Hey ladies

$27k for 200 people doesn't sound too bad to be honest (especially considering catering is the largest cost and is number-dependent)

We're spending around $20k for 100 people. Catering is $60/pp for everything except alcohol - which is a separate fee.

The best way to get your cost down is to cut down your guest count. But keep in mind that at least 15% of them likely won't attend the wedding!

Keeping your guest list to a minimum is the best way to cut back on expenses. You can also cut unnecessary items like favors, photo booths, extra flowers, etc. Being 5 months out, it's hard to know what costs you're already under contract for.

Our original budget was $25k, now we’re close to $35k. But we’ve cut down the guest list and already decided to not have extra unnecessary decoration that I wanted. Not sure where else I can cut down on since we’ve planned everything already, just need little things like bridal accessories. I’m hoping to still stay under $30k, but Chicago weddings are sooo expensive

Ugh I think it's so normal to go over budget, sadly.
I know mine was over by a little.

It is easy to go over budget. Look at where you can cut costs? If you have not sent STD's or invites then you can modify the guest list still. As I have gotten older I have seen weddings become smaller because I think people realize how expensive it can add up. Or maybe look at your reception. Maybe just have beer and wine at your even instead of cocktails?

Were at just under $28k for 209 people, so right on par with you. We're saving in the floral department by only doing bouquets, bouts, and corsages. And we're having on of FH work buddies DJ (he co-owns a DJ company). I'm hoping we can also save on alcohol by doing beer and wine only, maybe a signature drink but we haven't gotten that far. I'm also hoping to save a little on catering. Our package includes a starch and veggie, but I don't feel that is necessary with a mac and cheese bar.