How Much Does a Resort Wedding Cost?

By Robert Palmer

Are you dreaming of a resort wedding? The idea of tying the knot in a beautiful destination with your loved ones is undoubtedly appealing. But, before you start planning, it’s essential to consider the costs associated with a resort wedding.

What Is a Resort Wedding?

A resort wedding is a type of destination wedding that takes place at a resort. It typically involves booking rooms for the bride and groom, their families, and guests at the same resort where the wedding ceremony and reception will take place.

Factors That Affect the Cost of a Resort Wedding

Several factors influence the cost of a resort wedding. Here are some of them:

Location: The location of the resort plays a significant role in determining the cost. Some resorts are more expensive than others due to their popularity or exclusivity.

Season: Depending on the season, prices can vary significantly. High season rates are typically more expensive than low season rates.

Guest Count: The number of guests attending your wedding will affect your expenses as you’ll need to pay for their accommodation, food, and drinks.

Type of Packages Offered: Resorts often offer different packages for weddings that include varying levels of services such as decorations, food and beverage selections, photography services, etc.

The Average Cost of a Resort Wedding

According to industry experts, a typical destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort can range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more. However, this cost may vary depending on several factors mentioned earlier.

Here’s an estimated breakdown of expenses for a resort wedding:

  • Venue rental fee: This fee covers exclusive use of space for your ceremony and reception. It can range from $1,000-$10,000.
  • Catering: This includes food and drinks for your guests. You can expect to pay around $100-$200 per person, depending on the package you choose.
  • Accommodations: This expense covers the cost of rooms for you, your family, and guests. Depending on the resort’s exclusivity, this can range from $200-$1,000 per night.
  • Transportation: This includes flights to the destination and ground transportation for guests.

    Depending on where your guests are traveling from, this can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

  • Wedding Decorations: This expense covers floral arrangements, centerpieces, lighting, and other decor items. You can expect to pay around $3,000-$5,000 for this service.
  • Photography/Videography: You’ll want to capture memories of your special day. A professional wedding photographer/videographer can cost anywhere from $2,500-$7,500 or more.

Tips to Save Money on Your Resort Wedding

If you’re looking to save money on your resort wedding costs, here are some tips:

Pick an Off-Season Date: Consider having your wedding during a less popular time of year when resorts offer lower rates.

Select a Less Popular Location: Choosing a less popular destination that’s still beautiful can help you save money.

Negotiate Package Deals: Talk with the resort’s sales team about customizing packages that fit within your budget.

In Conclusion

A resort wedding is a beautiful way to tie the knot in a stunning location with all-inclusive amenities. However, it’s essential to consider all the factors that affect its cost. With proper planning and budgeting, you can have a beautiful destination wedding without breaking the bank.