Planning a wedding is exciting but can also be financially challenging. Understanding wedding expenses in Toronto helps manage your budget effectively. Many couples aim for a beautiful yet budget-friendly wedding, but expenses can quickly add up. 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 makeup wedding costs in Toronto and how you can plan for them.
Rising Costs
Weddings are becoming increasingly expensive each year. The average wedding costs $21,900 for couples getting married. 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.
Biggest Ticket Items
Several key expenses make up the majority of your wedding budget. Let’s break them down:
- Venue: The wedding venue is often the largest expense. Many couples spend a significant portion of their budget securing the perfect location.
- 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. One often overlooked expense is food for the day of getting ready. Ensure you have snacks and meals for the bridal party to keep energy levels up. Tips for vendors are another hidden cost. Read your contracts carefully as some may include this already. One important thing to consider is setting some money aside if you think you may want any of your vendors longer than you contracted them. For example, sometimes wedding timelines fall behind and DJs/ photographers will stay longer if needed.
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.
Tips on How to Save Money on Your Wedding
Planning a dream wedding while staying within budget is possible with the right approach. Here are some ways to save on wedding expenses without compromising quality:
- Choose an Off-Peak Date: Weddings held during weekdays or off-season months tend to have lower venue and vendor costs.
- Limit the Guest List: Reducing the guest count significantly impacts the overall budget, especially for catering and venue expenses.
- Opt for a Simplified Wedding Package: Many venues and planners offer affordable wedding packages that include essential services, helping couples cut costs.
- DIY Where Possible: Creating decorations, designing invitations, or even baking a simple wedding cake can save money while adding a personal touch.
- Negotiate with Vendors: Some Toronto wedding vendors offer discounts for bundled services or flexible payment plans.
- Skip the Full Open Bar: Offering a limited selection of drinks instead of a full open bar can keep beverage costs under control.
Wedding Packages in Toronto
Choosing a wedding package can be one of the best ways to cut costs while simplifying the planning process. Many venues and vendors offer bundled services that include photography, videography, catering, and entertainment at a lower overall price than booking everything separately. All-inclusive wedding packages in Toronto often cover essential details like decor and coordination, eliminating the need to hire multiple vendors and reducing unexpected expenses.
Customizable packages also allow couples to prioritize key services while staying within budget. By booking multiple services together, many Toronto wedding vendors offer discounts, making it easier to get everything needed for the big day without overspending.
Complete Weddings + Events Toronto 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, coordination, 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.