100 Person Wedding Cost: What to Expect and How to Plan
When planning a 100 person wedding cost, the total amount you’ll spend on a ceremony and reception for a hundred guests. Also known as cost for 100 guests, it combines venue fees, food, décor, and many smaller items that together shape your day. A related concept is the wedding budget, which is the overall financial plan guiding every purchase. Another key player is catering cost, because food and drink usually take up the biggest slice of the pie. Finally, venue rental decides not only where you celebrate but also influences many other line items.
Key Cost Areas
Breaking a 100 guest wedding down into categories makes the numbers less scary. First up, venue rental can range from £1,000 for a modest hall to £5,000 for a historic manor. The price often includes basic tables and chairs, but you’ll need to ask about lighting, parking, and any overtime fees. Next, catering cost typically runs £50‑£120 per head, covering starters, mains, dessert, and service charges; remember to budget extra for drinks, especially if you’re offering wine, cocktails, or a full bar. Photography and videography are next—expect £1,000‑£2,500 for a solid package that captures the ceremony, portraits, and reception highlights. Attire for the bride, groom, and wedding party adds another £1,000‑£3,000 depending on designer gowns, suits, and accessories.
Decoration and flowers sit in the middle of the spectrum. A simple floral center‑piece can cost £15‑£30 per table, while elaborate installations push the price upward to £500‑£1,000 for a single statement piece. Music, whether a DJ or live band, usually runs £700‑£2,000, and a good DJ can also double as a MC, saving you from hiring a separate host. Finally, don’t forget the little things that add up: wedding stationery (invitations, save‑the‑date cards), transportation, marriage licence fees, and any insurance you might need.
Every wedding has hidden costs, and a 100 guest celebration is no exception. Many venues charge a cleaning surcharge or a corkage fee if you bring your own wine. Some caterers add a per‑person service charge for staffing, and you might need to budget for overtime if the ceremony runs longer than expected. Also, keep an eye on taxes and gratuities—these can add another 10‑15% to your total. By listing these potential extras early, you avoid nasty surprises on the day.
Now that you know where the money goes, you can start shaping a realistic wedding budget. Begin with a spreadsheet, assign a percentage to each category (e.g., 30% venue, 25% catering, 15% photography), and then fill in actual quotes. Use a budgeting app or an online calculator to keep track of cash flow and see how adjustments in one area affect the whole picture. For example, swapping a live band for a DJ could free up £800 that you can redirect toward a larger cake or extra décor.
With a clear cost breakdown and a solid budgeting habit, a 100 person wedding becomes a manageable project rather than a financial mystery. Below you’ll find articles that dive deeper into each cost category, share DIY ideas to stretch your dollars, and offer real‑world examples of couples who nailed their budget without sacrificing style. Explore the collection to turn those numbers into a celebration you’ll love—and afford.
Realistic Budget Guide for a 100‑Guest Wedding in 2025
Discover realistic budget ranges, cost breakdowns, and practical tips for planning a 100‑guest wedding in 2025. Includes sample budgets, percentage allocations, and a full budgeting checklist.