Average Canadian Wedding Budgets
Planning a wedding in Canada can feel like solving a very expensive puzzle. Between vendors, traditions, and surprise costs, many couples find themselves asking: Where is all this money actually going?
Whether you're organizing a backyard celebration in Saskatchewan or a luxury wedding in downtown Vancouver, understanding where couples typically spend helps you budget wisely—and avoid regrets.
Related: How to Build Your Wedding Budget in Canada (and Actually Stick to It)
Average Wedding Costs in Canada (For 100 Guests)
Here’s a typical Canadian wedding budget breakdown for a guest list of 100:
|
Category |
Estimated Cost |
|
Venue |
$5,000–$10,000 |
|
Food & Beverage |
$7,500–$10,000 |
|
Wedding Planner |
$2,500–$5,000 |
|
Photography & Videography |
$5,000–$15,000 |
|
Hair & Makeup |
$1,000–$2,000 |
|
Florals & Decor |
$5,000–$10,000 |
|
Entertainment & Transport |
$2,000–$5,000 |
|
Attire (Dress, Suit) |
$2,000–$4,000 |
|
Stationery, Gifts, Misc |
$1,500–$3,000 |
|
Total |
$31,500–$64,000 |
Planning in Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal? Expect to land near the higher end of this range.
Bonus: Monetary Gifts Can Offset Your Budget
In many Canadian communities, guests bring cash gifts—especially in cultures where “presentation” is customary. At $100–$200 per guest, this can offset $10,000–$20,000 of your spending.
Related: Canadian Wedding Guest Etiquette: What’s Expected in 2025
3 Sample Wedding Budgets for Canadian Couples
1. The Mid-Range Traditional Wedding ($40K–$50K)
- 100 guests, plated meal, trusted vendors
- Photography & Video: $8,000
- Planner: $4,000
- Venue & Catering: $18,000
- Decor & Florals: $6,000
- Attire & Hair/Makeup: $5,000
- Stationery & Misc: $3,000
2. The DIY Wedding With the Essentials (~$20,000)
- Venue: $3,000 (community hall or backyard)
- Food & Drink: $7,000
- Photographer: $4,000
- Hair & Makeup: $1,000
- Dress & Suit: $2,000
- Other: $3,000
Learn more: How to Hire a More Affordable Wedding Photographer (Without Regretting It)
3. A Small Luxury Wedding ($35,000 for 50 guests)
- Venue & Catering: $15,000
- Photographer: $6,000
- Florals: $4,000
- Planner: $4,000
- Attire: $4,000
- Other: $2,000
Where Can You Save Without Regret?
- Skip the videographer? Only if you're 100% sure you won’t miss having a film. Read: Do You Need a Wedding Videographer Too?
- Cut the guest list: Smaller guest count = big savings on food and venue
- DIY décor or stationery: Great for creatives—just budget your time
- Skip the planner? Maybe. Read: Should You Hire a Wedding Planner?
Spend Smart by Prioritizing What Matters
Every couple has different priorities. For some, it's all about the photography. For others, it's the food, the venue, or creating a fun guest experience.
Start by asking: What will I still care about in 10 years?
If you're stuck on photography choices, here's help:
How to Compare Wedding Photography Packages Like a Pro
Related: What’s the Difference Between a $2,000 and $4,000 Wedding Photographer?
Final Thoughts
There’s no one “right” way to budget your Canadian wedding. But understanding how most couples spend—and what real weddings cost—can help you set better expectations and avoid sticker shock.
Looking for full planning help? How to Plan a Wedding in Canada — Month-by-Month Timeline