What’s the Average Cost of a Wedding in 2022?

If you’re engaged, you have a lot to plan until your wedding date arrives. This process can seem overwhelming, especially when you consider how much your big day might cost. The average cost of a wedding in 2022 can help you prepare for your big day. It’s smart to know how to structure your budget because otherwise, you might break the bank.

Here’s what to know about the average cost of a wedding.

What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding in 2022?

In 2022, the average cost of a wedding in the U.S. is $27,000.

While wedding costs dropped in 2020 during the pandemic, they have increased steadily since 2021, almost reaching the reported average cost of $28,000 in 2019.

It’s important to note that the averages fluctuate throughout different states, so you might pay more depending on where you live. Last year, the state with the lowest average cost was Wyoming at $15,800, while New Jersey came in with the highest average cost at $47,000.

Compared to the past two years, wedding costs have increased as we approach pre-pandemic conditions. For example, guest lists in 2020 and 2021 were much smaller, but they have increased over time as vaccination rates have gone up.

Looking forward to 2023, we can expect to see a similar or higher average cost of a wedding. Many couples will return to the traditional large guest list and extravagant reception. Keep in mind that these numbers are averages, so many weddings will come in under $27,000, while more affluent couples will offset the average with higher price tags.

Regardless of your income or location, it’s important to be aware of what factors contribute to the average cost of a wedding.

What Contributes Most to Wedding Cost?

Many things go into planning a wedding. Everything from vendors to guests to venues makes an impact. It’s crucial to consider what you value most while you build your budget. Let’s take a look at some of the priciest, but sometimes most important, aspects.

1. Guest Experience

If you’re having a traditional wedding and reception, guest experience is an important factor. What couple doesn’t want to ensure their loved ones have a fantastic time? As a result, you’ll find that music, entertainment and food are top priorities. These costs can add up quickly.

For couples surveyed in 2022, having a memorable wedding was a priority, with 65% saying they were willing to splurge on an open bar, with 55% splurging on the venue.

2. Venue and Decorations

What about appearances? It’s no surprise that couples want their locations to look amazing. This expense goes toward initial venue costs, as well as additional touches like flowers. In fact, you may or may not already know that wedding flowers come at steep prices. It turns out that the average couple spends anywhere from $700 to $2,500 on floral arrangements.

3. Photography

Do you want to take professional photos at your wedding? If so, you’re like most couples. This expense will probably be one where you don’t want to compromise. Many couples say they cherish nothing more than professional photos and videos from their wedding days.

The average cost of a wedding photographer in 2022 ranges from $1,200 to $3,000, making up around 10-15% of the average budget.

4. Dresses and Suits

Of course, you have to consider how much you want to spend on attire. It doesn’t cost that much to rent or buy a suit, but you can expect to pay several hundred dollars on a wedding dress. That’s an expense many brides don’t mind.

These are generally the most crucial wedding components to brides and grooms. In other words, if you’re going to spend money on anything for your wedding, you’ll likely put your cash toward these aspects. It’s up to your wants and needs, but you can expect things like venues and photography to impact the average cost of a wedding most.

How to Save Money on a Wedding

If you’re concerned about wedding costs, you shouldn’t fret! Remember that average wedding costs can seem inflated due to super expensive weddings, like $1 million destination events. There are many ways to reduce how much you spend without needing to compromise.

1. Plan Your Own Wedding

It can be beneficial to hire a wedding planner. They do essentially everything for you — but you pay a steep price for that help. If you have enough time and energy, you can plan your wedding by yourself. It’ll be more stressful, but you have endless tricks at your fingertips to help make things more straightforward.

2. Cut Down Your Guest List

This task won’t necessarily be easy. After all, you might want every loved one present for your big day. However, you can save money when you cut down your guest list. If you removed 20 people, you don’t have to shell out cash for table settings, food and drinks and other expenses.

3. Enlist Your Friends for Help

Do you know any bartenders or musicians personally? It might help to enlist their talents rather than pay someone else. They’ll likely be much more affordable. Plus, you already know what to expect, so you don’t have to worry about quality. This trick will help you skip pricey premium packages advertised by professionals.

Do your best to explore unique options so that you don’t have to spend a fortune.

Plan Your Wedding Without Breaking the Bank

Anyone who’s planning a wedding should start with their budget. That’s especially important when you consider that the average cost of a wedding can be pretty steep. There are many ways to save money, as well. Hopefully, you’ll be able to use this information to plan your wedding without going overboard.