Curious about the average cost of a wedding in Ireland? We’ve broken it down for you.
There’s no getting around it, weddings are expensive. Whether you’re tying the knot in Ireland or not, be prepared to spend. But there’s a reason why couples save so religiously for them, parents give so generously to them and wedding venues like ours, host them so willingly – they are wonderful. The best of days. Most married couples will tell you, their wedding day was the best moment of their lives. And every financial sacrifice they made, was 100% worth it. But what kind of numbers are we talking about? How much does the average wedding in Ireland cost? And what cost should you expect for weddings planned in Ireland in 2024?
These are questions that, if you’re newly engaged, you’ve almost certainly asked yourselves. Well, today, we’re here to share the numbers.
- The Average Cost of a Wedding in Ireland
We would rather avoid using words like ‘typical’ and ‘average’ because there really is no such thing as a ‘normal’ wedding! Having said that, we know how useful it is to have specific numbers in mind when wedding planning.
While it is true that you can plan a wedding on almost any budget, the average cost of a wedding in Ireland is roughly €36,000 (includes everything from venue, dress, rings to honeymoon). This, as we say, is just an average. Your big day could cost more, or less. And it’s important not to feel like you’re being swindled if it’s more, or tight if it’s less.
Just use this figure above as a guide, but plan your wedding as you see fit.
- The Breakdown of Wedding Costs
If you’re looking at that final figure and wondering, how does each element fit into that overall number – we thought we’d break down the major parts for you. By sharing the cost of each section of an ‘average’ wedding in Ireland, you should get a better understanding of where you’re at, and what you’re working towards.
- Wedding Venue
Your venue is arguably one of the most significant aspects of wedding planning, and it needs to be organised first. Choosing the perfect backdrop for your wedding may take some time and effort, but we promise it will all be worth it.
The wedding venue you select will undoubtedly be the most expensive item in your budget, with an average cost in Ireland of around €15,400. This is based on 140 guests, eating and drinking at €110 a head.
- Wedding Photographer/Videographer
To capture all the best moments, from saying ‘I do’ right through to the first dance, you’ll need to hire a professional wedding photographer (link to other post). A photographer will cost between €2,000 and €4,000. Which at first glance may seem high, but don’t forget, the images of your big day are the one thing you’ll be left with once all is said and done.
Your wedding photography is a document, a keepsake for generations to come, and a constant reminder of the best day. So don’t cut costs with it. Choose a wedding photographer you trust, and who’ll capture your big day in a style you love today, and forever.
- Wedding Dress
For many brides, that ‘yes to the dress’ moment is truly special. A monumental event with a lifetime of build up.
The price of a wedding dress really depends on the style, designer, and elements it has on it. But on average, you’ll be looking at around €1,500 to €2,000+, not including any necessary alterations.
- Wedding Rings
As the ultimate symbol of undying love and commitment, selecting the right wedding rings is crucial. Wedding ring prices vary greatly depending on the metal used, and whether diamonds are included.
Wedding rings in Ireland typically cost between €800 and €2,000.
- A DJ or Live Band
There comes a point in the evening of every wedding when everyone wants to get up a dance! And to soundtrack the crazy moves of your loved ones’, you’ll need to book some entertainment. A live band has an average cost of around €2,200, whereas a DJ can cost up to €500.
A musician or band playing a song of your choosing as the bride walks down the aisle is also a popular choice, and this can cost up to €800. The musician/s would usually entertain the crowd before the ceremony, and also soundtrack your exit – so it is a lovely thing to have.
- Flowers
Flowers play a significant role in wedding decor and accessorisation, from the bride and bridesmaid’s bouquets to buttonholes, to ceremony and table decorations. In total, they can cost around €1,500 depending on the type of flowers used, and the amount you want decorating your venue.
- Wedding Decor
Lighting and decor, in addition to flowers, are hugely impactful ways to personalise the look of your wedding. Candles, statement lighting installations, signage, table displays, non-floral centrepieces, and other decorative elements will all come together to create the look of your big day.
Typically, decor for weddings in Ireland cost around €650.
- Unexpected Costs
There are, of course, many other costs involved in weddings in Ireland. From makeup and hair, through to transport and invitations. But we can’t list them all! What we would say is that you should be aware of any unexpected costs that might crop up along the way.
Hidden charges, emergency changes and little things you hadn’t costed for will happen. Therefore, if you can, try to put aside an extra portion of budget to pay for anything that might come up. A sum that is proportionate to the overall cost of your wedding. Roughly 5-7% of that should be about right. Try not to rely on your credit card for emergencies, and have a pot of real money waiting as backup.
We hope this gives you an idea of how weddings cost in Ireland, and a glimpse into the cost of the major parts that’ll make up your wedding budget. Keep in mind that wedding planning is all about deciding on your priorities and then working out a budget from there. If style is important to you, switch out some decor items to spend more on shoes; if you want a big party, spend less on the dress and more on drinks and entertainment; or if you want a really cosy romantic atmosphere, focus on the ceremony, the venue – the lighting.
We hope we have informed your research into the cost of weddings in Ireland, and maybe even helped you decide on what the most important parts of your budget are! It would be a pleasure to guide you further, and introduce you to our lovely wedding venue in Kildare. The Abbey is only an hour away from Dublin, and has an 18th century Chapel on-site, a stunning ballroom, multiple events spaces and 38 contemporary style rooms.You are welcome to have a browse of our wedding venue online, and if you like what you see, please do get in touch via our contact page to book a viewing. And while you wait for your visit, you can find out a bit more about us via our online brochure.