How to Budget for Your Idaho Wedding: Real Numbers & Simple Guidance

By an Idaho Wedding Photographer Who's Seen It All

Planning your Idaho wedding and wondering how much you really need to budget? You’re not alone.

Weddings are beautiful, emotional, and—let’s be honest—financially significant milestones. Whether you're dreaming of a rustic outdoor wedding near Salmon, Idaho, or a large-scale celebration in Boise or Coeur d’Alene, knowing where your money is going can make all the difference.

As an Idaho wedding photographer, I’ve worked with couples across all budgets—from $5,000 elopements to $40,000+ weekend events—and I’ve learned that the key to a smooth and joyful wedding day often starts with a solid budget plan.

What’s the Average Cost of a Wedding in Idaho?

According to recent wedding data, the average Idaho wedding costs around $25,000. While that’s significantly less than the national average (closer to $30–35k), it’s still a substantial investment. That’s why I created this simple wedding budget guide to help you make confident, informed decisions.

Venue, Food, Rentals, & Bar          ▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓ 40%
Photography & Videography          ▓▓▓▓▓▓ 12%
Apparel (Dress, Suit, Accessories) ▓▓▓▓ 8%
Decor & Florals                            ▓▓▓▓ 8%
Entertainment (DJ, Band)             ▓▓▓ 7%
Planner / Coordination                  ▓▓ 6%
Misc / Tips / Buffer                       ▓▓ 6%
Invites, Stationery, Website          ▓ 3%
Officiant & Ceremony Costs          ░ 2%
Hair & Makeup                            ░ 2%
Cake / Dessert                            ░ 2%
Transportation                             ░ 2%
Favors / Guest Experience            ░ 2%

✨ Pro Tip: If you’re skipping a planner, you can shift that $1,500 into your dress budget, photo upgrades, or even extra guest experiences like a photo booth or s’mores bar.

Let’s Break Down the Budget: A $25,000 Example

Here’s a realistic breakdown of how a $25,000 wedding might look. Keep in mind: this is a flexible guide, not a rulebook. If you’re skipping a planner or cutting back on florals, you can shift that portion elsewhere!

If you aren't hiring a planner or coordinator that $1,500 could now go toward your apparel. This is simple guide and visual for you to see how a wedding budget go can fast.

Venue, Food, Rentals, & Bar          ▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓▓ $10,000
Photography & Videography          ▓▓▓▓▓▓ $3,000
Apparel (Dress, Suit, Accessories) ▓▓▓▓ $2,000
Decor & Florals                            ▓▓▓▓ $2,000
Entertainment (DJ, Band)             ▓▓▓ $1,750
Planner / Coordination                  ▓▓ $1,500
Misc / Tips / Buffer                       ▓▓ $1,500
Invites, Stationery, Website          ▓ $750
Officiant & Ceremony Costs          ░ $500
Hair & Makeup                            ░ $500
Cake / Dessert                            ░ $500
Transportation                             ░ $500
Favors / Guest Experience            ░ $500

10 Simple Ways to Cut Back on Your Wedding Budget

Planning a wedding doesn’t mean you have to spend it all. Here are some of the best ways to cut your wedding costs without sacrificing the experience:

1. Trim your guest list. Fewer guests = fewer plates, chairs, favors, and bar tabs.

2. Opt for an off-peak wedding date. Fridays, Sundays, or even weekdays are often more affordable.

3. Skip the full-service planner. Hire a day-of coordinator instead (or lean on a detailed wedding binder like this one I created).

4. DIY where it matters. Think invitations, table numbers, welcome signs, and even some florals.

5. Simplify the menu. A taco bar, pizza buffet, or brunch wedding can be fun and cost-effective.

6. Skip unnecessary rentals. Ask your venue what’s included before booking extra décor.

7. Go digital. Use a free wedding website and digital RSVPs to save on stationery and postage.

8. Book local vendors. Idaho-based creatives (like photographers and DJs) may have lower travel fees.

9. Repurpose your décor. Ceremony florals can double as reception centerpieces.

10. Pass on party favors. A fun night, good food, and photos to remember are enough!

The most important thing isn’t how much you spend, it’s how intentionally you spend it. Think about what will matter to you when you look back: the people, the photos, the memories. The cake and party favors are fun, but the real value is in creating a day that reflects you.

As your photographer, I'm here for more than just snapping pretty pictures. I love helping couples plan timelines, navigate decisions, and make the most of their wedding day—whatever the budget.

Hidden Wedding Costs Couples Often Forget

When couples sit down to plan their budget, the “big ticket” items like the venue, food, and photography usually make the list right away. But it’s the little things that sneak up on you and cause stress later. Here are a few often-overlooked expenses you’ll want to plan for:

• Marriage License & Legal Fees – In Idaho, a marriage license typically costs around $30–$50 depending on the county. Small, but it adds up when you’re already tight on budget.

• Alterations – That perfect dress might need tailoring. Brides often spend several hundred dollars (or more) on alterations alone.

• Gratuities & Tips – While not always required, many vendors rely on tips as part of their income. Plan ahead for your DJ, hairstylist, or catering staff.

• Postage – Sending out 150 invitations with return envelopes can easily run $100+ in stamps.

• Vendor Travel Fees – If your wedding is outside of town, some vendors charge for mileage or lodging.

• Beauty Trials – Makeup or hair trial sessions are worth every penny but often aren’t included in the package.

• Decor & Rentals – Think candles, signage, linens, or even delivery/setup fees.

By setting aside a small “miscellaneous fund” (5–10% of your budget), you’ll save yourself from last-minute financial stress.

Where to Splurge vs. Save

Every couple dreams of having it all—but your budget will thank you if you decide early on where to invest and where to simplify. Here’s a balanced approach:

Where to Splurge:

• Photography & Videography – Your flowers wilt, food gets eaten, but your photos last forever. Capturing these memories is worth the investment.

• Venue – The right setting creates the backdrop for your entire day, and often saves you money on décor if it’s naturally beautiful.

• Food & Drink – Guests always remember how they felt and what they ate. A great meal sets the tone for celebration.

Where to Save:

• Décor & Favors – DIY centerpieces, thrifted candle holders, or skipping wedding favors altogether can free up hundreds.

• Invitations – Use my partner code with Basic Invite and save 20% on your order, really! 

• Cake – Consider a small display cake for cutting photos, and serve sheet cake to guests—it tastes the same and costs less.

• Attire Accessories – Borrow jewelry or keep accessories minimal instead of splurging on every detail.

Remember: A wedding doesn’t have to be Pinterest perfect to be magical. It just needs to reflect the two of you and your story.