What Costs Most at Weddings? Unveiling the Biggest Expenses

ByOMG Hitched Team Reading Time: 6 minutes

When planning your big day, it’s important to know where your money will go. The most significant expenses in a wedding typically include the venue, catering, music, and photography. These costs can add up quickly and often make up the bulk of your total wedding budget.

A lavish floral arrangement dominates the center of a grand banquet table, surrounded by gleaming place settings and opulent decor

Understanding these expenses can help you manage your wedding budget more effectively. By knowing what to prioritize, you can make informed decisions during the planning process. This way, you can create a memorable celebration that fits within your financial limits while still capturing the magic of the day.

As you prepare, keep in mind the average wedding cost is around $33,000 in 2024. By focusing on the areas that matter most to you, you can enjoy your special day without the stress of unexpected costs.

The Big Tickets: Venue and Catering

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Selecting the right venue and catering are crucial for any wedding. These elements can take up a significant portion of your budget, so it’s important to make informed decisions that suit your style and finances.

Choosing the Right Venue

When choosing your wedding venue, think about location, size, and amenities. Popular options include banquet halls, outdoor gardens, and historic mansions.

Consider the following factors:

  • Capacity: Make sure it can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
  • Location: Choose a place that is easily accessible for your guests.
  • Style: The venue should match the theme of your wedding.

The average cost of a wedding can vary, but venue rental often accounts for a significant portion, typically around 30% to 50% of your total budget. Factor in additional costs like decor and setup.

Catering and Culinary Delights

Catering is another key expense for your wedding. It involves not only the food served but also drinks and service. Many couples spend roughly 28% to 30% of their budget on catering.

When planning your menu, think about the following:

  • Type of Service: Options include buffet, plated meals, or food stations.
  • Menu Choices: Cater to various dietary needs by offering vegetarian or gluten-free options.
  • Beverage Packages: Don’t forget to include drinks like wine, beer, and cocktails.

Choosing a reliable catering service can enhance the overall experience for your guests. Costs can fluctuate based on seasonality, guest count, and added services.

Memories for a Lifetime: Photography and Videography

A bride and groom exchanging vows under a beautiful floral arch, with a professional photographer and videographer capturing every moment

Photography and videography play a crucial role in preserving the magic of your wedding day. These services capture moments that you will cherish forever, providing tangible memories to look back on.

Capturing the Moments

Hiring a skilled photographer is essential for preserving the essence of your wedding day. A good wedding photographer knows how to capture both posed and candid shots, ensuring that every important moment is documented.

Key considerations when choosing a photographer include:

  • Style: Do you prefer traditional, photojournalistic, or artistic photography?
  • Experience: Look for someone who has worked at events like yours.
  • Cost: Wedding photographer costs typically range from $1,150 to $3,000, depending on their expertise and services offered.

Don’t forget to ask to see their portfolio. This will help you ensure their style matches your vision for the day. Investing in quality photography is investing in your memories.

Video: Reliving Your Special Day

Videography allows you to relive your wedding day through moving images. A professional videographer captures the sounds and emotions of your event, making it even more special.

When choosing a videographer, consider:

  • Experience: How many weddings have they filmed?
  • Package Options: Many videographers offer packages that include highlight reels or full-length videos.
  • Cost: On average, expect to spend around $1,800 for videography services, but prices can go from $1,000 to $2,500 based on your needs.

By combining both photography and videography, you get to enjoy every beautiful detail from your big day, creating lasting memories for years to come.

Stunning Attire and Glowing Beauty

A lavish wedding gown with intricate beading and shimmering fabric, set against a backdrop of elegant floral arrangements and sparkling chandeliers

Your wedding day look is essential. The right attire and beauty choices can elevate your entire celebration. Let’s dive into the key costs associated with both stunning attire and glowing beauty.

Dress to Impress

Choosing the perfect wedding dress is a significant decision. Most brides spend around $1,800 on their gown, but prices can vary widely based on style and designer. Remember to factor in alterations, which can add another $300 to $500 to your total.

For the groom, a tuxedo rental typically ranges from $150 to $300, depending on the fabric and style chosen. If you opt for a custom suit, expect to pay more. Both grooms and brides should consider accessories, like jewelry and shoes, which can also impact your budget.

Keep in mind that adding your wedding party’s attire will increase costs. Bridesmaids’ dresses can average around $150 to $300 each, while groomsmen’s attire can add a similar amount.

Hair and Makeup Artistry

Looking your best on your wedding day often includes professional hair and makeup.

Hiring a hairstylist typically costs between $100 to $300, with more elaborate styles priced higher. Don’t forget about a hair trial appointment, which may range from $50 to $150.

For makeup, a skilled makeup artist generally charges around $100 to $250 for the day. A trial session is also a good idea, costing about $75 to $150.

Additional beauty treatments like manicures, pedicures, or facials can add up too. Budget an extra $50 to $200 for these services to ensure you feel fabulous on your big day.

Setting the Scene: Decorations and Floral Arrangements

A lavish wedding venue adorned with opulent floral arrangements and ornate decorations

Creating the perfect atmosphere for your wedding is key. The right flowers and decorations set the tone for your special day. Let’s explore how floral arrangements and decorative elements play a huge role in achieving your vision.

Floral Fantasies

Flowers are often the star of the show at weddings. You can expect to spend a significant amount on floral arrangements, which can range from simple bouquets to elaborate displays.

Here are some common costs:

  • Tall arrangements: $750 – $1,800 each
  • Mid-level arrangements: $400 – $800 each
  • Low lush arrangements: $300 – $500 each

Your florist can help you choose blooms that match your theme and budget. Popular choices include roses, peonies, and hydrangeas. You might also consider renting floral decor, which can be more budget-friendly.

Decor That Dazzles

Decorations can include items like table settings, lighting, and special accents. You might spend about 20-30% of your total budget on these elements.

Key decor components include:

  • Table runners and overlays: $8 – $25 each
  • Charger plates: $3 – $15 each
  • Place settings: $7 – $25 per person

Lighting is also vital for mood. String lights or chandeliers can bring warmth to your venue. Working with a reception DJ who offers lighting can enhance the space even more.

Picking the right flowers and decor elevates your wedding’s atmosphere, making it an unforgettable day for you and your guests.