When planning your dream wedding, one of the biggest expenses to consider is the cost of the ceremony and reception venue. Los Angeles is known for its breathtaking event spaces, but it comes at a price. In this post, we’ll break down the average cost of a wedding venue in LA and ways to save money on your big day.
The Cost of Wedding Venues in LA
When searching for a Los Angeles wedding venue, you’ll quickly realize that the prices vary greatly depending on size, location, and amenities. On average, you can expect to pay around $10,000-$15,000 for a wedding with 100 guests. This amount includes the ceremony and reception venue rental fees, tables and chairs, linens, catering, and other essentials.
The rental fee typically constitutes the major expense, and it varies depending on the venue. For instance, an upscale hotel or country club with breathtaking views can have a rental fee between $5,000 and $10,000. On the other hand, a beach or park wedding can have a rental fee of $1,500 to $2,500. These fees do not include personalized touches, such as decor, entertainment, and photography, which can add thousands to your overall wedding budget.
How to Save Money on a Wedding Venue in LA
The cost of a wedding venue in LA can be overwhelming. However, there are some simple ways to cut costs and still have the wedding of your dreams.
1. Get married during the off-season
Los Angeles weather is mild year-round. So, if you’re flexible with your wedding date, plan your wedding during the offseason, typically from December through March. During this time, many venues offer discounts and packages for weddings. It’s also easier to negotiate with vendors since it’s not the peak wedding season.
2. Choose a non-traditional venue
Some of the most beautiful locations for a wedding in LA are not necessarily wedding venues. If your preference is a smaller, more intimate wedding, consider a restaurant, a museum, or a historical site. These venues often have lower fees and may help in cutting other expenses, such as transportation since you can have the ceremony and reception at the same location.
3. DIY your decor
Rather than hiring a professional to do the flowers and decorations, consider taking a DIY route. You can save a lot of money by creating your own centerpieces, bouquets, and other decorations. You can also involve your bridal party or family members in the creation process as a fun bonding experience.
4. Opt for a weekday wedding
Venue rental fees also depend on the day of the week. Fridays and Saturdays, being the most popular days for weddings, are also the most expensive. However, if you’re open to having a weekday wedding, you can save a significant amount of money on your venue rental fees. Some venues even offer special packages for weekday weddings.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of a wedding venue in LA can be significant, but it should not keep you from having the wedding of your dreams. By following the tips outlined above, you can reduce your venue rental fees, tap into the best wedding venues, and still have an unforgettable wedding day.
FAQ
Is $20,000 too much for a wedding?
The average cost of a wedding in the United States is a topic that generates a lot of debate. According to a survey conducted by The Knot, the median cost of a wedding in the United States is around $20,000. However, this can vary greatly depending on the location, the size of the wedding, and even the individual preferences of the couple.
One thing to keep in mind is that many people see their wedding as one of the most important days of their lives. It’s a celebration of the love they share with their partner and a chance to share that love with their family and friends. As such, it’s only natural that they would want to spare no expenses in making that day as special as possible.
On the other hand, some people argue that spending $20,000 on a wedding is simply too much money. They suggest that there are other ways that the couple could invest that money, such as buying a home or saving for the future. Additionally, they may feel that the emphasis on extravagant weddings promotes a culture of consumerism that values material possessions over more meaningful experiences.
The decision of how much to spend on a wedding is a personal one. Some couples may choose to have an intimate and low-cost ceremony, while others may spare no expense in creating a once-in-a-lifetime event. As long as the couple is comfortable with their budget and the way they choose to celebrate their love, the cost of a wedding is simply a matter of personal preference.
