The cost of getting married in Raleigh, NC can vary widely depending on various factors such as the venue, number of guests, catering, decorations, entertainment, and other miscellaneous expenses. On average, however, couples in the United States spend anywhere from $20,000 to $35,000 on their wedding. In Raleigh specifically, costs will vary based on the vendors and venues you choose.

Here are some factors to consider when estimating the cost of getting married in Raleigh, NC:

Venue:

The cost of the venue is often one of the most significant expenses when planning a wedding. Raleigh offers a variety of venues ranging from hotels and banquet halls to outdoor parks and historic homes. Prices can vary widely depending on the location, amenities, and time of year. If you are looking for a more cost effective option – consider an outdoor space in the spring with beautiful blooms like the J.C. Raulston Arboretum or the Raleigh Rose Garden. In summary, a venue rental can cost anywhere from $500 to over $10,000.

Catering:

Food and beverage costs can also account for a significant portion of your wedding budget. Raleigh has a thriving culinary scene, so you’ll have plenty of options for catering services ranging from formal sit-down dinners to casual buffets or food trucks. For decent wedding catering in Raleigh, expect to pay anywhere between $50 and $200 per guest. If you want flexibility, consider going with a versatile caterer like Rocky Top Catering.

Guest count:

The number of guests you invite will directly impact your overall wedding expenses. More guests typically mean higher costs for catering, rentals, and other services. If you are unsure about who to invite to your wedding in Raleigh, consider creating a priority list. If you want a specific number of people at your wedding, start to invite people lower in the priority list if people higher up decline. If numbers don’t matter, create a list and stick to it.

Decorations and flowers:

Decor and floral arrangements can vary based on what you are looking for. If you are getting married indoors, you will likely require more blooms to liven up the space. The good news is that there are plenty of beautiful wedding venues in Raleigh that require minimal decor as the space is already beautiful. At a minimum, you will need bouquets and boutonnieres. Most florists have a minimum – expect to pay at least $3,000 on flowers. Find a florist like Comfy Florals that will help you get the most blooms for your buck!

Entertainment:

Whether you choose a live band, DJ, or other entertainment options, factor in the cost of music and entertainment for your wedding reception. Raleigh has a vibrant music scene, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. For a DJ, you can expect to pay a minimum of $1,000 for your wedding in Raleigh. For a band, expect at least $4,000.

Photography and videography:

Capturing memories of your special day is important, so budget for professional photography and videography services. Prices can vary depending on the photographer’s experience, package options, and additional services. Raleigh has tons of wedding photographers to choose from, and prices can vary. I always recommend couples budget at least $3,500 for their photographer.

Wedding attire and accessories:

Don’t forget to budget for your wedding attire, including the wedding dress, groom’s attire, accessories, and alterations. For a more affordable wedding dress option, consider checking out Vow’d in Raleigh’s North Hill’s district! Expect a wedding dress to cost anywhere from $500 to $4,000.

Wedding planner or coordinator:

Hiring a wedding planner or coordinator can help alleviate stress and ensure that your wedding day runs smoothly. While it’s an additional expense, many couples find it worthwhile for the peace of mind it provides. Additionally, wedding planners and coordinators are typically well-connected in the local wedding industry. Therefore, they can help you save money by having more candid conversations with vendors, and by knowing the best options to fit your style and budget. Find a planner that can be transparent with you, and you will stay in budget and have everything you wanted without stressing too much. For a professional and experienced wedding planner in Raleigh, minimum month of planning for starts at around $2,000.

Transportation:

Consider transportation costs for you, your wedding party, and guests if necessary. This may include limousine services, shuttle buses, or rideshare options. The Great Raleigh Trolley is surprisingly affordable and a nice nod to Raleigh’s history! You can get a couple hours with the trolley for less than $1,000!

Marriage license and officiant fees:

Don’t forget to budget for the cost of obtaining a marriage license and any fees associated with hiring an officiant to perform the ceremony. This shouldn’t cost more than $100.

By carefully considering these factors and creating a detailed budget, you can better estimate the cost of getting married in Raleigh, NC and plan a wedding that fits within your financial means. A wedding planner is a great resource to help you create this detailed budget, so be sure to find someone that not only knows how to work with the design, but the numbers too! Planners can help create a budget tracker, and help reach out to local vendors and venues for quotes and pricing information.

If you are still looking for a wedding planner in Raleigh that can help you stay in budget, and create the wedding of your dreams, Significant Events would love to meet you!