How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Missouri? (Real Budgets + Missouri Pricing Guide)

Planning a wedding is exciting… and also a little overwhelming — especially when you start Googling the big question:

“How much does a wedding cost in Missouri?”

If you’re recently engaged and planning your big day, you are not alone. Wedding costs vary wildly depending on guest count, location, day of the week, vendors, and how “all-inclusive” your venue is. But the good news is: Missouri weddings are often more affordable than the national average, and with smart planning, you can build a beautiful celebration without overspending.

At Berkshire Ridge Wedding Venue, a locally owned St. Louis wedding venue, we help couples navigate wedding planning every year — and we’ve learned what budgets are realistic for Missouri couples and where money tends to go.

Let’s break it down.

Average Wedding Cost in Missouri

While every wedding is different, Missouri couples typically spend somewhere in the high teens to the $20Ks, depending on the wedding style and guest count.

• One Missouri planning source estimates the average cost around $24,731. Complete Weddings + Events

• A wedding market statistics breakdown lists a 2025 median wedding cost in Missouri of $17,470 (median means half spend less and half spend more). The Wedding Report

For comparison, The Knot reports the national average wedding cost is about $33,000. The Knot

✅ Takeaway: Missouri is often more budget-friendly than major coastal wedding markets — especially when couples choose a venue that gives them space, flexibility, and value.

What’s the Biggest Factor in Wedding Cost? (Guest Count!)

If there’s ONE thing that determines cost more than anything else, it’s your guest list.

Every guest affects:

• food & drinks

• tables/chairs/linens

• invitations

• favors

• cake/dessert

• bar costs

Even at modest per-person pricing, guest count changes everything.

Missouri Wedding Budget Examples (What Couples Really Spend)

Here are realistic ranges we see in Missouri:

Small Wedding (30–60 guests): $8,000 – $18,000

This usually includes:

• venue

• photographer

• simple catering or buffet

• minimal décor/florals

• DJ or playlist setup

Best for: intimate weddings, micro weddings, Sunday brunch weddings.

Medium Wedding (75–125 guests): $18,000 – $35,000

This is the most common range.

Typically includes:

• venue + ceremony space

• catering

• photographer

• DJ

• cake/dessert

• florals + décor

• bar option

• hair & makeup

Large Wedding (150–250 guests): $35,000 – $60,000+

Larger weddings increase costs quickly because catering/bar become major budget items.

Often includes upgrades like:

• full-service catering

• larger floral installs

• lighting enhancements

• videographer

• upgraded bar service

• décor rentals

Wedding Cost Breakdown: Where the Money Goes

Here’s a simple Missouri wedding budget breakdown for a typical medium-sized wedding:

1) Venue

Your venue is one of the biggest line items. National venue averages vary, but venue often takes a significant share of the total. zola.com+1

✅ Tip: a venue like Berkshire Ridge that offers multiple spaces and strong included amenities can save you a lot on rentals.

2) Catering (and sometimes bar)

Catering is usually the largest expense in most weddings.

Cost depends on:

• buffet vs plated

• number of appetizers

• staffing needs

• service time

• guest count

3) Photography / Videography

Most couples say photography is worth it because when the day is over, photos and video are what you keep forever.

4) Florals & Decor

This range is huge — it can be:

• under $1,000 with greenery/minimal florals
  or

• $8,000+ with installations and statement pieces

At Berkshire Ridge, couples often love using natural beauty, open space, and outdoor settings to reduce the need for heavy décor.

5) DJ / Entertainment

A great DJ isn’t just music — they control the mood, timeline, and energy of your reception.

6) Attire

Includes:

• dress + alterations

• suit/tux

• shoes/accessories

• veil/jewelry

7) Other Costs Couples Forget

These sneak up FAST:

• marriage license

• tips

• vendor meals

• signage

• rentals (linens, chargers, etc.)

• hair + makeup trial

• transportation

• favors

• hotel blocks

How to Save Money on a Wedding in Missouri (Without It Feeling Cheap)

Here are the BEST ways to cut wedding costs while still having a beautiful day:

✅ Keep guest count intentional
✅ Choose a venue that feels naturally beautiful (less décor needed)
✅ Use seasonal florals
✅ Limit bar options (beer/wine + signature drinks)
✅ Skip things guests don’t remember (but keep what matters to YOU)
✅ Pick the right layout (spaces that flow reduce add-on rentals)

Why Your Venue Choice Matters More Than Anything

Many couples don’t realize that the venue affects nearly every other expense:

• vendor rentals

• setup logistics

• décor needs

• flow of the day

• guest comfort

At Berkshire Ridge Wedding Venue, couples love having:

• a romantic outdoor woodland ceremony space near St. Louis

• a gorgeous two-level patio with string lights

• cozy cocktail-height fire tables (perfect for mingling & photos!)

• flexible spaces that allow you to personalize your day

You can keep your wedding timeless and elevated — without needing to “buy” the atmosphere.

Final Thoughts: What Should You Budget for a Missouri Wedding?

A realistic budget range for most Missouri couples is:

✅ $18,000–$35,000 for a 75–125 guest wedding

But the truth is: your wedding can be beautiful at nearly any budget with the right choices — especially the right venue.

Frequently Asked Questions: Wedding Costs in Missouri

How much does the average wedding cost in Missouri?

Most Missouri weddings typically fall somewhere between the high teens to the $20,000s, depending on guest count, vendors, and style. The biggest factors are usually your venue choice and how many guests you invite.

What is a realistic budget for a wedding near St. Louis?

A realistic budget for a wedding near St. Louis for 75–125 guests is often $18,000–$35,000, depending on catering, bar, décor, photography, and how many upgrades you choose.

What costs the most at a wedding?

For most couples, the biggest wedding expenses are:

• venue

• catering

• bar

• photography/videography

If you want to lower your total cost, start by managing the guest list and choosing a venue that reduces rental and décor needs.

How can I lower wedding costs without having a “cheap” wedding?

Smart ways to lower wedding costs while still having a beautiful celebration:

• Keep your guest list intentional

• Choose a venue with natural beauty (less décor needed!)

• Use seasonal florals and greenery

• Choose a buffet instead of plated service

• Offer beer/wine or a limited bar

• Focus spending on what guests remember (food, music, comfort, photos)

How far in advance should we book a wedding venue in Missouri?

Most couples book their venue 12–18 months in advance, especially for peak wedding months (spring and fall). Popular Saturdays go first.

What time of year is cheaper to get married in Missouri?

Typically, winter weddings (December–February) and some summer dates can be more budget-friendly. Peak demand months in Missouri are often April–June and September–October.

Is an outdoor wedding more expensive?

Not necessarily. Outdoor weddings can be affordable, but sometimes require additional rentals (tents, fans/heaters, restrooms, sound). Choosing a venue that already includes outdoor ceremony spaces makes outdoor weddings easier and often less expensive.

What should couples ask a wedding venue about pricing?

Ask:

• What is included in the venue price?

• Are tables/chairs included?

• How long is the rental time?

• Do you have recommended vendors?

• Are there outdoor ceremony options and backup plans?

• What is the payment schedule?

Does Berkshire Ridge Wedding Venue offer an outdoor ceremony space?

Yes — Berkshire Ridge Wedding Venue offers a beautiful outdoor woodland ceremony space near St. Louis, along with a stunning two-level patio strung with lights and surrounded by cocktail-height fire tables, creating the perfect atmosphere for your celebration.

🤍 Final Planning Tip

Your venue sets the tone for your entire wedding day — and can help you stay on budget by reducing rentals and décor needs. Choose a space that feels like your dream day the moment you walk in.

Planning a Wedding Near St. Louis? Come Tour Berkshire Ridge

If you’re searching for a St. Louis wedding venue that’s locally owned, nature-inspired, and designed for unforgettable celebrations, we’d love to show you around.

👉 Schedule a tour at Berkshire Ridge Wedding Venue and let’s talk about your date, your vision, and your budget — and how to make it all work beautifully.

Berkshire Ridge is a locally owned & operated business just south of St. Louis, Missouri. We sincerely hope to encourage our couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it is time to book your wedding venue and vendors. Locally owned venues will offer a high level of hospitality, attentive communication & a desire to ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support other locally owned wedding venue owners from around the country with a shout out in our blog!

From Our Venue to Your Love Story - Kim