Discover the Wedding Expenses That Bring Joy and Last a Lifetime

A Good Photographer - and Video if You Can Swing It

Initially, I was hesitant to hire a photographer for my own wedding. I focused more on creating a fun atmosphere rather than worrying about pictures. But my father's advice changed my perspective. "Find a great photographer," he said. "You'll cherish those memories later."

And he was right. I found a photographer who not only took beautiful photos but also recorded the heartfelt speeches at our reception. This was something I didn't realize I needed until I saw the final product. Many others shared the same sentiment. One person who eloped still paid for a photographer to accompany them to City Hall. Another emphasized that photography and video were a significant part of their budget and they still watch their wedding video every year with their kids.

Regrets were common when it came to not investing more in photography. One person said, "That we didn't spend more on photography still makes me sad. We got married 11 years ago and only have a few poor-quality photos that don't capture important moments. We overvalued other expenses and now it's a painful reminder."

The Music You Actually Want

Whether it's a DJ or a band, it's crucial to find someone who knows their stuff. Most DJs are more affordable than live music and can deliver excellent performances. One person shared, "Our music vendor cost more than we planned, but it was worth every penny. They set a great tone and people still talk about it years later."

Music is highly personal, so it's important to hire performers who can meet your expectations. For example, one couple spent a quarter of their budget on four musicians who performed a special song during the ceremony. It was a sublime moment that they would do again in a heartbeat.

No one who spent a lot on music felt they had wasted their money. One friend said, "I consider music to be the centerpiece of the wedding experience, so we paid a big DJ to cancel a music-festival performance just to play at our wedding. It was the best investment."

An Outfit You Love

While an expensive dress isn't necessary to look great, it's important to choose something that makes you feel like yourself. One person regretted getting a fancy gown that was uncomfortable. Instead, they suggested getting a nice white dress from a department store, which cost a fraction of the price of a bridal gown.

A good tailor is also essential. As a stylist friend pointed out, "Even the most expensive dress will look bad if it doesn't fit well." And don't worry about only wearing the dress once. One photographer friend said, "My dress was dark red and I thought I'd wear it again, but I never did. But I felt amazing on that one day and have no regrets."

A Wedding Planner or Day-of Coordinator

Many people who didn't have a wedding planner or day-of coordinator wished they had. Even those who did have one wished they had spent more on a better one. One person said, "The on-site team at our wedding venue did a decent job, but there were some hiccups like seating assignments and bar staff issues that could have been avoided with a dedicated coordinator."

A good wedding planner can actually save you money and help you avoid unnecessary costs. My friend May said, "I really wish we'd had a planner. The one I wanted quoted $25,000, which seemed expensive. But our wedding ended up costing over $150,000 because we didn't know what we were doing. If we'd spent the money on a planner upfront, she could have helped us stick to a budget and saved me time and mental energy."

Plenty of Food and an Open Bar

"Good food" and "alcohol" were top priorities for many couples. One of the best weddings I attended had homemade chili served in huge vats in a field. On the other hand, the worst wedding I went to had an elaborate dinner with tiny portions, leaving everyone hungry and drunk.

Couples who spent a good amount on food received great appreciation from their guests. One couple said, "We spent a lot on food and our guests were very thankful. I would have spent more if possible!" And someone who cut corners with a cash bar regretted it. "In retrospect, it was stressful to see my guests pay for their drinks. An open bar would have been worth it."

Flowers - Yes, Just Go for It

If I could redo my wedding, I would definitely buy more flowers. Our florist did a great job with the budget, but in hindsight, everything looked a bit sparse. One friend learned the hard way when they tried to DIY their flowers and it didn't turn out well. They spent a lot of money and the results were disappointing.

Those who went all out with flowers were thrilled. One bride said she got potted olive trees brought to the venue and they looked amazing. They became a central part of their photos and gave the impression of a Mediterranean wedding.

My friend Emma, who has been married twice, always spends a lot on her bouquet. She said, "I've had two small weddings and was a cheapskate on everything else, but I spent at least $250 on gorgeous flowers. It was worth every cent."

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