How Much to Budget for a 150 Person Wedding?

Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting yet challenging tasks in a couple's journey towards marriage. When considering a venue like the Pelican Club for your wedding, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your budget, especially when hosting a guest list of 150 individuals. In this post, we will break down the various components of wedding budgeting and help you estimate how much you need to allocate for your special day.

Understanding Wedding Costs

Before delving into the specifics of your budget for a wedding at the Pelican Club, it's crucial to understand that weddings typically encompass various expenses. These may range from the venue and catering to decor and entertainment. Each couple has their priorities, and costs can significantly vary based on choices made.

Venue Costs

One of the first and most significant expenses is, of course, the venue. The Pelican Club is an elegant location that offers a beautiful ambiance, making it an ideal choice for weddings. Depending on your date, the venue rental fee can vary, so it's advisable to book in advance and inquire about off-peak discounts. For a wedding with 150 guests, it's reasonable to budget anywhere from $3,000 to $6,000 just for the venue.

Catering Costs

Catering is a vital aspect of your wedding budget. At the Pelican Club, you can expect gourmet options that can elevate your wedding experience. Typically, catering costs can run between $50 to $100 per person, factoring in both food and beverage. For a guest list of 150, this can equate to approximately $7,500 to $15,000. Considering this, you should inquire about different menu options and whether the venue includes catering or if you need to arrange it separately.

Additional Services and Amenities

Wedding Planner

Hiring a wedding planner can streamline your planning process, especially in a busy setting like the Pelican Club. A professional can help you manage vendor contracts, timelines, and budgets. Wedding planners typically charge between 10% to 20% of your total wedding cost, which could amount to $1,000 to $3,000 considering your overall budget.

Decorations

When it comes to decorations, the Pelican Club provides a stunning backdrop, but you might still want to enhance the venue with personal touches. Budgeting around $2,000 to $5,000 for flowers, centerpieces, and other decor elements is a typical range to consider.

Entertainment

Entertainment costs can vary significantly based on your preferences for music and activities. Hiring a DJ usually costs about $1,000 to $2,500, while a live band may push this up to $3,000 or more. For a standard wedding, budgeting around $1,500 for entertainment services would be prudent.

Miscellaneous Expenses

Don’t forget about the miscellaneous costs that can pop up during the planning process. This includes stationery (invitations, menus, programs) which may cost around $500 to $1,000 and wedding attire, which can vary widely depending on your choice of dresses and tuxedos. Budgeting around $2,000 for attire should cover most options.

Photography and Videography

Capturing the day is crucial, and professional photography and videography can range between $2,500 to $5,000. This is a significant investment, but one that ensures your memories are beautifully preserved.

Putting It All Together

After breaking down the costs associated with a wedding primarily at the Pelican Club, let's compile an estimated budget:

• Venue: $3,000 - $6,000
• Catering: $7,500 - $15,000
• Wedding Planner: $1,000 - $3,000
• Decorations: $2,000 - $5,000
• Entertainment: $1,500 - $3,000
• Miscellaneous Expenses: $2,500 - $5,000
• Photography/Videography: $2,500 - $5,000

This brings your total estimated wedding budget for 150 guests to approximately $21,000 to $42,000.

Final Thoughts

When planning a wedding, particularly at a stunning venue like the Pelican Club, it's vital to create a thorough budget that accommodates all aspects of your big day. Understanding your priorities and keeping track of expenses will lead you down a stress-free road toward a memorable wedding celebration. Whatever you choose, remember the most important part is celebrating your love with friends and family!