Understanding Wedding Budgets: What Defines a Big Budget vs Average Wedding Spending

Planning a wedding often brings up one of the most important questions: how much should you spend? The idea of a "big budget" wedding varies widely, and it no longer depends solely on a fixed dollar amount. Instead, the size of a wedding budget is better understood by looking at how much is spent per guest and how couples prioritize their spending. This post explores what really defines a big wedding budget compared to an average one, and how couples today focus on guest experience and personal desires when making financial decisions.

How Wedding Budgets Are Changing

Traditionally, people thought of big wedding budgets as simply spending over a certain dollar figure, like $50,000 or $100,000. But this approach misses an important factor: the number of guests. Spending $100,000 on a wedding with 150 guests is very different from spending the same amount on 15 guests.

Spending Per Guest Matters More Than Total Budget

• Example 1: A couple hosting 150 guests with a $100,000 budget spends about $667 per guest.

• Example 2: A couple hosting 50 guests with the same $100,000 budget spends about $2,000 per guest.

  
  

Clearly, the second couple is investing much more in each guest’s experience, which often means higher-end venues, gourmet catering, luxury decor, and personalized touches. This level of spending per guest is what many consider a big budget wedding.

Average Wedding Budgets Vary by Location and Style

Some very popular blogs state that the average wedding budget in the United States typically ranges between $20,000 and $35,000, depending on the region and couple’s preferences. I happen to disagree with this number. I believe the average wedding is costing between $50,000 - $75,000 for weddings with 75 to 125 guests. I would consider weddings in the $20,000 - $35,000 range a more budget conscious wedding with several DIY elements and not a ton of professional design. In the $50,000 - $75,000 budget range couples often balance quality and cost, choosing vendors carefully and compromising on needs vs wants.

Prioritizing Guest Experience Over Price

One of the biggest shifts in weddings is how couples prioritize their spending. Instead of focusing on cutting costs, many couples are emphasizing creating a memorable experience for their guests.

What Big Budget Couples Look For

• Focus on Desires: Couples with big budgets prioritize their wants over basic needs. For example, they might choose a luxury venue, hire a renowned photographer, or offer premium food and drinks.

• Less Price Negotiation: When a vendor’s quote aligns with their desires, these couples often book without haggling over price. They value quality and experience more than discounts.

• Personalization: Big budget weddings often include custom elements like bespoke invitations, designer attire, and unique entertainment options.

  
  

How This Differs from Average Budgets

Couples with average budgets tend to:

• Compare multiple vendors to find the best price.

• Prioritize essential services and may compromise on extras.

• Focus on balancing quality with affordability.

Examples of Big Budget vs Average Weddings

Big Budget Wedding Example

• Guests: 50

• Total Budget: $120,000

• Cost Per Guest: $2,400

• Details: Luxury venue, gourmet multi-course meal, designer wedding dress, live band, high-end floral arrangements, and custom decor.

  
  

Average Wedding Example

• Guests: 120

• Total Budget: $60,000

• Cost Per Guest: $500

• Details: State sponsored wedding venue, buffet-style catering, local photographer, DJ, simple floral centerpieces, and standard invitations.

  
  
  
  

How to Decide Your Wedding Budget

When setting your wedding budget, consider these steps:

1. Determine Guest Count: This is the biggest factor affecting your budget.

2. Identify Priorities: Decide what matters most—venue, food, photography, entertainment, or decor.

3. Research Vendors: Get quotes and understand what fits your budget and desires.

   
   
   
   

Final Thoughts on Wedding Budgets

A big wedding budget is no longer about hitting a specific dollar figure. It’s about how much you invest per guest and how you prioritize your desires. Couples with big budgets focus on creating an exceptional guest experience and are willing to pay for vendors who meet their vision without negotiating prices. Meanwhile, average budgets require more balancing and prioritizing needs over wants.

Understanding this shift helps couples plan weddings that feel right for them, whether they want an intimate luxury celebration or a larger, budget-conscious event. The key is to focus on what matters most to you and your guests, and plan accordingly.