Planning a wedding in 2025 or 2026? You’re not alone—and chances are, you’re asking the same questions nearly every couple is Googling right now. From ballooning budgets to ditching outdated traditions, we’re breaking down the real answers to the top wedding planning questions of the year.
1. What’s the Average Cost of a Wedding in 2025?
Let’s be real: weddings are expensive. The national average hovers around $30,000, but that number shifts dramatically based on where you live and how big your guest list is. Here in central Texas, the average cost is around $15,000 depending on how far out from Austin you go.
What’s making prices rise this year?
- Tariffs on imported items (like dresses, flowers, and chocolate)
- Labor shortages in the event industry
- Demand post-COVID and post-inflation
Want to save money without sacrificing vibe?
- Go smaller: Micro weddings are in.
- Trim the guest list ruthlessly.
- Ditch what doesn’t matter: cake towers, fireworks, over-the-top favors.
2. How Long Does It Really Take to Plan a Wedding?
Most couples take 12–18 months, but smaller events can be planned in 3–6 months if you’re decisive.
Here’s the smart order of operations:
- Set your budget.
- Draft your guest list.
- Book your venue (ASAP!).
- Secure key vendors: photographer, planner, caterer, entertainment.
Pro tip: Some vendors book up more than a year in advance, so start with your non-negotiables. Brandie and I talk about this in our first episode of How to Wedding.
3. What Wedding Traditions Are Couples Skipping in 2025?
The rulebook? Tossed. Couples are skipping:
- Bouquet tosses
- Giant bridal parties
- 5-minute speeches from your cousin’s roommate
- Traditional favors no one wants
What’s replacing them?
- First looks (for private time + better light for photos)
- Eco-friendly or experience-based elements
- Hybrid ceremonies for out-of-town guests
And yes—it’s totally okay to write your own rules. Brandie and I also talk trends in Episode 3. The bouquet toss MIGHT be making a comeback, however. We’ll see.
4. What Should We Put on Our Wedding Website?
If your guests only visit one thing online—make it count.
Must-have sections:
- Date, time, and location
- Dress code (be clear!)
- Travel + accommodation info
- RSVP + meal preferences
- Registry and/or honeymoon fund links
- FAQs (kids? cash bar? attire details?)
💡 Pro tip: If you’re including cultural traditions, explain them briefly so guests know what to expect and how to participate respectfully. In a recent wedding Brandie and I shot, the guests got an outline of what to expect from a Hindu wedding, how to dress, and etiquette.
5. What Do Couples Forget in the Final 30 Days?
The last month is a blur—here’s what’s most often overlooked:
- Getting the marriage license
- Writing vows
- Tipping your vendors
- Event insurance (especially if outdoors)
- Packing for the honeymoon
Check out our free Final 30-Day Wedding Checklist Canva template to keep yourself on track!
Got Questions?
Send them in! I’d love to answer your planning questions in an upcoming episode. You can drop them in our DMs over in Instagram.
