Summary:
Long Island, New York, is the most expensive place to get married in the US, with an average cost of $58,245.
This is nearly 70% higher than the national average of $34,679.
Couples are finding creative ways to save money, including using AI for wedding planning and hosting weddings on weekdays or in less expensive destinations.
Salt Lake City, Utah, is the least expensive wedding destination in the US, with an average cost of $27,210.
Say 'I Do' Without Breaking the Bank: Long Island Reigns Supreme in Wedding Costs
It's no secret that weddings can be costly, especially in New York City, but a new study reveals a surprising truth: Long Island takes the crown as the most expensive wedding destination in the US, surpassing even Manhattan!
According to recent research by GroomsDay, a groomsman gifting website, couples on Long Island shell out an average of $58,245 to tie the knot, nearly 70% higher than the national average of $34,679.
GroomsDay founder Chris Bajda warns that the wedding's ZIP code can heavily impact the budget. He reminds us that a lavish wedding doesn't automatically translate to a magical experience:
"A $60,000 wedding doesn't guarantee 60,000 magical moments."
So, what can cash-conscious couples do to avoid the hefty price tag?
Here are some clever solutions:
- Embrace AI: A recent trend sees brides like Maria Cortese turning to ChatGPT for wedding planning, saving a significant amount on planner fees.
- Weekday Wedding Wonderland: East Village couple Caroline Spain and Stephen are opting for a weekday wedding at a castle in Dublin, Ireland. This unique choice is saving them around $70,000!
- Destination Dreams: Experts suggest considering a ceremony far from home, as destinations outside of the New York area can offer significantly lower wedding costs.
**On the other end of the spectrum, Salt Lake City, Utah, is crowned the most affordable wedding destination in America, with an average cost of $27,210. **
Bajda emphasizes that ultimately, the wedding should be about celebrating love, not emptying bank accounts:
"It's all about creating those 'wow' moments without the 'ow' to your bank account."
Choosing Your Wedding Location: Where to Say 'I Do'
The study looked at wedding costs in various cities and states across the country. Here's a breakdown of the most and least expensive destinations:
Top 5 Most Expensive:
- Long Island, New York
- Westchester, New York
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Boston, Massachusetts
- Hartford, Connecticut
Top 5 Least Expensive:
- Salt Lake City, Utah
- Kansas City, Missouri
- Charleston, South Carolina
- Jacksonville, Florida
- Portland, Oregon
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