Going to a wedding to see two people you care about tie the knot can be a very happy occasion, and it can also be a pricey one. Of course, attending as a guest, or even a member of the wedding party, is nothing compared to the expense of throwing the wedding, and new research breaks down the average cost of an American wedding today.
According to the new report from Coupon Birds:
- The average American wedding in 2024 costs a total of $26,665.
- It has 115 guests, which means it costs $232 per person.
- The venue is the biggest expense at $7,347, followed by catering at $5,480.
- Photography/videography costs an average of $3,653, entertainment is $2,740 and flowers average $2,436.
- The bride and groom spend around $2,131 on attire and $1,827 on a wedding planner.
- Invitations set them back another $525 and so does the cake (also $525).
- The average single wedding guest spends $461 per wedding, including $150 on the present and $225 on transportation and accommodations.
- Women spend an average of $314 on wedding guest attire, while men spend $333, but they get an average of five wears from their wedding suit, while women get just three from their outfit.
- Those who are in the wedding party can expect to spend $2,137 overall to be a bridesmaid or groomsman.
- That includes $1,676 for the bachelor/bachelorette party, plus other celebrations, attire and gifts.
Source: NY Post