SEARCH RESULTS

Featured in Wed Society 2024 Book of Weddings! Full Service Planning: Ashley Nicole Affair Venue: Shiraz Garden Photography: Main Squeeze Photography Florist: Truth and Blooms DJ/Lighting: Full Scope Entertainment Catering: Cabo Bobs Cake/Dessert: Sweet Treets Bakery Hair/MUA: LoLa Beauty Rentals/Staffing: Mimi's Party Palace Bartending: We Tend Bar

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair  Venue: @canyonwoodridge Photography: @mainsqueezephotography Florist: @fleuraffairco | @threemoonempress DJ/Band: @djbrianweber13 Catering: @cateringbymopsie Cake : @sweettreetsbakery Hair/MUA: @luxbeautyandbridal Officiant: @theknottyer Photo Booth: @toastentertainment

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair Venue/Catering: @elmontesagrado.taos Photography: @lavelmariephotography Florist: @twobaroquegirlsfloral DJ/Band: @cutmastermusic Rentals: @copartyrentals | @darlingdetailsrentals Photo Booth: @ashleynicoleaffair

Full Service Planning/Glam Booth: @ashleynicoleaffair  Venue: @innandspaatloretto Photography: @maurajanesphoto Florist: @floriography_flowers DJ/Band: @cutmastermusic | @xiabeats Catering: @innandspaatloretto Dessert:@paletabarsantafe Hair/MUA: @something_ginger Rentals: @summitpartyrentals_nm Stationery: @summit.and.sage Nanny Services: @pattycakenannies

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair | @eventsbymal Venue: @bullockmuseum Ceremony: @uccaustinweddings Photography: @april_mae_creative Florist: @mercibouquetdesign DJ/Strings: @thepremieraustindjs | @terravistastrings Catering/Bar: @sterlingeventsaustin Cake: @uppercrust_atx Dessert: @tinyboxwoodsaustin Hair/MUA: @bonitabrides Rentals: @premiereeventstx Drapery: @uniquedesignandevents Photo Booth: @ashleynicoleaffair Getaway Car: @4leaflimoatx

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair Venue/Catering: @fssantafe Photography: @maurajanesphoto Florist: @twobaroquegirlsfloral DJ/Band: @cutmastermusic  | @shanewallin Cake: @sweetbutterbakingnm Hair/MUA: @bettyrosebyalanna Rentals: @copartyrentals Photo Booth: @ashleynicoleaffair Nanny Agency: @pattycakenannies Transportation: @santafevalet Bride: @hannahxlw Groom: @tejasklein

Full Service Planning/Design: @ashleynicoleaffair | @eventsbymal Venue/Catering: @thelinehotel Ceremony: @sjnaustin Photography: @mglynnphoto Florist: @fleuraffairco | @threemoonempress DJ/Band: @djkickit17 Glam Booth + Content Creation: @ashleynicoleaffair Strings: @terravistastrings Hair/MUA: @lunabeauty_bridal Dance Floor: @centerstage_floors Rentals:@premiereeventstx

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 BLOG: Buying Alcohol for Your Big day! 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 BLOG: Harmonizing Love: Behind the Scenes with Moontower Entertainment 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... W hy the price increase? The overall cost of travel and price increase of Austin living justifies the price increase. CAKE BLOG: The Perfect Slice: Wedding Dessert Tips You Need 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 BLOG: Different Types of Food Service for Your Wedding | How to Plan a Plated Dinner Service 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 BLOG: Sweet Alternatives: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Dessert 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 BLOG: Why a DJ Can Make or Break Your Wedding 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 BLOG: What Can I Budget for Wedding Day Flowers? 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 BLOG: From Trial to Aisle: Why a Pro Hair and Makeup Team is Essential for Your Wedding Day 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 BLOG: Interactive Experiences to Elevate Your Wedding VENDOR CATEGORY AVERAGE EXPECTED COST RECOMMENDED GRATUITY WHEN YOU SHOULD BOOK Content Creator for Wedding Day $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 Lighting $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 Samba Dancers/Performance $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 BLOG: Wedding Songs For Your Special Moments 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 BLOG: The Ultimate Guide to Selecting the Perfect Wedding 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 BLOG: Why Professional Photography is Essential for Your Wedding Day 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 Check out our Glam Booth to rent! 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 BLOG: Why Are Wedding Planners So Expensive? 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 BLOG: Wedding Day Rentals | Size Guide for Perfectly Fit Linens 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 BLOG: Drive into Forever: The Allure of a Vintage Wedding Getaway Car 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 BLOG: Why You Will Regret Not Hiring a Videographer 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! Photography: Tay Danay | Tim Laielli | Grayson Reese | Atlas Photo and Film | Tim Waters | | Her Photography | Blake Fountain | Main Squeeze | April Mae Creative | Ashley Medrano Weddings

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair Ceremony: @ sjnaustin Venue: @ eventsatthearlo   Photography: @ caitlinrosephoto Florist : @florafetish DJ: @thepremieraustindjs Gelato: @dolce_bacio Hair/MUA: @lolabeautyatx Rentals: @premiereeventstx Stationery: @designtoflourish Glam Booth: @ashleynicoleaffair Cold Sparks: @bigdogpyro Transportation: @luxlinetransportatx Getaway car: @atxclassiccars

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair Venue: @villa_antonia Photography: @ burken.co Florist: @bellesoulflorals DJ/Band: @tomarandthefcs Catering: @sterlingeventsaustin Cake: @michellespatisserie Dessert: @tinypies Hair/MUA: @adoremakeupsalon Cold Sparks: @sparksandco_ Transportation: @flyridesatx Content Creator: @ yourcontentbestie.co

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffair Venue: @villa_antonia Photography: @emilyanneboone Videography: @goodtimeweddings DJ/Band: @matchmakerband Catering: @austincatering Hair/MUA: @thinkbrinkbeauty Rentals: @premiereeventstx Glam Booth: @ashleynicoleaffair

Full Service Planning: @ashleynicoleaffai r Venue: @prospecthousetx Photography: @tandvphotos Videography: @newroadproductions Florist: @nativebloomfloral DJ/Band: @emeraldcityband Catering: @sohocateringandconsulting Cake: @michellespatisserie Hair/MUA: @luxbeautyandbridal Rentals: @quest_events Transportation: @elegantlimousine