Average Cost of Wedding

By Daniel Martinez · May 31, 2026

The average wedding in the US costs $30,000-$35,000, but that number rarely tells the whole story. After helping hundreds of couples budget, I've identified 12 hidden fees that consistently surprise people.

1. Service Charges and Gratuities (18-22%)

Most venues and caterers add a mandatory service charge of 18-22% on top of the quoted price. On a $15,000 catering bill, that's an extra $2,700-$3,300. This is NOT the same as a tip — ask if gratuity is included or additional.

2. Overtime Fees

Your reception ends at 11 PM, but the party's still going? Most venues charge $200-$500 per additional hour. Some also charge overtime for setup/cleanup that exceeds the contracted window.

3. Corkage and Cake-Cutting Fees

Bringing your own wine? Expect $15-$30 per bottle corkage fee. Bringing an outside cake? $2-$5 per slice cutting fee. For 150 guests, that's $300-$750 just for cutting.

4. Vendor Meals

Your photographer, videographer, DJ, and planner all need to eat. Budget $40-$75 per vendor meal. With 4-6 vendors, that's $160-$450 you might not have planned for.

5. Delivery and Setup Fees

Flowers, rentals, and even the cake often come with delivery fees: $50-$200 each. Setup/breakdown labor can add $200-$500 for complex rentals.

6. Marriage License

Small but easily forgotten: $30-$100 depending on your state. Some states require a waiting period, so plan ahead.

7. Name Change Costs

If you're changing your name: new passport ($130-$160), new driver's license, updated documents. Budget $200-$500 total.

8. Wedding Insurance

Highly recommended ($150-$500), especially for outdoor weddings or expensive venues. Covers cancellations, vendor no-shows, and liability.

9. Alterations

Your dress was $1,500, but alterations run $300-$800. Groom's suit tailoring: $50-$200. Always budget 20-30% of attire cost for alterations.

10. Parking and Transportation

Guest parking at hotel venues: $15-$40 per car. Shuttle services: $500-$2,000. Luxury car for the couple: $300-$800.

11. Postage

Save-the-dates, invitations, RSVPs, and thank-you cards. With 100+ guests and multiple mailings, postage adds up to $200-$500.

12. Taxes

Sales tax on everything: venue, catering, flowers, attire, rentals. In high-tax states (CA, NY, WA), this adds 8-10% across your entire budget.

The Real Total

Add all 12 hidden fees together and you're looking at an extra $5,000-$15,000 on top of your base budget. Always add a 15% contingency buffer.