Weddings are a global celebration of love, but in some countries, tying the knot comes with a serious price tag.
From lavish multi-day ceremonies to luxury venues and couture outfits, wedding costs can skyrocket depending on where you are in the world.
Whether driven by cultural expectations, status, or pure extravagance, these countries are known for spending big when it comes to saying “I do.”
Here are the countries that spend the most on weddings — and how much they’re shelling out to make the big day unforgettable:
1. United States
In the U.S., wedding costs can vary widely, but the average is around $35,000. This includes venue fees, catering, attire, decorations, entertainment, and sometimes even the honeymoon. Big-ticket items like professional photography, wedding planners, and extravagant guest lists can quickly push costs higher. Celebrities and high-profile individuals, in particular, can spend millions on luxury weddings, setting the tone for opulence in the industry.
2. India
Indian weddings are known for their grandeur and extravagance. While middle-class families might spend around $25,000, affluent families may easily spend hundreds of thousands. Multi-day celebrations, large guest lists, elaborate decorations, and a focus on fine dining contribute to the sky-high costs. The lavish weddings of India’s wealthiest families, such as the Ambanis, which cost tens of millions, highlight the cultural significance of such celebrations.
3. Switzerland
Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the most expensive places to get married, with the average cost per wedding at $44,050. High venue costs, luxury services, and premium catering options drive the price up. Many Swiss weddings are held in scenic, exclusive locations that require high fees. Additionally, Swiss couples often opt for high-end weddings with fine dining, designer attire, and custom-made wedding elements.
4. Luxembourg
Luxembourg, with its wealth and emphasis on elegance, has an average wedding cost of $39,245. Couples often opt for luxurious venues, high-end catering, and top-tier entertainment. The emphasis on class and sophistication adds to the overall costs, and with a smaller population of wealthy individuals, the desire to celebrate in style makes these weddings especially costly.
5. Sweden
Swedish weddings are known for their high standards of design and decor, and an average wedding can cost around $38,290. High-end venues, gourmet catering, and often lavish receptions are all part of Swedish wedding culture. Sweden’s luxurious venues in the countryside or by the water add to the overall cost, and couples often choose designer attire and premium-quality flowers and decorations.
6. United Kingdom
In the UK, weddings are a blend of tradition and modern luxury. With an average cost of $28,500, the expenses often include expensive venues, fine-dining catering, and elaborate decorations. Destination weddings and luxury venues like castles or country estates are also popular, further increasing the cost. Royal weddings often influence societal expectations of grandeur.
7. Italy
In Italy, getting married in a picturesque location such as Tuscany or Venice can be a costly affair. The average wedding cost of $23,900 can skyrocket when considering the famous Italian venues, world-class catering, and luxurious decor. Italian weddings are also known for their stylish fashion, with couples often investing heavily in high-end wedding dresses and suits. Destination weddings in Italy contribute significantly to the overall spending.
8. Spain
Spanish weddings are known for their focus on family and celebration. The average wedding cost of $25,700 includes grand venues, elaborate meals, and a strong emphasis on entertainment and tradition. Spanish weddings tend to have larger guest lists, and the cost of hosting such large-scale celebrations — especially in high-demand locations like Barcelona or Madrid — can push the price up significantly.
9. France
French weddings are all about understated luxury. With an average cost of $21,800, the focus is on elegance and quality. Couples in France often opt for chic venues like vineyards, historical landmarks, or luxury châteaux. From the food to the fashion, everything is carefully curated to create an atmosphere of sophistication. The wedding dress, often custom-made, is a major factor contributing to the high cost.
10. Canada
Weddings in Canada, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, are characterized by their blend of modernity and tradition. With an average cost of $19,000, Canadian weddings typically feature stylish venues, gourmet catering, and custom décor. In addition, couples often spend a significant portion of their budget on photography and videography to capture the moment in the stunning backdrops Canada offers.
