“Why are weddings so expensive?”

You’ve probably asked this out loud. Maybe in a group chat. Maybe while looking at a cake quote that costs more than your first car. Either way — you’re not alone.

This is the question most engaged couples ask the moment they start planning.

And the answer? It’s layered. Because yes — weddings can be expensive.

But also? Many people just don’t know what things actually cost until they’re deep into planning.

So let’s break it down — from hidden costs to real talk on guest lists, and how you can have a beautiful wedding without selling your soul or your side hustle.

🌍 Is it really more expensive, or are we just uninformed?

The truth is… both.

Weddings have definitely become more elaborate and Pinterest-perfect over the years. But also, most of us have no idea what things like:

A DJ

Florals

Chairs (yes, chairs!)

or a proper wedding coordinator

actually cost.

Until you’re engaged, you’re not browsing venue packages or getting quotes from caterers. So when you do? It’s a bit of a shock.

Add in things like load-shedding backups, travel logistics (especially if you’re in the diaspora planning a wedding back home), and foreign currency pricing, and it’s no wonder budgets feel out of control.

🪩 What drives the costs?

Here’s a quick look at what actually eats your wedding budget:

Guest List Size: More people = more food, more drinks, more chairs, more EVERYTHING.

Venue: Whether it’s a safari lodge, beachfront spot, or city rooftop — location pricing varies a lot.

Catering & Bar: Especially if you want plated service, cocktail hour snacks, and an open bar.

Decor & Flowers: Custom setups, floral installations, candles, and draping? It adds up quickly.

Photo & Video: You’re paying for their time and their talent. And it’s worth every cent.

Hidden Costs: Think transport, security, backup power, VAT, corkage, overtime fees…

🧾 So how do you create a realistic wedding budget?

Here’s the good news — you can have a stunning wedding without going broke. But it takes intention.

Here’s how to start:

✅ Figure out your total max budget (this includes gifts, outfits, EVERYTHING).

✅ Prioritise what matters — is it food? Fashion? A fire dance floor? Choose your splurge.

✅ Use a wedding planning tool (hello 👋 we’ve got one right here for you!)

✅ Get quotes early — don’t just guess. Ask vendors what their packages include.

✅ Budget for extras — and don’t forget the small stuff like printing or beauty trials!

💡 Real Talk from Local Wedding Planners

“Most couples just don’t realise that a 200-person wedding costs more because it’s not just 200 plates — it’s 200 forks, 200 glasses, 200 chairs, and service staff to match.”

— Tariro M., Wedding Planner in Harare

“If you’re in the UK or Canada planning a wedding back home, factor in currency conversion, shipping, and the stress cost — hire someone local to help!”

— Mbali D., Durban-based Planner

💖 TL;DR: Budgeting = Empowerment

You don’t have to feel overwhelmed. When you know where the costs come from, you can make choices that feel good — and spend in ways that reflect your priorities, not pressure.

So next time someone says “weddings are expensive,” you can say:

“Not if you plan it right — and I’ve got the spreadsheet to prove it.”

Ready to start budgeting like a boss?

👉 Check out our free Wedding Budget Planner and other planning tools [insert link] to get clear, calm, and on track for your dream day.

#PlanMyWeddingAfrica #BudgetBeauty #WeddingPlanningTips #SAWeddingBudget #ZimBrideOnABudget #DiasporaWeddingPlanning