Why Setting a Budget is one of the First Steps to Planning the Perfect Georgia Wedding
The Venue at Murphy Lane is a wedding venue about an hour from Atlanta GA.
One of the first things a newly engaged couple does is start looking for a place to get married. We often get phone calls here at The Venue at Murphy Lane, an Atlanta wedding venue, from couples within a day or two of getting engaged. They are excited about moving quickly to make their dreams come true and to have the perfect Georgia wedding. They want to find their wedding venue! As fun and exciting as that may be, it is important to understand wedding planning first steps. If you book tours of wedding venues without setting a budget you may end up looking at places that aren’t in your price range. It’s like looking at houses without knowing what you can afford. Or going out to buy a car without knowing your price range.
When it comes to planning your dream wedding in Georgia- whether it’s a romantic vineyard ceremony or a grand southern celebration—there’s one crucial first step that often gets overlooked: setting a budget. It’s tempting to dive into dress shopping, tasting cake samples, or touring picturesque wedding venues in Georgia’s rolling hills, but without a solid financial plan in place, those dreams can quickly spiral into stress and overspending.
In this article, we’ll explore why determining a budget is essential when planning a wedding, especially if you’re tying the knot at a wedding venue in Georgia. We’ll cover practical budgeting steps, how your budget influences nearly every planning decision, and why it’s the key to making your wedding vision a reality without unnecessary financial strain. Wedding planning first steps need to include setting a budget!
The Allure of a Georgia Wedding
Georgia is a popular wedding destination for many reasons. From historic estates and rustic barns to elegant ballrooms and scenic mountain retreats, the state offers a wide variety of wedding venues. Whether you’re planning a sunset ceremony overlooking Lake Lanier or a chic affair in downtown Atlanta, Georgia provides the charm, hospitality, and versatility that many couples are looking for. The Venue at Murphy Lane is on an 88 acre farm in Newnan, GA. Murphy Lane offers several ceremony sites, an elegant reception area and a southern estate property that will be sure to help your guests remember your Big Day!
A view of the Vineyard Ceremony Site at Murphy Lane.
But with so many options, it’s easy to get carried away. That’s where budgeting comes in—not just as a money-saving tool, but as a strategy to help you make smart, intentional choices.
Let’s Get Real About How Much Georgia Weddings Cost
Many couples looking for a wedding venue near Atlanta GA are recently engaged. Part of the conversation we always have with potential clients includes us asking, “What is your price range?” or “Have you created a budget?” Most of the time the answer is, “Not really” or “We don’t really know how much to plan for.” That’s ok! When was the last time you planned a wedding? How would you know?
We can help you answer some of your questions quickly. You can tap into our experience about what is included in wedding planning and ballpark prices for all the different categories that need to be considered. Ask questions! We want you to ask any questions you have until you feel confident you understand what it is you asked about. There are many resources available to you regarding wedding planning and expenses but why not reach out to an Atlanta wedding venue and get a first-hand perspective?
Why a Wedding Budget is Non-Negotiable and Needs to Be Part of Wedding Planning First Steps
1. It Provides Structure to Your Planning Process
Weddings involve countless decisions: venue, catering, décor, attire, music, photography, transportation—the list goes on. Without a budget, it’s hard to prioritize. Having a clear number gives you a framework to allocate funds appropriately and avoid unnecessary stress later on.
2. It Keeps Financial Surprises at Bay
One of the most common regrets newlyweds share is underestimating costs. A budget forces you to research prices, compare quotes, and factor in hidden fees (like service charges, taxes, and gratuities), which are especially important when dealing with wedding venues in Georgia that may have different pricing structures based on location or season.
3. It Helps Align Expectations With Your Partner and Families
Discussing money can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential. If parents are contributing, talk openly about how much they’re willing to contribute and what aspects they want to be involved in. Budgeting together ensures that everyone is on the same page and that you’re making choices that reflect your shared values and vision.
Florals, catering, decor and the venue all add to the expense of a wedding reception.
The Georgia Venue Factor: Why Local Costs Matter
Georgia is unique in that it offers both high-end urban venues and affordable rural gems. Wedding venues in Atlanta, for example, can cost significantly more than venues in smaller towns like Dahlonega, Macon, Newnan or Rome. Factors such as location, popularity, peak season (typically spring and fall in Georgia), and included amenities can dramatically influence pricing.
By setting a budget early, you can identify venues that are realistic options rather than wasting time touring dream spots that are out of reach. This helps you avoid disappointment and streamline your planning process.
Your wedding planning first steps budget needs to include “entertainment”.
Key Budget Categories (Based on 100 Guests)
Category
% of Budget
Estimated Cost
Venue & Catering
35–45%
$10,500–$25,500
Bar & Alcohol
8-12%
$2,400-$4,500
Photography & Videography
10–15%
$5,000–$12,500
Attire (Dress & Suit)
5–8%
$1,500–$2,400
Hair & Make-up
3-5%
$900-$3,500
Flowers & Décor
8–10%
$3,200–$8,500
Entertainment
8–10%
$2,400–$12,000
Planner or Coordinator
5–7%
$1,800–$5,100
Invitations & Stationery
2–4%
$600–$1,200
Miscellaneous
3–5%
$900–$5,000
These are “ballpark figures” based on recent weddings at The Venue at Murphy Lane in Newnan, GA.
💡 Note: Some services scale with guest count (like catering and bar), while others (like photography or entertainment) remain relatively fixed.
How to Build Your Wedding Budget in 6 Practical Steps- A Key Element of Your Wedding Planning First Steps
1. Identify Your Total Budget
Start with a hard number. What are you and your partner comfortable spending? Are any family members contributing? Combine all sources into a single working total.
2. List Your Priorities
Maybe you care most about live music or having a gourmet farm-to-table meal. List your top 3 wedding priorities and allocate more funds toward those. This helps prevent overspending on elements that aren’t as important to you.
These wedding ceremony flowers and greenery show that florals are important to this couple!
3. Research Local Prices
Look into average venue and vendor costs in the specific area of Georgia where you’re getting married. Knowing the typical range helps you make informed decisions and avoid sticker shock. If you would like to talk to the owners of The Venue at Murphy Lane about pricing, please reach out! https://thevenueatmurphylane.com/contact
4. Build a Category-Based Spreadsheet
Create a spreadsheet that includes all potential wedding expenses with estimated costs. Track actual quotes and deposits to avoid surprises.
5. Leave Room for Unexpected Expenses
Build in a 5–10% buffer. Extra guest RSVPs, weather-related changes, or last-minute vendor upgrades are common and can quickly eat into your budget.
6. Track Everything
Use a spreadsheet, app, or wedding planning software to monitor spending. Update regularly to keep everything transparent and under control.
Don’t Forget the Bar Budget
Bar service is one of the most celebrated (and sometimes overlooked) aspects of a wedding, and it can quickly become a budget buster if not accounted for early.
A seasonal “signature cocktail” can be part of the bar package at your wedding reception.
Items that may be a part of Bar Packages:
Open Bar: Guests enjoy unlimited drinks.
Beer & Wine: A cost-effective and popular middle ground.
Full Bar: Beer, wine and spirits
Signature Cocktails
Champagne Tower
Average Bar Costs in Georgia:
Full Open Bar for 100 guests: $3,500–$6,500
Beer & Wine Only: $2,800–$5,200
Don’t forget to ask about included services like bartenders, mixers, and glassware.
Don’t Overlook Beauty in the Budget
Hair and makeup aren’t just about looking good in photos—they’re about confidence and creating a pampered start to your day.
A bride and her flower girl enjoy the bridal lounge at Murphy Lane while they get their hair and make-up just right!
Confirm if false lashes, airbrush, or touch-ups are extra
Book early—Georgia stylists often fill spring and fall weekends quickly
Common Budget Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)
Underestimating Venue or Bar Costs
Forgetting Beauty Services
Skipping Contract Fine Print
Not Factoring Taxes and Gratuities
Over-inviting Guests
Final Thoughts: Start With the Budget, Then Build the Dream- Your Wedding Planning First Steps Must Consider Your Budget
If you’re just beginning your wedding planning journey in Georgia, pause and take the time to set your budget first. It may not be the most glamorous step, but it’s the one that will make the rest of your planning smoother, more enjoyable, and ultimately more successful.
Georgia has no shortage of unforgettable wedding locations. But before you book a venue, buy a dress, or taste a single cupcake—determine your budget. That single step will pave the way for a wedding that’s beautiful, meaningful, and financially sound. Make sure your wedding planning first steps include creating a budget!
Bonus Tip: Many Georgia venues offer seasonal discounts or weekday rates that can significantly reduce costs. Ask about off-peak pricing if you’re open to a non-Saturday celebration.
The Venue at Murphy Lane is about an hour from Atlanta.
Transparent Pricing at Murphy Lane
No hidden fees or minimums
The Venue at Murphy Lane is a locally owned wedding venue about an hour from Atlanta GA. We have hosted over 220 weddings in the last 7 years. We have learned a thing or two! We are happy to share our experience with you. We will give you our prices for the venue only or create an “All-Inclusive Wedding Package” with almost everything you need to host a magnificent wedding. If you’d like to talk to us and perhaps schedule a tour of our venue please contact us!
There are many location choices for couples to get married. Locally owned wedding venues offer many advantages. The personal contact, the attention to detail, the ease of communication and the genuine desire to help make your day special are reasons to find a wedding venue that is locally owned.
Here are a few other wedding venues and locally owned vendors from across the country where you might find inspiration for your wedding:
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