If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to throw a high-end wedding, let me stop you right there. The answer? Money. Lots of it. We’re talking champagne towers, floral ceilings, and caviar passed around like candy at a kid’s birthday party. If that sounds like your vibe, keep reading.

What’s Considered a High-End Wedding?

A high-end wedding isn’t just about throwing a party—it’s about crafting an experience so grand your guests will talk about it for years (and maybe even consider taking out a loan to keep up). Generally, weddings in the $75,000+ range fall into the "high-end" category, but if you’re aiming for A-list luxury, expect to spend $150,000 or more.

Where’s the Money Going?

So, what exactly do you get when you throw a wedding that costs more than a brand-new Tesla? Let’s break it down:

1. The Venue ($15,000 - $100,000+)

Luxury weddings don’t happen in random backyards. Think private estates, historic mansions, five-star resorts, or dreamy destinations like Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, or Temecula wine country. And don’t forget those pesky exclusive use fees—because why would you want strangers crashing your wedding?

2. Catering & Bar ($20,000 - $75,000+)

Forget buffet lines. High-end weddings serve chef-curated, multi-course meals with wine pairings that make sommeliers swoon. And that open bar? Expect top-shelf liquor and handcrafted cocktails that could rival the best speakeasies in Los Angeles or Southern California’s elite venues. Oh, and if you’re not serving late-night snacks like truffle fries or gourmet sliders, are you even hosting a luxury wedding?

3. Florals & Décor ($15,000 - $100,000+)

If you’re dreaming of an enchanted garden dripping in orchids and chandeliers, get ready to drop some serious cash. Custom floral installations, luxury rentals, and statement pieces (like mirrored aisle walkways or suspended floral ceilings) can transform your wedding into something straight out of a Vogue spread.

4. Photography & Videography ($10,000 - $30,000+)

You need someone who can capture your wedding like it belongs in a glossy magazine. Editorial-style photographers and cinematic videographers don’t come cheap, but trust me—you’ll want those dreamy, high-fashion shots when you look back on your big day in Temecula, Los Angeles, or beyond.

5. Entertainment ($10,000 - $50,000+)

A DJ is cool, but a live band, aerialists, or even a surprise celebrity performance? Now we’re talking. High-end weddings bring unforgettable entertainment, from string quartets at cocktail hour to fire dancers at the after-party.

6. The Dress ($5,000 - $50,000+)

If your wedding dress doesn’t make people gasp, is it even couture? Whether it’s a custom Galia Lahav, Vera Wang, or a fully beaded Zuhair Murad masterpiece, your dress (and multiple outfit changes) should scream “I have arrived.”

7. Wedding Planner ($10,000 - $50,000+)

Luxury weddings don’t plan themselves. A high-end wedding planner (like those specializing in Southern California, Temecula, and LA) handles everything, from finding the perfect venue to ensuring your grand exit is nothing short of magical. And let’s be honest—if you’re spending six figures on a wedding, you need someone to herd the vendors, manage the budget, and keep your stress levels at zero.

So, Is It Worth It?

If you’ve got the budget, absolutely. A high-end wedding is about creating an unforgettable experience that feels effortlessly luxurious. The key? Hiring top-tier vendors who know how to make it all happen seamlessly.

If your dream wedding involves custom everything, extravagant florals, and a guest experience that feels straight out of a royal affair, welcome to the high-end club. Just remember: go big, or elope in Italy and spend it on a villa instead.😉

How Much Does a High-End Wedding Really Cost? Spoiler: A Lot