2009 Wedding Budget Survey Results from The Knot  

  In 2009, $28,385 was the average wedding budget in the US (not including the honeymoon) reflecting less than a 5% decrease from 2008.

  "As the economy continues to affect consumer spending, brides remain commited to planning a memorable event and are thoughtfully cutting back," said Carley Roney, editor in chief of The Knot Inc. "Approximately one third of brides who had a wedding in 2009 said that the economy had impacted their overall wedding plans."

Category and Average Spend 2009 *

• Reception Venue - $12,838
• Reception Band - $3,288
• Reception DJ - $892
• Photographer - $2,444
• Videographer - $1,481
• Wedding/Event Planner - $1,728
• Wedding Gown - $1,134
• Florist/Decor - $2,093
• Invitations - $509
• Wedding Cake - $559
• Ceremony Musicians - $451
• Catering (cost per head) - $63
• Wedding Day Transportation - $692
• Favors - $292
• Rehearsal Dinner - $1,163
• Engagement Ring - $5,847

* Respondents who hired professional vendor, purchased items, or had them professionally made.