Planning a wedding in Singapore is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming when you start looking at the numbers. Venues, photography, attire, and flowers all add up quickly. For most couples, the biggest slice of the wedding budget goes to catering. A memorable menu can delight your guests, but it can also stretch your finances if you are not careful.

According to Her World (2023), the average wedding in Singapore costs around SGD 40,000, though many couples spend between SGD 30,000 and SGD 50,000 depending on guest size and venue. Rising costs in 2024 and 2025 mean that some hotel banquets are now priced even higher, underscoring the importance of careful financial planning.

This guide will walk you through practical ways to plan a wedding menu on a budget. Along the way, we will explore when it might make sense to consider a wedding loan Singapore couples can use to manage costs responsibly.

Why Wedding Catering Costs Add Up Quickly

Wedding catering in Singapore can range widely in price:

• Hotel banquets: SGD 180–250+ per guest (premium venues may charge more, especially for weekend dinners).
• Buffet-style or casual catering: SGD 25–60 per guest.

On top of food, couples should budget for service charges, GST, corkage fees, and décor. Cultural expectations can also increase costs, especially when families request elaborate multi-course meals.

Hidden Costs Breakdown

Many couples underestimate the additional costs that come on top of the per-head price. For example, hotels typically charge a 10% service fee plus 9% GST, which adds nearly 20% to the final bill. That means a banquet priced at SGD 200 per guest could actually cost about SGD 238 after taxes and service charges. Other common extras include corkage fees for bringing your own wine or champagne, overtime charges if the event runs late, and décor upgrades that are not included in the base package. Factoring these in early helps couples avoid unpleasant surprises.

Step 1: Set a Realistic Catering Budget Early

Most planners recommend allocating 30–50% of the wedding budget to food. That means if your total budget is SGD 30,000, catering could easily take up SGD 9,000 to SGD 15,000.

Breaking Down Per-Head Costs

• Buffet: SGD 25–60 per guest.
• Sit-down banquet: SGD 180–250+ per guest.
• Premium packages: SGD 250 and above.

Because of the per-head model, guest list size is the single biggest driver of total cost. For example, a 200-person guest list at SGD 200 per head already amounts to SGD 40,000 just for food and drinks.

Guest List Management Tips

Since guest numbers have the biggest impact on catering costs, managing your list carefully can save thousands. Start by separating your list into must-invite and nice-to-invite categories. This ensures that the most important people are prioritized if budget limits force tough choices. Use RSVP management tools or spreadsheets to track responses and

over-ordering. Another smart strategy is to host a smaller, more intimate reception for family and close friends, and then plan a casual after-party or buffet-style celebration for a wider circle. This way, you balance inclusivity with affordability while still making everyone feel part of the occasion.

Step 2: Compare Menu Packages by Value, Not Just Price

It can be tempting to choose the cheapest package, but value is often a better measure. Some packages include free-flow drinks or desserts, while others charge extra.

Affordable Wedding Menus That Still Impress

Couples on a budget can look into:

• Buffet-style catering with fusion dishes.
• Hawker-inspired menus for a uniquely Singaporean touch.
• Lunch receptions instead of dinner, which are typically 15–30% cheaper.

Research from The Wedding Vow (2023) and other local wedding guides confirms that lunch banquets are significantly cheaper than dinner, which can save thousands without compromising the joy of the celebration.

When Premium Packages Make Sense

In some cases, a premium banquet may be necessary—for example, when family obligations require a traditional multi-course meal. If costs exceed savings, financial support may help smooth out cash flow.

Step 3: Creative Ways to Save on Your Wedding Menu

There are many ways to save without cutting quality:

• Host your wedding on a weekday or during the off-peak season.
• Choose lunch instead of dinner.
• Limit alcohol to a set number of bottles instead of free flow.
• Use seasonal or local ingredients, which are fresher and cheaper.

Small adjustments like these can add up to thousands in savings.

When to Consider a Wedding Loan in Singapore

Borrowing should be a last resort after budgeting options are exhausted. A wedding loan Singapore couples apply for should only come into play when all cost-saving strategies have been considered.

Situations Where Financing May Help

• Guest list increases unexpectedly.
• Vendor deposits are due before savings are ready.
• Last-minute menu upgrades due to family requests.

What to Look for in a Licensed Moneylender

If borrowing becomes necessary, always work with a licensed moneylender by the Ministry of Law. The Moneylenders Act regulates interest and fees:

• Interest capped at 4% per month.
• Administrative fee capped at 10% of principal.
• Late fees capped at SGD 60 per month.
• Total charges (interest + fees) cannot exceed the loan principal.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore emphasizes: always borrow within your means. Keeping loans small and manageable ensures that financial stress does not overshadow the celebration.

Borrowing Responsibly

Loans can ease short-term costs but should not cause long-term stress. Three ways to borrow wisely:

1. Use a loan calculator to understand repayment schedules before applying.
2. Borrow only the amount needed to cover gaps, not the entire wedding.
3. Prioritize repayment in your post-wedding budget.

Licensed providers such as Cashmart Singapore offer online calculators and transparent loan terms, but couples should review all options carefully.

Making Your Dream Wedding Menu Affordable

A memorable wedding menu does not have to lead to financial strain. By setting a realistic budget, comparing packages carefully, and using creative savings strategies, couples can create a celebration that fits both their dreams and their wallets.

If unexpected costs arise, a carefully planned wedding loan from a licensed moneylender may provide the flexibility needed to move forward with confidence. Responsible borrowing, paired with smart planning, ensures that your wedding day is remembered for joy and celebration—not financial stress.