Whether you and your partner have already set the big date or you\u2019re just starting to plan the celebration of your future together, saving money for your wedding should be a top priority. While the size and opulence of your wedding is entirely up to you, any reception you choose is likely to cost several thousands of dollars. Here\u2019s how the average wedding costs break down and how planning your big day can save you a few dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Booking and Decorating the Venue<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you choose the venue, booking and decorating it likely will take up the largest part of your wedding budget. In 2014, The Knot, a wedding planning website, surveyed 16,000 brides and grooms and found that the average wedding venue cost was $14,006. The site of the ceremony cost an average of an additional $1,901, and decor, including flowers, cost an average of $2,141. Hiring a wedding planner can set you back an average of $1,975, though that expense can pay off in spades, since a good planner helps you score deals with your venue and vendors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n You can save a bit of cash when booking your venue by opting for an off-peak wedding, says Boston-based wedding planner Joe Rogers. That could mean getting married in winter or booking your date for a Friday or Sunday event instead of the traditional Saturday evening. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Entertaining Your Guests<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Food and entertainment also make up a significant part of the wedding budget. Catering costs an average of $68 per person, and the cake costs about $555. If you\u2019re hiring a reception DJ, plan to spend about $1,124, and budget roughly $637 for a ceremony musician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Don\u2019t skimp on an open bar to cut costs. \u201cIf you can’t afford a full, open bar, minimize the offerings by sticking with beer and wine and a couple of signature cocktails that have popular liquor,\u201d says Rogers. \u201cDepending on the venue, you may also be able to bring your own liquor.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Documenting Your Big Day<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Professional photos and video capture beautiful memories you\u2019ll cherish for a lifetime \u2014 but, let\u2019s face it, they don\u2019t come cheap. Photographers cost an average of $2,556, and the videographer costs $1,794.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may be able to save money by selecting up-and-coming photographers and videographers, but proceed cautiously. \u201cThe number one thing not to skimp on is research,\u201d advises Rogers. \u201cThere’s nothing wrong with hiring new talent to help with your wedding, but make sure to properly vet them and know that they are going to deliver.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Other Costs to Consider<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Rings, formal wear and, of course, the dress, also add to your total wedding expenses. The average wedding dress costs $1,357, and the groom\u2019s attire generally costs $254. The engagement ring costs an average of $5,885; reception bands typically set you back $3,587; invitations cost $439; and wedding favors cost $275. All in all, the average wedding can cost a total of $31,213, according to The Knot. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Should You Take on Debt for Your Wedding?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n In general, no. “Taking on debt that you don\u2019t plan to pay off quickly is not a good idea,” says California-based Certified Financial Education Instructor Amber Berry. “But responsible credit use is fine. Use your card to take advantage of the grace period, but avoid all but very small loans that you’re sure you can pay off soon after the wedding,” she advises. <\/p>\n\n\n\n