The Ultimate Toronto Wedding Cost Guide (2025-2026)
Everything You Need to Know
A comprehensive resource for brides planning their dream wedding in the Greater Toronto Area
Average Wedding Cost in Toronto: The Big Picture
Planning a wedding in Toronto is an exciting journey, but understanding the costs involved is crucial for creating a realistic budget. Based on the latest data and market trends for 2025-2026, the average wedding cost in Toronto ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 for approximately 135 guests. This represents a slight increase from previous years, reflecting ongoing inflation and growing demand for wedding services in the city.
A stunning bride and groom portrait captured at The Old Mill Toronto
The total wedding cost varies significantly based on:
- Your guest count
- Venue selection
- Season (peak vs. off-peak)
- Day of the week (Saturday weddings typically cost more)
- Service providers chosen
- Overall wedding vision and style
While the average cost provides a helpful benchmark, your actual wedding budget may be higher or lower depending on your priorities and choices. Many Toronto couples find creative ways to celebrate their special day on budgets ranging from $15,000 to over $100,000.
Wedding Budget Breakdown
Let's examine the typical expenses for an average wedding in Toronto with approximately 135 guests:
| Category | Percentage of Budget | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Venue & Catering | 40-50% | $14,000-$25,000 |
| Photography & Videography | 10-15% | $3,500-$7,500 |
| Attire & Beauty | 8-10% | $2,800-$5,000 |
| Flowers & Decor | 8-12% | $2,800-$6,000 |
| Entertainment | 5-10% | $1,750-$5,000 |
| Wedding Cake | 2-4% | $700-$2,000 |
| Invitations & Stationery | 2-3% | $700-$1,500 |
| Transportation | 2-3% | $700-$1,500 |
| Wedding Rings | 2-3% | $700-$1,500 |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | 5-10% | $1,750-$5,000 |
Now, let's explore each category in detail to understand the specific costs involved in planning your Toronto wedding.
Wedding Venue Costs in Toronto
The wedding venue often represents the largest portion of your budget, typically accounting for 40-50% of total expenses when combined with catering.
Venue Rental Fees
Toronto offers diverse venue options with varying price points:
| Venue Type | Average Cost Range | Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Hotels & Historic Venues | $10,000-$25,000+ | 150-300+ |
| Mid-Range Banquet Halls | $5,000-$15,000 | 100-250 |
| Restaurants & Event Spaces | $3,000-$12,000 | 50-150 |
| Community Centers & Parks | $1,000-$5,000 | Varies |
| Botanical Gardens & Museums | $2,500-$15,000 | Varies |
Popular venues like Casa Loma, The Fairmont Royal York, and The Distillery District typically charge between $5,000 and $15,000 just for the space rental. Many Toronto venues offer wedding package pricing that includes various services and amenities.
Venue Cost Factors
Several elements influence venue pricing:
1. Season and Date
Summer and fall weddings (June-October) command premium pricing, while winter weddings (January-March) often cost less. Saturday events typically cost 20-30% more than weekday or Sunday weddings.
2. Duration
Most venues rent for 8-12 hours, with additional hours incurring extra fees of $500-$1,000 per hour.
3. Inclusions
Some venues include tables, chairs, linens, tableware, setup, and teardown in their pricing, while others charge extra for these items.
4. Minimum Spend Requirements
Many venues establish minimum food and beverage requirements, especially for peak season dates.
Toronto Botanical Garden Wedding Costs
A popular choice among Toronto couples, Toronto Botanical Garden offers:
- Floral Hall: $2,600-$3,100 base rental
- Garden Hall: $1,200-$1,300 base rental
- Additional mandatory fees (approximately 35% on top of base rental)
- Capacity for up to 200 guests
This venue represents one of the more affordable yet beautiful options in the Greater Toronto Area.
Wedding Catering Costs in Toronto
Catering represents a significant portion of your venue expenses, with per-person costs varying widely based on service style and menu options.
Catering Price Ranges
| Service Style | Average Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Plated Dinner | $70-$150+ |
| Buffet | $60-$120 |
| Family Style | $65-$130 |
| Cocktail/Stations | $50-$100 |
| Brunch/Lunch | $40-$80 |
Many Toronto weddings average between $120-$250 per person for food, beverages, service staff, and gratuities. For a wedding with 135 guests, expect to spend approximately $16,200-$33,750 on catering.
Additional Catering Costs
- Bar Service: Open bars typically cost $35-$75 per person depending on quality and selection
- Staff: Service charges of 15-20% are standard
- Rentals: China, glassware, and linens if not included
- Special Requests: Dietary accommodations, customized menus, or specialty items
"The average cost per guest for catering in Toronto has increased by approximately 15% since 2023, making it more important than ever to clarify exactly what's included in your catering quotes."
Money-Saving Tip
Consider a Friday or Sunday wedding reception to potentially save 10-15% on catering costs. Some venues also offer discounted food and beverage minimums for off-peak dates or lunchtime receptions.
Wedding Photography and Videography
Capturing your wedding day memories is a crucial investment, with wedding photography typically accounting for 10-15% of your total budget.
Wedding Photography Costs
In 2025-2026, the average cost of wedding photography in Toronto ranges between $4,000 and $5,000, with some premium services exceeding $10,000. Packages typically include:
- 8-10 hours of coverage
- Digital files
- Online gallery
For more budget-conscious couples, smaller packages with limited hours start around $2,500-$3,000.
Wedding Videography Costs
Videography services typically range from $2,500 to $8,000 depending on:
- Hours of coverage
- Number of videographers
- Editing style and quality
- Deliverable formats (highlight reel, documentary edit, raw footage)
Many Toronto couples spend approximately $3,000-$5,000 for quality wedding videography services.
Photography and Videography Packages
Combined photo and video packages offer savings and cohesive coverage, typically ranging from $5,500 to $12,000 depending on services included.
Finding the Right Wedding Photographer
When selecting a wedding photographer, consider these factors beyond just price:
- Style and consistency across their portfolio
- Experience with your specific venue
- Reviews from past clients
- Personality and communication
- Backup equipment and contingency plans
The best photographers in Toronto are often booked 12-18 months in advance, especially for summer and fall weddings.
Wedding Attire and Beauty
Wedding attire, accessories, and beauty services typically account for 8-10% of your total budget.
Wedding Dress Costs
In Toronto, wedding dress costs average between $1,500 and $2,500, though prices can range significantly:
Budget gowns
$500-$1,500
(off-the-rack, sample sales)
Mid-range gowns
$1,500-$3,000
(standard bridal boutiques)
Luxury gowns
$3,000-$10,000+
(designer labels, custom creations)
Remember to budget for alterations ($300-$700), accessories ($300-$1,000), and preservation ($250-$500).
Groom's Attire
For the groom, expect to spend:
- Suit purchase: $500-$1,200
- Suit rental: $150-$250
- Custom suit: $1,000-$3,000+
- Accessories: $200-$500 (shoes, tie, cufflinks, etc.)
Beauty Services
For the bride and wedding party:
- Bridal hair and makeup: $350-$700 (including trials)
- Bridesmaid hair and makeup: $150-$300 per person
- Groom's grooming: $50-$150
Dress Shopping Timeline
Begin shopping for your wedding dress 10-12 months before your wedding date. Most gowns take 6-8 months to arrive and require 2-3 months for alterations.
Wedding Flowers and Decor
Floral arrangements and decorations typically represent 8-12% of your wedding budget, with costs varying based on design complexity and flower selection.
A beautifully decorated wedding ceremony space
Average Floral Costs
For Toronto weddings in 2025-2026, expect the following approximate costs:
| Floral Item | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Bridal Bouquet | $250-$350 |
| Bridesmaid Bouquet | $100-$150 each |
| Boutonnieres | $20-$35 each |
| Corsages | $40-$65 each |
| Ceremony Arch/Structure | $800-$2,500+ |
| Altar Arrangements | $150-$350 each |
| Reception Centerpieces | $150-$300+ each |
| Head Table Garland | $25-$40 per foot |
For comprehensive wedding florals in Toronto, many couples spend $3,000-$5,000, with luxury arrangements exceeding $10,000.
Decor Expenses
Additional decor elements to budget for include:
- Linens and chair covers: $500-$1,500
- Lighting: $500-$2,000
- Signage: $200-$600
- Table numbers and place cards: $150-$350
- Backdrop installations: $800-$3,000
Seasonal Flower Pricing
To maximize your floral budget, consider:
- Choosing in-season blooms can save 20-40% on flower costs
- Spring/Summer: Peonies, garden roses, dahlias, and hydrangeas are readily available
- Fall/Winter: Consider amaryllis, anemones, ranunculus, and evergreen accents
- Repurposing ceremony flowers for your reception can save $500-$1,000
Wedding Cake and Desserts
Wedding cake typically accounts for 2-4% of your total budget, with the average cost ranging from $700 to $2,000 depending on design complexity, size, and ingredients.
Wedding Cake Pricing
In Toronto, wedding cakes are typically priced per serving, with rates ranging from:
- Simple buttercream designs: $4-$7 per serving
- Fondant-covered cakes: $7-$12 per serving
- Custom, intricate designs: $12-$20+ per serving
For a wedding with 135 guests, expect to spend approximately:
- Basic design: $550-$950
- Mid-range design: $950-$1,600
- Luxury design: $1,600-$2,700+
Alternative Dessert Options
Many Toronto couples are exploring dessert alternatives or supplements:
- Cupcake towers: $3-$5 per cupcake
- Dessert tables: $8-$15 per guest
- Donut walls: $3-$6 per donut
- Late-night sweet stations: $5-$10 per guest
Money-Saving Tip
Consider ordering a smaller display cake for cutting ceremonies (serving 30-40 guests) and supplementing with sheet cakes kept in the kitchen. This can reduce your wedding cake costs by 30-40% while still providing the same delicious dessert for all guests.
Wedding Entertainment
Entertainment typically accounts for 5-10% of your wedding budget, with DJs and live bands being the most common options.
DJ Services
In Toronto, wedding DJ services range from $1,200 to $2,500 for approximately 6-8 hours of coverage. Premium DJs with extensive experience, advanced equipment, and additional services like lighting may charge $2,500-$3,500+.
Live Music Options
Live entertainment options vary widely in price:
- Solo musician (ceremony): $350-$700
- Duo or trio (cocktail hour): $700-$1,500
- Wedding band (reception): $2,500-$8,000+
Additional Entertainment
Consider budgeting for:
- Photo booths: $800-$1,500
- Live painters: $1,000-$3,000
- Special performances: $500-$2,000+
- Late-night entertainment: $500-$1,500
Entertainment Selection Tips
When choosing between a DJ and wedding band:
- DJs offer versatility with unlimited song options and typically require less space
- Live bands create a unique atmosphere with high energy but may have limited repertoires
- Consider a hybrid approach: hiring a smaller live ensemble for cocktail hour and ceremony, with a DJ for the reception
Always review contracts carefully to understand overtime rates, break policies, and equipment requirements.
Wedding Planning and Coordination
Professional wedding planning services range from full-service planning to day-of coordination, with costs varying based on service level.
Planning Service Costs
| Service Level | Average Cost Range | Typical Services |
|---|---|---|
| Day-of Coordination | $1,200-$2,500 | Timeline development, vendor coordination, ceremony rehearsal, on-site management |
| Partial Planning | $2,500-$6,000 | Vendor recommendations, design assistance, monthly meetings, plus day-of services |
| Full Planning | $6,000-$15,000+ | Complete planning from start to finish, budget management, vendor selection, design development |
Many Toronto couples opt for at least day-of coordination to ensure smooth execution of their wedding planning efforts.
When to Hire a Wedding Planner
Consider investing in a wedding planner if:
- You have limited time to devote to planning
- You're planning from out of town
- You're hosting a complex event with multiple locations or unique logistics
- Your venue doesn't provide on-site coordination
- You want to ensure a stress-free experience for you and your family
Even day-of coordination can significantly reduce stress and ensure all details are executed properly.
Wedding Budget Tips for Toronto Brides
Managing your wedding budget effectively can help you create a memorable celebration without unnecessary financial stress.
1. Prioritize What Matters Most
Identify your top three priorities (e.g., photography, venue, food) and allocate a larger percentage of your budget to these areas. Be willing to compromise on less important aspects.
2. Consider Off-Peak Dates
Schedule your wedding during off-peak seasons (November-April) or on a Friday/Sunday to save 20-30% on venue and vendor costs.
3. Limit Your Guest List
Each additional guest adds approximately $200-$300 to your total cost when considering food, beverages, invitations, favors, and venue space requirements.
4. Book Early
Secure your preferred vendors 12-18 months in advance, especially for peak season dates. Early booking can lock in current pricing before annual increases.
5. Request All-Inclusive Packages
Many Toronto venues offer comprehensive wedding package options that can provide better value than building your wedding piece by piece.
6. DIY Strategically
Choose specific elements to create yourself, but be realistic about time, skills, and stress levels. Stationery, favors, and some decor items are often good DIY candidates.
7. Leverage Relationships
Ask if vendors offer referral discounts or if booking multiple services (like photography and videography) can result in package savings.
8. Consider a Wedding Planner
While this adds cost upfront, a good wedding planner can help you stay on budget, negotiate with vendors, and avoid costly mistakes.
Setting a Realistic Wedding Budget
Creating a workable wedding budget requires careful planning and consideration of your financial situation.
Step 1: Determine Your Total Budget
Start by establishing how much you can realistically afford based on:
- Personal savings
- Contributions from family
- Amount you're comfortable saving during your engagement
- Any financing options you might consider
Step 2: Create a Guest List Draft
Your guest count significantly impacts your overall costs. Draft your list early to help guide venue selection and catering estimates.
Step 3: Research Local Costs
Use this guide as a starting point, but research specific vendors you're interested in to get actual quotes for your wedding vision.
Step 4: Build in a Buffer
Set aside 10-15% of your total budget for unexpected expenses, last-minute additions, or cost increases.
Step 5: Track Everything
Use a detailed spreadsheet or wedding planning app to track estimates, deposits, payment schedules, and actual costs.
Conclusion: Creating Your Perfect Toronto Wedding
While the average wedding cost in Toronto ranges from $35,000 to $50,000, remember that beautiful, meaningful celebrations happen across all budget ranges. Focus on creating an experience that reflects your relationship and priorities, not on meeting a specific spending threshold.
A beautiful bride and groom portrait in Edward Gardens
By understanding typical costs, setting a realistic budget, and making informed decisions about where to splurge and where to save, you can plan a wedding that feels abundant and joyful without creating financial stress.
Remember: your wedding day is one important day, but your marriage is a lifetime. Balance your desire for a beautiful ceremony and reception with your long-term financial goals for the strongest start to your life together.
Ready to start planning your Toronto wedding?
Contact the best vendors early to secure your date and begin bringing your vision to life!