What does an average wedding cost in Austin, Texas? One of our biggest jobs as wedding planners is to help you build realistic expectations. Many couples feel overwhelmed and lost when it comes to their wedding budget, so we’re here to shed some light on what you can expect in the Austin wedding market.

Instagram vs. Reality

First things first, let’s discuss social media vs. reality. While some wedding sites may report the average cost of weddings is $40-50k, or even less, the reality is that the gorgeous weddings you see on Instagram, Pinterest and even TikTok are not average. In our portfolio and across our social media, the typical cost per guest is $500-$800 per guest.

Factors that affect pricing

There are many variables that affect your budget! Some of the biggest factors are:

• Guest count
• Day of the week
• Time of year (aka season)
• Vendor expertise
• Hours of service on wedding day
• and potential services before the wedding day (hair and makeup trials, engagement photos, etc)

Across the board, Saturday’s are the most popular day of the week for weddings. This also means they are typically more expensive. In Austin specifically, Spring and Fall are popular seasons due to the more mild weather. With higher demand comes higher cost! The weather also can play a role in additional rentals if you are having an outdoor wedding. You may need to rent heaters or AC units, or a tent if your wedding will be during a rainy season.

Feeding 50 guests is a lot different than 200 guests. Typical wedding tables fit 8 people, so trimming down the guest list can reduce your number of tables. Reducing tables then leads to 1 less linen, centerpiece, place settings, etc.

Vendors with less expertise may charge less than those with years of experience. New vendors can still be a great choice! Just keep in mind they are less experienced with handling day of emergencies, weather elements, family and guest dynamics, etc.

Most vendors will charge some form of hourly rate. While this time is typically determined by the vendors themselves, vendors like photographers and videographers are a bit more flexible. If you really just want your ceremony, family photos, and a few formalities covered, you can book your photographer for less time. If you want every detail of the day covered, from hair and makeup all the way to your grand exit, you’ll be paying for that additional coverage.

Starting Price vs. Average vs. Minimum Spend

You might see these words on wedding vendor websites as you begin your search. What do they mean?
“Starting price” is the cost of the lowest priced package that vendor offers. The “average” is the most common amount couples spend. More often than not, couples need more than the bare minimum package! Last but not least, a “minimum spend” is a number the company will set in place that must be met in order to provide services. This is most common for florists and catering teams. For example, it is most cost effective for a florist to book one wedding that is spending $15,000 on florals, then 3 weddings in the same day that are each spending $5,000. Enforcing a minimum spend, especially on popular dates, ensures the vendor can maximize staff efficiency and cost of goods.

Typical Vendor Costs

Now that we’ve got the groundwork set, let’s talk numbers. Here are the typical vendor costs in Austin, Texas.

Full Service Wedding Planner: $8,000 – $12,000
Venue: $8,000 – $15,000
Bar: $2,000 – $4,000
Catering: $10,000 – $20,000+
Photography: $6,000 – $10,000+
Videography: $5,000 – $9,000+
Florals: $5,000 – $20,000+
Band: $7,000 – $12,000
DJ: $2,000 – $3,000+
Event Rentals: $3,000 – $6,000+
Officiant: $500 – $800+
Hair + Makeup: $250 – $500+ per person
Cake/Desserts: $1,000 – $2,500+
Stationery: $1,000 – $3,000+
Transportation: $3,000 – $8,000+
Exit Car: $400 – $800+

Average Wedding Cost

So, what can you expect to spend on your wedding? In Austin, Texas, for 150 guests, you can expect to spend between…
$65,000 – $100,000+

Why does the average wedding cost matter?

Education is so important when it comes to wedding planning. We’re here to set realistic expectations so you can plan accordingly! No one likes surprises when it comes to budget. We’re here to share this average so you can avoid some sticker shock when you begin planning your wedding. Of course, every wedding is different, and you can absolutely have a wedding for more or less than the average wedding cost!

Let’s get this planning party started! Want Bianca Nichole and Co to help plan your wedding in Austin? Click here to send us an inquiry!

Featured vendors: Carhart Photography, Happy by MP, Mae’s Ridge, Project Artistry, Peerless Events and Tents

Want to see more of this wedding? Check out their blog on Carhart Photography’s website!