Planning a wedding in the Philippines is exciting—but let’s be real, it’s also expensive.
Today, the average Filipino wedding costs anywhere from ₱200,000 to ₱500,000, depending on the guest list, venue, and how “Pinterest-worthy” the celebration gets. Add a honeymoon, and many couples find themselves staring at a six-figure price tag before married life even begins.
So how do couples actually pay for it all?
Some save for years. Others get help from family. And increasingly, many couples turn to wedding loans, personal loans, or post-wedding financing to make their plans work.
The key thing to understand?
Smart financing isn’t about borrowing the most—it’s about borrowing strategically as a couple, without starting married life buried in debt.
This guide breaks down the real cost of weddings, compares loan options available in the Philippines, and helps couples decide when borrowing makes sense—and when it doesn’t.
The Real Cost of Philippine Weddings in 2025
Breaking Down the Wedding Budget
Wedding costs in the Philippines add up faster than most couples expect. Here’s how a typical budget is usually split:
1. Venue and Catering (40–50%)
This is the biggest expense. Hotels, resorts, and popular event venues often charge per head, with rates ranging from ₱1,500 to ₱4,000+ per guest. A 150-guest wedding alone can cost ₱225,000 or more just for food and venue.
2. Photography, Videography, Attire, and Styling
Professional photo and video packages range from ₱40,000 to ₱120,000. Wedding attire, makeup, flowers, and styling can easily add another ₱50,000–₱100,000.
3. Hidden Costs Couples Forget
Many couples overlook:
- Marriage license fees and permits
- Supplier overtime charges
- Gratuities and tips
- Last-minute fixes and “emergency” expenses
A smart rule of thumb is to set aside an emergency buffer of at least 10% of your total budget.
The Honeymoon Factor
The wedding doesn’t end at “I do.”
Most Filipino couples spend ₱50,000 to ₱150,000 on their honeymoon, depending on destination and travel style.
- Local destinations (Palawan, Boracay, Siargao): ₱50,000–₱80,000
- Asian destinations (Japan, Korea, Thailand): ₱80,000–₱120,000
- Long-haul trips (Europe, US): ₱150,000 and up
When you add everything together, it’s easy to see why many couples explore financing options.
Wedding Loan vs. Personal Loan: What’s the Difference?
Wedding Loans (Specialized)
Some Philippine banks offer products marketed as “wedding loans,” including BDO, BPI, and Metrobank.
These loans are often tied to wedding expos or supplier partnerships.
Pros
- Sometimes offer slightly lower promotional rates
- May include wedding-specific perks or partner discounts
Cons
- Limited flexibility on how funds are used
- Fewer providers compared to personal loans
- Promotional rates may apply only to short terms
Personal Loans (Flexible)
Personal loans are more common and widely available—from traditional banks to digital lenders and cooperatives.
Pros
- Can cover wedding, honeymoon, and even post-wedding expenses
- Faster approval, especially with digital lenders
- More choices in terms and loan amounts
Cons
- Rates may be higher if credit profile is weak
- Requires discipline to avoid overspending
Key Insight:
Most “wedding loans” in the Philippines are essentially rebranded personal loans. The real difference often lies in marketing, not structure.
Top Wedding Financing Options for Couples
Traditional Bank Personal Loans
BPI Personal Loan
- Competitive rates for salaried couples
- Loan terms up to 36 months
- Strong option for borrowers with good credit
BDO Personal Loan
- Higher maximum loan amounts
- Available to both employees and self-employed applicants
- Ideal for larger wedding budgets
Metrobank Personal Loan
- Straightforward application process
- Flexible repayment terms
- Good option for joint household planning
Bank loans usually offer lower rates—but approval takes longer and documentation is stricter.
Digital Lenders (Faster Approval)
Platforms like Tala, Cashalo, and Blend.ph cater to borrowers who need quick access to funds.
Best for
- Smaller wedding expenses
- Short-term cash gaps
- Emergency or last-minute needs
Important Warning:
Digital lenders often charge higher interest rates. These should be used carefully and ideally paid off quickly.
Cooperative and Credit Union Options
If either partner is a cooperative member, this can be one of the most affordable options.
Advantages
- Lower interest rates
- More flexible terms
- Community-based lending
The downside? You usually need to be a long-term member to qualify.
Supplier In-House Financing
Some venues, photographers, and suppliers offer installment plans.
Pros
- Little to no interest
- Easier approval
Cons
- Multiple due dates to track
- Limited protection if plans change
Splitting payments across suppliers works—but only with careful coordination.
Check eligibility and compare all these options using Finmerkado’s loan comparison tool.
Financing Your Honeymoon: Beyond the Wedding
Honeymoon-Specific Strategies
Many couples use unused personal loan funds to cover honeymoon expenses. Others explore:
- Travel loans
- General personal loans
- Credit card installment plans
In most cases, personal loans are more flexible than travel-specific loans.
Smart Honeymoon Budgeting
- All-inclusive packages simplify costs but may be pricier upfront
- DIY honeymoons are cheaper but require more planning
- Don’t forget travel insurance, especially for international trips
Post-Wedding Car Loans for Newlyweds
Many couples upgrade their vehicle after marriage.
Why apply jointly?
- Combined income improves approval odds
- Better chance at lower interest rates
- Higher loan limits
Joint car loan applications are especially effective for newly married couples with stable incomes.
Smart Borrowing Tips for Couples
Should You Apply Jointly or Individually?
Joint applications
- Combine incomes
- Improve approval chances
- Both partners are legally responsible
Individual applications
- Limits risk exposure
- Depends on one person’s credit score
Choose based on trust, income stability, and long-term plans.
Timing Your Applications
Avoid applying for multiple loans at the same time. Too many inquiries can hurt your credit score. Give your credit report time to “cool off” between applications.
Reading the Fine Print
Always check:
- Processing and service fees
- Mandatory insurance
- Prepayment penalties
- Fixed vs. variable interest rates
Debt Management After the Wedding
Once the celebration ends, real life begins.
- Create a joint repayment plan
- Align loan payments with household expenses
- Avoid taking on new debt too soon
Alternatives to Borrowing
Not every couple needs a loan.
Other options include:
- A longer engagement to save more
- Family contributions or pamanhikan support
- Crowdfunding with transparency
- Side hustles for wedding funds
A popular strategy is the 50–50 approach: save 50%, borrow 50%.
Conclusion
The best wedding loan isn’t the biggest one—it’s the one you can repay comfortably, together.
When used wisely, financing can help couples celebrate their love without sacrificing their future. The key is to compare options, understand the risks, and borrow as a team.
Ready to explore your options? Compare wedding and personal loans now on Finmerkado and find the financing that fits your love story.
Frequently Asked Questions
For most couples, a personal loan is more practical than a wedding-specific loan. While some banks market “wedding loans,” these are often rebranded personal loans with limited flexibility. Personal loans allow couples to cover wedding, honeymoon, and even post-wedding expenses under one loan—making budgeting and repayment easier.
Yes. Many banks and lenders allow joint loan applications, especially for married or soon-to-be-married couples. Applying jointly can improve approval chances and loan limits because both incomes are considered. However, both partners become equally responsible for repayment, and missed payments can affect both credit scores.
A good rule is to borrow only what you can repay comfortably within 12–36 months. Many financial planners recommend using a hybrid approach—save at least 50% of your wedding cost and finance the rest—to avoid starting married life with heavy debt.
Digital lenders can be useful for small, short-term wedding expenses, especially when fast approval is needed. However, they often charge higher interest rates than banks. Couples should use them cautiously, read all fees carefully, and avoid long repayment terms with high-interest digital loans.
Yes. Any loan you take will appear on your credit record. On-time payments can actually help build credit, while missed payments can make it harder to qualify for future loans like home or car loans. This is why couples should plan repayment carefully before borrowing.
BPI Gold Rewards Card
- Earn 1 reward point for every ₱35 spend
- Avail flexible installment plans with terms up to 36 months
- Free travel insurance up to ₱10 million
- Enjoy endless rewards and perks all year round
- Ideal for cardholders looking for premium benefits
Metrobank Cashback Card
- Earn 5% cash rebates on groceries, telecom, school, and bookstore spend
- Receive 0.2% cash rebate on all other purchases
- Save up to ₱12,000 annually with rebates
- No annual fee for the first year
- Ideal for shoppers maximizing savings on everyday essentials
HSBC Red Mastercard
- Access to over 27,000 travel privileges via HSBC’s home&Away program
- Autocharge facility for bills
- Cash advance capability
BDO Unibank Personal Loan
BDO Unibank’s Personal Loan offers unsecured financing of up to ₱2 million with a fully digital or branch-assisted application process. It’s an accessible cash option for immediate needs like debt consolidation, travel, events, and other lifestyle expenses. With competitive rates starting at 0.98% monthly add-on and flexible repayment up to 36 months, it’s a solid choice for salaried and self-employed individuals.
BPI Personal Loan
Need a cash boost for life’s big moments or unexpected emergencies? The BPI Personal Loan offers a reliable and flexible solution—whether you’re funding a small business, covering tuition, or consolidating debt. With competitive rates, fixed monthly payments, and a fast approval process, this loan is designed to fit your goals and your lifestyle. No collateral required, just straightforward access to funds when you need them most.
Metrobank Personal Loan
Need extra funds for emergencies, education, or big life purchases? The Metrobank Personal Loan offers flexible borrowing terms and quick processing—all from one of the country’s most established and reputable banks. With no collateral required and fixed monthly payments, it’s a convenient solution for salaried individuals looking to take control of their finances.
