Average Cost of a Wedding to Top $30K in 2024: Here's 6 Money-Saving Tips to Help Cut Down on the High Price
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As it turns out, love does cost a thing.
Due to inflation, throwing a wedding is more expensive than ever. A new report from Zola reveals that the average cost of a wedding will top $30,000 in 2024, as vendors of all types — from florists to caterers — hike up their prices amid a challenging economy. In 2023, 80% of Zola's vendors reported that the overall cost to run their business had increased.
With wedding costs soaring, many couples are having to take a hard look at their budget and make difficult decisions about what event details to prioritize over others. However, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, it's possible to save some money here and there, leaving room in the budget for the most meaningful wedding elements.
Here, Zola wedding and registry expert Emily Forrest shares her best money-saving wedding tips.
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Opt for Digital Save-the-Dates
Forgoing paper cards means money saved on stationery, printing and postage. "I definitely overspent on my own wedding paper because at the time, everything down to the letterpress metallic detailing felt very important," says Forrest. "It used to be that having ornate, elaborate, heavy invitations was a symbol of a fancy wedding. The more stamps on the envelope, the more exciting the invite. Luckily there has been a positive shift in attitude around wedding paper. I wish I took advantage of Zola’s free digital save-the-dates, which can be sent via text or email. It absolutely matches the more casual and personalized wedding vibe we see today. These days all you need is a design and an email address to send an invite! You can also direct guests to your wedding website to RSVP rather than mailing a physical card, which saves money and paper."
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Select an Off-Peak Date
"One of the biggest ways couples are saving money in 2024 is choosing an off-peak time to have their wedding – meaning choosing a date that’s not a Saturday in May - October," says Forrest. "Friday weddings are very popular now! Booking a venue in the off-season has many benefits including off-season pricing and less competition to book venues and vendors. One of the most memorable weddings I ever attended was a winter breakfast wedding. The bride wore a fabulous furry jacket over her dress, and we ate eggs after the ceremony."
Add a Cash Fund Option to Your Registry
"More couples than ever (a whopping 87%) are planning to add at least one cash fund to their registry, and nearly 17% of couples this year are utilizing them to help pay for aspects of their weddings such as photographer or venue fees," says Forrest. "It’s not tacky, especially if personalized. I would be thrilled to contribute to a first dance, or to a wedding ice cream cake, if that was on the registry. With 90% of couples contributing to their wedding cost in some way, why not add this as an option for guests to give to? It’s a smart and practical gift option for supporting all the different steps you’ll take together in the future! Couples also very often add cash funds to help pay for other milestones like their honeymoon, purchasing a home, family planning, or paying down debts."
Flex Your DIY Skills
A number of Zola couples described their wedding style as “DIY”. If you’re blessed with the art of craft like Kat Dennings who just built her own flower arch, DIY is a creative way to cut wedding costs. It doesn’t have to be fancy or traditional. A few years ago I attended a wedding for two bookworm friends who organized antique books as centerpieces. It was beautiful and totally authentic, and very low-cost. Making decor such as your own bouquets and centerpieces can be a fun way to bond with the people most involved in your wedding. I only recommend going this route if you’re confident that the final result will be something you’re happy with, and the cost of raw materials will ultimately save you enough to make it worth it. DIY is a great option but some things are best left to professionals for a reason!"
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Be Upfront with Your Significant Other
"Have the money talk before, or as soon as you get engaged," says Forrest. "If you’re going to be exchanging rings and vows, absolutely do not be shy with your partner when it comes to talking about how much you feel comfortable spending on your wedding. Also do not shy away from talking to loved ones who you think may want to contribute. Money does come with opinions, so an honest conversation is the way to go. It’s also important to, as a couple, decide on your top 3-4 splurge worthy categories, and your bottom three. This year most Zola couples are splurging on their venue, photographer, and an open bar. For my wedding, I really cared about the venue, food and music. It’s a personal decision. If you decide on your buckets in advance, it will be easier to decide on your overall budget breakdown."
Incorporate Thrift
"Take the phrase 'something borrowed' to the next level by repurposing, recycling, or thrifting elements of your wedding," says Forrest. "We found that 14% of couples are planning to thrift their wedding attire or decor. Also ask your wedding vendors how they reuse. Often your wedding planner will have incredible tips for how to repurpose and your florist will also be able to help such as using bouquets as centerpieces. Your vendors are there as your partner to help you save!"
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