How Much Does a Wedding Cost?

According to TheKnot, last year the average bridal couple spent over $28,000 on their wedding. Those in Manhattan spent the most, at over $76,000, and those in Alaska spent the least, averaging about $15,500.

Why so expensive? Many weddings turn into lavish 3-day events, because the families of the bride and groom are scattered around the country. Some couples choose to include brunches and other gatherings the day after the wedding for out-of-town guests. Also, increasingly more common are destination weddings, which might take place in or out of the country.

When you sit down to plan your wedding, be sure to allot enough money for each category. Remember that the food and the entertainment will be what’s talked about the most in years to come, and the photographs are what you’ll have to remind you of your special day, so it makes sense to start with those categories!