What Does a Wedding Cost? A Guide to Budgeting for Your Wedding in Gauteng, South Africa

Planning a wedding is an exciting journey, but figuring out the budget can feel overwhelming.

Gauteng, with its blend of urban sophistication and scenic venues, offers a wide range of options to suit different styles and budgets.

Let’s dive into the essential costs associated with weddings in the region, helping you set realistic expectations and plan a memorable celebration.

1. VENUE COSTS

The wedding venue often takes up the largest portion of your budget.

Venue hire – in the range of: R30,000 – R150,000 +

Inclusions depend on the venue and could be anything from tables, chairs, cutlery, and basic décor. However, additional services such as catering, lighting, and staffing might come at an extra cost.

Tip: Make sure there are no hidden costs or services that are not optional. Certain venues seem like they have great prices at first glance, only to convey to you a few mails in, that you MUST make use of their in-house florist or DJ.

Tip: Don’t just price shop but choose a venue that aligns with your style and personal aesthetic. If your budget is tight, consider off-peak seasons or weekday weddings for reduced rates.

2. CATERING

Feeding your guests is another significant expense. And everyone remembers the food at a wedding.

Cost Per Person: R350* – R3 000

* The amount of R350 is from a Google search. However, a wedding menu of R350 per person would need very careful scrutiny to ensure necessary quality and quantity.

Total Cost: Multiply this by your guest count.

Tip: Some venues have menu packages you can choose from. Other venues have different items you can select. Ask about menu customisations and whether the venue includes catering or allows external vendors.

3. FLOWERS & DÉCOR

The style and scale of your wedding décor and florals greatly influence this cost.

Range: R10,000* – R200 000 +

* Again, R10 000 was suggested by Google. This budget will be more in line with a DIY wedding or an intimate celebration with minimal flowers and décor.

Tip: Don’t just bargain hunt. Get in touch with a florist that you resonate with. Repurpose ceremony flowers for your reception to stretch your budget further.

Read our blog post: https://thestonecellar.co.za/how-much-should-i-budget-for-wedding-flowers/  *

* This blog post was written from the perspective of an in-house florist at The Stone Cellar – costing might differ according to location, florists’ experience, season etc.

4. PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

Capturing your memories professionally is priceless but comes at a cost.

Photography: R15,000 – R40,000 +

Videography: R15,000 – R50,000

Tip: Invest in a photographer whose style you love, and consider whether you need both photography and videography.

5. ATTIRE

Looking and feeling your best on your big day is important.

Bride’s Attire:

Dress: R10,000 – R50,000 + (custom designs may cost more).

Accessories: R2,000 – R10,000.

Groom’s Attire: R5,000 – R40,000.

Tip: Look for sales or consider renting attire for cost savings.

6. ENTERTAINMENT

Good entertainment ensures your guests have a great time.

DJ/Band: R6,000 – R25,000+

Sound & Lighting: R3,000 – R10,000+

Live Performances: Costs vary based on the artist.

Tip: Ensure your venue has the right acoustics for your chosen entertainment.

7. STATIONERY & INVITATIONS

It’s all in the details – set the tone of your wedding with beautiful stationery.

Range: R3,000 – R10,000+ (digital invites are more affordable).

Tip: Beautifully designed stationery will enhance the overall look and tie everything together. You can go DIY with this, but we recommend using a professional since this portion of your wedding won’t break the bank.

8. HAIR & MAKEUP

Professional styling ensures you look flawless all day.

Bride: R2,000 – R5,000

Bridal Party (per person): R1,000 – R2,500

Tip: Schedule a trial session to ensure you love the final look. We know Kate Middleton did her wedding makeup herself, but we don’t recommend going DIY with this (unless you are a hair and make-up artist).

9. TRANSPORTATION

Whether it’s a luxury car or shuttle services for guests:

Range: R3,000 – R15,000+

Tip: If your venue offers on-site accommodation and accommodation in the area, you may reduce transport costs for guests.

10. ADDITIONAL COSTS TO CONSIDER

Marriage Officer: R2,000 – R4,000

Cake: R3,000 – R15,000+

Favours: R30 – R150 per guest.

Accommodation for Guests: R1,000 – R3,000 per room.

Bridal Suite: Often included in the venue hire but confirm with your venue.

11. MISCELLANEOUS COSTS

Don’t forget about small expenses that add up:

Wedding Planner: R15,000 – R50,000+

Gifts for the Bridal Party: R500 – R2,000 per person.

SAMPLE BUDGET BREAKDOWN

Here’s a breakdown of what you might expect to spend at different budget levels, highlighting the key elements for each. These are estimates based on Gauteng market trends.

A. MODEST WEDDING BUDGET (R80,000 – R120,000)

Ideal for couples who prefer a simple, intimate wedding with fewer guests (50–80) and minimal frills.

Breakdown:

Venue: R20,000 – R35,000

Small to mid-sized venues, possibly with limited inclusions.

Catering: R20,000 – R28,000 (R400 per person for 50–70 guests).

Basic buffet or plated meal; fewer courses.

Flowers & Décor: R8,000 – R15,000

Minimalist arrangements using greenery and budget-friendly blooms.

Photography: R10,000 – R15,000

A professional photographer with no additional videography services.

Attire:

Bride: R8,000 – R12,000

Groom: R3,000 – R5,000

Entertainment: R5,000 – R7,000

A DJ or small acoustic setup.

Stationery: R2,000 – R4,000

Digital or minimal printed invitations.

Hair & Makeup: R2,000 – R3,000

Miscellaneous:

Cake: R2,000 – R4,000

Favours: R2,000 (R50 per guest).

Total: R80,000 – R120,000

B. MEDIUM WEDDING BUDGET (R150,000 – R250,000)

Ideal for couples hosting 80–120 guests with mid-range offerings and a balanced mix of elegance and personalisation.

Breakdown:

Venue: R35,000 – R60,000

Scenic venues with added inclusions.

Catering: R40,000 – R70,000 (R500 – R700 per person).

Flowers & Décor: R20,000 – R40,000

Photography & Videography: R25,000 – R40,000

High-quality photography with basic videography.

Attire:

Bride: R12,000 – R20,000

Groom: R5,000 – R10,000

Entertainment: R10,000 – R15,000

DJ with added lighting effects or a small live band.

Stationery: R5,000 – R8,000

Customized invites, seating charts, and menus.

Hair & Makeup: R4,000 – R6,000

Miscellaneous:

Cake: R5,000 – R8,000

Favours: R4,000 – R6,000 (R50 – R70 per guest).

Total: R150,000 – R250,000

C. HIGH-END WEDDING BUDGET (R350,000 – R1,000,000)

Ideal for couples who want a luxurious experience with 150+ guests, premium services, and bespoke details.

Breakdown:

Venue: R60,000 – R150,000+

Prestigious venues with all-inclusive offerings and luxury accommodations.

Catering: R100,000 – R250,000+ (R800 – R1,500 per person).

Flowers & Décor: R70,000 – R200,000+

Lavish floral installations, luxury rentals, and custom design elements.

Photography & Videography: R50,000 – R100,000+

Elite photographers and videographers offering extended hours and full video editing.

Attire:

Bride: R30,000 – R100,000+ (designer gown).

Groom: R10,000 – R30,000+ (custom suit).

Entertainment: R30,000 – R80,000+

Live bands, DJs with full lighting setups, or even celebrity performances.

Stationery: R10,000 – R20,000+

Bespoke invitations with hand-lettering or luxury finishes.

Miscellaneous:

Cake: R10,000 – R20,000+

Hair & Makeup: R8,000 – R15,000

Favours: R7,000 – R15,000 (R100+ per guest).

Total: R350,000 – R1,000,000

FINAL TIPS FOR ALL BUDGETS

Prioritise Your Spending: Decide what matters most to you – venue, food, photography, or flowers – and allocate funds accordingly.

Leverage Off-Peak Seasons: Weddings in Gauteng are more affordable in winter or on weekdays.

Ask Questions: Understand what’s included in vendor packages to avoid surprise costs.

Work with a Planner: Even for smaller budgets, a wedding planner can help optimise your expenses.

A well-planned budget allows you to focus on what truly matters – celebrating your love with the people closest to you. By understanding the various costs and planning accordingly, you’ll avoid surprises and enjoy a day that’s as stress-free as it is unforgettable.

If you’re ready to start planning: https://thestonecellar.co.za/what-wedding-packages-do-you-offer/

Or explore our blog for more tips and inspiration: https://thestonecellar.co.za/blog/