Getting married in Richmond now costs nearly $40,000
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Richmond's wedding market has been shrinking for nearly a decade, but the cost of getting married is more expensive than ever.
Why it matters: It's a dynamic playing out nationally as inflation, higher vendor costs and social media pressure push prices up regardless of demand.
By the numbers: Metro Richmond hosted 6,290 weddings last year, down from a peak of 7,397 in 2016, according to industry research firm the Wedding Report.
- In that same period, the average cost climbed from $32,114 to $39,353 — surpassing the national average of $32,899.
- That accounts for a range of expenses, including food, attire, entertainment, venue costs, decor, invitations and more.
- The report estimates the trend of fewer but pricier weddings will continue through at least 2028, and weddings will generate over $250 million in sales this year.
Yes, but: The median Richmond wedding cost was roughly half of the report's average, suggesting a small number of high-end weddings are doing most of the heavy lifting.
- Though Zola, a major wedding website, estimates Richmond's average in 2026 is closer to $52,000 for 150 guests.
Context: COVID cratered the market in 2020, and the average spend fell to about $25,000 before a rebound in 2022.
- Now, more couples are trading large gatherings for micro weddings (like the ones you can get at Lucky in Love chapel downtown), backyard receptions, elopements and smaller wedding parties to save money.
- Even courthouse ceremonies have become the new status symbol, and Google Trends data shows searches for "courthouse wedding" skyrocketed in Virginia in January.
- Pinterest's 2025 Annual Wedding Trends Report suggests Gen Z is driving those searches.
Fun fact: Unlike in some states, Virginia courthouses generally don't perform marriage ceremonies on-site.
- But you can obtain a $30 marriage license, hire an authorized officiant and then get married elsewhere.
What we're watching: Wedding sticker shock might not be over.
- Nearly 80% of couples told Zola they're worried tariffs and economic uncertainty will inflate costs further, and most said homeownership is taking a back seat to wedding expenses.
Go deeper: The most popular wedding venues in Richmond right now