The Average Cost of A Wedding (Broken Down)

Recent surveys have determined that the average amount of money that is spent on a wedding ranges from about $12,000 to $14,000.

General Venue Prices

The cost depends largely on which venue you choose and what comes included with the packages. Usually basic event centers will cost around $2,000. However, for a high class place such as a luxurious hotel or resort charges can rack up to $73,000.

Some venues include meal planes with their prices, which helps you save money on catering. However, costs can vary depending on which season you are getting married in.

Now lets get down to specifics.

Food

For a wedding cake, it is usually priced per slice and each slice can cost around from $0.12 to $2.00. Yet these prices dont invoice design costs, delivery fees or cake-cutting costs.

If your venue does not include meals, then the average cost of catering for a plated meal ranges around $40. Yet a buffet tends to be more affordable around $30 per person.

Bar

Alcohol usually starts around $15 per person. This number can largely vary depending on the event has a a full-open bar or a limited bar that only offers beer and wine.

Entertainment

Live entertainment can cost about $2,000. However if you want a cheaper option DJ’s usually cost about $100-$300 per hour. 

Photographers

Wedding photographers can cost an average of $2,800. This also depends largely on where you live and unless you live in a more expensive area like New York City, they generally charge over $4,000. Wedding albums and particular prints cost extra, some do offer packages though.

Favors

Wedding favors usually cost $2-$3 per person. It can help with costs if you give favors per each couple. It also depends on what you choose to put in your favors.

Transportation

This largely depends on if you choose to use your own vehicles or a 3rd party drivers such as a limo. However the recent survey reports that couples can spend around $750 for transportation for their big day.

Wedding Planner

The average cost of hiring a wedding planner can cost from about $1,500 to $10,000. The $1,500 can be charged for a limited amount of time for hiring a wedding planner, while a full-time wedding planner usually ranges from $5,000 to $10,000.

Wedding Rings

A simple wedding band can cost between $200 to $1,600. Yet a more intricate and larger stones, especially diamonds can cost from $6,000 and up. Don’t forget to multiply these costs by two since each of the newlyweds needs a ring.

Flowers and Decor

Wedding flowers and other decor can cost up into the thousands. Flowers especially can be pricey. There are centerpieces, backdrops, decor for the ceremony and the reception they can cost up to $2,000. The number can get even higher if you hire professionals to decorate the venues.

Marriage License 

The cost of this important license varies by state and can range from $10 to $115.