Wedding Payment Schedule: Your Simple Guide to Paying Vendors on Time

Planning a wedding means juggling a lot of details, and money is one of the biggest pieces. A clear payment schedule takes the guesswork out of when to hand over cash, helps you avoid last‑minute surprises, and keeps your budget from blowing up. Below you’ll find a step‑by‑step timeline that works for most couples, plus practical tips to stay organized.

When to Pay Your Vendors

Most vendors ask for a deposit when you book them and the rest closer to the big day. Here’s a typical flow:

12–10 months before: Pay the deposit for high‑ticket items like the venue, photographer, and caterer. Deposits usually range from 10‑30% of the total cost.

8–6 months before: Settle any remaining balances for the venue and major vendors if you can. This eases cash flow and locks in the final numbers.

4–2 months before: Pay the balance for the florist, cake baker, and entertainment. Some vendors may ask for a small final payment now and the rest on the day.

1 month to 1 week before: Hand over any last‑minute fees, like extra lighting, overtime, or travel costs. Double‑check contracts so you don’t miss a due date.

Day of the wedding: Most vendors expect a final tip or small balance. Have cash or a card ready, and keep receipts for your records.

Tips to Keep Your Payments on Track

Use a spreadsheet or a budgeting app to list every vendor, the amount due, and the due date. Mark each payment as you go—this visual cue stops things from slipping through the cracks.

Set up automatic transfers for deposits if you can. It saves you a reminder and guarantees the money lands on time.

Always ask for a written receipt and a clear invoice. If a vendor changes a price, you’ll have proof of the original agreement.

Keep a small buffer—5‑10% of your total budget—for unexpected costs like rush fees or extra rentals. It’s easier to pull from a buffer than scramble for cash.

Finally, talk openly with your partner about the cash flow. Knowing who pays what ahead of time stops arguments and makes the planning process smoother.

Stick to this schedule, stay organized, and you’ll move through the financial side of your wedding with confidence. Your big day will feel less like a money marathon and more like a celebration you can truly enjoy.