For couples deciding between a local wedding or a tropical getaway, here’s how the numbers actually stack up—and why the answer isn’t just about money.
Why This Comparison Matters
If you're newly engaged and weighing your wedding options, you've probably noticed a major fork in the road: should you plan a hometown celebration or jet off for a destination wedding?
Financially, emotionally, and logistically, both paths come with pros and cons. This guide breaks down the real cost of a destination wedding vs. a local wedding in Canada—from a wedding photographer’s perspective—and helps you decide which route makes sense for your vision and budget.
Average Wedding Costs in Canada (Local Weddings)
According to recent Canadian data, the average local wedding lands between $30,000 and $40,000, depending on your province, guest count, and vendor choices.
Here’s a realistic breakdown for a 100-guest wedding:
| 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 | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Invitations, Gifts, etc. | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Total | $31,500–$64,000 |
Presentation Gifts: Most local weddings in Canada receive between $10,000–$20,000 in cash gifts, helping to offset your actual out-of-pocket spend.
Average Cost of a Destination Wedding
An all-inclusive destination wedding generally falls between $20,000 and $30,000—not including guest travel expenses.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Resort Wedding Package | $10,000–$15,000 |
| Photo/Video, Hair & Makeup | $7,500–$15,000 |
| Travel (often comped) | $0–$6,000 |
| Attire | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Extras & Gifts | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Total | $21,000–$43,000 |
Group Booking Perks: Many couples receive free airfare or upgraded suites when booking through a destination travel agent with enough guests.
Why the Cost Isn’t the Only Factor
Price is important—but the better question is: what kind of experience do you want?
1. Guest List Size
- Local weddings often host 100+ guests
- Destination weddings typically include 20–40 close friends and family
→ Smaller guest list = lower cost, but possibly missing key people
2. Gift Expectations
- Local weddings often generate $10,000+ in monetary gifts
- Destination weddings rarely include gifts, since guests already spend on travel
3. Décor and Venue Styling
- Local venues require more décor and rentals
- Destination weddings often rely on the natural beauty of beaches, gardens, or cliffsides
4. Shared Experience
- Destination weddings create a multi-day immersive event with your inner circle
- Local weddings are easier for older relatives and young kids to attend
5. Planning and Coordination
- Most resorts include a wedding coordinator
- Local weddings typically require hiring a professional wedding planner or coordinating everything yourself
Related: What to Expect from Your Resort’s Wedding Coordinator
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between a destination and a local wedding isn’t just about which one is cheaper—it’s about where your values, priorities, and people are.
Choose a Local Wedding if You:
- Want a larger celebration
- Value receiving presentation gifts
- Prefer full control and customization
Choose a Destination Wedding if You:
- Want an intimate, scenic experience
- Prefer a relaxed planning process
- Are okay spending on travel and experience instead of guest count
And wherever you say “I do,” hire a Canadian wedding photographer who can bring your day to life with timeless storytelling—whether it’s a Tulum beach or a Rocky Mountain lodge.
How to Find the Perfect Wedding Photographer: The Ultimate Guide to Making the Right Choice