One of the biggest questions we get asked as wedding planners is, “how much do weddings cost?”
The cost of a wedding can vary significantly based on several factors such as location, the number of guests and personal preferences. In this guide, we’ll break down the typical expenses associated with weddings in Australia, allowing you to create a realistic budget that suits your style and needs.
VENUE
The wedding is often one of the largest expenses in your wedding budget. Costs can vary dramatically depending on the location and time of year- a vineyard wedding in the Hunter Valley can cost significantly more than a rural wedding in a smaller town. Many venues will offer you a discount if you book your wedding on a week day or off-peak month.
On average, you can expect to pay between $10,000-$25,000 on your wedding venue.
PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY
Investing in a skilled photographer and videographer is crucial for capturing and preserving memories of your special day. Costs vary based on their experience, equipment and the amount of coverage you desire.
On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000-$6,000 for a wedding photographer and $2,000-$5,000 for a videographer.
Booking a package that includes both can also save you money.
WEDDING ATTIRE
The cost of wedding attire can range from budget-friendly to extravagant. Consider factors such as designer labels, alterations, and accessories. Some brides find beautiful dresses at more affordable prices, while others may choose to splurge on a custom-made gown.
On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000-$8,000 for a wedding gown and $500-$1,000 for a suit.
BEAUTY
Hair and makeup services for the bride and bridal party are common expenses. Costs can vary based on the number of people requiring services, the complexity of the styles, and the expertise of the professionals.
On average you can expect to pay between $150-$350 per person for hair & makeup services.
CATERING & BAR SERVICES
The catering budget depends on the number of guests, the menu chosen, and the style of service. Buffets are often more budget-friendly than plated dinners, and some couples opt for alternative catering options like food trucks or family-style dining. Sometimes the cost of catering will be included in your overall venue fee.
On average, you can expect to pay between $80-$200 per person for food and $60-$100 per person for drink packages.
DECORATIONS
Decorations can transform a venue, but their cost can add up quickly. Determine your theme and prioritise key elements such as flowers, centrepieces, and lighting. DIY projects can help cut costs without sacrificing style however, there is usually a lot of time that needs to be invested. The cost of flowers can also add up quickly.
On average, you can expect to pay between $2,000-$10,000 on all your decorations.
ENTERTAINMENT
Wedding entertainment is a vital component of any celebration, setting the tone and ambiance for the special day. Couples often have many options to choose from, ranging from live bands and musicians to DJs. The average cost of wedding entertainment varies depending on factors such as location, the reputation of the performer, and the duration of the entertainment
On average, you can expect to pay between $500-$3,000 for wedding entertainment.
STATIONARY
Wedding stationery serves as the elegant introduction to the celebration, setting the aesthetic tone and providing essential information to guests. From save-the-dates and invitations to ceremony programs and seating charts, there’s a myriad of options to consider. The average cost of wedding stationery varies depending on factors such as design complexity, printing techniques, and the quantity needed.
On average, you can expect to pay between $300-$2,000 on your wedding stationary.
CAKE
The wedding cake serves as a delicious centrepiece of the reception, symbolising the sweet start of a couple’s new journey together. Couples often have a range of options when it comes to selecting their dream wedding cake, from classic tiered designs to modern and whimsical creations. The average cost of a wedding cake varies widely depending on factors such as size, design complexity, flavours, and the reputation of the baker.
On average, you can expect to pay between $500-$1,000 for your wedding cake.
WEDDING PLANNER, STYLIST & COORDINATOR
Wedding planners, stylists, and coordinators play a crucial role in bringing couples’ dream weddings to life, orchestrating every detail to perfection. These professionals offer a range of services, from full-service planning to day-of coordination, ensuring a stress-free and seamless experience for the couple and their guests. The average cost of hiring a wedding planner, stylist, or coordinator varies depending on the level of service required and the expertise of the professional.
On average, you can expect to pay between $5,000-$20,000 or more on full service wedding planning.
The average cost of a wedding stylist is $1,000-$3,000.
For on the day coordination, you can expect to pay between $2,000-$5,000.
In conclusion, the cost of a wedding is highly variable and depends on factors such as location, guest count, and personal preferences. It’s essential to prioritise what matters most to you and allocate your budget accordingly. Remember that a beautiful and memorable wedding can be achieved on any budget with thoughtful planning and creativity.
Happy planning!
