Author: Bridebook

How Much Does a Wedding Venue Cost in Australia?

When it comes to planning your wedding, there will be plenty of important choices to make – ranging from the enormous to the teeny tiny. Many of these choices will be optional, but one of the biggest will be making sure you choose the right venue. After all, it’s where you and your guests will spend the entire day and can’t be changed once the big day arrives.

As you work out your wedding budget, you’ll need to make sure you dedicate enough toward your ideal venue. Whether it’s a hotel, a golf course, a vineyard, a village hall, or anywhere else you want to marry that special someone, you’ll need to budget accordingly. 

Below, we’re going to take a look at the average cost of a wedding venue, what’s included in that cost, and any unexpected fees you should look out for.

How much does the average wedding venue cost?

Couple getting married at Bebeah Farm, Australia
Photo © Bebeah Farm | See their Bridebook profile

With the average total cost of a wedding in Australia rising to $37,000, over a third of that cost is likely to go towards the venue. In 2024, the average cost of a wedding venue is around $14,000-17,000. Of course, this figure can vary dramatically depending on different factors, including the type of venue and where in the country the venue is located.

For example, on average, venues are $2,000 to $3,000 more expensive in urban areas, like Sydney or Melbourne, than in rural or remote locations like Tasmania. However, that’s not to say that one is better than the other – it’s all a matter of taste, what’s right for you, and how far you and your guests want to travel.

How can the cost of a wedding venue vary?

Average wedding venue prices in Australia
Data gathered from the average venue costs of Australian couples on Bridebook in 2023 and 2024.

There’s a range of wedding venues available across Australia, so whatever your budget you shouldn’t have any trouble finding something to your taste:

  • Affordable: $5,000 – $10,000
  • Moderate: $10,000 – $15,000
  • Luxury: $15,000 – $22,000
  • Super luxury: $22,000+

How does the type of venue affect the cost?

Wedding venue prices in Australia per venue type
Data gathered from the average venue costs of Australian couples on Bridebook in 2023 and 2024.

The type of wedding venue you choose affects the price, with certain types of venue costing significantly more than others on average. According to our 2024 Wedding Reports, couples are more likely to spend the most on venues for weddings at castles, stately homes and country houses, and the least on registry offices, places of worship and restaurants.

Here’s a breakdown of the average cost depending on the venue type, based on data gathered from couples planning their wedding on our platform in 2024:

  • Castle: $25,000 – $30,000
  • Stately home: $20,000 – $25,000
  • Country house: $18,000 – $22,000
  • Golf course: $14,000 – $18,000
  • Event venue: $12,000 – $15,000
  • Hotel: $11,000 – $14,000
  • Barn: $9,000 – $12,000
  • Outdoor: $8,000 – $11,000
  • City venue: $10,000 – $15,000
  • Restaurant: $7,000 – $10,000
  • Place of worship: $5,000 – $7,000
  • Registry office: $1,000 – $3,000

What does the cost of a wedding venue include?

The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat, wedding venue in Australia
Photo © The Mouses House Rainforest Retreat | See their Bridebook profile

The cost of the venue will include rental of the space itself, however, it can also include additions and the use of certain facilities, such as:

  • Tables and chairs
  • Linens, such as tablecloths, napkins and chair covers
  • Lighting and sound
  • Wine and bubbles for the tables
  • Bar services
  • Catering
  • Coordination and setup

Exactly what’s included in the cost of the venue is something that you’ll need to confirm with the venue. For example, some venues won’t have catering facilities and will require you to arrange your own vendors. 

Why are wedding venues so expensive?

Married couple at Petrichor Farm
Photo © Petrichor Farm | See their Bridebook profile

Mark Dawson, the former owner and operator of Brookfield Barn in England and expert on all things venue-related, explains why wedding venues are often so expensive:

“Couples benefit from being “one-time customers” that venues are trying to attract and therefore price is a key lever. The venue market has become extremely competitive with diminishing margins. So many features at the top of couples’ lists come with high maintenance costs. For example, listed and historic buildings, extensive grounds. Remember you are paying such that the venue is maintained in a way to be at its best on your big day – and every other couple has the same expectation.”

“Exclusivity on your day means you are the sole revenue stream for the venue. So when faced with budget challenges, take time to prioritise what is most important. Is it exclusivity on the day for your wedding, is it the historic setting, is it the extensive grounds, is it having it for multiple days to set up and clear up, is it having lots of staff support from the venue for planning it all – they all drive the price point that the venue needs to continue to operate.”

What factors can affect the cost of a wedding venue?

Stonebarn wedding venue in Australia
Photo © Stonebarn | See their Bridebook profile

We’ve already highlighted how the type and location can affect the cost of a venue, but there are plenty of factors that can contribute towards how much you might pay for your dream venue.

Size

Naturally, the higher the number of guests you’d like to invite, the larger the venue will need to be. Of course, it makes sense that a venue with a 30-person capacity will usually be more affordable than one that can accommodate several hundred.

Region

Where you are in Australia significantly affects how much you’ll pay for a wedding venue. For example, couples in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne tend to pay around 30-40% more than the national average. In contrast, venues in smaller towns or rural areas, such as those in Tasmania or Western Australia, are typically much more affordable. For instance, the average cost of a venue in New South Wales is around $15,640, while in Tasmania, it’s closer to $12,842​.

Dates

As you might imagine, venue prices vary depending on the season. When it comes to choosing a wedding date, spring, summer, and even fall dates are more popular than winter. As a result, you’ll likely find that it’s more affordable to secure a date in July or August than it is in January or February.

Similarly, Fridays and the weekend – particularly Saturday – are more expensive than weekdays, as well as specific dates like Valentine’s Day or New Year’s Eve.

It may be possible to grab a bargain if you’re open to a last-minute booking during off-peak times or based on a cancellation – though this risks you missing out by catching vendors and guests off-guard. Here at Bridebook, we offer late availability deals at many of our partner venues – just filter by ‘Special Offers’ when searching for a wedding venue.

Packages

The majority of wedding venues will have packages that can include anything from a glass of bubbly for the guests on arrival to a free stay for the newlyweds on the night. If you definitely don’t want one of these, you can ask your chosen venue if they can exclude some items to give you a lower price.

Catering

According to recent data on Australian weddings, a significant portion of couples prefer venues that include catering as part of their package. For example, in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, many popular venues offer all-inclusive packages that bundle catering, which can significantly increase the overall cost. Venues that include catering can add several thousand dollars to the total spend. In Australia, couples typically spend $12,000 to $15,000 on venues with catering, significantly more than venue-only options where external catering is brought in. Venues without catering are often the cheaper option if you’re focusing solely on the venue hire cost.

Exclusive use

Exclusive use of the wedding venue means that you and your guests will be the only ones on the premises during your special day, so you don’t need to worry about anybody accidentally stumbling in and helping themselves to the buffet. Normally, venues that offer exclusivity will charge slightly more, but it’s definitely worth it.

What are some unexpected costs or fees at a venue?

Beach wedding

When speaking with the venue, you should clarify early on what is and isn’t covered, otherwise you may find yourselves being hit with one or two (or six or seven!) surprise costs that can cause your budget to spiral.

Some potential hidden fees to be mindful of include:

  • Taxes
  • Gratuities
  • Security deposit to cover loss and damages
  • Cleaning fees
  • Insurance
  • Overtime fees
  • Corkage fees

How much does it cost to decorate a wedding venue?

Wedding venue in Australia
Photo © Centennial Vineyards Restaurant | See their Bridebook profile

Once you’ve chosen your venue and signed on the dotted line, there may be additional costs to bear in mind to make sure it’s decorated to perfectly match your tastes. Decoration hire, such as unique lighting and features, may not be included in the cost and is another cost to factor into your budget.

Have you discovered your dream venue? 

Are you planning your wedding and umming and ahhing over the perfect venue? Bridebook’s wedding planning tools provide you with everything you need to plan your wedding stress-free!

And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding venue, we’ve got plenty of money-saving tips to help you stay firmly within your budget.

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Happy Planning!

How to Write the Perfect Engagement Party Speech

An engagement party is a brilliant way to celebrate your engagement and surround yourself with your family and friends. Whether you choose to have a formal bash at a countryside hotel or an intimate barbecue in your back garden, everyone will be there to celebrate your engagement and talk about your future wedding plans.

As part of the celebrations, it’s common for there to be speeches at an engagement party to thank everyone for coming. It’s also likely that other members of your family, friends and future wedding party will want to say a few words as well, and offer you love and encouragement for the journey you’re about to take.

But what do you say in an engagement party speech? Should it be long? Funny? Lovey-dovey? Who should give a speech and do you have to give one even if you don’t want to?

In this post, we’re going to dive into everything you need to know about how to write the perfect engagement party speech so you can approach your speech with confidence and say exactly the right things.

Who gives a speech at an engagement party?

Friends toasting for an engagement party

Traditionally, you should be prepared to give a short speech at your engagement party. This could be one of you or both of you, depending on who feels confident enough to stand up and speak in front of your family and friends.

If someone is hosting the party, such as the father of the bride, then it’s also common for them to thank everyone for coming.

Depending on your guests, anyone else is also more than welcome to say a few words. This could be any of your parents, a member of your wedding party (such as the best man or maid of honour), your siblings or your friends. There are no hard and fast rules at an engagement party, so if anyone would like to wish you well and congratulate you, it should be encouraged.

Do you have to give a speech at your engagement party?

People toasting at an engagement party

While a speech at your engagement party isn’t required, it’s a thoughtful way to express gratitude to your guests. The formality of your party will often shape expectations. For a formal event with a full meal, DJ, and dancing, a speech is typically anticipated. On the other hand, at a more casual event, like a barbie and games night, it might not be expected. However, it’s still a lovely gesture to thank everyone for attending, regardless of the party’s tone.

What if you’re too nervous to speak at an engagement party?

Informal engagement party in a garden

If you’re really not happy to give a speech at your engagement party, then there are no rules stating that you have to. There’s always the option to have someone do it on your behalf, such as your mom or your best man.

If you can find the courage to do so, your guests would love it if you could give a very short speech. It doesn’t have to be a 20-minute stand-up routine, just 30 seconds to thank everyone for being there to celebrate with you.

When do you give a speech at an engagement party?

Couple making a speech

There aren’t any hard and fast rules for when to give a speech at an engagement party, unlike at a wedding. It largely depends on the vibe of the event. For a laid-back gathering, it’s best to give a quick thank you once everyone has arrived. At a more formal event, delivering your speech just before or after dinner works well, as that’s when guests are naturally gathered together.

Is an engagement party speech the same as a wedding speech?

Speech at a wedding or an engagement party

Engagement party speeches and wedding speeches have a lot of similarities, but they’re not exactly the same. Read our article on wedding speech examples to see the sort of thing they include. There are a few subtle differences that mean they’re not exactly interchangeable. These include:

  • The tone is more relaxed and informal in an engagement party speech. You may not even choose to write a speech, and instead speak from the heart to thank your guests for coming.
  • Wedding speeches are often a lot more sentimental and emotional.
  • Unlike a wedding speech, you might not choose to talk about your relationship at all and save that for the wedding. However, if others choose to speak, don’t be surprised if they talk about you a lot.
  • Engagement party speeches are short, sharp and to the point, whereas wedding speeches can last a comparatively long time.

Can an engagement party speech be funny?

Woman giving a speech and laughing

Your engagement party speech can be as flexible as you like. Whether you want to lighten the mood with a few jokes or keep it brief with a heartfelt thank you, it’s entirely up to you.

If others speak, expect a range of tones: the best man may bring humour, while parents may lean towards sentimentality. To keep it funny, consider sharing light anecdotes about how you met, but avoid too many inside jokes. Remember to balance humour with sincerity and always end by expressing gratitude to your guests.

How long should your engagement party speech be?

Friends cheering at an engagement pary

Unlike a wedding speech, which can stretch to 10 minutes or more, an engagement party speech is typically much shorter. Aim for just a couple of minutes, leaving the bulk of your thoughts for the wedding day. The key message to convey is your appreciation for your guests attending and celebrating with you. Keep it brief, heartfelt, and focused on gratitude.

What should you include in an engagement party speech?

Speech at an engagement or wedding party

Depending on who’s giving an engagement party speech, there’s different information you might want to include:

You’re giving a speech at your own engagement party:

  • Thank everyone for coming and how much it means that they’re there to celebrate with you and your new fiancé.
  • Acknowledge your loved ones and the loved ones of your fiancé.
  • You might want to talk about the proposal and how it felt. Highlight anything funny that might have happened and make a joke out of it.
  • Reference how you feel about your partner and how you’re excited to take this next step in your relationship together.
  • Talk about what you have in store for your wedding. If you haven’t secured a date yet, keep this part relatively vague.
  • Raise your glass and thank your guests again for being there.

You’re giving a speech at someone else’s engagement party:

  • Introduce yourself and how you know the couple.
  • Congratulate the couple and how excited and happy you are for them.
  • Share something personal, such as an anecdote. This is a great opportunity to be funny, but keep things as positive as you can.
  • Offer compliments about the strength of the couple and how great they are together.
  • Express your support for the couple and offer to help them should they need it throughout their wedding planning journey.
  • Acknowledge friends and family, and thank everyone for being there.
  • Wish the couple luck for the future and raise a toast.

When giving a speech at your engagement party or someone else’s, keep it light, brief, and sincere. Save your best stories and jokes for the wedding, as the engagement party is just a teaser for the main event!

Tips for writing the perfect engagement party speech

Friends hugging at an engagement party

Before you sit down to think about what to say in your engagement party speech, think about these tips:

  • Don’t forget to let the guests know who you are. There might be some guests you haven’t met which can be quite confusing for them.
  • Don’t be afraid to be truthful and honest. You might not want to shed a tear in front of people, but it’s about two people falling in love and getting engaged – tears are practically expected.
  • Don’t outstay your welcome – no one expects an engagement party speech to go on longer than two minutes or so.
  • Make notes about what you want to say, and learn your speech by heart. That way, it’ll come across as more natural and not like you’re reciting lines.
  • Practice, practice, practice.
  • Avoid too many in-jokes. If you have to include one, try to give the rest of your guests some context.
  • Short is most definitely sweet.

Engagement party speech examples

Child and adults toasting at an engagement party on the beach

Ready to start writing your engagement party speech but need a little more inspiration to help you get started? Here are a couple of engagement party speech examples you can use as a starting block for your own.

Example 1: the humorous yet heartfelt one (for those who don’t mind public speaking):

Good evening everyone. I’m Jackson, and on behalf of my beautiful new fiance, Rebecca and I, I’d like to thank you all for coming to our engagement party. We’re so happy you could all be here tonight to celebrate with us. You all get to spend the next few hours in my company, which is a shame for you all, but you can at least be thankful you’re not Rebecca, who now gets to spend the next fifty plus years with me.

For those of you who don’t know, I proposed to Rebecca in Sydney, in the shadow of the Opera House at night. Yes, cliché, I know.

Rebecca, I just wanted to say that I’m so excited about our future together. You saying yes was one of the greatest moments of my life and I know what we have in store will continuously top it. We’ve already started browsing venues and you’ve already made what will be a long and difficult challenge so much easier by just being yourself. You make me a better person and I can’t wait to undertake this journey together.

Thank you so much, everyone, for being here, it means the world to Rebecca and me. So, I’d like to raise a glass to say you’re all fantastic and we both love you all very much. Cheers!

Example 2: the short and sweet one (for those not fond of public speaking):

I just want to take a moment, on behalf of myself and my new fiance, to thank you all for coming tonight. We really appreciate everyone taking the time to come and celebrate our engagement with us. So I’d just like to raise a glass in appreciation for you all being here tonight. Thank you!

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How Much Does a Wedding Cake Cost in Australia?

A wedding cake plays a huge part in your wedding. Not only is it a centrepiece at the wedding reception, but also acts as a talking point – with the added benefit of your guests getting to eat it too.

But exactly how much a wedding cake costs depends on a lot, from the number of tiers to the flavour. You may want an elegant, traditional fruit cake, or a towering chocolate explosion – the choices are endless.

In this post, we’ll take a look at everything to do with the cost of a wedding cake, including the average cost, what can affect the price, and what type of cake you might expect for your budget.

What’s the average cost of a wedding cake?

Big white wedding cake with natural decorations

In our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, we revealed that the average cost of a wedding cake in Australia is $500-700. However, what you’ll actually pay could be lower – or much, much higher, depending on what you’re looking for.

For example, if you have a tighter budget, a two-tier, lightly decorated vanilla sponge will be more affordable. However, if you’re aiming for something extravagant, a four-tier cake with multiple flavours and intricate details will require a considerably higher budget.

Number of Tiers

Affordable

Moderate

Luxury

2

$350 – $500

$500 – $600

$800 – $900

3

$500 – $600

$600 – $800

$1,100 – $1,200

4

$600 – $700

$800 – $900

$1,300 – $1,400

Keep in mind, choosing a DIY approach might involve compromises in quality or design.

On the other hand, if you’re after a fully custom-designed wedding cake, be prepared to spend well over $1,500, even for cakes with fewer tiers. This is because you’re paying for unique artistry, craftsmanship, and expertise. Creating a bespoke cake requires extensive labour, with months of planning, consultations, and multiple revisions to ensure the design is just right. The intricate decoration process alone can take days once the design is finalised.

How much should you pay for a wedding cake?

Married couple with a wedding cake and fireworks

How much you should pay for your wedding cake is down to what works for you – there is no right or wrong answer. If a wedding cake is something you want to include as a formality (or to appease Grandma), then you may want something small purely for the sake of your photos and to give your guests an extra dessert (once again, appeasing Grandma). In fact, if you’re not interested in traditions, you don’t need a wedding cake at all – something unique, like a pie or a jelly, works just as well and makes for a great talking point.

Do bespoke wedding cakes cost more?

Wedding cakes with a fall theme

Yes, a bespoke wedding cake will cost considerably more than a ‘generic design’, as we’ve already touched upon above, due to the amount of time it takes the cake maker to design and make a one-of-a-kind cake which also doubles as a showstopping work of edible art. This could include having to create new techniques, sourcing new cake moulds, or crafting sugar models and patterns.

Store-made cakes are also made in large batches and often frozen before they’re bought, whereas bespoke cakes are freshly made. It can still be a lovely cake to both admire and eat, but a bespoke cake adds that unparalleled touch of quality, and so naturally comes with a premium price tag. 

How many tiers does your wedding cake need?

Big, elegant wedding cake

Traditionally, a wedding cake will have three tiers, but that’s not to say that your cake should stick to this. It’s your wedding, and if you want your cake to have two tiers (or 14 if you’re so inclined – you do you) then there’s nothing stopping you.

The only thing to be mindful of is how many guests your cake may need to feed. The more guests you have, then if you plan on letting everyone have a slice the bigger it’ll need to be.

What about novelty cakes?

Wedding cupcakes

If you love cake but aren’t too attached to tradition, a show-stopping novelty cake can make the perfect centerpiece. While a classic three-tier cake is sure to impress, choosing a novelty cake shaped after something special to you adds a unique, personal touch. Whether it’s a mountain to symbolise your love of hiking, a carousel to reflect your love of fairs, or a stack of books for the bookworms out there, the creative options are limitless while still keeping it elegant. Just remember, novelty cakes take more time and detail, which can increase the cost — but they’re absolutely worth it for the wow factor.

Another fun option is serving cupcakes, which can be customised to match your wedding theme and are always a hit with guests!

Does the number of decorations affect the cost of a wedding cake?

Love and roses topper on a wedding cake

Wedding cake prices can increase depending on the number of intricate sugar decorations you include, so it’s important to think carefully before adding multiple sugar flowers to each tier. A ready-made sugar flower can cost around $10, while custom-designed blooms like peonies or roses to crown your cake may add another $50 to $60. Many couples choose to decorate their cake with real or artificial flowers, both of which can save you a considerable amount of money while still looking beautiful!

What other factors can affect the cost of a wedding cake?

Couple eating a wedding cake in a winter landscape

When it comes to your wedding cake, there are plenty of factors that will affect how much you’ll pay. The following are the most important: 

  • Tiers: The more tiers there are, the more your cake will cost.
  • Location: Where your cake makers are based will affect the cost. For example, those located in Melbourne or Sydney will naturally have higher rates than those outside.
  • Design: A more complex or intricate cake design will take more time and skill than a simple or more subtle design, bumping up the cost. 
  • Techniques: The techniques involved are another potential variable in the cost, for example, whether the cake will be hand-painted, or airbrushed with stencils, or whether it needs to be sculpted free-hand, or is of a simpler shape. 
  • Toppers: Cake toppers offer a cute way to personalise your cake, but can take a lot of time to craft, especially if they’re bespoke. 
  • Flavour: A basic sponge cake will be more affordable than luxurious triple chocolate or alcohol-soaked fruit cake.
  • Dummy layers: If you want more tiers but not necessarily more cake, dummy layers will lower the cost by (though not always by as much as you might think). 
  • Ingredients: If organic or premium ingredients are important to you then you’ll need a budget to reflect it. Ingredients for the decoration will also add to the cost – for example, if there’s sugar, buttercream, chocolate or even fresh flowers. 
  • Stand: A basic cake stand will be more affordable than one that’s extravagant.
  • Delivery and setup fees: If delivery and setup take a long time, especially for large and elaborate cakes, then expect to pay a little extra.

What else should you bear in mind?

Wedding cake with natural decorations

You’ll be the first to slice your cake, but don’t expect to have to cut every guest a slice yourself. When speaking to your catering team, ask them exactly how you want your cake to be sliced. If you have a fruit cake, the denseness and richness mean you don’t need to be overly generous with size like you might with a more delicate sponge. Another way to ensure a better cost-per-slice ratio is with square slices instead of wedges.

When it comes to taste, vanilla, chocolate and lemon are the most popular wedding cake flavours, and luckily they’re also among the cheapest. A fruit cake made with fresh fruit will be more expensive, but as we mentioned above, its intense (and more acquired) taste means it’ll go further. Also, rolled fondant and marzipan will cost more, as they take more time to smooth and can tear easily if not applied carefully.

What about dummy layers?

Couple cutting a wedding cake with bird topper

Dummy layers are a smart way to add height and grandeur to your wedding cake without breaking the bank. These faux tiers, made from styrofoam and covered in the same icing as the real cake, are indistinguishable to your guests. If you’re envisioning a five-tier cake but only need enough servings for 70 people, adding one or two dummy layers can achieve that dramatic effect without the extra cost or weight of additional cake. While the dummy layers themselves are affordable, keep in mind that intricate decorations and detailing will still drive up the overall price.

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And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding as well as planning advice, we’ve put together our top tips to help you cut costs without cutting out all the best bits. 

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Happy Planning!

 

How Much Do Wedding Rings Cost in Australia?

The wedding rings you and your partner wear are a symbol of your love and commitment to one another. Not only do they have to be personal to you and your partner, but they need to complement each other and any engagement rings either of you might wear.

The money you might spend on your wedding rings will depend entirely on your taste, the level of customisation you’re after and – ultimately – your budget.

In this post, we’re going to explore everything related to the cost of wedding rings, including the average cost, how much you should spend on wedding rings and why some cost more than others.

What’s the average cost of wedding rings?

Vintage wedding rings with decorations

In Australia, the average cost of wedding rings varies based on factors like style, material, and brand. Many Australian couples budget between $1,500 and $2,500 for wedding bands alone, which typically excludes other wedding jewellery such as engagement rings or additional accessories.

According to our comprehensive wedding budget guide, Australian couples might spend around $6,000 on wedding jewellery in total. This is a general average, and options are available to suit every budget. Some couples may invest more in designer or bespoke pieces, while others find beautiful rings within a more affordable range.

When choosing wedding bands, Australian couples have numerous options for various budgets. Higher-end materials like platinum and white gold come at a premium, while options like tungsten and sterling silver offer elegant, budget-friendly alternatives.

How much should you spend on a wedding ring?

Couple showing their wedding rings

While there may be a tradition that states you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring (which, by the way, you don’t need to stick to), there aren’t any similar traditions when it comes to your wedding rings.

How much you should spend on your wedding rings is a completely personal choice. If you have a smaller budget, and only want to spend a couple hundred dollars, then that’s totally fine – what the rings represent is far more important, anyway. Similarly, if you have a larger budget to play with, then spending thousands is totally okay too – what you spend doesn’t affect the amount of love you have for your spouse-to-be. You should never feel pressured to spend a certain amount of money on your wedding rings.

That being said, there is one exception to this ‘rule’. It’s advised that the metal used in your wedding rings is the same as the metal used in the engagement ring. This is because some metals are more durable than others, and harder metals can damage softer metals. They can also discolour at different rates, leading to them looking mismatched.

This means if your engagement ring is made out of 18-carat yellow gold, your wedding rings should be made from metal with similar durability – ideally 18-carat yellow gold. So, if your engagement ring is made from an expensive metal, your wedding rings should be – if budget allows – as well.

Why do wedding rings cost so much?

Groom putting a wedding ring on his bride's finger

Your wedding ring is one of those rare pieces of jewellery you’ll wear every day, all day, for many years to come. Through work, travel, and life’s daily adventures, it’ll be right there with you. Because of this, many couples choose rings made from durable – and often more expensive – metals.

While you could find silver wedding bands for under $500, silver’s softer nature makes it prone to scratches and dents and even more likely to change shape over time. In contrast, stronger metals like platinum or palladium may cost three to four times as much, but they’re highly resistant to wear and far less likely to suffer damage over the years.

How does the metal type affect the cost of a wedding ring?

Wedding rings in coconuts

The type of metal you pick for your wedding bands will dramatically alter the price you’ll pay. Choosing the right wedding ring takes thought and consideration. The price of precious metals fluctuates, but below is a rough idea of what you might pay for a few popular choices.

Gold

For those opting for gold wedding rings, a simple 9ct white gold band typically ranges between $250 for a 0.5 cm band and up to $650 for a 0.7 cm band. The price variation reflects the amount of gold used and its durability, with 9ct and 18ct rings being popular choices for their strength and longevity.

Platinum

Platinum is one of the most durable metals, known for withstanding daily wear, making it perfect for those with active lifestyles. This durability, however, comes at a higher cost. A thin 0.2 cm platinum ring can start at $600, while a thicker 0.5 cm band may cost around $1,800 at reputable Australian jewelry retailers.

Titanium

Titanium has become a popular choice in the Australian market as a contemporary option with a darker hue. It’s lightweight, scratch-resistant, and generally more affordable. Titanium wedding bands can start at as low as $85, making them a stylish and budget-conscious option.

Silver

Silver remains an affordable choice for couples wanting a precious metal without the higher price of gold or platinum. Although softer and more prone to scratches, it is still favoured by those with limited budgets. A silver wedding band typically starts around $120.

What is the most expensive type of metal for a wedding ring?

Ruby, from Lebrusan Studio in the UK, shares her expert insights and explains about the cost of different types of metal in more detail:

“The greater the pure gold content in a gold alloy, the higher the caratage. In other words, whilst 18ct gold is 75% pure gold and 25% other metal, 9ct gold consists of 37.5% pure gold and 62.5% other metals. The higher the carat weight, the greater the price, with 18ct gold generally tending to cost around twice as much as 9ct gold.

In spite of a historic dip in recent years, platinum just about remains a more expensive option than gold. This can be attributed to its relative rarity and its density, as precious metals are often priced by weight. Although white gold, which is almost identical to platinum in appearance, is cheaper, platinum comparatively requires very little maintenance over the years, so is arguably a reliable investment.”

What other factors can affect the cost of a wedding ring?

Hands with wedding rings

Just like when it comes to choosing any other piece of jewellery, there are many factors that will affect exactly how much your wedding rings cost.

  • Design – Many couples choose a simple band, but this isn’t a requirement for your wedding rings. The more intricate the design, the more it’s likely to cost.
  • Size – The thicker the band, the more metal it requires and therefore the pricier it will be.
  • Brand/retailer – Rings from high-end brands and retailers, such as Tiffany&Co., will cost more than most online or physical shops.
  • Season – During periods of high demand, such as the spring and early summer, costs can fluctuate.
  • Customisation – Many couples choose to personalise their wedding bands with a meaningful engraving, or the fingerprint of their beloved on the inside. Due to the time and expertise required, this will increase the cost.
  • Stones – It has become an increasingly popular option for brides and grooms to go for diamond set rings, as they can add a bit of sparkle to a simple band. These are priced similarly to engagement rings, depending on the metal that you choose and the cut, carat and clarity of the diamonds you wish to include. For an idea of pricing, an 18ct white gold ring with a half band featuring 0.15ct diamonds typically costs around $1,000. 

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Wedding Speech Examples

Wedding speeches are a crucial part of a wedding celebration, as they allow both the couple, family members, and friends to express their love, gratitude, and well-wishes for the newlyweds. However, giving a wedding speech can be nerve-wracking for many people, which is why having a few examples can be a great starting-point. 

Here are some simple wedding speech examples that can help you deliver a heartfelt, memorable, and enjoyable wedding speech. Feel free to use them as a template to inspire your own writing. 

And remember that these are just samples. Be sure to incorporate your own unique elements to personalise your speeches, which might mean having more gender-equal speeches compared to the traditional wedding speech line-up. 

Groom’s Speech & Bride’s Speech

The groom’s speech and bride’s speech is a chance for the couple to thank their families, friends, and wedding party for their support and to share their love for each other. Here is a sample of a shared groom and bride speech:

“Good evening everyone, we are [bride’s name and groom’s name], the newlyweds. We want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you for being here to celebrate this special day with us. Our families, friends, and wedding party have made this day truly unforgettable, and we are so grateful for your love and support.

We also want to thank our parents for their love and guidance, and for raising us to be the people we are today. We are honoured to have both of our families come together to celebrate this special day with us.

And last but not least, we want to express our love for each other. [Groom’s name], you are my best friend, my soulmate, and my partner in life. I am so grateful to have you by my side, and I look forward to a lifetime of love, adventure, and happiness with you. [Bride’s name], you are beautiful, kind, and loving, and I feel so lucky to be able to call you my wife. I promise to always cherish and love you, no matter what life brings our way.

To our friends and family, thank you again for being here to share this special day with us. We are so grateful for your love and support, and we look forward to the memories we will create together.

Cheers to love, laughter, and happily ever after. Cheers to all of us!”

Check out our top 10 groom speech examples and top 10 bride speech examples for more inspiration if you’re each giving individual speeches rather than a shared one. 

Father of the Bride Speech:

A father of the bride speech is one of the most traditional and emotional speeches of the wedding. The father of the bride has the opportunity to both reflect on the love and relationship he has with his daughter and to welcome her new spouse into the family. Here is a sample:

“Good evening, everyone. Today is a very special day for me, as I stand here to give away my beautiful daughter [bride’s name]. She has grown into an amazing young woman, and I am so proud of the person she has become. [Groom’s name], I couldn’t have asked for a better match for my daughter. You are kind, caring, and loving, and I am honoured to welcome you into our family. [Bride’s name], [groom’s name], I wish you a lifetime of happiness, love, and adventure. To the newlyweds!”

Check out our top 10 father of the bride speech examples for more inspiration. 

Best Man Speech:

The best man speech is a fun and light-hearted speech that is often filled with anecdotes and humour. The best man has the opportunity to pay tribute to the groom and to share some memorable moments from their friendship. Here is a sample:

“Good evening everyone, I am [your name], the best man, and the groom’s closest friend. I have known [groom’s name] for [number of years], and it has been an honour to stand by his side today as he marries the love of his life, [bride’s name]. [Groom’s name], you are one of the kindest, funniest, and most genuine people I know, and I am so grateful to have you as my friend. [Bride’s name], you bring out the best in [groom’s name], and I know you will have a lifetime of happiness together. To the newlyweds, congratulations and here’s to a lifetime of love and laughter!”

Check out our top 10 best man speech examples for more inspiration. 

Maid of Honour Speech:

The maid of honour speech is usually given by the bride’s closest friend or sister and can be a combination of humour and sentimentality. Here is a sample:

“Good evening everyone, I am [your name], the maid of honour and [bride’s name]’s best friend. I have known [bride’s name] since we were [age], and I have never seen her as happy as she is today. [Groom’s name], you have brought so much joy into [bride’s name]’s life, and I am grateful to have you as my friend as well. To the newlyweds, may your love continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Congratulations and best wishes!”

Check out our top 10 maid of honour examples for more inspiration. 

Mother of the Bride Speech:

Mother and bride

A mother of the bride speech, while not always a traditional element in the order of wedding speeches, is becoming gaining increasing popularity in modern celebrations. This beautiful moment lets the mother share her heartfelt sentiments, commemorate her daughter’s journey, and extend a warm welcome to her daughter’s new spouse. Here’s a sample:

“Good evening everyone. Today holds great significance for me, as I stand before you to celebrate the union of my beloved daughter [bride’s name]. Watching her blossom into the remarkable woman she is today fills my heart with immense joy. [Groom’s name], from the moment you entered our lives, you’ve shown remarkable qualities of kindness, compassion, and love. Welcoming you into our family is an honour beyond words. [Bride’s name], [groom’s name], may your lives be filled with boundless joy, enduring love, and remarkable journeys together. To the newlyweds!”

Check out our top 10 mother of the bride speech examples for more inspiration. 

Plan your dream wedding on Bridebook

These are just a few examples of the different types of wedding speeches you may give on a wedding day. No matter what type of speech you choose, the most important thing is to be yourself, speak from the heart, and let your love for the newlyweds shine through. Best of luck and have a wonderful time celebrating the love and happiness of the newlyweds.

And for even more wedding tips and tricks, sign up to Bridebook today. We’ve got plenty of articles to help you with your wedding planning and celebrations. (AU)