What’s the Most Expensive Part of a Wedding? Top Budget Breakers

Did you know that the average wedding in the U.S. costs over $40,000? 

Weddings are a once-in-a-lifetime event, but for many couples, they come with a staggering price tag. 

But what’s the most expensive part of a wedding?

At Zion Springs, we've been hosting weddings since 2010 and are committed to helping couples navigate the expenses of planning their special day. Understanding the most expensive aspects of a wedding is crucial for proper planning and effective budgeting.

Below is a breakdown of wedding cost distribution, giving you an idea of how the average couple allocates their budget:

The venue tends to be one of the biggest investments in a wedding, with couples often dedicating 30-40% of their budget to securing the right location. Wedding venue prices vary widely based on location, season, and guest count. For instance, a venue in New York City might cost over $45,000, while a smaller, rural venue during an off-peak season could be closer to $10,000.

But the cost doesn’t stop at the rental fee. Additional expenses tied to the venue might include:

• Setup fees
• Furniture rental (tables, chairs)
• Lighting and heating for outdoor events

Catering is one of the more flexible areas of your wedding budget, with costs varying based on your meal and drink choices. A formal plated dinner, which typically ranges from $100 to $150 per guest, tends to be the most expensive option. More affordable choices, such as buffet-style meals, generally cost $50 to $75 per guest while offering more variety.

Here are some popular catering options:

• Family-Style: Shared platters that encourage a communal atmosphere.
• Cocktail Reception: A more casual yet elegant option with small bites.
• Food Stations: Offering multiple cuisines for variety.
• Brunch/Luncheon: Typically more affordable than evening meals.

An open bar can also drive up costs, averaging $15 to $30 per guest. A more budget-friendly approach offers a limited selection of beer, wine, and signature cocktails, costing $10 to $20 per guest.

Preserving your wedding memories comes at a price. Photography and videography typically account for about 17% of the wedding budget. A high-quality photographer can charge anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on experience and location. Videography, while optional for some, can add $1,500 to $4,000.

Add-on services such as drone footage, same-day video edits, or heirloom videos can increase prices. To manage costs, many couples focus their photography coverage on moments that matter most, like the ceremony and first dance.

Flowers and decor are essential to creating the right ambiance but can quickly add up, accounting for about 8% of the wedding budget. Depending on the complexity of your design, floral arrangements alone can range from $1,000 to $5,000. Additionally, lighting, custom backdrops, and table decor can push costs higher.

Several factors affect decor costs:

• Scale: Larger spaces or more elaborate designs require a bigger budget.
• Seasonality: Out-of-season flowers tend to be more expensive.

Venue Restrictions: Some venues require specific lighting setups or decor adjustments.

3% of the wedding budget. A livt: 400;">, while hiring aDJ is a more affordable option, ranging from $1,000 to $2,500.

Additional entertainment vendor costs might include:

• Setup and teardown costs
• Travel fees for out-of-town entertainers
• Extended performance fees

While venue, catering, and photography tend to be the biggest wedding expenses, additional costs like transportation and favors can also add up.

For a detailed breakdown of average wedding expenses, check out this helpful guide on wedding costs.

Here's a quick breakdown:

• Transportation: For the wedding party or guests, costing $500 to $1,500.
• Stationery: Invitations, place cards, and programs, typically ranging from $200 to $500.
• Wedding Favors: Small gifts for guests cost $1 to $5 per person.
• Wedding Planner: Depending on the level of service, hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator to manage logistics and reduce stress can cost from $1,500 to $5,000.

Planning your wedding means making thoughtful choices about where to invest and where to save. By understanding the most expensive parts of a wedding, like the venue, catering, and entertainment, you can confidently allocate your budget to the areas that matter most.

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that simplifies the planning process, places like Zion Springs—with its all-inclusive options—can be a great way to streamline your big day. After all, less stress means more time to enjoy the moment!

For more expert tips and insights on wedding planning, visit our Answers and Advice page for additional guidance.