Every year from June to October, young couples dream of their fairytale weddings — and parents shudder at the cost.
The estimates of the cost of a big wedding vary, but go from chilly to freezing: $19,000 to $39,000. Of course, the bigger you go and the fancier the venue, the higher the costs.
According to financial advisor Dave Ramsey, nine factors go into making a wedding a big ticket item:
* Venue: $10,500.
Alternatives: Save money by choosing off-season date, book a small church or hotel, rent tents and enjoy the family garden, which can also serve as the reception.
* Reception: $10,870, $15,670.
Alternatives: Family home, parks. Catering may not be necessary if family can arrange food.
* Rings: $8,100.
Alternatives: Go with classic bands and use heirloom rings.
* Honeymoon: $5,000.
Choose the destination you can best afford. Do a road trip. Plan one for the next year instead.
* Photography and videography: $4,200.
Get your friend the amateur photographer. Or skip it. Everyone can take photos these days. Get one formal pose taken.
* Attire: $2,110.
For the bride, try an heirloom dress, a rental, or buy off the rack. For the groom, try a rental tux or go more casual.
* Rehearsal dinner: $1,900.
Alternatives to catering: A potluck dinner, pizza party, food truck, or barbecue.
* Stationery: $560.
Set up a website. Do DIY invitations.
Rick Good spent ten years in the newspaper business, including with The News & Observer (Raleigh, NC) and The Greenville News (Greenville, SC). He co-wrote, with Melinda Coleman, Rutledge to Riley: Governors of South Carolina, 1776–Present (Published by The Greenville News), and is the author of Mind Games Trivia #1 (Amazon). He has recently spent 15 years creating original trivia content through Sounds Good Mobile Entertainment and continues that with his new company, SGME Software. He edits The Smart Reader’s money, real estate, and business coverage.