Here’s How Much the Average Wedding Costs

Figure 1

Creating memories is not an easy task; it requires dedication, talent, and planning.Your wedding day creates memories that last a lifetime. Unfortunately, those memories often come at a high price. The average wedding cost has increased significantly in recent years, making it more difficult for couples to save enough money to pay for their dream wedding or other goals like buying a house.

To see if you can avoid spending too much on your wedding day without sacrificing what's important to you, here's a breakdown of the average cost of a wedding and what exactly goes into that amount. 

Don't know where to start in terms of Budget? If your wedding is a typical American wedding, there are lots of resources to help you (For example the knot survey). But remember, the average American wedding will have 140 guests. Cost significantly varies based on number of guests. If you and your significant other is now preparing to tally the overall cost of your wedding, you might be shocked by the fact that the average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is equal to that of a brand-new car or a hefty down payment on a house.

What if you have a large family and friends? 400 - 600 people? There are very limited resources available to you to help you plan. Alpha Events and Decor conducted a Survey.  In this blog, will help detail some of the costs.

600 People Wedding (Figure 1)

Total Cost = ~ $45,000 for 600 Guests Wedding.

If you would take a closer look at this, significant portion of wedding is reception (Hall + Food) and Wedding Decor. 90% of our survey respondents used other Wedding Decor vendors. Above decor prices are significantly high. Thats why you should always consider Alpha Events and Decor, whether you consider us first or consider us last. We can help you significantly reduce the cost of your wedding!

The survey was normalized to give you a good picture of the cost. Some of the other costs vary significantly. As an example, you might get an engagement ring for $500 or $5K.

Lets also look at how 400 guests wedding compare.

(Figure 2)

Total Cost = ~ $35,000 for 400 Guests Wedding.

Do you know there is a peak season and off-peak season for wedding? If your timeline is flexible, consider off-peak season. Typically the peak season is May - October, Off Peak time from November to April.

Having a wedding is expensive as it is. Before signing any contracts, ask your vendors about details like overtime, gratuity, set-up fees, delivery fees,  cleanup fees, so these  fees don't surprise you later, or ask for a "drive-out" price.

Reception (Hall and Food): Reception venues have different options. Most of the hotels provide round tables, chairs, white linens, napkins, coffee/tea station, dance floor, stage.  Some hotels charge significantly different price between buffet and 3-course plated. Check and confirm what you are really getting with your reception venue. As an example, if you are getting the regular chairs, you might have to spend money on chair covers and sashes. Compare that against the cost of Chiavari Chairs. Your decoration may be able to give you a better price as a packaged deal. For most of the hotels, there is additional charge for cocktail tables, chiavari chairs, stage, dance floor etc. As a general guideline, its better to go with minimum with hotel and have your decorator manage optionals.

Also several vendors overlap in their services. As an example, survey found that DJ charge higher rates for uplighting compared to a decorator. 

The truth is, a wedding doesn't need to cost anywhere near $35K. A couple can cut wedding costs and still celebrate their nuptials in style. As an example, most of respondents got married (ceremony) at their church/temple. This keeps the ceremony expense minimal. However, if you have to rent a church/temple/hall, your ceremony expenses may go high (Avg: $2100).

Most of the Survey participants had their wedding in Texas. Wedding expenses vary by state. For example, Manhattan will be more expensive than west Texas.

Hope this helps you with a foundational category of expenses, and approximate costs.