The Great Singapore Wedding Extravaganza

Planning a wedding in Singapore can be an expensive affair. The median cost of a wedding in Singapore in 2023 was approximately S$37,000. However, the cost can vary greatly depending on the couple's budget and preferences.

There are many factors to consider when planning a wedding in Singapore, including the venue, catering, photography, videography, entertainment, and decorations. While some couples may choose to hold their wedding in a hotel ballroom or restaurant, others may opt for more unique locations such as the beach, a garden, or even a zoo.

The cost of wedding venues in Singapore can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the location, day of the week, and the number of guests. Catering costs can also vary significantly, with hotel banquet packages starting at around S$960 per table and going up to S$3,540 or more for luxury venues.

Photography and videography services are another major expense, with rates ranging from S$2,000 to S$4,000 for a typical 10-hour session. Entertainment, such as live bands or emcees, can also add to the cost, with rates ranging from S$1,000 to S$2,500.

Ultimately, the cost of a wedding in Singapore will depend on the couple's budget and the specific choices they make for their big day.

Wedding venue options in Singapore

There are many wedding venue options in Singapore, from affordable packages to grand ballrooms. Here are some ideas to consider:

Hotels

Hotels are a popular choice for weddings in Singapore, with many offering wedding packages that include the venue rental and catering cost. Some hotels with wedding packages include:

• Genting Hotel Jurong
• The Fullerton Hotel Singapore
• Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel
• Copthorne King's Hotel Singapore
• InterContinental Singapore
• Shangri-La Singapore
• Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa
• Amara Sanctuary Resort Sentosa
• Capella Singapore
• Orchard Hotel Singapore
• The Fullerton Bay Hotel
• Conrad Centennial Singapore
• The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore
• The Westin Singapore
• Grand Hyatt Singapore
• Hilton Singapore Orchard
• JW Marriott Singapore South Beach
• Mandarin Oriental, Singapore
• Pan Pacific Singapore
• The St. Regis Singapore
• W Singapore - Sentosa Cove

Restaurants and Cafes

For a more intimate setting, consider hosting your wedding at a restaurant or cafe. Some options include:

• Knots Cafe and Living
• The Summerhouse
• Beaulieu House
• The Ahava
• Tanjong Beach Club
• Resorts World Sentosa

Outdoor Spaces

If you're looking for a picturesque outdoor setting, consider one of Singapore's many parks and gardens, such as:

• Hort Park
• East Coast Park
• Botanic Gardens
• Gardens by the Bay
• Faber Peak Singapore
• Singapore Botanic Gardens

Other Unique Venues

For a unique and memorable setting, consider one of these venues:

• Wheeler's Tropikana
• 1-Atico
• Chijmes Hall
• Hotel Fort Canning
• Singapore Flyer
• Singapore Zoo
• Oneº15 Marina
• Wheeler’s Estate

Budget-Friendly Options

If you're looking for a more affordable option, there are several budget-friendly venues in Singapore:

• HDB Void Decks: These community spaces often have affordable rental rates and can be decorated to suit your wedding theme.
• Community Centers: Community centers across Singapore offer function rooms at reasonable prices, perfect for small, budget-friendly weddings.
• Budget Hotels: Some budget hotels offer wedding packages that are more affordable than luxury hotels, without compromising on the amenities.

Wedding costs in Singapore

Weddings in Singapore can be notoriously expensive and stressful affairs. The median cost of a wedding in Singapore in 2023 was approximately S$37,000. However, the amount you should spend on a wedding depends on your financial circumstances. A typical wedding in Singapore can cost anywhere between S$30,000 to S$50,000, but with careful budgeting and smart cost-saving measures, it is possible to significantly reduce this figure.

• ROM and solemnisation fees: In Singapore, the first step to getting married is to obtain a legally binding document from the Registry of Marriages (ROM). For Singaporean citizens and permanent residents, the registration fee is S$42, while it is S$380 for foreigners. Arranging a solemnisation ceremony is relatively inexpensive and can often be included in the banquet package without extra costs.
• Dowry and wedding bands: For Chinese families, it is customary for the groom to give a dowry to the bride's family. While there is no minimum amount, it is often set at an auspicious number between S$688 and S$2,888. Wedding bands can range from S$800 to S$2,000, with costs increasing for designer brands or the addition of diamonds and gemstones.
• Venue rental and banquet: Wedding banquets are one of the primary factors that increase wedding costs in Singapore. The average wedding banquet cost is around S$30,000 for 150 attendees in a 5-star venue, with an average per-person cost of S$200. The cost varies depending on the number of guests, venue, and wedding date, with weekday lunches being the most affordable option.
• Photography and videography services: Hiring a professional photographer and/or videographer for a 10-hour session can range from S$2,000 to S$4,000.
• Wedding entertainment: Hiring a professional band, emcee, or classic music ensemble can cost between S$1,000 and S$2,500, depending on the ensemble size and duration of their performance.

To save money on your wedding, consider the following tips:

• Pick an off-season date: Wedding venues and vendors increase their prices during peak seasons, such as school holidays and auspicious dates. Choosing an off-season date can help you save money and negotiate better deals.
• Rent instead of buying: Consider renting wedding gowns and tuxedos, which can start from S$628 and S$200, respectively. Fast-fashion brands like SHEIN, ASOS, and Zalora also offer affordable wedding attire.
• Streamline your guest list: Opting for a smaller, more intimate wedding can significantly reduce your overall expenses, including venue hire and catering costs.
• Hire a wedding planner: A professional wedding planner can help you navigate the complexities of wedding planning and connect you with their extensive vendor network, ensuring you get the best value for your budget.
• Set a budget and stick to it: Use a spreadsheet or budgeting app to track your expenses and allocate funds based on your priorities. It is important to have open and transparent discussions with your partner and families to ensure everyone is comfortable with the financial arrangements.

Wedding planning tips

Planning a wedding can be a stressful and expensive affair, but with careful organisation and budgeting, it is possible to plan the wedding of your dreams. Here are some tips to help you along the way.

Budgeting

Setting a budget and sticking to it is one of the most important steps in the wedding planning process. Work out a master spreadsheet that includes your budget, deposits, remaining balances, RSVPs, dietary requirements, and to-do lists. This will help you to keep track of everything in one place. It is also a good idea to decide on your priorities as a couple and allocate your budget accordingly.

Timing

Give yourself plenty of time to plan your big day. A longer timeline will help to keep stress levels down and ensure you can book your dream venue and vendors. It is also a good idea to be flexible with your chosen date as weekends and certain months tend to be more popular and therefore more expensive.

Venue

When searching for a venue, consider the number of guests you plan to invite, as this will impact the cost. Ask the venue to see the back door and vendor entrance to ensure the space is well-kept and there are no issues with bugs or trash odours. If you are looking to save money, consider an 'on-site' wedding at a hotel or restaurant, as these venues often have catering options and access to basics such as chairs and tables.

Guest List

Making decisions about your guest list can be complicated and will depend on your venue and budget. Sit down with your partner and key family members to put together a wish list, and decide whether you are inviting children and who will be allotted a plus one.

Vendors

Take your time when booking wedding vendors and consider at least a few different options. These partners are essential to ensuring your day runs smoothly, so make sure they understand your vision and can work within your budget. Read every contract closely and be wary of clauses that prevent you from reviewing the vendor or include extreme cancellation policies.

Extra Help

Consider hiring a wedding planner or, at the very least, a day-of coordinator. Their experience and vendor networks can help you to save money and they will ensure everything runs smoothly on the day so that you can relax and enjoy yourself.

The Small Things

Don't forget the smaller details such as purchasing wedding bands, creating a wedding website, and sending out save-the-dates and invitations. Also, be sure to give yourself a break from wedding planning to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Take some time off with your partner and just enjoy being engaged!

Wedding traditions in Singapore

Singapore's cultural heritage is steeped in Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other ethnicities, so weddings in this country are rich in culture and tradition. Each ethnicity passes down ancient wedding traditions and rituals meant to bless newlyweds and their marriages with happiness and fertility. Here are some of the most popular wedding traditions in Singapore:

Chinese Wedding Traditions

The Guo Da Li ceremony is a betrothal ritual where the groom's family presents gifts to the bride's family, including oranges, double happiness stickers, traditional cakes, pastries, and a betrothal ang pow (red envelope). During the ceremony, the groom's mother will often gift the bride a bridal jewellery set known as si dian jin, which includes a necklace, ring, bangle, and pair of earrings.

On the wedding day, the groom fetches the bride, but not before completing a series of challenges set by the bridesmaids, known as 'gatecrashing'. After the groom and his groomsmen complete these tasks, they must dispense red packets to officially gain entry to the bride's home.

Another important Chinese wedding tradition is the tea ceremony, which symbolises respect, unity, and family bonds. The couple serves tea to their parents and elders, who then offer blessings and gifts in return.

Indian Wedding Traditions

The Mehndi ceremony involves adorning the bride (and sometimes the groom) with intricate henna patterns on their palms, the backs of their hands, and their feet. The deeper the colour of the henna stain, the happier the couple's marriage will supposedly be.

The Mangal Fera ritual is another poignant moment in Hindu weddings. The bride and groom walk around a small fire, exchanging vows and praying for a faithful, affectionate, and respectful union.

Malay Wedding Customs

The hantaran is a gift exchange between the bride and groom during the Nikah solemnisation ceremony. The groom presents the bride with her dowry, as well as other gifts like jewellery, clothes, food, and makeup.

The Majlis Persandingan, or wedding reception, is the highlight of a Malay Muslim wedding. The groom's arrival is announced with great fanfare, and he is escorted by a kompang (Malay drum) band. The couple then sits in state upon a paladin or dais, receiving blessings and congratulations from their guests.

Peranakan Wedding Traditions

Peranakan weddings were traditionally 12-day affairs with elaborate outfits, processions, and displays of wealth. Modern Peranakan weddings are simpler, with couples often choosing to wear the traditional Nyonya kebaya with sarong batik. The wedding banquet, known as t'ng tok, features iconic Nyona dishes and ends with sweet and colourful kueh.

Wedding entertainment

Live Music and Dance

Add a touch of elegance to your wedding with live music and dance performances. You can engage a professional band or emcee to serenade your guests. If you want to go beyond the traditional, why not include circus arts and magic shows? A live band typically costs between S$1,000 and S$2,500, depending on the size of the entourage.

Themed Celebrations

Make your wedding unique by incorporating themes that reflect your personalities. If you're adventurous, try a martial arts-themed celebration or bond over a shared love for food with a special food station. You can even hold a karaoke competition, with love songs, of course!

Interactive Stations

Your guests will love getting involved with interactive stations such as a DIY cocktail bar, flower bar, or dessert bar. Set up a popcorn bar or a pretty donut wall for a fun twist. If you're feeling playful, organise a pinata with chocolates, favours, or even lottery tickets inside.

Unusual Elements

Surprise your guests by marching in to an unusual song or including your pets in the celebration. You can also set up a DIY floral tea bar or offer wedding favours that your guests will actually use, like cute succulent pots.

Virtual Weddings

If you want to bring your wedding online, you can create a virtual wedding stage using video meeting platforms to include guests who can't attend in person.

Remember, your wedding entertainment should reflect your unique personalities and love story. Get creative and make your special day entertaining and memorable for you and your guests!

Frequently asked questions