How Much Does The Average Wedding Cost?

Planning a wedding can be an exciting but expensive endeavour. The average cost of a wedding in the US in 2023 was $35,000, a $5,000 increase from 2022. However, the cost of a wedding can vary significantly depending on location, with the average cost in Massachusetts being $42,000 and in Mississippi being $33,000. The reception venue and catering are typically the two largest expenses, making up more than 40% of the average wedding budget. Other significant costs include the wedding photographer, band or DJ, florist, and wedding planner. While the average cost of a wedding in the US was $35,000 in 2023, some couples spend much more or opt for a smaller celebration, with the cost of a wedding depending on various factors such as the number of guests, the venue, and the type of food and entertainment provided.

Catering and reception venue

The average cost of a wedding venue in the US is $6,000, with most couples spending between $3,000 and $11,000. However, these are only averages, and pricing varies widely depending on factors such as location, guest count, and whether catering is included. In major cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston, wedding venues tend to be more expensive than in rural areas. The date of the wedding also affects the cost, with Saturday nights during peak season typically being more expensive than weekdays during the off-peak season.

The cost of catering for a wedding in the US averages around $4,000, with couples spending between $1,800 and $7,000. Catering prices depend on factors such as the wedding's location, guest count, and type of food served. The average cost of wedding catering per person is $85, although this can vary depending on the number of guests and the type of service chosen. For a plated meal, the average cost is $40 per person, while a buffet is around $27 per person.

When it comes to serving styles, there are a few options to choose from. A plated meal, also known as a sit-down meal, is the most formal and traditional option, with food served to guests at their tables. A buffet is a more casual option, where guests serve themselves. Family-style service involves servers bringing large platters of food to the tables, and guests pass the trays around and serve themselves. A cocktail-style reception is a more modern approach, with food served as passed hors d'oeuvres and at stations, allowing guests to mix and mingle.

To save money on catering, couples can consider serving brunch instead of a dinner reception, as brunch food tends to be less expensive. Having a limited bar with only beer and wine, rather than a full open bar, can also reduce costs. Ordering in advance and asking guests to pre-select their dinner entrée on their RSVP cards can also keep costs down.

When it comes to choosing a reception venue, there are a few things to keep in mind. The venue's capacity should align with the number of guests invited. Outdoor wedding venues are popular, particularly for ceremonies, but it's important to have a backup plan in case of bad weather. Couples should also inquire about what is included in the venue contract, such as tables, chairs, linens, and other rentals.

Some venues offer all-inclusive packages that include catering, rentals, linens, wedding cake, on-site event planners, insurance, entertainment, and décor. These packages can sometimes result in cost savings, but it's essential to carefully review the contract for any additional fees or service charges.

Photography and videography

Photography:

The cost of hiring a wedding photographer can range from $1,500 to $30,000 or more, with an average range of $4,000 to $6,000 for a professional photographer. However, the price will depend on several factors:

• Experience and Style: The level of experience and style of photography you choose will impact the cost. Beginners may charge around $500-$1,200, while professionals with a unique style and high demand can charge upwards of $6,000.
• Location: The cost of living in the area where your wedding is held and where the photographer is based will influence the price. For example, a photographer in Los Angeles or New York will likely be more expensive than one in a rural area.
• Duration of Coverage: Most photographers offer their services in blocks of time, typically ranging from 6 to 10 hours. The longer the coverage, the higher the cost.
• Number of Photographers: Having a second photographer can capture more moments and angles, especially for larger weddings. However, this will increase the price.
• Travel: If your photographer needs to travel to your wedding location, you may need to cover their travel costs and accommodations, which will add to the overall expense.
• Editing: Editing is a time-consuming process, and photographers who spend more time editing and enhancing your photos may charge a higher rate.
• Images and Prints: The number of images provided and the inclusion of prints or albums will affect the cost. Some photographers offer "parents' albums" or additional prints at an extra charge.
• Engagement Photos: Including an engagement photo shoot in the package will increase the price, but it can be a great way to get comfortable with your photographer before the wedding.

Videography:

The cost of hiring a wedding videographer can vary even more widely than photography, ranging from $500 for basic coverage to $8,000 or more for high-end services. On average, couples spend about $2,000 on wedding videography, but this can be influenced by several factors:

• Duration of Coverage: Similar to photography, the length of time the videographer is needed will impact the cost. An all-day affair with multiple events will likely be more expensive than a shorter ceremony and reception.
• Number of Videographers: Typically, two videographers are preferred to capture all the special moments. Having an additional videographer will increase the cost but can ensure more comprehensive coverage.
• Equipment: The type of equipment used, such as high-end cameras and lighting, can affect the price. Videographers with specialised or high-quality equipment may charge a higher fee.
• Editing and Delivery: The level of editing and the format of the final video delivery can vary. More extensive editing, such as creating a highlight reel or documentary-style film, will likely result in a higher cost.
• Add-ons: Additional services such as drone footage, extended coverage, or custom effects will incur extra charges, increasing the overall expense.

When choosing your wedding photographer and videographer, it is essential to consider your priorities and budget. Communicate your expectations and desired outcomes clearly to potential vendors. Research and compare multiple professionals' portfolios, client testimonials, and package offerings to make an informed decision that aligns with your vision and financial plan.

Wedding attire

According to The Knot, 98% of brides in 2023 wore a dress for their nuptials, with 20% opting for a custom-made gown. The cost of a wedding dress can be influenced by the location and region of the wedding. For example, the average cost of a wedding dress in the Mid-Atlantic region was over $2,200, while in the Midwest, it was about $1,900. International destination weddings also tend to have a higher budget, with brides spending just under $2,800 on their wedding attire.

For those looking to save money on their wedding dress, there are a few strategies to consider. Firstly, opting for a simple style without extensive embellishments can help reduce costs. Shopping at designer trunk shows or sample sales, purchasing a floor sample, or looking into used wedding dress sites can also be more affordable options. It is also important to be mindful of additional costs such as alterations, undergarments, accessories, and cleaning and preservation, which can add several hundred dollars to the final cost.

For grooms, the average cost of a tuxedo is not widely available, but it is likely to be a similar price range to a wedding dress. Grooms can also save money by renting a tuxedo, which is a more common practice than renting a wedding dress.

Overall, wedding attire is a significant expense for couples, with the average cost of a wedding dress being $2,000 and additional costs for alterations, accessories, and cleaning. By being mindful of their budget and shopping strategically, couples can find ways to reduce these costs while still achieving their dream look for their special day.

Entertainment

The average cost of a wedding in the US varies depending on the source and year, but it seems to be around $20,000 to $30,000. The reception venue and catering are typically the two largest expenses, making up more than 40% of the average wedding budget. This leaves a significant amount for everything else, including entertainment.

Music

The average cost of a wedding DJ in the US is around $1,000, with couples spending between $780 and $1,495. However, this price can vary depending on factors such as location, duration of performance, and the DJ's experience. In 2023, the average cost of a wedding DJ was $1,700, a slight increase from previous years due to inflation and high demand.

Hiring a band for a wedding can be significantly more expensive than a DJ, with an average cost of around $4,300. This price can vary depending on factors such as the number of band members, hours booked, and equipment required.

Photo Booths

Photo booths are a fun addition to a wedding and are often offered as an additional service by DJs or bands. While the cost of a photo booth can vary, it is likely to be several hundred dollars.

Lighting

Lighting can enhance the ambiance of a wedding and is often offered as an additional service by DJs. The starting price for uplighting averages around $250.

Other Entertainment Ideas

Other entertainment ideas for a wedding include:

• Variety acts such as a magician or caricaturist, with an average cost of $424
• Soloist (e.g. guitarist, violinist, bagpiper), with an average cost of $384
• String quartet, with an average cost of $696

Flowers and decor

According to florists, the average cost of flowers for a wedding is around $3,500, with most couples spending between $700 and $2,500. However, flower prices can vary widely depending on their availability and the size of your wedding. For example, a bridal bouquet can range from $100 to $350, while bridesmaid bouquets typically cost between $65 and $100 each. Boutonnieres and corsages are usually cheaper, ranging from $20 to $40 each.

Ceremony and reception decor will also add to the cost of flowers and decor. The amount you spend will depend on the size of your venue and the number of tables or display spaces you want to embellish. Expect to pay between $300 and $600 for ceremony and reception decor, with centerpieces costing between $200 and $400 each.

To save money on flowers and decor, consider choosing seasonal flowers, reusing ceremony flowers at the reception, and incorporating more greenery into your arrangements. You can also opt for smaller vases and simpler arrangements to reduce costs.

Overall, flowers and decor are a significant expense for a wedding, but by being mindful of your budget and making strategic choices, you can create a beautiful and memorable event without breaking the bank.

Frequently asked questions