It's engagement season, which means it's time to start planning your wedding! What can you expect to budget for your local Austin wedding? Every year, we have continued to survey a variety of reputable and established vendors in the wedding industry to gather data on your investment. We compile the median data by vendor category so you know the average cost either per guest or the number is for an estimated 100 guests. We've got you covered on what to expect to pay, how much to allocate toward gratuity and how far in advance you should consider booking each vendor.!
Helpful blogs: 2024 Average Wedding Cost in Austin | Understanding Wedding Vendor Gratuity
ALCOHOL & BAR
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$5,000 (Range: $3,000 - $9,000+ includes alcohol, delivery, staffing, supplies, labor, etc.) | Customary: 15% - 20% on the total alcohol/bar cost much like a restaurant or bar + depending on service received | 6 - 9 months prior to wedding day |
BAND
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$8,750 for an 8-10 piece band without upgrades (Range: $7,000 - $10,000+) | Optional: $25 - $50+ per band member | 9 - 12 months prior to wedding day |
$8,500 in 2024... Why the price increase?
The overall cost of travel and price increase of Austin living justifies the price increase.
CAKE
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$2,000 or $8 per guest (Range: $1,500 to $2,500) | Not Customary/Optional: $20-$50 towards delivery and set up on-site | 4-6+ months prior to wedding day |
CATERING
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$130 - $150 per guest (Range: $10,000 - $25,000+ depending on type of service) | Customary: 15-20% of total cost food & beverage (Please note that the operational/administration fees are NOT gratuity.) | 9-12+ months prior to wedding day |
$120-140 per person in 2024... Why the price increase?
Staffing shortages across the board (in both the kitchen and on the serving side) due to cost of living in Austin. The overall cost of food and products, as well as relying on suppliers and delivery of products on a weekly basis.
DESSERTS
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$8 per guest (Range: $1,000 - $2,000) | Not Customary/Optional: $20 - $50 for delivery, set up, additional labor | 4-6+ months prior to wedding day |
For a playful twist, consider mini pies, donuts, or a churro station. Whether you choose one show-stopping dessert or a mix of sweet options, let your selection reflect your style and satisfy your crowd.
DJ
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$2,750 for ceremony & reception setup, additional lighting and services, as well as adding on musicians (Range: $2,000 - $6,000) | Optional: $100 - $200 per DJ/Emcee | 9-12+ months prior to wedding day |
A DJ does more than play music—they’re also your wedding emcee, managing key moments like speeches and ensuring everything runs smoothly. They handle all equipment, setting the perfect mood for every part of your day. Not to mention, they need multiple sets of equipment to cover all areas of your wedding venue!
$2,500 in 2024... Why the price increase?
The overall cost of travel to and from wedding venues and the cost of living in Austin.
FLORIST
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$8,000+ as a standard minimum for a prime date (Range $7,000 - $20,000+) | Optional/Not Customary: 10-20% of the cost on labor/service/operational fees | 9-12+ months prior to wedding day |
HAIR + MAKE UP ARTISTS
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$325 - Bride, $230 - Bridesmaids/Additional Guests/Family (Range: $200-$400 per person) | Expected/Customary: 15-20% of service/per person depending on your experience | 6-9+ months prior to wedding day |
Bridal trials, while an added cost, let you preview your look and can double as prep for engagement photos or your bachelorette party. Larger bridal parties may require more artists, increasing time and cost, but ensuring everyone looks their best.
$300 for the bride + $225 per bridesmaid in 2024... Why the price increase?
Product costs in the hair and makeup industry has increased as well as maintaining on-going eduction and licensing for stylists have increased. Additionally, the overall cost of living in Austin and cost of gas.
MISC. SPECIALTY VENDORS
VENDOR CATEGORY | AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$1,200 ( Range $800-$1,800) | Optional | At least 1 month prior to wedding date | |
Cold Sparks and Pyrotechnics | $2,250 ( Range $1000 - $7,500) | Optional | At least 1 month prior to wedding date |
$5,000 (Range: $1,500 - $10,00+) | Recommended/Optional: 10% - 20% on total service cost | 6-9+ months prior to wedding day | |
Live Painting | $1,800 | Optional: 10% of service cost | 4 months prior to wedding day |
$800 for 40 min performance with 4 dancers - $1,750 with 10-12 performers + live drummers | Optional: $20 per performer | 4-6+ months prior to wedding day |
MUSICIANS
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$700/hour (Range: $600 - $1,200+) | Customary: $20 - $40 per musician or 10% - 20% on total service cost | 6-9+ months prior to wedding day |
OFFICIANT
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$500 (Range: $400 - $1200) | Not Customary: $50 - $100 or a gift/donation to the church/individual | 4-6+ months prior to wedding day |
PHOTOGRAPHY
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$6,500 (Range: $5,000 - $8,000+) | Optional: $100 - $300 per lead photographer and $100 - $150 - additional shooters | Prioritize after selecting date/venue, 12+ months out for your top choice |
$6,200 in 2024... Why the price increase?
The high demand of weddings and limited date availability as well as cost of supplies (albums, prints, USB's, galleries, etc) as well as gas prices and overall cost of living in Austin.
PHOTO BOOTH
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$1,200 (Range: $800 - $2,000+ depending on printing/equipment/attendant) | Optional: $25 - $50 for photo booth attendant on-site for duration of event | 4-6+ months before your wedding day |
PLANNING / COORDINATION
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$5,500 (Range: $3,500 - $20,000 or 10% of total wedding) | Optional: $100 - $300 per lead planner and $50 - $100 for additional team members or assistants or 10% - 20% on total package cost | As soon as possible! They will direct you to your vendor dream team the quickest! |
RENTALS
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$5,000 (Range: $3,000 - $15,000+) | Not Customary: $50+ per delivery/setup crew | 9-12 months prior, depending on wedding date's popularity and securing item's availability |
Event rentals help create a unique wedding, but costs can add up with labor, setup, and breakdown. Catering proposals often include rentals like linens and dance floors, which can account for up to 40% of your budget. Work with your planner, florist, and caterer to bring your vision to life!
STATIONERY & SIGNAGE
BLOG: Flat Lay All Day: Advice From a Stationer | Invitations + Signage for Your Wedding - Q&A with Green Girl Design Co.
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$1,800 (Range: $1,000 - $3,000) | Optional: $50 | 4-6+ months prior to wedding day |
Custom stationery and signage add a personal touch to your wedding, starting with save-the-dates and invitations, and extending to welcome signs, ceremony programs, seating charts, and menu cards. Whether simple or elaborate, these vendors spend countless hours designing, proofing, and preparing everything to create those special, one-of-a-kind moments for your big day.
TRANSPORTATION
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
Shuttles - $5,000 (Range: $3,000 - $10,000+) | Optional/Customary: $100+ per driver | 4-6+ months prior to wedding day |
Private - $800 for 2 hours with a vintage getaway vehicle | Expected: 10% - 20% of total cost | 4+ months prior to wedding day |
Transportation is important for weddings, especially in Austin. Offering guest transportation, like buses or SUVs, is a smart choice, especially for remote venues. Rates vary based on location, guest count, and timing, with busy periods like F1 and ACL affecting costs. Don’t forget about a getaway car—luxury options are available to ensure everything runs smoothly.
VENUE
BLOG: Wedding Venue Shopping Q&A | 2023 Virtual Tours - TX + CO | 2022 Virtual Tours | 2021 Virtual Tours
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$10,000 - Prime Saturday during wedding season (Range: $8,000 - $15,000) | Not customary | Right when you are engaged, but 12-18+ months if you want your top pick of venue selection |
Weekend weddings, especially on Saturdays, are more expensive due to high demand. Costs cover venue usage, rentals, spaces, amenities, and backup plans for weather. Venues vary, with some offering full services and others just space. Operating a venue includes expenses like taxes, maintenance, and staff. Many venues also require a licensed planner and caterer to ensure quality.
VIDEOGRAPHY
AVERAGE EXPECTED COST | RECOMMENDED GRATUITY | WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK |
$5,500 (Range: $5,000 - $8,000+) | Optional, but appreciated: $100 - $300 per videographer | 9-12+ months prior to wedding day |
Videographers capture your wedding through action shots, sounds, and emotions, creating lasting memories. Their costs cover insurance, equipment, travel, and editing. Many hire a second shooter and spend hours editing, adding music and custom touches. They also create highlight reels and social media edits, allowing you to relive your day in a personal way.
We update our blogs and information constantly as we get the most recent data! Are you a vendor who wants to contribute to our blog? Fill out this form and we will happily compile the data into our blog for 2024!
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