How Much Does A Small Wedding Cost? #Answered

A small wedding can be an excellent option for couples who want an intimate ceremony without breaking the bank. The cost of a small wedding can vary depending on several factors, such as the location, number of guests, and type of vendors hired.

Here, we will discuss the average cost of a small wedding and tips on how to plan a budget-friendly celebration.

Read More: 27 Cheap And Creative Fall Wedding Ideas On A Budget

The Budget Rule Applied to Weddings:

Let’s apply the 50% – 30% – 20% rule to a wedding budget of $20,000 with a focus on essentials, non-essentials that are important, and non-essentials that are nice to have but not necessary.

1. 50%: Essentials and Must-Haves (e.g., $10,000 out of a $20,000 budget)

• Venue and Catering ($7500): This includes the cost of renting the venue and providing food and beverages for your guests.
• Attire ($1500): Expenses for the bride’s and groom’s attire, including the wedding gown, suit or tuxedo, accessories, and alterations.
• Ceremony and Reception Decor ($500): Basic decor elements, flowers, lighting, and rentals to create a suitable atmosphere.
• Wedding Invitations ($200): Digital Save The Dates with basic wedding invitations.
• Marriage License and Officiant Fees ($300): Legal requirements and fees for the officiant.

2. 30%: Non-Essentials That Are Important to You (e.g., $6,000)

• Photography and Videography ($2,000): Capturing your wedding day professionally to create lasting memories.
• Entertainment ($1,000): Hiring a live band, DJ, or other entertainment options that resonate with your taste.
• Personalized Decor and Favors ($2,000): Customized decor, signage.
• Unique Guest Experiences ($1,000): Enhancing the guest experience with unique activities or entertainment during the wedding, such as a photo booth, lawn games, or a themed photo area.

3. 20%: Non-Essentials That Are Nice to Have (e.g., $4,000)

• Luxury Upgrades ($2,000): Investing in luxury upgrades like premium table linens, upgraded flower arrangements, or additional decor elements that aren’t essential but add a touch of elegance.
• Late-Night Snacks or Desserts ($500): Providing late-night snacks or a dessert bar for guests to enjoy.
• Additional Decor and Aesthetic Enhancements ($1,000): Extra decor items or enhancements purely for aesthetic purposes.
• Wedding Favors and Thank-You Notes ($500): Gifts for guests or thank-you notes that go beyond the essentials.

Remember that these allocations can vary based on your personal preferences, priorities, and overall budget. It’s crucial to have open communication with your partner and make decisions that align with what’s most important to both of you. Tailoring your budget to reflect your unique values and desires will help ensure a memorable and meaningful wedding day.

Small Wedding Cost Breakdown

Guest List:

The first step in planning a small wedding is to determine the guest list. A small wedding typically consists of 50 or fewer guests, making it an excellent option for couples who want a more intimate ceremony.

The average cost per guest was $256 per guest in 2022, $266 in 2021 and $244 in 2022 (The Knot Real Weddings Study)

According to a study done by Zola.com, the average cost of a wedding based on guest size are as follows:

• Over 200 guests: $40,000 and up
• 150-200: $36,000
• 100-150: $31,000
• 75-100: $22,000
• 50-75: $18,000
• Under 50 guests: under $15,000

The more guests you invite, the higher the cost will be. So, the number one way to lower your wedding costs is to trim your guest list!

Venue:

The venue is one of the most significant expenses when planning a wedding. Choosing an affordable location, such as a park or a backyard, can help keep costs down. However, if you prefer a traditional wedding venue, consider having the ceremony and reception in the same place to save money on transportation costs.

Catering:

Food and beverages are another significant expense when planning a small wedding. You can opt for a less formal reception, such as a brunch wedding or cocktail party, to reduce costs. Alternatively, consider having a potluck-style reception, or non-plated dinner options like pizza, tacos, or buffet-style dinners.

Read More: The Complete Guide To Having A Brunch Wedding [75+Ideas]

Flowers and Decorations:

Flowers and decorations can add up quickly, so it’s essential to be mindful of your budget. Opt for in-season blooms or choose mostly greenery to create a natural and budget-friendly look. Consider DIY projects such as centerpieces or table runners to save money.

Photography:

Hiring a professional photographer can be expensive, but it’s worth it to capture your special day. If you’re on a budget, consider hiring a photographer for just a few hours, or have a family member or friend take photos instead.

Read More: Do You Need A DJ For A Small Wedding? #Answered

So How Much Does A Small Wedding Cost?

The average cost of a wedding for under 50 guests is $15,000. But if you keep your guest lists to a minimum, avoid any extravagant spending and be mindful of your budget, you can have a beautiful wedding for under $10,000.