How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Manitoba?

You just got engaged! Congratulations! One of the first questions you might have is – How much does a wedding cost in Manitoba? There is no right answer to this question, as costs vary from vendor to vendor based on demand, experience, quality, etc. Cost also varies based on your vision, décor, location, guest count, and more. We can still provide some insight on overall large ticket items.

Some couples want a casual day with only 50 guests and others want an elaborate affair with 300 people, so it’s hard to compare. But remember, whether you have 100 people or 300 some hard costs don’t change. Don’t get caught in the comparison trap, do your research as no two weddings are the same! What are important elements or non-negotiables for your wedding? Is it a specific venue, planner, photographer, or florist you want to have? Are you having a small wedding with finger foods or a large wedding with a five-course meal? These are all important questions to ask yourself, as these details will greatly impact your overall budget.

In this blog post, we will be highlighting big-ticket items ONLY. Remember things like makeup and hair trials, hotel rooms, rehearsal dinners, attire accessories, wedding favours, bridal party gifts etc. all add up and should be taken into account when creating a budget….. OK LET’S DIVE INTO THIS….

How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Manitoba?

It will depend on how you want your big day to look and feel. This is when that list of non-negotiables becomes important, as it will help keep you on track and guide you for the type of wedding you want!

DISCLAIMER:

Before we get into the costs, we want to add that these average costs are for Professional Wedding Vendors based on a wedding of 150 guests. These are trusted, reputable and expert vendors, who are going to provide you with the best service possible. Of course, you can always find something cheaper, but you want to be careful. They may not deliver what you are envisioning for your big day. Working with professionals can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes, saving you time, and delivering a vision and result only an expert can! Plus, don’t you want your friends and family to be fully present to enjoy the day with you, instead of working?! We think so!  As your planner, we can guide you through this process and make sure you receive not only amazing service but the most value and best experience for your money! So let’s talk about what a wedding costs in Manitoba.

Venue/Food/Alcohol:

This will be the largest chunk of your wedding budget. Venue costing can have two different price points depending on what the venue offers. Is it just the blank space with tables and chairs, and you bring in the catering or does it include food and drink? These will be important details that help determine what venue is right for you. Make sure you get a full list of inclusions and possible add-ons to avoid surprise costs later on.

Average cost: A venue costs between $3,000 – $6,100 for the space, table and chairs.

If you’re hiring a full-service venue that takes care of the food and drinks and might have extras such as linens and chair covers included in-house you can pay between $22,000 – $35,000.

Wedding Planner or Coordinator:

There are only a handful of professional certified Wedding planners in the city so make sure you do your research. As a professional wedding and event planner, we will keep you on track, save you time, reduce stress, and save you money!!! We also manage client budgets. Remember having a planner is a cost, but having us on hand can avoid costly mistakes, guide you on proper money allocation, offer cost-saving alternatives, and offer preferred vendor discounts. Service prices can vary depending on what you are looking for. Do you want Hourly Consultations, Month of Coordination or Full Planning? We offer a variety of packages for couples to choose from!

Average cost: $1,800 – $10,000+ depending on the package you choose, the size of the event, location, design complexity, and more.

Caterer:

If your venue doesn’t come with a caterer you need to book one ASAP. Make sure the caterer is familiar with your venue and understands the rules and regulations the venue has in place. All venues are different, some have full prep-kitchens others only offer a prep space which can be a challenge for some.

Average cost: $50 – $100/per person based on the food choices, amount of courses served, and bar details.

Photographer:

We have a lot of amazing photographers here! This is one part of the budget that we tell couples not to skimp on. You are going to have these pictures forever. Prices will vary based on what package you pick. Variations may include complimentary engagement sessions, hours of service, second shooters, travel fees, printed albums etc.

Average cost: For 8- 10hrs of service you can expect to pay $3000 – $5,500.

Videographer:

While photographers can capture gorgeous stills, a videographer will document the touching sound bites and sweet moments throughout the day. Similar to photographers, videographers will offer a variety of packages for couples to choose from.  Make sure you watch a few videos from a variety of videographers and have a clear understanding of what highlights of the day make it into the video and if raw footage has additional fees.

Average cost: For 8- 10hrs of service you can expect to pay $3,000 – $6,500.

Florist:

Floral prices will vary depending on how many flowers you want at your wedding. There is some flexibility with florals, like asking what florals are locally in season or using bud vases instead of large floral centerpieces. One of our favorite budget tips is look at ways you can repurpose your ceremony floral pieces at your reception! You can also opt to go with silk flowers and do rentals for a more cost-effective option.

Average cost: $3,000+ Depending on the quantity, size, style and floral choices.

Linens and Chairs:

Opting for upgraded linens and chairs is a nice touch to any reception. But these fees add up quickly once you factor in the delivery fees, set-up fees, and teardown fees. Make sure you get a detailed quote from your decorator when you inquire.

Average cost:

Linens: $18 – $30 depending on the fabric

Chairs: $7 – $15 depending on the style

Fees: Fees start at $150 – $500+ for delivery and teardown. Set-up and late-night fees tend to be above this cost. All of these fees are based on the location, size of the truck needed, how many staff are needed etc.

Music: Band, DJ, Live Music:

Everyone loves a great party! The are a variety of different options you can pick when booking a music option. You can hire a DJ or a  live band, depending on what party vibe you are going for. There is also the option to book musicians for your ceremony, like a 4 string quartet or live guitarist.

Average cost:

8 piece band $4,000 – $7,000+

DJ $900 – $2,000

Live musician $800+

Cake:

Everyone loves cake! Costs will depend on how large of a cake you are looking for and how much detail is on the cake. Intricate hand-made sugar flowers will cost much more than a naked-style cake in the same size.

Average cost: One tier cutting cake $150 – $300+

Custom 2-3 tier cake with hand-made sugar flowers $2,500+

Officiants:

Here is a non-negotiable, someone has to legally marry you! Whether that’s a friend or a professional officiant, there is a cost involved.

Average cost:

Friend – Your friend or family member can apply through vital statistics and receive a one-time license for $100

Professional officiant: They offer a variety of packages that include simply the signing and filling of the paperwork to full script writing, rehearsal attendance, and wedding day officiating services. $350 – $800

Stationary:

There are a lot of factors that come into play with stationary prices.  Choosing between handmade invites vs. online made will influence the cost as well. Remember that other supplementary stationery pieces (like save-the-dates and wedding enclosure cards, place cards, menu cards, bar signs, welcome sign, table numbers etc.) will contribute to the total bill too.

Average cost: Online invitations can start as low at $1 and custom can start between $3 – $7+ depending on how elaborate the design is and how many pieces the invitation includes.

Transportation:

You will need transportation for your wedding party, but if your wedding is out of town we highly recommend providing safe rides to your guests as well.

Average cost: 8-passenger limo $200-$250 per hour

School bus cost on average $500 – $700 round trip

Hair and Makeup:

A professional hair and makeup team is essential for achieving your ideal wedding day look. We also recommend you opt for a trial ahead of time to make sure your both on the same page.

Hair: $80 – $250

Makeup: $80 – $350.00

Wedding Day Extras:

Remember these are big-picture items only. There are a lot of extras that can make the budget add up quickly, such as:

Custom dance floors

Lighting

Lounge furniture

Food truck

Fireworks

Room draping and backdrops

Photo booths…. and more!

Remember these costs are estimates of what a Wedding costs in Manitoba. Wedding budgets are completely up to you! You want to make sure that you have a wedding budget that you and your partner are comfortable with. Make sure to start a budget spreadsheet and keep track of what you are spending on.  As mentioned earlier, wedding planners are a great resource for budget help, we would love to chat and help plan your big day!

When to hire vendors and how to prioritize

Venues, planners, photographers, and videographers are vendors that book up quickly because they typically only take on 1 wedding per day, so these are the people you need to prioritize first and foremost. If you’re serious about working with a wedding planner we always recommend you book us first, even before sourcing a venue. This allows us to guide you through the process (and the budget) right from the beginning. Stay tuned for part two of the blog on when to hire vendors and how to prioritize your selection.