excitement, nerves, sometimes a bit of overwhelm. Talk honestly with each other. And with us! Always please. We’re here to guide, adjust, propose alternatives, and make sure that what you’re spending aligns with what you actually want.

9. Don’t compare your wedding to others

Seriously. Your friend's wedding in Bali, your colleague’s anniversary in Rome, that perfect Pinterest board… none of these reflect your day, your vision, or your budget. Ibiza weddings come in all shapes, sizes, and price tags – and that’s the beauty of it. Focus on what feels right for you.

10. The most important tip: enjoy this part too

Budgeting might not sound very tempting , but it’s part of creating your wedding journey. Make a date night out of it. Pour a glass of wine. Brainstorm. Dream. This is the beginning of your celebration, let it feel like it!

Need support with building and managing your wedding budget?

That’s exactly what we’re here for. As planners on the island, we know the real prices, the realistic possibilities, and the smartest ways to make your budget work for you – not against you.

Whether you’re already in the middle of planning or just starting to explore, we’d love to guide you through it all with honesty, clarity, and a whole lot of heart. Whenever you’re ready, we’re here.

With love,

The About Summer team