May 23, 2018
The facts: According to the 2018 Wedding Industry Report for the DC, MD, VA, and WV area,
the average amount spent on a wedding in 2017 was $36,703.
That’s the average, not the max.
Some weddings are over $100k and you may ask WHY!!!
Answer: Because someone is willing to pay for it.
That’s all it takes.
It you have the income and savings to support such a wedding budget, I am very proud of you!
But let’s be real.
This number is thrown out there to make you think that this is what you need to spend.
Let’s go deeper into the facts.
Although that is the average, only 15% of those weddings were over $30,000.
Most were between $10K – $20K.
So, let’s say most people in 2017 spent between $10K-$20K.
Now, the average in this country for the number of wedding guests was 126.
However, in this area, it’s 165-175!!! WHY!!!
Let’s do some math:
On a $20K budget I have about $7,600 (38%) to spend on my reception
(not including the DJ, Photographer, Florist, Cake, etc), just the space and the food.
$7,600 divided by 126 people is $60 a plate.
However, If I take that same $7,600 and try to feed 175 people, that’s $43 a plate.
Now ask yourself, how many wedding venues can you find that offer a $43 meal?
Now, let me help you out.
NONE!!!
The Truth: Our wedding costs are rising because our guest lists are out of control.
The more guests, the more food, more tables, more centerpieces,
more cake, more programs, more menus, etc.
You can have a lovely wedding on $20K with a fabulous meal
(average cost $150.00 p/p), with 50 people,
or $76.00 p/p for 100 people and stay on budget.
For a $20K Wedding your cost breakdown would be:
Planner (Day-Of) (8%) – $ 1,600.00
Ceremony (2%) – $ 400.00
Reception (38%) – $ 7,600.00
Flowers/Décor (9%) – $ 1,800.00
Cake 3% – $ 600.00
Photographer/ Videographer (14%) – $ 2,800.00
Music/DJ (2%) – $ 400.00
Attire (12%) – $ 2,400.00
Rings (3%) – $ 600.00
Stationery/Stamps (2%) – $ 400.00
Gifts/Favors (1%) – $ 200.00
Transportation/Lodging (1%) – $ 200.00
Gratuities (1%) – $ 200.00
Contingency (4%) – $ 800.00
