Planning your wedding? You’re not alone in wondering how much it really costs to get married in 2025. At JJ’s House, we know brides today are looking for affordable wedding dresses, cost-saving ideas, and smarter ways to plan the big day without sacrificing style.
We partnered with Talker Research to survey 2,000 engaged couples across the U.S. — and the results reveal how modern weddings are evolving in a more budget-conscious and value-driven direction.
The Average Wedding Budget in 2025
According to the study, the average cost of a wedding in 2025 is $21,058 — about one-third of a couple’s combined annual income. While some may still dream of lavish events, only 5% of couples said they were planning an extravagant wedding.
Here’s how most couples are categorizing their budgets:
- 22% described their wedding as “modest”
- 16% are planning with “the bare minimum”
Even more telling? 85% of couples are paying for their wedding themselves, with fewer relying on parental contributions compared to past generations.
Wedding Expenses That Surprise Most Couples
Even with careful planning, many couples still experience sticker shock. The most unexpectedly expensive elements include:
- Venue rentals (39%)
- Photography and videography (34%)
- Catering services (34%)
- Wedding attire (32%)
Surprisingly, the average budget for a wedding dress is now $7,497. That’s why more brides are turning to affordable wedding dress retailers like JJ’s House, where style doesn’t have to come at a high cost.
How Brides Are Saving Money on Their Big Day
In today’s economic climate, couples are finding creative ways to cut costs:
- 25% postponed their wedding to save more
- 27% are choosing DIY wedding décor
- 24% are selecting more budget-friendly wedding venues
- 19% are wearing secondhand or pre-loved wedding outfits
These smart choices allow couples to focus their budget on what really matters — without compromising their wedding vision.
Bridesmaid Dress Costs in 2025
Bridesmaid dress budgeting is another area where change is happening:
- 46% of brides say their bridesmaids will buy their own dresses
- 27% plan to cover the cost for their wedding party
- 27% aren’t having bridesmaids at all
At JJ’s House, we offer a wide range of affordable bridesmaid dresses that make it easier for everyone to look and feel their best — without added stress.
What Matters Most: Price, Comfort, and Personal Style
When choosing their wedding attire, brides said:
- Price is the top factor (43%)
- Comfort comes second (37%)
- Style still matters (29%)
While only 6% of couples currently prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing, over half believe future generations will increasingly value eco-friendly wedding options — a cause we’re proud to support through made-to-order production.
Smaller Weddings, Stronger Values
Today’s weddings are often more intimate and intentional:
- The average guest list is 107 people
- Only 13% are planning extra events like welcome dinners or post-wedding brunches
- 19% are postponing honeymoons, and 11% are skipping them altogether
And yet, 76% of couples say they want their wedding to reflect their personal values — whether that’s through spending responsibly, using lab-grown diamonds, or choosing ethical wedding suppliers.
Couples Are Planning Together — But Still Feeling Pressure
81% of couples say they’re planning the wedding as a team, and only 7% say their partner is taking the lead alone. That’s encouraging — but 31% also admit they’ve felt pressure from family to include certain traditions, even if they clash with their values or wedding budget.
“Couples today are walking a tightrope between tradition and reality,” a JJ’s House spokesperson said. “They want a beautiful and meaningful celebration — but not at the expense of starting their life in debt.”
JJ’s House: Your Partner in Affordable, Stylish Wedding Planning
At JJ’s House, we understand how important it is to feel confident and supported throughout your wedding journey. We offer:
- Affordable wedding dresses in every style, shape, and color
- Budget-friendly bridesmaid dresses for every member of your bridal party
- A Try-at-Home program so you can find the perfect fit, stress-free
- Made-to-order production for less waste and more value
We believe that every bride deserves to shine on her wedding day — without compromising on budget or values.
