New NAB research shows Australians are using routines, budgeting and healthy habits to manage wellbeing amid cost-of-living pressure.
Love is in the air and so is smart saving - NAB
06 December 2025
Personal Finance
Couples balance spending with financial planning
Couples putting an average $15,000 away for their big day
Silk flowers, mid-week weddings helping keep cost down
Some saving as much as $125,000
As wedding season kicks off across Australia, new data from NAB shows couples are not just planning their dream day, they’re planning their finances too.
According to NAB budgeting data, soon-to-be newlyweds have put aside an average of $15,000 for their big day, with some couples looking to save as much as $125,000.
NAB Executive Kylie Young said it was heartening to see couples taking control of their finances early.
“Weddings are such a special milestone, and it’s fantastic to see people using budgeting tools to make their dream day achievable,” said Ms Young.
“Whether it’s a backyard celebration or a destination wedding, having a clear savings plan helps reduce stress and keeps couples focused on what really matter - celebrating the big day.
“We’ve seen couples saving everything from $1,000 to $125,000. It’s not about the amount; it’s about having a plan. That’s what makes the difference.”
Top tips for saving for your wedding
Planning a wedding doesn’t have to mean financial stress. NAB’s Kylie Young has some tips on some easy ways to get started:
Talk openly: Be upfront with money and what matters most to you both.
Set a realistic budget: Start with what you can afford, not what social media says you need.
Use savings goals: NAB’s savings goals feature lets you name your goal, set a target, and track progress - perfect for wedding planning.
Automate your savings: Set up regular transfers so you’re saving without thinking.
Cut back on extras: Small changes like fewer takeaways or skipping impulse buys can add up fast.
Young couples making clever cutbacks
Melbourne couple Sienna Gerin, 25, and Angus Cooke, 27, have been planning and budgeting since their engagement two years ago. Their March wedding at a local winery will host 80 guests and every dollar is tracked in a spreadsheet.
“We’ve opted for silk flowers instead of real ones, a celebrant who doubles as an MC, and a winery that’s affordable and easy to get to,” says Sienna.
“We’ve splurged on the things that matter most, like a photographer, videographer, my dress and a custom suit.”
As a content creator behind Bride or Die, Sienna knows the pressure of Insta-perfect weddings:
“Social media can make you feel like everything has to be flawless, but we focused on what was meaningful to us. There’s magic in every wedding; it doesn’t have to be picture-perfect to be special.”
Mid-week weddings becoming more popular
Nick Seoud, Darling Group Director
Darling Group Director Nick Seoud said the company’s eleven venues host everything from intimate café celebrations to large-scale premium weddings at The Terrace and the newly opened Observatory in Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens.
“We’re seeing more couples move away from traditional ceremonies and reception centres, choosing character-filled venues instead. Higher Ground-our restored power station in the CBD, and our contemporary café spaces are especially popular for couples wanting a setting that feels personal and unique,” Mr Seoud said.
“Wedding spend varies across the market, with some couples choosing to host celebrations for around $15,000 while others investing over $100,000 on their day.
The majority, however, sit between $35,000 and $50,000. Top Paddock in Richmond consistently performs as one of our most in-demand venues, offering a premium aesthetic and exceptional food experience without the CBD price tag.”
“The Terrace has long been one of Melbourne’s most sought-after garden wedding venues, and with the recent opening of the Observatory, demand has only increased. Both spaces are now booking well into late 2027.
“At the same time, couples are getting more creative with their dates- midweek weddings are on the rise as a way to secure their ideal venue while keeping costs down.”
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