Dear Bernard,,

Do you know what the average wedding cost is these days? I was thinking about this while attending a friend's wedding over the Memorial Day weekend.

According to FoxBusinessNews.com and The Knot’s "2025 Real Weddings Study", the average cost to say "I Do" is $33,000. This is actually a decline of $2,000 from the previous year.

Of course, there are many moving parts and variable that come into play. For example, location can have a big impact. The same article stated that in 2024, weddings in places like Utah or Iowa would cost about $18,000, and states like New Jersey, Rhode Island and Illinois were some of the pricier states, averaging $57,000, $51,000 and $39,000, respectively.

Other hidden costs can add up as well. Everything from printing and mailing invitations, a photographer, or even videographer can cost thousands. Feeding your guests can cost anywhere from $25 per plate, to hundreds of dollars a plate based on your menu.

Don't forget other costs like a band or DJ, bar tab, decorations, Suit or tux rental or purchase, and the all-important wedding gown.

I have known fathers who have stated they would pay their children to elope because it would be cheaper. (Note; I never heard a mother say this.)

Think also of the fact that there is a still a runoff from the COVID pandemic. When everything was shut down for 2 years, many weddings were cancelled or postponed. All the pent-up demand for cherished venues, favorite caterers, and even honeymoon locations had a tendency to drive up prices.

If you would like to know more, below is a link to the article:

Wedding Costs

Lastly, do you know why it is called a "honeymoon"? According to Microsoft AI program, Copilot the term "honeymoon" refers to the initial period of marriage, often associated with a post-wedding vacation, and is believed to have its origins in medieval Europe. It's a combination of "honey" and "moon," representing the sweetness and brief duration of the initial phase of marriage, much like a full moon wanes. The "honey" part alludes to the sweetness and joy of new love, while "moon" refers to a period of about a month, or a full moon cycle. 

As always, thanks for reading.

Bernie & Chad