George Boyle
The average American wedding is a big affair. In 2023, the average number of guests was 115, with most weddings hosting fewer than 200 guests. The average age of brides and grooms is increasing, with brides now waiting until 28 to tie the knot, while their partners are usually 29. The cost of weddings is also rising, with the average cost of a wedding in the US in 2024 reaching $33,000, a 14% increase from 2023.
What You'll Learn
Average guest count: 167 (2018) or 115 (2023)
The number of guests you invite to your wedding is a crucial aspect of your big day. It will influence the venue you choose, your budget, and many other aspects of your big day. So, how does your guest list stack up against the average American wedding?
According to the Brides American Wedding Study, the average number of wedding guests in 2018 was 167. This number decreased to 115 in 2023, according to the The Knot Real Weddings Study. This more recent figure is supported by another source, which states that the average guest count in 2023 was 117.
It's interesting to note that the definition of an average-sized wedding varies greatly by generation. Gen X couples tend to have smaller weddings, with an average of 89 guests. Millennial couples invite around 115 guests, while Gen Z couples have the largest guest lists, with an average of 131 attendees.
Seasonality also plays a role in guest list size. For example, weddings in the summer months of July, August, and September tend to have larger guest counts than those in the winter.
When it comes to wedding size, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The number of guests you invite will depend on various factors, including your budget, venue capacity, and personal preferences. However, keeping an eye on the average guest count can help you gauge what's typical and make informed decisions about your big day.
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Average wedding cost: $44,000 (2018) or $33,000 (2024)
The cost of an average wedding in the US has changed over the years, with the latest figures showing a decrease from 2018. In 2018, the average wedding cost in the US was $44,000, according to the Brides American Wedding Study. However, in 2023, the average cost of a wedding was $29,000 to $35,000, with some sources stating that the figure was as low as $28,000. This decrease could be attributed to various factors, including the impact of the economy and inflation on wedding budgets.
The cost of a wedding depends on several factors, including the number of guests, the location, and the vendors hired. The reception venue and catering are typically the two largest expenses, accounting for more than 40% of the average wedding budget. Other significant costs include photography/videography, entertainment, flowers, attire, and wedding planners.
To save on costs, couples can consider having a smaller guest list, choosing a less popular date or time for their wedding, and comparing prices from different vendors. Additionally, creating a detailed budget and setting priorities can help couples allocate their funds effectively and avoid overspending.
With the exception of a dip in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the average cost of a wedding has generally hovered around $28,000 to $35,000 in recent years. However, it is worth noting that the cost of a wedding can vary significantly depending on the location, with some states having higher average costs than others. For example, weddings in New Jersey, Massachusetts, and New York tend to be more expensive, while weddings in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Utah are relatively more affordable.
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Average bridal party size: 5.4 bridesmaids and 5.3 groomsmen
The average American wedding party includes 5.4 bridesmaids and 5.3 groomsmen. This number has been steadily rising over the years, with the average number of bridesmaids in 2007 being four. While the average number of bridesmaids in the US is five, it is not uncommon for brides to have 10 or 11 bridesmaids. In the South, this number can be even higher, with some brides having 50 bridesmaids.
The number of attendants in a wedding party is often influenced by the bride, as she usually decides on her number of bridesmaids first, and the groom adds groomsmen to match. In heterosexual weddings, it is also common for male friends of the bride to stand on her side, and female friends of the groom to stand on his. This is especially common in same-sex weddings, where each side of the wedding party is likely to be mixed-gender.
The size of the wedding party can depend on various factors, such as the size of the venue, the number of guests, and the atmosphere the couple is aiming for. While the average number of bridesmaids falls between three and five, some brides choose to have many more, while others forgo a bridal party altogether. Ultimately, the decision on the number of attendants is a personal one and depends on the couple's preferences and relationships with their friends and family.
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Average age of couple: 28 (bride), 29 (groom)
The average age of couples getting married in the US is 28 for brides and 29 for grooms. This is a notable increase from the average age of couples in the 1920s, when women married at the average age of 21.2 and men at 24.6.
The average age of marriage has been steadily increasing since the 1950s, when men were, on average, 22.5 years old and women 20.1 years old when they first got married. In 2022, the median age for marriage was 30.5 years for men and 28.6 years for women, according to the US Census Bureau. By 2023, the median age for men had risen to 30.2 years, while women's average age was 28.4 years.
The average age of marriage also varies depending on the region in the US. For example, in 2023, the average age of marriage was highest in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest (32), and lowest in the South/Southeast (30).
The increase in the average age of marriage can be attributed to several factors, including evolving societal behavioural patterns, a changing workforce, a stronger sense of self-sufficiency, and a decrease in religious affiliation. Additionally, couples are increasingly choosing to live together before getting married, with 84% of couples living together prior to marriage.
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Average number of vendors: 10
Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, but assembling a team of vendors can help bring your dream wedding to life. The average couple hires around 14 vendors for their big day, but this number can vary depending on various factors such as budget, guest count, and personal preferences. Here are some key vendors to consider for your wedding:
- Wedding Planner: A wedding planner can be a valuable asset in organizing your special day, keeping you on schedule and budget, and handling any last-minute hiccups. They are worth considering, as they can help maximize your budget and source vendors within your price range.
- Venue: The wedding venue sets the tone and atmosphere for your celebration. Some couples book two venues, one for the ceremony and another for the reception.
- Photographer and Videographer: Capturing the memories of your wedding day is essential. Consider hiring professionals who can creatively document your celebration through photos and videos.
- Hair and Makeup Artists: Looking and feeling your best on your wedding day is crucial. Hiring hair and makeup professionals will ensure you and your bridal party look flawless.
- Wedding Attire: Couples typically purchase new ensembles for the occasion. Don't forget to research and read reviews of dress salons and tux shops to ensure the best possible service.
- Cake Baker: A wedding cake is a delightful focal point for your event. A professional cake baker can create a delicious and visually stunning dessert.
- Florist: Flowers are an essential part of wedding décor. A florist can bring your theme and color scheme to life with beautiful floral arrangements, from bouquets to centerpieces.
- Music and Entertainment: Setting the right mood with music is key. Whether you choose a band, a DJ, or live musicians, leave it to the professionals to keep your guests entertained and the dance floor lively.
- Caterer: Food and beverage are high on the priority list for guests. A caterer will ensure your wedding has delicious and plentiful cuisine, taking into account any dietary needs.
- Officiant: An officiant is a must-have to legally marry you and your partner. Decide between a religious or secular ceremony and find an officiant who aligns with your vision.
Remember, this list can be tailored to your unique needs and preferences, and you can always add or remove vendors as required. The above vendors are a great starting point for crafting your dream wedding.
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Frequently asked questions
The average number of guests at an American wedding varies depending on the source and year. One source claims that the average number of guests in 2023 was 115, while another source states that the average number of guests in 2018 was 167.
The cost of the average American wedding depends on various factors and can vary significantly by state and location. In 2024, the average cost of a wedding in the United States was estimated to be $33,000. However, in previous years, the average cost has been reported to be lower, ranging from $18,000 to $28,000.
October has been the most popular month for American weddings for six years in a row, followed by September. Summer weddings have decreased in popularity, while fall weddings are on the rise.
The COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions on large gatherings have led to a decrease in wedding sizes. Virtual events, microweddings, and lower-cost or free venues such as homes or backyards became more common during this time.
In general, any wedding with more than 100 guests is considered a big wedding in the United States. The average wedding size also varies by region, with the South/Southeast region having an average of 102 guests and destination weddings having even smaller guest counts.
