How Much Does it Cost to Get Married? Tips for Stretching Your Wedding Budget

Introduction

Getting married is an exciting and often overwhelming experience. Planning a wedding requires making countless decisions and can quickly become expensive. One of the most common questions couples have is “how much does it cost to get married?” The answer to this question depends on many factors, including the size of the wedding, the location, and the type of services and vendors you choose. In this article, we will explore the average cost of a wedding and provide tips for stretching your budget.

A Breakdown of the Average Cost of a Wedding

According to The Knot’s 2019 Real Weddings Study, the average cost of a wedding in the U.S. was $33,900. This number can vary significantly depending on where you live and the size of your guest list. Let’s take a look at some of the expenses that contribute to the overall cost of a wedding:

Venue

The venue is one of the largest expenses when planning a wedding. According to The Knot’s study, the national average cost of a wedding venue is $15,439. This includes both indoor and outdoor venues. It is important to keep in mind that some venues may charge additional fees for setup, cleanup, and other services.

Food and Drink

Another major expense is food and drinks. The national average cost of catering for a wedding is $71 per person. This includes both the meal and any beverages served. If you plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, the cost can increase significantly.

Music and Entertainment

If you want to add music or entertainment to your wedding, you should expect to pay extra. The national average cost of a DJ is $1,149, while live bands typically cost more. Photographers and videographers are also a popular choice for weddings and usually range from $1,800 to $3,000.

Decorations

From centerpieces to lighting, decorations can add a lot to the ambiance of your wedding. The average cost of decorations is $2,406. This includes items like flowers, linens, and candles.

Transportation

If you need transportation for your wedding, you should factor this into your budget. The national average cost of limousine rental is $568, although this can vary depending on the size of the vehicle.

Other Expenses

In addition to the expenses listed above, there are several other costs associated with getting married. These include things like wedding favors ($258), wedding cakes ($540), and officiant fees ($266). There may also be additional costs for hair and makeup, invitations, and honeymoon expenses.

Comparing Prices of Different Wedding Venues

When selecting a venue for your wedding, it is important to compare prices and amenities to ensure you are getting the best value. Here are a few factors to consider when comparing venues:

• Location: Is the venue close to your home or the homes of your guests?
• Size: How many people will the venue accommodate?
• Amenities: Does the venue offer tables, chairs, linens, etc.?
• Cost: What is the cost per person? Are there additional fees?

There are many online resources that can help you compare prices of different wedding venues. Sites like Wedding Spot and Wedding Wire allow you to search for venues in your area and filter by budget, size, and amenities.

Tips for Cutting Costs on Your Big Day

Planning a wedding can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Here are a few tips for cutting costs on your big day:

Prioritize What You Need

It is easy to get caught up in all the details of a wedding, but it is important to remember that not everything is essential. Prioritize what you need and spend your money on those items first. This will help you stay within your budget.

Look for Deals and Discounts

Many vendors offer deals and discounts throughout the year. Keep an eye out for these promotions and take advantage of them when possible.

Reuse and Recycle

The key to saving money on decorations is to reuse and recycle as much as possible. Look for items that can be reused or repurposed, such as mason jars or glass bottles.

Think Outside the Box

Get creative with your ideas and think outside the box. Instead of having a traditional dinner, consider having a potluck or a buffet. Or, instead of renting a venue, look for free or low-cost locations like parks or private homes.

What to Consider When Budgeting for a Wedding

Before you start planning your wedding, it is important to create a budget. Here are a few things to consider when budgeting for a wedding:

Estimate Your Guest Count

The size of your guest list will have a major impact on your budget. Make sure to estimate your guest count so you know how much you can afford to spend.

Determine Your Ideal Timeline

When setting a timeline for your wedding, consider the time of year, holidays, and other events. This will help you avoid scheduling conflicts and save money.

Consider Your Spending Habits

Take a look at your spending habits and consider where you can make adjustments. Can you cut back on dining out or other expenses to make room for wedding costs?

Creative Ways to Stretch Your Wedding Budget

Once you have created a budget for your wedding, it is important to find creative ways to stretch your dollars. Here are a few ideas:

Get Creative with Your DIY Projects

DIY projects are a great way to save money on your wedding. Look for tutorials online or ask friends and family for help. From centerpieces to invitations, there are many projects you can do yourself.

Ask Friends and Family for Help

Do you have friends or family members who are willing to lend a hand? Ask them to help out with tasks like baking the cake, creating decorations, or running errands.

Take Advantage of Free Services

There are many free services available for weddings. For example, many churches and community centers offer free or discounted use of their facilities. You can also find free printables online for things like invitations and thank you cards.

How to Find Affordable Vendors for Your Wedding

Finding affordable vendors is key to staying within your budget. Here are a few tips for finding quality vendors at a reasonable price:

Use Online Reviews

Read online reviews to find out what past customers have to say about the vendor. This will give you an idea of their level of service and pricing.

Ask for Recommendations

Talk to friends and family who have recently been married. They may have recommendations for vendors they used and were pleased with.

Negotiate with Vendors

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with vendors. Ask if they offer any discounts or special packages.

Conclusion

Getting married is an exciting but expensive endeavor. The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is $33,900, but this number can vary significantly depending on the size and location of the wedding. When budgeting for a wedding, it is important to consider all the expenses, compare prices of different venues, and look for ways to save money. By following these tips, you can create the perfect wedding without breaking the bank.

For more information on planning a wedding, check out The Knot’s guide to planning a wedding on a budget.