Planning a wedding is exciting but can also be financially challenging. Understanding wedding costs in San Diego and other areas in California helps manage your budget effectively. Many couples find that the joy of planning their special day can be overshadowed by the stress of financial decisions. By being informed about the different aspects of wedding costs, you can make smarter decisions and enjoy a beautiful wedding without breaking the bank. Let’s break down the key components that make up wedding costs in California and how you can plan for them.
Rising Costs
Weddings are becoming increasingly expensive each year. The average wedding costs $33,000 for couples getting married in 2024. This is up slightly from $29,000 in 2023. Many factors contribute to this rise, including inflation and high demand for popular venues. Although unique and personalized weddings are what is in today, oftentimes this may lead to higher costs. Understanding these rising costs can help you plan a realistic wedding budget.
Cost by State
Wedding costs vary greatly depending on your location. In California, the average wedding cost is $36,068. Some states are more affordable, while others are pricier due to high demand and luxury venues. For example, a wedding in California can cost significantly more than one in Ohio.
Biggest Ticket Items
Several key expenses make up the majority of your wedding budget. Let’s break them down:
- Venue: San Diego offers stunning beachfront venues, wineries, and luxury resorts, but these often come at a premium. Expect venue costs to range between $10,000 and $15,000 during peak wedding seasons. Opting for off-peak months like November through February can help lower this cost.
- Florals: Your florals can be another major cost, especially for fresh, elaborate arrangements and installations.
- Photography and videography: These are essential for capturing memories but can be expensive. This is definitely a cost worth spending on, as hiring professionals ensures high-quality photos and videos that you’ll be able to enjoy for years to come.
- Catering: Your caterer can be a substantial cost, especially if you’re providing a full meal and open bar. Since this typically accounts for the bulk of wedding expenses, your guest count is a vital factor to consider as to how it is contributing to this cost.
Unexpected Costs
Unexpected wedding costs can catch couples by surprise. In San Diego, some unique expenses to watch out for include:
- Beach Permits: If you’re planning a beach wedding, permits may be required and can cost a few hundred dollars.
- Vendor Overtime: Sometimes wedding timelines fall behind, and you may need to extend vendor services like photographers or DJs. Plan for this in your budget.
- Transportation: If you’re arranging shuttle services for guests to travel between venues, include these costs.
Prepare for these hidden expenses by setting aside a contingency fund.
Honeymoon Budget
Whether this is its own budget or included in your overall wedding budget, the honeymoon can also be more expensive than anticipated. Plan for travel, accommodation, and activities costs. Consider adding a honeymoon cash fund to your registry. The Knot has a great budget tracker to use for your honeymoon expenses.
Complete Weddings + Events San Diego Helps You Save On Your Wedding Costs
The team at Complete Weddings + Events is here to make your wedding day dreams come true, all within budget! With our photography, videography, DJ, lighting, and photo booth services, we are your one-stop shop for the best day ever!
Contact us today to learn more about our “book more, save more” bundle offerings. For wedding savings tips, read our blog 10 Ways to Save on Your Wedding.