Average Cost of a Martha’s Vineyard Wedding
Average Wedding Cost
The average cost of a wedding in Dukes County in 2023 was $34,540. This places the county at rank 277 out of 3,109 counties in terms of average wedding cost, putting it in the top 10% nationwide.
Median Wedding Cost
The median wedding cost in Dukes County for 2023 was $18,644. This lower figure compared to the average suggests that while there are some very high-end weddings, it's possible to have a wedding for less than the average cost.
Number of Weddings
In 2023, Dukes County (which includes Martha's Vineyard) hosted 137 weddings. This puts it at rank 1,725 out of 3,109 counties nationwide for number of weddings.
Average Number of Guests
Weddings in Dukes County had an average of 168-178 guests in 2023. This ranks the county 353rd out of 3,109 counties for guest list size, placing it in the top 12% nationwide.
Hey there! I'm Adam Gorham, a wedding videographer based in Rhode Island. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of capturing countless beautiful moments at weddings across New England, including the picturesque island of Martha's Vineyard. Today, I want to share some insights about the average cost of a Martha's Vineyard wedding. As someone who's been behind the scenes at numerous island nuptials, I've got a unique perspective on what couples can expect when tying the knot in this stunning location.
Martha's Vineyard Wedding Destination
Before we dive into the numbers, let's talk about why Martha's Vineyard is such a popular wedding destination. This charming island off the coast of Massachusetts is known for its pristine beaches, quaint towns, and laid-back atmosphere. It's a place where time seems to slow down, making it perfect for couples who want to savor every moment of their special day.
The Wedding Scene in Dukes County
Martha's Vineyard is part of Dukes County, which also includes the Elizabeth Islands. In 2023, Dukes County hosted 137 weddings, placing it 1,725th out of 3,109 counties nationwide in terms of the number of weddings. While this might not seem like a lot, remember that we're talking about a small island community. Each of these weddings contributes significantly to the local economy and adds to the island's reputation as a premier wedding destination.
Breaking Down the Costs
Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: the cost. In 2023, the average wedding cost in Dukes County was $34,540. This puts it in the top 10% of counties nationwide, ranking 277th out of 3,109 in terms of average wedding cost. It's important to note that this is an average, meaning some weddings cost less, while others were significantly more expensive.
The median wedding cost in Dukes County was $18,644. The difference between the average and median costs suggests that there are some very high-end weddings pulling the average up. This is good news for couples on a budget, as it indicates that it's possible to have a beautiful Martha's Vineyard wedding for less than the average cost.
Guest List Considerations
One factor that significantly impacts wedding costs is the number of guests. In Dukes County, the average wedding guest list size ranged from 168 to 178 people. This puts the county in the top 12% nationwide for guest list size, ranking 353rd out of 3,109 counties.
Detailed Cost Breakdown for a 75-Guest Wedding
To give you a more concrete idea of what to expect, let's break down the costs for a 75-guest wedding on Martha's Vineyard. Keep in mind that these are average costs, and you can adjust them based on your preferences and budget.
Venue and Catering
The venue and catering typically make up the largest portion of a wedding budget. For a Martha's Vineyard wedding, you can expect to spend between $9,261 and $11,319 on the venue alone. This includes:
Location fee: $4,667 - $5,705
Food service: $2,415 - $2,951
Bar service: $1,243 - $1,519
Rentals: $936 - $1,144
Entertainment
Entertainment is crucial for creating the right atmosphere. Budget between $7,000 and $8,556 for:
Live band: $4,061 - $4,963
DJ/MC: $1,213 - $1,483
Additional musicians or soloists: $1,137 - $1,389
Lighting: $590 - $721
Wedding Planner
Given the complexities of planning a destination wedding, many couples opt for a wedding planner. Budget between $6,201 and $7,579 for:
Full wedding planner: $3,926 - $4,798
Day-of coordinator: $2,275 - $2,781
Attire and Accessories
For the all-important wedding day look, plan to spend between $1,928 and $2,356:
Wedding dress: $1,365 - $1,669
Tuxedo/suit: $248 - $304
Accessories: $314 - $384
Flowers and Decorations
Martha's Vineyard's natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop, but you'll still want to budget between $2,268 and $2,772 for flowers and decorations:
Bouquets and boutonnieres: $828 - $1,012
Venue decorations: $705 - $861
Centerpieces: $211 - $257
Other floral arrangements: $296 - $362
Jewelry
Don't forget to budget for rings and other jewelry. Expect to spend between $5,460 and $6,674:
Engagement ring: $3,546 - $4,334
Wedding bands: $1,289 - $1,575
Other jewelry: $625 - $765
Additional Expenses to Consider
Invitations and stationery: $759 - $927
Transportation: $456 - $558
Officiant: $297 - $363
Wedding cake: $266 - $325
Favors and gifts: $652 - $796
Beauty services: $313 - $383
The Bottom Line
When all is said and done, the estimated total cost for a 75-guest wedding on Martha's Vineyard ranges from $42,297 to $51,697. This is higher than the county average, likely due to the detailed breakdown and inclusion of items that some couples might forgo.
Your Martha's Vineyard Dream Wedding
While these numbers might seem daunting, remember that they're averages. Your Martha's Vineyard wedding can be as lavish or as intimate as you desire. The key is to prioritize what matters most to you and your partner.
As a videographer, I've seen couples create magical weddings on various budgets. What truly makes a Martha's Vineyard wedding special is not the amount spent, but the love shared between the couple and their guests against the backdrop of this beautiful island.
If you're dreaming of a Martha's Vineyard wedding, I hope this breakdown helps you plan and budget effectively. And if you're looking for a videographer to capture your special day, I'd be honored to be part of your island adventure. Here's to love, laughter, and happily ever after on Martha's Vineyard!
