How Much Does a 100-Person Wedding Cost in DC [2024]

If you're planning a 100-person wedding in the DC area in 2024, be prepared to spend.

Weddings in the Washington DC area are not cheap.

While the national average for a wedding is around $20,300, couples can expect to spend between $32,000 to $70,000 for a 100-person wedding in the DC Metro area .

For a 100-150 person wedding, couples can expect to spend anywhere from $60,000 to $95,000 for a wedding in the DC area.

Remember, this is just an average wedding cost for weddings in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia (DMV).

You can have a wedding that can cost as little as $5000 for a micro wedding or more than $150,000 for a large extravagant event. 

It all depends on your wedding budget and what you're willing to spend.

This blog post will explore the factors determining wedding costs and give a sample wedding budget breakdown at the end.

Factors that Influence Your Wedding Cost in the DC Metro Area

Several factors influence wedding costs and play a role in the final price tag.

These factors include your:

• Venue
• Vendors
• Level of Customization
• Number of Guests
• Season

Wedding Venues

$2500 - $7500

The wedding venue you choose can significantly impact the overall cost.

You can expect to pay more if you want a more intimate setting or a specific type of venue (like a historic hotel).

You also need to consider the venue's location in your wedding budget. Venues in downtown Washington, DC, will be more expensive than venues in the suburbs.

Washington DC is home to several high-end wedding venues, which can drive up the fees for your wedding day.

For example, weddings at Four Seasons Hotel in DC can start at $175 per person.

$40,000 may be outside the budget for many couples in the DMV.

Some couples may want to consider a suburban venue like Newton White Mansion in Maryland, which starts at $4,400, or the Potomac Point Winery in Stafford, Virginia, which starts at $6,900.

You may also need to consider the venue location for your guest list. If most of your guests come from out of town, you'll need to factor in travel and lodging fees.

For example, weddings at the Willard InterContinental Hotel in DC cost more than at suburban venues like Glenview Mansion in Rockville.

Some venues may have an "all-inclusive" wedding package with food, drink, and other services.

All-inclusive packages have advantages and disadvantages that you should consider when making your decision.

Some advantages are that they will allow you to bring in your alcohol, which can help save money. Others may not offer this option, so you'll need to add it to your budget.

Some disadvantages are that some venues require you to use their in-house catering services. This requirement may limit your menu options and drive up your costs. Wedding Vendors 

Wedding vendors can make or break your big day.

From the photographer to the caterer, you want to ensure you find vendors you can trust to deliver on their promises.

But all of this comes at a cost.

Wedding vendors in the DC area can be some of the most expensive in the country. But there are some great deals to be found if you're willing to look around.

Let's look at some of the most requested vendors and services.

Wedding Vendors 

Wedding vendors can make or break your big day. From the photographer to the caterer, you want to ensure you find vendors you can trust to deliver on their promises. But all of this comes at a cost. Wedding vendors in the DC area can be some of the most expensive in the country. But there are some great deals to be found if you're willing to look around.

Let's look at some of the most requested vendors and services.

Wedding Planner

$2500 - $7500 Full-service wedding planner

$800 - $4000 Day-of wedding coordination

Most couples in the DC area choose to hire a full-service wedding planner or a day-of coordinator.

A full-service wedding planner can help you with everything from finding the perfect venue to negotiating contracts with vendors.

If you're planning a DIY wedding, you may not need a full-service planner, but you can use a day-of coordinator.

A day-of coordinator can be invaluable on your wedding day, ensuring everything runs smoothly, while you enjoy your big day.

In the DMV, a full-service planner can charge anywhere from $2500 to $7500, whereas a day-of-coordinator can charge between $800 and $4000.

Photography

$2000 - $5000

Photography is a critical part of any wedding day.

Wedding photographers capture all the crucial moments of your big day, and you'll want to choose a photographer you can trust to deliver stunning photos.

Photography packages for weddings in the DMV can start at around $2000 and go up to $5000 or more.

Finding a photographer who photos you love and feel comfortable working with is crucial. Be sure to read reviews and look at portfolios before making your final decision.

When budgeting for your photographer, ask about the cost of extras like engagement photos and albums.

Videography

$2000 - $5000

Like photography, videography is a vital part of documenting your wedding day. A videographer will capture your big day's emotions and highlights, from the ceremony to the first dance.

Videography packages in the DMV start at around $2000 and can go up to $5000 or more.

Catering Companies

$68 - $200 per person

Catering costs will vary depending on the number of guests and the level of service you want.

Your caterer will be responsible for providing food and drink for your guests.

They will also often provide staff to set up, serve, and clean up after the event.

Costs for catering in the DMV are around $68 per person. For a wedding of 150 people, that would be $10,200 for catering alone.

Florists

$2500 - $8000

Florists charge depending on the number of people in your bridal party and how many reception tables you have, the ceremony flowers, and the design scope.

Florists in the DC area can charge between $2,500 and $8,000 for their work.

Hair/Makeup

$700 - $1200

Hair and makeup artists can charge between $600 and $1800 for you and your bridal party. This cost can add up quickly, especially if you have a large bridal party.

Officiant

$700 - $1200

An officiant averages between$700 and $1200. Costs can vary depending on the type of ceremony you want and the location.

DJ

$800 - $2500

Wedding DJs can be a great way to keep your guests entertained and dancing all night long.

The average DJ will charge around $1,200 or $300 per hour for their services.

This can add up quickly, especially if you have a longer reception. Shopping around and comparing prices is essential to find the best deal.

Band/Singers

$2000 - $6700

When it comes to wedding bands and singers, prices can vary greatly.

Some bands and singers charge by the hour, while others may have a flat fee for their services.

Shopping around and comparing prices is essential to find the best deal.

The average cost of a band or singer for reception is $3,500. For a four-hour reception, that would be $875 per hour.

Transportation

$200 - $5000

You may only need a limousine for you and your partner or a 30-passenger bus for your wedding party.

Regardless of what you need, transportation can cost $500 and more. This includes limousines or vehicles for the bride, groom, and wedding party.

Photo booth

$600 - $900

A photo booth can be a great way to add fun and excitement to weddings.

The average price of a photo booth is $600. For a four-hour reception, that would be $150 per hour.

Wedding Insurance

$200 - $1200

Wedding insurance is an essential investment for any couple getting married.

The average wedding insurance cost in the DC metro area is $520. Insurance can protect you from some potential problems that could occur on your big day.

Insurance can give you peace of mind on your big day, knowing that you have protection in an emergency.

Marriage License

DC: $45

MD: $35

VA: $30

A marriage license in DC will cost you $45.00. In Maryland, it will cost you $35.00, and in Virginia, it will cost $30.00.

Cake

$600 - $1000

Your cake is a vital part of your reception. It will be one of the first things people see when they arrive, and it will be a centerpiece of the room.

The average wedding cake cost is $600 to $1000. For a three-tiered cake, that cost would be $1,500.

This cost can vary depending on the size and design of your cake. Shopping around and comparing prices is essential to find the best deal.

Drinks/Alcohol

$2600 - $3200

You can spend an average of $2,600 - $3200 on drinks. This cost includes alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages for your cocktail hour and reception.

An open bar can be a great way to keep your guests happy and hydrated. But it will add to your budget.

To save money, you can opt for a cash bar or limit the number of alcoholic beverages served.

You can also have a drink menu with limited specialty drinks that can help reduce how much you spend and keep you within budget.

Rentals

$1500 - $5000

Things that you may rent for your wedding include:

• Lounge furniture
• Restrooms
• Tables
• Chairs
• Linens
• Dinnerware and Glassware
• Dance floor
• Tents
• Floral Accouterments

The average cost to rent these items is about $1,500 without the tent. A ten can run you an average of $2500 for 120 person tent.

Wedding Dress

$3000 - $10000

Your wedding gown is one of the essential purchases for your big day. The average cost of a wedding gown is between $3000 - $10000.

This cost can vary depending on the designer, style, and materials used.

Tuxedo/Suit

$250 -$1000

The average cost of a tuxedo or suit for a wedding is $250. This cost can vary depending on the style and materials used.

Bridesmaid Dresses

$175 - $300

The average cost of bridesmaid dresses is $143. This cost can also depend on the styles and materials used.

Groomsmen Attire

$175 - $300

The average cost of groomsmen's attire for a wedding is $143. Prices will vary depending on the style and materials used.

Wedding Invitations

$530 - $1200

Your wedding invitations are the first glimpse your guests will see of your big day. The average cost of wedding invitations is between $530 and $1200.

This cost can vary depending on the style, design, and materials used. Shopping around and comparing prices is essential to find the best deal.

Engagement rings

$1000 - $5000

An engagement ring is a significant purchase as it symbolizes your love and commitment to each other.

The price people spend on an engagement ring can range between $1000 and $5000. The price of your engagement ring depends on the quality, type of metal, and size of the stone.

Welcome Bags/Favors

$250 - $450

Prices for favors can average $450. This average can vary depending on the number of guests and the type of favor you choose.

Favors are an excellent way to thank your guests for attending your wedding. But they can also add up quickly.

Lighting

$1000 - $3000

Lighting can be a great way to set the mood for your wedding. But it comes at a cost. Lighting can cost between $1,000 and $3000.

Charges include renting lights and hiring someone to set them up and take them down. Be sure to factor this into your budget when planning your wedding.

Rehearsal dinner

$68 - $150 per person

The price of this traditional dinner will vary depending on the number of guests, customization, and the type of food served.

The average price is close to $68 per person.

For a dinner of 16 people, that would be $1088.

Time of the Year

The time of year can also impact the wedding prices.

The summer season is the most popular time to get married, so prices tend to be higher.

Fall and winter weddings are typically less expensive, but some trade-offs exist. For example, you may deal with inclement weather or fewer venue options.

Book your venue and vendors early when planning a summer wedding. The earlier you book, the more likely you will get the date and price you want.

Consider a winter or fall wedding if you want to save money. Just be sure to factor in the potential for weather-related problems.

No matter what season you choose, be sure to compare prices and options to get the best deal on your dream wedding.

Number of Guests

The number of people you invite can also impact how much you spend on your wedding.

A larger wedding will typically cost more than a smaller one, as there will be more mouths to feed and more people to entertain and accommodate.

The number of people you invite will also dictate the size of your venue.

More people will require a larger venue.

For a traditional ceremony and reception in DC, couples can spend between $25,000 and $75000 for a 100 to 200-person wedding in the DC metro area.

Level of Customization

You can customize everything for your wedding.

The level of customization can also affect the cost of a wedding. A more customized wedding with unique décor, personal touches, and custom-made items will always cost more than a traditional wedding.

Things you can customize in your wedding include:

• Table numbers
• Drink menu items
• Programs
• Place cards
• Invitations
• Favors
• Escort cards
• Wedding decorations
• Flowers
• Food and drink
• Entertainment
• Transportation
• Accommodations
• Gifts for the wedding party
• Hair and makeup
• Dress
• Braids maids dresses and groomsmen's attire

Sample Wedding Budget for 2024

When creating your wedding budget, remember that many factors can affect your cost. The size of your wedding, customization, the season, and the number of guests determine the overall cost.

Here a sample wedding budget for a wedding in Washington, DC with 100 guests:

Venue:

• Ceremony and reception venue: $8,500 (for a mid-range venue in DC that can accommodate 100 guests)
• Tables and chairs rental: $500
• Linens, tableware, and decor rental: $1,000
• Lighting and sound rental: $1,000
• Total Venue Cost: $11,000

Food and Beverage:

• Catering: $10,000 (for a plated or buffet-style meal with appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages for 100 guests)
• Alcoholic beverages: $2,500 (for beer, wine, and a signature cocktail for 100 guests)
• Total Food and Beverage Cost: $12,500

Attire and Accessories:

• Bride's dress: $2,000
• Groom's suit: $1,000
• Bridal accessories: $1,000
• Groom's accessories: $500
• Total Attire and Accessories Cost: $4,500

Photography and Videography:

• Photography: $3,000 (for 8 hours of coverage and digital images)
• Videography: $3,000 (for 8 hours of coverage and a highlight reel)
• Total Photography and Videography Cost: $6,000

Entertainment:

• Live music or DJ: $2,000 (for up to 5 hours of music)
• Total Entertainment Cost: $2,000

Transportation:

• Transportation for bridal party: $500
• Guest shuttle or transportation: $1,000
• Total Transportation Cost: $1,500

Miscellaneous:

• Invitations and stationary: $500
• Marriage license: $50
• Officiant: $300
• Wedding favors: $200
• Total Miscellaneous Cost: $1,050

Grand Total: $38,550

Keep in mind that this is just a sample budget and costs may vary depending on your specific needs and preferences. Also, be sure to budget for unexpected expenses, such as weather-related rentals or last-minute changes to your guest list.

Final Thoughts

So how much does a 100-person wedding cost in the Washington DC area?

It cost about $32,000 to $70,000 in 2024.

But with careful planning and budgeting, you can still have a beautiful and memorable wedding day and save money without breaking the bank.

If you need help or have questions about planning your wedding, contact Monica Browne and see how she can help you with your budget.