Comparing Costs of a Memphis Microwedding vs a Destination Wedding

Deciding where to celebrate one of the most important days of your life can be challenging. For couples contemplating a guest list of 50 or fewer, the choice between a local Memphis wedding and a destination wedding can significantly affect both experience and expenses. In this post, we will break down the costs and benefits of each option to help you make the best decision for your big day.

A stunning outdoor wedding venue in Memphis -Memphis Botanical Gardens- David Linn Photography

Cost Breakdown: Memphis Wedding

Choosing a local wedding in Memphis can be budget-friendly. For a celebration with 50 guests, couples typically spend between $20,000 and $30,000. Here’s a detailed look at the major expenses you might encounter:

• Venue Rental: Renting a local venue can range from $2,000 to $10,000 based on the location and facilities. For example, popular Memphis venues can be more expensive during peak seasons.

  
  

• Catering: Expect catering costs to be around $50 to $100 per person. For 50 guests, this can add up to between $2,500 and $5,000. Choosing local BBQ or Southern cuisine can enhance the experience at a reasonable price.

  
  

• Decor and Flowers: It’s typical to budget about $4,000 to $7,000 for decorations and floral arrangements. Hiring local florists can often bring down costs while showcasing regional blooms.

  
  

• Photography and Entertainment: Including photography and entertainment, plan on an additional $3,000 to $5,000 for these services. Local photographers familiar with popular Memphis spots can capture the day beautifully.

  
  

While these costs might seem substantial, the convenience of hosting the event locally, with easy access to vendors, is a significant advantage.

Cost Breakdown: Destination Wedding

Planning a destination wedding is an exciting venture but often carries additional costs. For a party of 50, couples typically spend between $15,000 and $25,000, depending on the location and inclusivity of packages. Here are the typical expenses associated with this choice:

• Travel and Accommodation: Depending on the destination, travel costs can vary widely. We've seen couples travel domestic for their destination wedding and spend about $3,000 on travel and accomodations. But for international travel, budgeting around $5,000 for flights and accommodation for the couple is common. When budgeting, consider not only the location , but also the season you wish to get married in. For example, a wedding in Mexico may offer affordable resorts, but flights can be pricier during peak and holiday seasons.

  
  

• Venue and Catering: Destination venues frequently offer packages ranging from $2,000 to $15,000, which typically include catering. However, be mindful of additional costs for premium menu options, add on experiences and service charges.

  
  

• Decor and Photography: Even though many venues bundle decor and photography, you should still expect to spend an additional $2,000 to $6,000 for customization and professional services to capture the unique locale. When hiring an external vendor, please be aware that resorts impose an outside vendor fee between $500 and $1,500 for each vendor.

  
  

Although the costs may appear similar to a local wedding, the unique experiences and memories created at a beautiful destination can be invaluable. Choosing a destination for your wedding often encourages guests to turn the event into a mini-vacation. This not only extends the celebration but also creates opportunities for bonding and shared experiences outside of the wedding day itself.In conclusion, my experience as a bride in the Dominican Republic showed me that a destination wedding can be both cost-effective and richly rewarding. It’s an experience that you and your guests will cherish for a lifetime.

Advantages of a Destination Wedding

Selecting a destination wedding comes with several appealing benefits:

1. Intimacy: A smaller guest count allows couples to foster deeper connections with those who attend, creating a personal atmosphere.

   
   

2. Unique Experience: A stunning backdrop, whether it’s a beach or a historical site, sets a memorable scene that guests will cherish for years.

   
   

3. Built-in Honeymoon: Many couples find that a destination wedding serves as both their wedding and honeymoon, saving on travel costs and time.

   
   

4. Less Stress: Many destination venues provide all-inclusive wedding packages, streamlining the planning process which can alleviate last-minute stress.

   
   

A tranquil beach wedding setup with chairs and floral arrangements

Making Your Choice

Choosing between a local Memphis wedding and a destination wedding for under 50 guests ultimately depends on your personal preferences and budget. While local weddings offer logistical convenience and familiarity, destination weddings provide unforgettable experiences. By carefully weighing the costs and benefits of both options, couples can find the perfect setting to celebrate their love. After all, whether you tie the knot in Memphis or on a beautiful coastline, the most important aspect is celebrating this joyous occasion with the people you cherish most.

Ready to map your engagement-to-wedding timeline, whether it’s Memphis local or a luxe destination in Jamaica/Mexico/DR? Let’s create your custom planning together.

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