Weddings are often joyful celebrations filled with love, laughter, and dancing—but for many guests, they also come with a hefty price tag. Whether you're a die-hard wedding enthusiast or someone who dreads the season of save-the-dates, one thing is nearly universal: the financial pause that comes with each invitation.
According to recent data, a single guest can expect to spend an average of $461 to attend a wedding. For couples, the cost rises slightly to $550, thanks to shared expenses like travel and accommodations, but doubled costs for attire and gifts.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:
- Men’s attire: $333 (with shoes being the biggest splurge)
- Women’s attire: $314
- Travel: $80
- Accommodations: $145
- Wedding gift: $150
The good news? You don’t need a new outfit for every event. On average, women can wear the same outfit to three weddings, while men can stretch theirs to five. That’s a small relief for those with a packed wedding calendar—especially considering the average American adult attends two weddings per year.
If you’re not just attending but standing beside the couple as part of the bridal or groom party, prepare for a serious financial commitment. A single member of the wedding party can expect to spend a staggering $2,137, which includes the wedding itself and the bachelor or bachelorette party.
For those planning their own big day, the costs are even more eye-opening. The average cost per guest is $232, and with the typical wedding hosting 115 guests, that brings the total to over $26,000!
Weddings are beautiful milestones, but they come with real financial considerations—whether you're attending or hosting. Planning ahead, reusing outfits, and budgeting for gifts and travel can help ease the burden. And remember: while the costs can add up, the memories often last a lifetime.