It's my job to ask couples about their love stories, so I've been paid to inquire about all the particulars. Well, except for that one time a couple told me they'd rather not talk about it. Anyway, I know you're on the other end of all this planning, so I'm here to help — after all, my work is never done! But let's get back to the juicy stuff: what do you think they'll pay in 2022?
When you’re planning a wedding, it can be easy to fixate on the big celebrations: the ceremony, the reception, and all of the little details in between. But not all weddings are alike. Here’s a look at what you can expect from venues, vendors, and other costs as you plan this happy day.
While spending three months' income on a ring may be archaic, couples spend $5,500 on rings on average. More visitors, more invites, more expense. Invitations average $590. Moreover, a dress might cost $1,600. It would be a mistake not to conduct a rehearsal with your whole bridal party, and treating them to supper is customary. Dinners may cost $1900.
The venue will be your biggest cost. It's where you'll eat and entertain your guests for the majority of your party, and it may or may not come decorated. It costs $10,500. Guests can't go hungry. $70 per person will cover catering, dietary requirements, and champagne toasts. Top-shelf liquor may boost costs. Dancing! Your guests will remember the music most after your "I dos." Wedding DJs cost $1200. Live music costs $3700.
Some couples choose to give their guests wedding favors, a gift that says ‘thank you for coming.’ Purchasing favors for your guests that remind them of the great time they had on your big day will cost around $400.
A few ways that can help you cut spending costs include trimming the guest list, opting for a cash bar, and enlisting family and friends to help you DIY a few things. Make a shortlist of the planning details that are most important to you and you don’t want to skimp on, and consider spending less on the unlisted details that aren’t as meaningful.
Also, be sure to leave a buffer in your budget. You never know if you’ll have to cover an unexpected wedding expense or even a last-minute guest, and having extra room in your budget will allow you to cover those costs without overspending.