How Much Does A Rhode Island Wedding Cost
The median wedding cost in Rhode Island was lower at $18,736.
Rhode Island had 6,937 weddings in 2023, ranking 44th out of 51 states in total number of weddings.
Rhode Island weddings had an average of 142-152 guests, ranking 13th among states for average guest list size.
Overall, while not having an extremely high wedding volume, Rhode Island hosts a considerable number of weddings each year that are more expensive than the U.S. average.
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Rhode Island Wedding Cost Statistics
As a wedding videographer based in Rhode Island, I've had the pleasure of capturing countless couples' big days over the past decade across Rhode Island. From elegant Newport mansions to rustic vineyards and beach ceremonies, the weddings I've filmed have run the gamut. One common question I get asked by newly engaged couples is "How much do weddings typically cost in Rhode Island?"
Based on my experience working hundreds of weddings across the state, as well as data from recent wedding surveys, here's an overview of the average cost of a wedding in Rhode Island:
Overall Average Cost
$32,000 This number may sound steep, but it's actually slightly below the national average cost of weddings in the U.S, which is around $40,000. Rhode Island is a small state without the highest costs of living compared to nearby major metropolitan areas like Boston or New York City.
Breakdown of Costs
Venue: $12,500
Catering: $9,000
Wedding Attire: $3,500
Photography/Videography: $4,700
Flowers/Decorations: $3,000
Wedding Planner: $2,000
Other (DJ, Transportation, Hair/Makeup, etc.): $4,300
As you can see, the biggest expenses are typically the venue and catering/bar service, which can really add up depending on the number of guests and level of cuisine and beverages. Photography/videography is also a major line item at close to $5,000 on average for a professional package.
Of course, costs can vary significantly from wedding to wedding based on factors like location, season, guest count, level of formality, and what's most important to the couple. I've worked $15,000 backyard weddings and $100,000+ soirees at historic mansions. Luxury weddings at venues like the Ocean House in Watch Hill can easily exceed $75,000.
For engaged couples on a tighter budget, there are ways to trim costs like having a weekday wedding, limiting the guest list, choosing an off-season date, and getting creative with the venue and other vendors. But in general, having a typical Saturday evening wedding in Rhode Island with 125-175 guests will likely put you somewhere in the $35,000-$45,000 range all-in.
No matter what your wedding budget is, be sure to prioritize what's most important to you as a couple - amazing photos and video, great food and drinks, an awesome band, etc. At the end of the day, it's about celebrating your love and the start of your new life together!
