Wedding Cost Breakdown: What's Included In The Price Tag?

The cost of a wedding can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the number of guests, and the type of venue. On average, a wedding in the United States costs around $30,000 to $35,000, but the price can go up to $50,000 or more in certain states. The reception venue and catering are typically the two largest expenses, accounting for more than 40% of the total budget. Other significant costs include the wedding dress, flowers, entertainment, photography, and videography. To save money, couples can opt for a less popular time or day of the week for their wedding, choose a suburban venue, or trim their guest list.

Venue

The venue is often the biggest wedding expense, making up about 37% of the average wedding budget. In 2024, the average cost of a venue was $12,800, but this can vary significantly depending on location. For example, the average cost of a venue in New York City is $63,000, whereas in Tampa it is $20,044.

The cost of a venue also depends on the time of year. Opting for an off-peak season such as January or February can help lower costs. Similarly, choosing a weekday over a Saturday can also reduce the price.

It is important to be mindful of what is included in the venue fees. Some venues provide tables, chairs, linens, and audio equipment at no additional cost, whereas others charge extra for these items. It is also worth considering venues that can host both the ceremony and the reception, as they may be willing to offer a discount.

When it comes to the wedding budget, it is recommended that 37% is allocated to the venue. For a $33,000 wedding, this equates to around $8,000. However, it is worth noting that this is an average and the actual cost will depend on various factors, such as location and time of year.

Catering

The cost of catering will depend on the number of guests, the type of food and drink being served, and the location of the wedding. On average, catering costs $85 per person, but this can be higher for more extravagant weddings or those in expensive locations, such as big cities.

Some ways to save money on catering include choosing a less popular time for the wedding, such as outside of wedding season or on a weekday, opting for a cash bar instead of an open bar, or limiting the number of drinks included in the package. Couples could also consider providing a smaller portion of cake to guests or ordering a smaller cake for presentation and having some sheet cakes in the kitchen to serve to guests.

Entertainment

The average couple spends around $3,000 on entertainment, which is about 9% of their total budget. This figure can be higher or lower depending on your preferences and budget.

For example, a wedding band can cost anywhere from $2,850 to $6,488, with the average being $4,500. The size of the band will influence the price, with a trio costing between $750 and $1,600, and a four- or five-piece band costing around $1,400 to $2,000. If you're looking for a more affordable option, a wedding DJ will cost from $500, or a duo act from $500 to $800.

If you want to add a unique twist to your wedding, you could consider alternative entertainment such as a magician, caricaturist, or singing waiters. Magicians usually cost around $300 to $500, caricaturists start from $400, and singing waiters range from $650 to $1,000.

For daytime entertainment, you could hire an acoustic solo or duo act for $400 to $900, or a classical musician for $200 to $700.

Other entertainment options include photo booths, face painting, a casino night, circus performers, and fireworks displays, which can cost anywhere from $300 to over $750.

When planning your wedding entertainment, it's important to consider your budget, the style and theme of your wedding, and the number of guests you'll have.

Photography

The average cost of a wedding photographer in 2023 was $2,900, according to The Knot Real Weddings Study. This figure increased to $3,000 in 2024, with inflation and the rising cost of living contributing to the rise in price. The cost of a wedding photographer can vary greatly depending on their experience level, the package offered, and the location of the wedding.

For example, an inexperienced photographer with fewer than two years of experience may charge around $3,000 or less. A photographer with a few more years of experience will likely charge between $4,000 and $7,000. An experienced wedding photographer, with ten or more years of experience, will usually start at $8,000 and can go up to $10,000 or more. Ultra-experienced photographers, with 20 or more years of experience, can charge upwards of $20,000.

The price of a wedding photographer will also depend on the package offered. Some photographers will offer a basic package that includes only the wedding day, while others may include engagement shoots, rehearsal dinners, and day-after brunches. The number of hours of coverage, the number of photos provided, and the format of the photos (digital, print, album, etc.) will also affect the price.

Location is another factor that influences the cost of wedding photography. Photographers in big cities and urban areas tend to charge higher prices due to increased living expenses.

When deciding on a wedding photographer, it is important to consider your budget, the photographer's experience and style, and the package offered. It is also crucial to set a budget before looking for a photographer to ensure you don't overspend.

Flowers and decor

Types of Flowers

The type of flowers you choose will have a significant impact on cost. For example, delicate flowers like orchids and peonies are more expensive than daisies and carnations. If you're on a tight budget, consider using more greenery, which is an affordable and trendy option.

Seasonal Availability

Opting for flowers that are in season can help reduce costs and ensure freshness. If you have a specific flower in mind that is not in season, it will cost extra.

Arrangement Complexity

More elaborate and intricate floral designs will likely come with additional costs. Discuss your budget and preferences with your florist to find a balance between cost and design.

Venue Size

The size of your venue will determine the quantity of flowers needed, affecting the overall expense. If you have separate ceremony and reception venues, you may want to decorate both spaces, which will increase the cost.

Sample Costs

• Primary bouquet: $100-$350
• Attendant bouquets: $50-$110
• Boutonnieres: $10-$30 per person
• Corsages: $20-$40 per item
• Flower child's petals: $20-$50
• Altar flowers: $60-$450
• Chuppah or floral arch: $200-$1,000
• Mala or flower garlands: $60-$250
• Reception table centerpieces: $50-$600 each
• Sweetheart table centerpiece: $70-$500
• Cake table flowers: $30-$170
• Toss bouquet: $20-$60

Saving Money on Flowers

• Choose cost-effective flowers that align with your vision and budget.
• Create your own DIY centrepieces for a personal touch.
• Repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception to maximise their use.
• Opt for seasonal blooms, which are usually more budget-friendly.
• Incorporate greenery into your arrangements, a trendy and cost-effective option.

Frequently asked questions