Wedding Statistics and Market Research for the Wedding Industry has posted data showing the average number of guests attending a wedding in 2011 was 138, a decrease from the average of 141 in 2010.

They are stating the Average cost per guest was calculated at $186.00 each. 

Hmmm, considering you typically would consider costs related to tables, tablescapes including linens, decorations, invitations, favors and food as well as the size venue you need for the number of guests, that brings your wedding costs (not including bridal party expenses, ceremony flowers, officiant, limo) to $25,668.00 based on this report.  Now if this report INCLUDED all these other factors, which it shouldn't if it's only cost per guest...there are some pretty extravagant weddings happening and I am WAY undercharging for my services.  LOL! 

A pastor told me the same thing once too, after he got stuck helping decorate  as I do,  to help out a very unorganized bride and family at a wedding he attended.  He said, "Wow that's a lot of work!  You don't charge enough." Yes it is!   and  You're probably right ! 

His comments made me think about why I do what I do and why I charge only what I charge.  I guess it comes down to wanting to be fair and give brides the best deals for their money.  I have charges that are based on reasonable labor  and I have very little in the way of overhead, working from a privately owned studio, and hiring employees only on an as needed basis by way of subcontracting to keep operating costs low.  

My brides benefit in a big way.   I supply all linens, glass, and flowers (fresh or silk)  making the package very reasonable.  I also have chuppah (arbor) rental, candy buffet rental, and everything you need for a beautiful wedding. 

So Let Me Update The Report-- based on my way of doing business. 

Average meal per guest (I don't do the meals) can be very well presented at $30.00 per plate. (Buffets are more of a savings)  Average cost per table rental/tablescape including flowers or other decor,  a wedding favor of $5 and venue rental  works out to be less than 130.00 (including food) per guest .   That's based on your venue for the reception being $2000.00 with tables and chairs included.  

This is yet another statistical report that has helped me to verify what I tell my brides and their families that my fees for weddings are 30% less than the average retail wedding service providers.  And the reason I can do this is because I provide so many of the services brides need all in one place. 

and I don't charge brides for the time it takes to write a blog either 

Have a great day!

June Lizotte
Blooms and Rooms PDX
http://www.BloomsAndRoomsPDX.com

P.s.
I love referrals!

Hello There! Just thinking about weddings and budgets~

What makes your day  special doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg. Whoever is footing the bill needs to know this stuff!   

Assignment:  Look at designer books and then call me.  I'll replicate it or I may have to do something similar depending on your budget.  

You can easily imagine your dream wedding, right?   OK, now tell me....did you save up to match that dream?  Most brides and their families will not be able to say yes to that one.   So, now... imagine your budget....then take a deep breath and tell yourself ...I have to be reasonable and have my brain functioning at "maximum reality" mode when I call the florist.    ( by the way, you should be saving for at least a year if you want a designer look even on a budget).  Why a year?  Because flowers are only a part of the many expenses a wedding can throw at you.  Linen and furnishings, venue, photographer, and honeymoon expenses have to be considered as well.

I like to tell my brides,  show me the pictures of your dream wedding. Then I can give a price.  If you have a limited budget please realize the quantity/variety of flower chosen may need to be adjusted.
 
For a  wedding with a wedding party of 8 -(bouquets and bouts) and
parents/grandparents on both sides as well as officient -(corsages and bouts)  
and reception for 100 guests -(altar arrangements, centerpieces for reception) 
a bride can estimate an average wedding cost of $1100.00 for a high quality look  
If this is unrealistic for your budget be willing to make some changes.
I work with brides who often have to make a few changes to get within their budget.  This is not unusual, but for some brides it's imparative.......and I can help with that!

Event packaging is one of my services as well.  Get your linen rentals, table scapes (not all receptions need flowers for centerpieces)...this is one way I can help you too!  I have a great imagination for designs that Wow, without killing the budget! 

Call me and Save A Date!
503-310-8032
June