How Much Do Weddings Cost in Singapore?

For couples embarking on their journey to marriage in Singapore, the cost of a wedding can often seem daunting. However, with careful planning and smart choices, it's entirely possible to have a beautiful and meaningful wedding without incurring excessive debt. This guide aims to empower you to make cost-effective decisions, prioritising what truly matters to you as a couple while ensuring a memorable and high-quality wedding experience.

The average cost of a wedding is a multifaceted figure that can vary depending on the couple's vision and preferences. In Singapore, the final tally can range from a five- to six-figure sum. This complex sum is arrived at by considering a multitude of factors, each contributing to the overall wedding cost.

Here’s a general breakdown of potential wedding expenses in Singapore:

• Venue rental (hotel ballroom, restaurant, unique space): S$15,000 - S$30,000+

• Catering (food & beverage per guest): S$100 - S$300+ per person

• Wedding attire (gown rental/purchase, suit rental/purchase): S$3,000 - S$6,000+

• Photography & videography: S$2,500 - S$4,000+

• Decor & flowers: S$2,000 - S$5,000+

• Wedding bands: S$2,000 - S$6,000+

• Stationery (invitations, favours): S$500 - S$2,000+

• Entertainment (DJ, band): S$1,000 - S$8,000+

• Solemnisation (ROM venue, JP Fees): S$1,000 - S$5,000+

• Transport: S$300 - S$1,500+

• Miscellaneous (contingency, gifts): S$1,000 - S$2,000+

As you can see, the cost of a wedding in Singapore can be a large figure, heavily influenced by your choices in each of these categories.

Determining a reasonable wedding budget in Singapore is a personal decision that depends on your financial situation, your couple's priorities, and the scale of your envisioned celebration. While the average cost of a wedding in Singapore can serve as a benchmark, what constitutes a "reasonable" amount will vary for every couple.

When setting your budget, start by identifying your non-negotiables. Is a prestigious venue your top priority? Or are you more focused on exceptional catering or capturing every moment with a top-tier photographer? Allocating a larger portion of your budget to these key areas will help you strike a balance between your wants and needs in other aspects of the wedding.

On average, the wedding budget in Singapore often spans a wide range, with some couples spending between S$30,000 and S$50,000, while others opt for more extravagant celebrations, exceeding S$80,000 or more.

To set a reasonable budget for your wedding in Singapore, consider your combined average income, your savings, and how much you are comfortable allocating to this significant life event. Researching the average venue costs and vendor rates in Singapore will also provide a realistic framework for your financial planning.

Planning a wedding in Singapore doesn't have to drain your life savings. With some savvy strategies and a willingness to explore alternatives, you can reduce costs while still creating a memorable and meaningful celebration. Here are some tips for planning a wedding on a budget in Singapore.

1. Consider DIY Options

Opting to do it yourself (DIY) can yield significant savings. This includes designing and printing your own invitations, sourcing affordable décor supplies from platforms like Shopee and Lazada, and creating your own wedding favours. Enlisting artistic friends or family for help with décor can also be a cost-effective and personal touch. Additionally, exploring online communities like SGBrides on Telegram can provide valuable cost-saving tips and connections with other couples.

2. Look into more cost-effective venues

Choosing the right venue can have the biggest impact on your overall wedding budget. Instead of pricey hotels, consider more economical alternatives such as Tanjong Beach Club in Sentosa for a unique outdoor setting, condominium function halls offering lower rental rates, and Chinese restaurants providing competitive banquet menus for intimate gatherings. Exploring these non-traditional options can offer great value for money.

3. Trim the guest list

A smaller guest list directly translates to lower costs, particularly for catering, venue size, and the number of favours and stationery required. Consider limiting your guest list to your closest family and friends, around 100-150 people, and potentially hosting a larger, more casual celebration at a later date if desired.

4. Seek an off-peak season

The timing of your wedding in Singapore can influence vendor prices. Avoiding popular months like June, December, and the Chinese New Year, as well as opting for weekdays instead of weekends, can often secure better rates and discounts from venues and other vendors. Consider off-peak months such as March, September, or November, or a weekday evening or morning ceremony, to potentially reduce costs.

Once you have a clear understanding of your budget and priorities, the next step is to thoroughly compare the prices and services offered by various wedding vendors in Singapore. This approach will help you identify the best value for your money without compromising on quality for your special day.

Start by exploring multiple options for each service, from venues to photographers, using online directories and recommendations. Request detailed proposals outlining services and costs to enable accurate comparisons of similar offerings.

However, don't solely focus on the cheapest option; consider vendor experience, reviews, and quality. Leverage vendor showcases to meet potential partners in person and explore package deals for potential savings. Always read reviews and feel free to ask clarifying questions to ensure transparent communication and informed decisions.

Once you've shortlisted the vendors, approach negotiations respectfully and armed with information on average rates. Highlight the overall value you see and inquire about bundling services or off-peak discounts if your date is flexible.

Be prepared to compromise to find mutually agreeable terms, but don't hesitate to politely decline if your budget can't be met. Crucially, ensure all agreed-upon terms and prices are clearly documented in the contract.

Beyond the main wedding expenses, remember to factor in often-overlooked costs. Budget for vendor tips as a customary gesture in Singapore. Be mindful of potential last-minute add-ons or upgrades that can inflate your spending. Guest list changes can impact catering and favour costs.

Don't forget stationery and postage, as well as the cost of wedding favours if you choose to provide them. Include solemnisation expenses and transport for the bridal party. Allow for attire alterations and, importantly, set aside a contingency fund of 5-10% to cover unexpected costs, ensuring a smoother financial journey to your wedding day.

Saving for your wedding requires careful planning and consistent effort. Starting early and implementing smart financial strategies can help ease the financial burden and allow you to celebrate your special day without future regrets. Here are some practical tips for couples saving up for their wedding:

• Set a realistic budget early: As discussed earlier, determine how much you can comfortably allocate to your wedding based on your income, savings, and financial goals. Having a clear budget from the outset will guide all your subsequent decisions.

• Prioritise and allocate funds: Identify the aspects of your wedding that are most important to you as a couple and allocate a larger portion of your budget to those areas. Be prepared to make compromises on less critical elements.

• Create a dedicated savings plan: Establish a separate savings account specifically for your wedding fund. Set up regular contributions and automate transfers whenever possible to ensure consistent growth.

• Track your expenses: Monitor your spending closely throughout the wedding planning process. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to keep track of deposits, payments, and any unexpected costs.

• Delay large purchases: If possible, postpone any significant personal purchases until after the wedding to maximise your savings in the lead-up to the big day.

• Take advantage of promotions and discounts: Be on the lookout for wedding-related promotions, discounts at wedding fairs, and early booking offers from vendors.

• Consider a longer engagement: A longer engagement period provides more time to save and can alleviate financial pressure.

• Be open to contributions: If family members offer financial assistance, discuss it openly and gratefully. Any contributions can help reduce your overall expenses.

As you embark on your wedding planning in Singapore, keeping a close eye on your spending and maintaining flexibility with your budget are crucial. This is because the initial excitement can sometimes lead to overspending; therefore, it's essential to review your expenses regularly and make adjustments as needed.

It's also important to remain flexible. Unexpected costs can arise, and your priorities might shift as you delve deeper into the planning process. Be prepared to make compromises and reallocate funds if necessary. Here’s a checklist to help you plan your wedding while keeping your budget in check.

Phase 1: Setting the foundation

Determine your overall reasonable wedding budge
Identify your non-negotiable priorities (venue, food, photography, etc.)
Create a dedicated wedding savings plan
Research average vendor costs in Singapore for key categories

Phase 2: Smart planning & cost cutting

Explore DIY options for invitations, favours, and décor
Investigate cost-effective venues
Consider a smaller, more intimate guest list
Explore off-peak season or weekday wedding dates for potential discounts

Phase 3: Vendor selection & negotiation

Compare prices and services from multiple vendors for each category
Read online reviews and testimonials for potential vendors
Inquire about package deals when booking multiple services
Don't hesitate to negotiate prices respectfully
Get all agreed-upon terms and prices in writing in the contract

Phase 4: Financial management & contingency

Anticipate extra costs (tips, last-minute add-ons, guest list changes, stationery, transport, alterations
Set aside a contingency fund (5-10% of the total budget) for unexpected expenses
Track all wedding-related spending diligently using a spreadsheet or app
Remain flexible with your budget and be prepared to reallocate funds if needed

Ongoing savings:

Take advantage of wedding-related promotions and discounts
Consider a longer engagement to allow more time for saving
Be open to financial contributions from family, if offered