Table of Content
- How Much Do Weddings Cost In The US? (A Quick 2025 Guide)
- What Should Be The Average Cost For A Wedding With 100 To 150 Guests?
- Wedding Cost Breakdown by Category (2025 Estimates)
- How Much Does A Wedding Cost In Different U.S. States?
- Urban Vs. Rural Weddings: What Is The Cost Difference Here?
- Hidden Wedding Costs You Should Know About
- How To Save Money On Your Wedding Without Compromising Style
- Real Couple Example
- Sample Wedding Budgets Based On Different Price Points
Still wondering, aren't you? How much is your dream wedding going to cost you? Is it going to be out of your budget? Should you scale down? Or maybe shop less? So many questions, but you’re not alone.
Whether you’re planning an intimate backyard ceremony for your close loved ones or a grand affair, one of the first questions couples ask is: “How much will our wedding cost?” And in 2025, the answer is slightly more complicated.
According to The Knot’s 2024 Real Weddings Study, the average wedding cost in the U.S. was around $35,000. This is a figure that continues to rise with inflation, location, and guest count. Factors such as the venue, catering, attire, décor, and planning services add up fast to the final cost.
But the good news? Pataaree can help you plan a beautiful, culturally rich, and memorable wedding on your terms. We have suggestions for every budget. In this blog, we’ll take you through:
- National and state-wise wedding cost averages
- Category-wise breakdown of your spending
- Sample wedding budgets by price tier
- Hidden costs you must look out for
- Money-saving tips with no compromises
Whether you’re a bride, groom, a wedding planner, or a supportive friend, this wedding budgeting guide is going to rescue you. Let’s dive in.
How much do weddings cost in the US? (A quick 2025 guide)
In 2025, wedding spendings in the U.S. seem rather unreal. They continue to reflect rising costs in nearly every category. Based on recent data and projections for 2025, the national average wedding cost should sit around $35,000, with the median closer to $25,000.
What’s the difference, you say?
- Average: They have included luxury weddings, so it skews higher.
- Median: This is more representative of a typical wedding (relevant to you).
So what should be the average cost for a wedding with 100 to 150 guests?
Most U.S. weddings actually fall within this guest range which is great. For this group size, here’s a quick breakdown:
|
Category |
Average Cost (USD) |
|
Venue (incl. rentals) |
$12,000 |
|
Catering + Bar |
$8,500 |
|
Photography/Videography |
$4,000 |
|
Attire + Accessories |
$2,000 |
|
Entertainment |
$2,500 |
|
Floral + Decor |
$2,800 |
|
Planner/Coordinator |
$2,000 |
|
Stationery + Favors |
$800 |
|
Total Estimate |
$34,600 |
Important Note: Prices are going to vary greatly by state, season, and vendor choices.
Wedding cost breakdown by category (2025 estimates)
When it comes to budgeting for your special day, understand where your money is going. Below is a detailed breakdown of average wedding expenses in the U.S. These reflect the trends for the past months in 2025. Do have a look at the real cost ranges and practical savings tips too.
1. How much does a wedding venue cost in the US?
Average cost: $11,500 – $15,000
Stress is building up, and I can sense it. Venues are critical, and they are also the single largest wedding expense. Wedding costs depend on its location, dates, available amenities, and guest capacity.
Savings Tip: Think of choosing non-traditional venues such as art galleries, local farms, or family backyards. Hosting an off-season or weekday wedding is also clever because it can cut venue costs by 20–40%.
2. How much wedding catering and bar services cost
Average cost: $70 – $120 per guest
This is one cost you just can't avoid. It includes food, staffing, rentals, and drinks. If you are going for plated dinners, they are often more expensive than buffet-style meals.
Savings Tip: Go for a brunch or lunch wedding instead of a high-end dinner. Opting for signature cocktails over a full open bar reduces alcohol costs.
3. How much does wedding photography and videography cost?
Photography average: $2,500 – $4,000
Videography average: $2,000 – $3,000
These pros capture your memories efficiently, but can you outsource this to someone within your family or friend circle? Think about it. Professional pricing depends on hours of coverage, second shooters, and editing.
Savings Tip: Try to book early if you can and bundle photo + video services with the same vendor. This will get you a package discount.
4. Wedding attire and accessories costs - trends & estimates
Bridal gown: $1,800 – $3,000
Groom’s outfit: $350 – $800
Accessories: $200 – $500
A few items such as custom veils and limited edition designer wedding gowns will always be more expensive. Try to steer away from them. Heirloom jewelry and wedding outfits passed on from generations are always budget-friendly and unique. Your outfit budget should also include shoes, accessories, and undergarments.
Pataaree pick: Add cultural flair with our embroidered Potli Bags, Chura Boxes, or Bridal Mirrors. These are perfect for adding heritage and elegance on a budget.
Savings tip: You can shop sample sales, consider rentals, or repurpose a family heirloom gown for your “Something Old.”
5. How much is wedding entertainment going to cost?
DJ average: $1,200 – $2,000
Live band average: $3,000 – $7,000
The kind of entertainment at your wedding is going to set the mood for everyone. It also keeps the energy high throughout your reception.
Savings Tip: When picking music, choose a DJ instead of a full band, or go with a smaller setup for ceremonies and cocktails only.
6. Wedding décor & flowers costs, let’s calculate
Average cost: $2,500 – $5,000
This includes the cost of the ceremony setup, centerpieces, flower bouquets, and design labor.
Savings tip: Always go for seasonal flowers, reuse a few or all ceremony arrangements at the reception, and mix in candles and different fabric drapes. Also, Pataaree’s little insight piece on wedding planning in 2025 can help you out if you need more tips.
7. Let’s discuss hiring a wedding planner
Full-service planner: $4,000 – $7,500
Day-of coordinator: $1,200 – $2,500
Hiring a wedding planner can streamline the process, reduce stress, and also help negotiate with vendors.
Savings tip: Choose a planner well in advance. If the full-service is too costly, go for partial planning or a month-of coordinator. You can also ask the wedding venue if they provide any planning assistance.
8. Stationery and wedding favors costs, simplified
Stationery: $500 – $1,000 (invitations, signage, menus)
Favors: $300 – $800
This is your chance to show your love and flaunt your personality through pen and paper.
Pataaree pick: Our luxury wedding envelopes and custom mithai gift boxes double as décor and memorable takeaways.
Savings tip: Use digital RSVPs only. This eliminates all printing costs.
How much does a wedding cost in different U.S. states?
The location of your wedding plays a huge role in your final bill. Urban areas and coastal states are usually pricier. The Midwest region and Southern states offer more affordable options.
1. Most expensive states for weddings (average total cost)
|
State |
Avg. Wedding Cost |
|
New York (NYC) |
$50,000+ |
|
New Jersey |
$47,000+ |
|
California |
$42,000+ |
|
Massachusetts |
$40,000+ |
|
Illinois |
$38,000+ |
Costs are often the highest in major cities like NYC, LA, and Chicago.
2. Most affordable states for weddings
|
State |
Avg. Wedding Cost |
|
Idaho |
$16,000 – $20,000 |
|
Utah |
$18,000 – $21,000 |
|
Arkansas |
$19,000 – $22,000 |
|
West Virginia |
$20,000 – $23,000 |
|
Oklahoma |
$20,000 – $24,000 |
Many rural or less populated states offer venue packages and deals perfect for budget-conscious couples.
Urban vs. rural weddings: What is the cost difference here?
- Urban weddings
They usually cost 30–50% more due to higher vendor pricing, stricter permits, and top-class and premium venues.
- Rural weddings
These typically offer more affordability but may involve extra travel or logistics costs for the guests.
Pataaree Insight: Whether you're planning a grand and beautiful NYC ballroom celebration or a cozy countryside wedding, our customizable accessories, from Thaal Sets to Decorative Bridal Umbrellas, bring elegance anywhere.
Hidden wedding costs you should know about
So, you have planned for the venue, dress, wedding favors, and catering? Have you factored in hidden costs? Anxious again? Calm down, and now let’s break them down.
1. Taxes and service charges
Most venues and vendors add local taxes (often 6–10%) and service fees (ranging from 15–25%) on top of their quoted prices.
Quick tip: Always ask, “Is tax and gratuity included?” before signing any contract.
2. Gratuities and tips for vendors
Tipping your hair stylist, photographer, servers, and band/DJ can add $500–$1,500 or more!
Do you tip wedding vendors? Yes — it's customary, though not always mandatory. Factor this in as well.
3. Overtime fees
If you're running late, overtime fees for your DJ, photographer, or venue are expected and charged hourly.
Quick tip: Build in a buffer for delays and confirm hourly rates in your contracts in advance.
4. Delivery & setup charges
Florals, rental chairs, and lighting rigs usually have delivery/setup charges ranging from $100 to $500.
Quick tip: Choose vendors that are located close to your venue, or you can ask for bundled setup discounts.
5. Travel and accommodation for guests or vendors
If you intend to host a destination wedding or fly in guests or vendors, their travel and stay expenses can cost thousands.
Quick tip: It is always better to partner with local hotels or affordable homestays for group/family rates.
How to save money on your wedding without compromising style
Weddings can be made affordable, but for that, you need Pataaree and the right strategies. Whether you’re going all-in or staying modest, these tips help you stay within your budget and also stay stylish and classy.
1. Host an off-season or weekday wedding
Is it cheaper to get married on a weekday?
Yes, so avoid peak seasons (May to October) and Saturdays to get better deals on venues and vendors.
Savings: Upto 30% off standard pricing.
2. DIY vs professional services
Create your own centerpieces, signage, or favors using Pinterest-worthy inspiration and support from your bridal party. YouTube helps a lot, too you know. Also, check out Pataaree's custom décor sets for more inspiration.
3. Cut the guest list strategically
How many guests should I invite to save money on a wedding?
Only the ones who matter and be cool about it. The fewer the guests, the lower the cost is going to be across catering, rentals, and favors.
Average savings: ~$70–$100 per person cut.
4. Smart vendor negotiations
Bundle services (like photography + videography) always cost less. You can pay early or offer social media exposure in exchange for discounts. They will agree to it readily.
Quick tip: Always ask if this is their best price or do they offer weekday/off-season rates.
Real couple example
Sonali and Jay, a multicultural couple from Texas, reduced their overall wedding cost by $12,000. All they did was trim down their guest list by 50 people. They also opted for seasonal flowers and chose an elegant weekday garden ceremony with a DIY dessert table.
So, do you want to keep your wedding elegant but affordable? Explore Pataaree’s budget-friendly trousseau trunks and more that double as favors!
Sample wedding budgets based on different price points
Planning your wedding around a budget? Whether you're keeping it minimal or luxurious, here's how your wedding budget breaks down across different tiers.
$10,000 wedding budget (small & intimate – 50 guests)
|
Category |
Suggested % |
Estimated Cost |
|
Venue & Rentals |
30% |
$3,000 |
|
Catering & Cake |
25% |
$2,500 |
|
Photography |
10% |
$1,000 |
|
Attire & Accessories |
8% |
$800 |
|
Flowers & Decor |
7% |
$700 |
|
Music/DJ |
5% |
$500 |
|
Stationery |
3% |
$300 |
|
Miscellaneous |
7% |
$700 |
|
Total |
100% |
$10,000 |
Choose DIY decor, backyard venues, and potluck-style catering. This can help you stay within your budget easily.
$25,000 wedding budget (mid-size celebration – 100 guests)
| Category | Suggested % | Estimated Cost |
| Venue & Rentals | 35% | $8,750 |
| Catering & Cake | 25% | $6,250 |
| Photography/Videography | 10% | $2,500 |
| Attire & Accessories | 8% | $2,000 |
| Flowers & Decor | 7% | $1,750 |
| Entertainment | 5% | $1,250 |
| Planner/Coordinator | 5% | $1,250 |
| Stationery/Favors | 3% | $750 |
| Miscellaneous | 2% | $500 |
|
Total |
100% |
$25,000 |
Booking vendors early and going for off-season dates is a great move and it can save you 10–20% easily.
$50,000+ luxury wedding budget (large wedding – 150+ guests)
| Category | Suggested % | Estimated Cost |
| Venue & Rentals | 40% | $20,000+ |
| Catering & Cake | 25% | $12,500 |
| Photography/Videography | 10% | $5,000 |
| Attire & Jewelry | 8% | $4,000 |
| Florals & Decor | 7% | $3,500 |
| Entertainment | 5% | $2,500 |
| Planner & Designer | 5% | $2,500 |
| Stationery & Favors | 3% | $1,500 |
| Total | 100% | $50,000+ |
You can incorporate statement pieces like embroidered wedding umbrellas or custom hand mirrors to enhance your décor.
FAQs
1. What is the average cost of a wedding in the US in 2025?
As of 2025, the average wedding cost in the U.S. is close to $33,000, based on updated data.
2. What is a good budget for a wedding?
A good budget for a wedding depends on your guest count and location, but $25,000 is a common and realistic benchmark for a mid-sized celebration.
3. Which state has the cheapest weddings in the US?
According to the latest trends, states like Utah, Idaho, and Arkansas typically have the lowest wedding costs in the U.S.
4. How can I save money on my wedding?
Opt for off-season dates, unconventional venues, reduced guest count, DIY décor, and negotiate with vendors to cut costs.
5. Is $20,000 enough for a wedding in the US?
Yes, $20,000 should be able to cover a beautiful wedding for 75 to 100 guests with smart planning, affordable vendors, and venue flexibility.
6. What are typical expenses for a wedding?
Typical wedding expenses include venue, catering (food and bar), outfits, photographer, planner, décor, stationery, entertainment, and hidden costs like tips and taxes.
7. Is it worth it getting a wedding planner?
Yes, a wedding planner can help you save time, reduce stress, and avoid costly mistakes. They are suitable especially for large or multicultural weddings.
