How Much Does a Small Wedding Cost in Canada? A Complete Guide for 2024

Planning a small wedding in Canada? Many couples are choosing to downsize their weddings to create more intimate and affordable celebrations. But how much does a small wedding cost in Canada in 2024? The price of a small wedding can vary depending on factors such as location, guest count, and the specific services you choose. In this article, we’ll break down the key costs involved in planning a small wedding in Canada, including tips on how to save money while still having the wedding of your dreams.

Small Wedding Costs in Canada: What to Expect

A small wedding is generally defined as having fewer than 50 guests. While the overall cost will be lower than a larger wedding, it’s still important to budget carefully. Let’s dive into the key expenses you can expect when planning a small wedding in Canada.

1. Venue Costs: $1,000 – $5,000

The cost of a wedding venue in Canada can vary greatly depending on the location and the type of venue you choose. In large cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, you might expect to pay more for a venue compared to smaller towns or rural areas.

Budget venues like community halls or outdoor parks may cost between $1,000 and $3,000.
Mid-range venues such as boutique hotels, art galleries, or smaller banquet halls can range from $3,000 to $5,000.
Upscale venues could go beyond $5,000, even for small weddings, especially in high-demand locations.

When booking your venue, make sure to factor in additional costs like taxes, service fees, and parking.

2. Catering and Food: $2,000 – $7,000

For a small wedding in Canada, catering will likely be one of your biggest expenses. The cost of food and drink per person depends on your menu choices, location, and the catering service you hire.

Buffet-style or plated meals typically range from $50 to $150 per guest, depending on the complexity and quality of the food.
Light hors d’oeuvres or finger foods could be less expensive, with costs starting at around $30 to $60 per person.

For a small wedding with around 50 guests, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $7,000 for catering, including drinks.

3. Wedding Attire: $1,000 – $3,000

Your wedding dress and the groom’s suit are key elements of your special day, but they don’t have to break the bank. There are many affordable options available, both online and in-store, without sacrificing quality or style.

Wedding dresses typically cost between $500 and $2,500, depending on the designer, fabric, and location of purchase.
Suits or tuxedos for the groom often range from $300 to $1,000 for rental or purchase.
Don’t forget accessories like shoes, jewelry, and undergarments, which could add another $200 to $500 to the total.

4. Photography and Videography: $2,000 – $5,000

Capturing memories of your wedding day is essential, and the cost of professional photography can vary based on experience and location.

Wedding photographers in Canada generally charge between $1,500 and $4,000 for small weddings, with packages often including 6-8 hours of coverage, digital photos, and an online gallery.
Videography typically adds an additional $1,000 to $3,000.

Some photographers and videographers offer combined packages, which can help save money while ensuring both photo and video coverage of your big day.

5. Flowers and Decorations: $500 – $2,000

For a small wedding, you can keep your floral arrangements and decorations simple while still creating a beautiful atmosphere.

Bouquets, boutonnières, and floral centerpieces usually cost between $500 and $2,000 for a small guest list.
DIY decorations or rental decor options could help lower this cost.

If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, natural surroundings can often act as your decor, reducing the need for elaborate floral arrangements.

6. Entertainment and Music: $500 – $2,500

Even for a small wedding, having the right entertainment is crucial to setting the mood. The cost of music will depend on your preferences and whether you hire a DJ, live band, or simply curate your own playlist.

Live bands typically charge between $1,000 and $3,000.
DJs can range from $500 to $2,500 for 4-6 hours of service.
For a budget-friendly option, creating your own playlist and renting speakers can cost as little as $100 to $500.

7. Officiant Fees: $150 – $500

Hiring an officiant to marry you is another key cost. In Canada, officiant fees usually range from $150 to $500 depending on their experience, the location of your ceremony, and whether you require additional services like premarital counseling or custom vows.

Some religious institutions may offer officiant services for free, while others may charge based on the denomination.

8. Miscellaneous Costs: $500 – $2,000

Don’t forget to account for smaller but important costs, including:

Wedding invitations: Digital invitations are a cost-effective option, while traditional printed invites can range from $200 to $1,000.
Wedding favors: For small weddings, you can keep it simple with small tokens that may cost anywhere from $2 to $5 per guest.
Transportation: Limousines or car rentals for the couple can range from $300 to $1,000 depending on distance and the type of vehicle.

Total Cost of a Small Wedding in Canada

Considering all of the above factors, the total cost for a small wedding in Canada typically ranges from $7,000 to $20,000. However, it’s possible to plan a small wedding for as little as $5,000 or spend up to $30,000 depending on your preferences and choices.

How to Save Money on a Small Wedding in Canada

If you’re looking to save money while still having a memorable small wedding, here are a few tips:

Choose a non-traditional venue: Look into hosting your wedding at a family home, a park, or even a small art gallery. These options often come at a fraction of the cost of traditional wedding venues.
Opt for a smaller guest list: The fewer the guests, the less you’ll spend on catering, favors, and other services.
DIY your décor and flowers: If you’re crafty, consider making your own floral arrangements or creating personalized decorations.
Choose off-peak dates: Weddings held on weekdays or outside of peak wedding season (spring and summer) tend to be cheaper.
Rent instead of buy: Consider renting expensive items like your wedding dress, tuxedo, or even your wedding décor.

Final Thoughts: Budgeting for Your Small Wedding in Canada

The cost of a small wedding in Canada depends on various factors, including the location, guest list, and services you choose. While a small wedding typically costs between $7,000 and $20,000, there are plenty of ways to plan a memorable celebration without exceeding your budget. By carefully considering each expense and exploring ways to cut costs, you can create the perfect intimate wedding day that reflects your personal style and budget.

Whether you’re planning a rustic outdoor wedding or a chic urban celebration, a small wedding offers flexibility and the opportunity to focus on what matters most—your love and commitment to each other.

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