Planning a wedding in Ohio can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to the budget. Many couples hear averages like $25,000–$35,000 but don’t know what couples actually spend in real life. This real Ohio wedding budget example breaks down exactly how one couple spent $18,500, where they saved money, and what was truly worth it.

If you’re currently planning your wedding, reviewing real numbers can help you avoid costly mistakes and prioritize what matters most.

In fact, one of the smartest early steps is choosing the right venue and confirming your date. Many couples start by visiting The Grange Hall to check your wedding availability, explore pricing options, and tour now before peak dates are booked. Viewing real venue photos and understanding what’s included can immediately clarify your expected total budget.

Ohio Wedding Overview: Key Details

Location: Central Ohio
Guest Count: 82 guests
Wedding Style: Outdoor ceremony + indoor reception
Season: Fall (October)
Total Budget: $18,500

This couple focused on creating a beautiful, memorable wedding while avoiding unnecessary luxury expenses.

Full Ohio Wedding Budget Breakdown

Venue Cost Breakdown: $4,200

The venue was one of the most important investments. It included:

• Ceremony space

• Reception hall

• Tables and chairs

• Parking

• Outdoor photo areas

• 10-hour rental

Choosing a venue that includes essentials saved thousands on rentals.

Why this mattered:
Venues that include infrastructure reduce hidden costs like tent rentals, furniture, and logistics.

Catering and Drinks: $5,100

This was the largest expense.

Cost per guest: $62

Included:

• Dinner buffet

• Appetizers

• Non-alcoholic drinks

• Bartender service

Alcohol was limited to beer and wine, which reduced costs significantly.

Smart decision: Avoiding full open bar saved $2,000+.

Photography: $2,400

This included:

• 8 hours coverage

• Professional editing

• Online gallery

• Print rights

Photography was considered a priority because photos last forever.

Tip: Experienced photographers in Ohio typically charge $2,000–$4,000.

Wedding Dress and Attire: $1,800

Breakdown:

• Wedding dress: $1,200

• Alterations: $300

• Groom suit: $300

The bride purchased from a local boutique instead of a luxury designer brand.

Flowers and Decor: $1,350

Included:

• Bridal bouquet

• Bridesmaid bouquets

• Ceremony arch decor

• Reception centerpieces

They chose seasonal flowers, which lowered costs.

DJ and Entertainment: $900

Included:

• Ceremony music

• Reception music

• Professional sound equipment

Hiring a DJ instead of a live band saved $3,000+.

Cake and Desserts: $450

Included:

• Wedding cake

• Sheet cake for guests

Many guests never notice elaborate cake designs, so they kept it simple.

Invitations and Stationery: $300

Included:

• Invitations

• RSVP cards

• Thank you cards

Digital RSVPs helped reduce printing costs.

Hair and Makeup: $400

Included:

• Bridal hair

• Bridal makeup

Bridesmaids paid for their own services.

Miscellaneous Costs: $1,600

Included:

• Marriage license

• Tips

• Decorations

• Transportation

These hidden costs surprise many couples.

Biggest Lessons from This Ohio Wedding Budget Example

1. Venue choice impacts everything

A venue that includes essentials reduces:

• Rental costs

• Logistics stress

• Setup expenses

This single decision saved thousands.

2. Guest count controls your total cost

Every additional guest increases:

• Food cost

• Seating cost

• Space requirements

Reducing 20 guests saved about $1,200.

3. Focus spending on what matters most

They prioritized:

• Photography

• Venue

• Guest experience

They saved on:

• Cake

• Invitations

• Alcohol

4. Fall weddings offer better value

Fall weddings in Ohio provide:

• Beautiful scenery

• Comfortable weather

• Lower vendor demand compared to peak summer

Average Wedding Cost in Ohio (Comparison)