The Total Cost of a Wedding in Lincoln, Nebraska: A Complete Breakdown of Wedding Expenses and Tips to Save Money

Planning your wedding in Lincoln, Nebraska, can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to budgeting. A quick Google search will tell us that couples in Lincoln spend an average of $21,000 on their wedding day, but how accurate is this number? Understanding the total cost of a wedding, including all the essential wedding services, is crucial for creating a realistic budget. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll break down the average wedding costs in Lincoln and share some practical money-saving tips to help you plan your big day with ease.

1. How Much Does a Wedding Venue in Lincoln, Nebraska Cost?

The cost of wedding venues in Lincoln, Nebraska will vary depending on the type, location, and size of the venue. Whether you’re considering an elegant ballroom or an outdoor wedding in a park, it’s essential to understand what you’re getting for your investment.

• Average wedding venue cost in Lincoln: $2,500 - $8,000 for a full-day rental.
• Popular Lincoln wedding venues include The Rococo Theatre, The Venue, and The Lincoln Marriott Cornhusker Hotel.

Money-saving tip:

• Choose an off-peak season (fall or winter) or a weekday for your wedding. Wedding venues in Lincoln are often more affordable during these times.
• Consider unconventional venues like parks, museums, or even family properties, which can be much cheaper and provide a unique, personal touch.

2. Wedding Catering and Drinks: How Much Should You Budget?

Wedding catering prices in Lincoln depend on the number of guests, the type of meal (buffet, plated dinner, food stations), and whether you opt for alcohol. For a memorable wedding reception, most couples choose to have a full meal with appetizers and drinks.

• Average catering cost per guest: $20 - $80.
• Average cost for wedding drinks (alcohol packages): $1,000 - $3,000, depending on the size of your guest list.

Money-saving tip:

• Opt for a buffet or food stations instead of a plated dinner to cut costs without compromising on quality.
• Limit the alcohol selection by offering a signature cocktail or limiting the open bar to just beer and wine.
• Consider a smaller guest list—fewer guests mean less food and drink, which can save you a significant amount.

3. How Much Does a Wedding Dress and Bridal Attire Cost in Lincoln, NE?

When it comes to wedding dresses in Lincoln, Nebraska, the cost can vary depending on the designer and whether the dress is custom-made or off-the-rack.

• Average wedding dress cost: $1,000 - $3,000.
• Groom's attire: $200 - $500.
• Bridesmaids' dresses cost: $100 - $300 each.

Money-saving tip:

• Buy off-the-rack or consider purchasing a pre-owned wedding dress. There are many websites and local stores offering gently used wedding dresses for a fraction of the cost.
• Rent the groom's tuxedo instead of purchasing it. Many tuxedo rental companies in Lincoln offer packages for both the groom and groomsmen.
• Let your bridesmaids choose their own dresses in a specific color scheme, which often reduces costs and gives them the freedom to choose something they’ll wear again.

4. How Much Does Wedding Photography Cost in Lincoln, Nebraska?

As a wedding photographer in Lincoln, I know how important it is to have beautiful photos that capture every special moment. The cost of wedding photography in Lincoln can vary widely based on experience, packages, and hours of coverage.

• Average wedding photography cost: $2,000 - $7,000 for full-day coverage.
• What's included in wedding photography packages? Most packages include an engagement session, prints, and a USB with edited images.

Money-saving tip:

• Book a photographer with fewer hours of coverage (e.g., half-day coverage) if you don’t need all-day coverage.
• Use your wedding photos creatively by printing and framing your own photos, rather than buying prints directly from the photographer.

5. How Much Does a Wedding Videographer Cost in Lincoln, Nebraska?

Capturing your wedding day on video allows you to relive the special moments for years to come. Wedding videographers in Lincoln offer a range of packages to suit different styles and budgets, from cinematic highlights to full-day coverage.

• Average wedding videography cost in Lincoln: $1,500 - $4,500 for full-day coverage.
• What's included: Typically, packages include pre-ceremony shots, ceremony and reception footage, and highlight reels. Some videographers also offer drone footage and same-day edits.

Money-saving tip:

• Consider a shorter videography package (e.g., highlight reel only or ceremony and speeches). This can significantly reduce the cost while still giving you beautiful footage to remember your day.
• Hire a newer videographer who is building their portfolio. They may offer lower rates while still producing high-quality work.

6. What’s the Average Cost of Hiring a Wedding Planner in Lincoln?

A wedding planner in Lincoln, Nebraska, can save you time and reduce stress by handling all the details of your wedding day. If you're overwhelmed by planning, a planner can assist with vendor selection, timeline creation, and day-of coordination.

• Average wedding planner cost: $1,500 - $3,500.
• Day-of coordinators typically cost less than full-service planners, with prices starting at around $1,000.

Money-saving tip:

• Hire a day-of coordinator instead of a full-service planner. If you’re organized and don’t need full assistance, this can save you money while still ensuring things run smoothly on your wedding day.
• DIY planning: If you’re detail-oriented, you can manage most of the planning yourself. There are many online resources such as The Knot, Zola, and Loverly that help couples plan and organize their weddings efficiently.

7. How Much Do Wedding Flowers Cost in Lincoln, NE?

Flowers are essential for creating a beautiful wedding atmosphere, from the bridal bouquet to reception centerpieces. The cost of wedding flowers in Lincoln will depend on your floral choices, including the types of flowers and the complexity of the arrangements.

• Average flower cost for weddings in Lincoln: $1,000 - $3,000.
• What’s included: Bridal bouquets, bridesmaids' bouquets, boutonnieres, corsages, and reception centerpieces.

Money-saving tip:

• Go with in-season flowers to save on floral costs. In-season flowers are often less expensive than out-of-season blooms.
• DIY flowers: Consider arranging your own bouquets or using artificial flowers, which can be a more affordable and long-lasting option.

8. How Much Does Wedding Entertainment (DJ or Band) Cost in Lincoln?

Wedding entertainment in Lincoln is a must for ensuring your guests have a great time. Whether you choose a DJ or a live band, entertainment costs vary depending on the length of your event and the popularity of the performers.

• Average DJ cost: $1,000 - $2,500 for a full wedding.
• Live band cost: $2,500 - $5,000.

Money-saving tip:

• Hire a DJ over a live band—DJs tend to be more affordable and offer a wider variety of music options.
• Use a curated playlist: If you have a smaller wedding, consider using a pre-made playlist and renting sound equipment instead of hiring a DJ or band. It’s much cheaper and still sets the right mood.

9. Wedding Transportation: What Are the Costs for Getting to and From Your Wedding Venue?

Transportation costs are often overlooked, but they are essential for ensuring the couple and wedding party arrive in style. Renting a limo, classic car, or shuttle service can add a unique touch to your day.

• Average wedding transportation cost in Lincoln: $500 - $1,500.
• What’s included: Limo rental or car hire for the bride, groom, and wedding party.

Money-saving tip:

• Use your own or a family member’s car for transportation, especially for smaller weddings.
• Consider group transportation like a shuttle service, which can be more cost-effective for large groups of guests.

10. Hair and Makeup Costs for a Lincoln Wedding

Many brides choose to hire a professional hair and makeup artist to look their best on their wedding day. In Lincoln, there are numerous beauty professionals who specialize in bridal hair and makeup.

• Average cost for bridal hair and makeup: $100 - $300 for the bride; $50 - $150 for each bridesmaid.

Money-saving tip:

• Do your own hair and makeup or ask a talented friend to help.
• Book a group session for the bridal party to get a discounted rate. Many beauty professionals offer group discounts for multiple services.

11. Additional Wedding Costs: Invitations, Cake, Favors, and More

There are other smaller expenses that can add up quickly, including wedding invitations, favors, and cake. Here’s a breakdown of additional costs for your wedding in Lincoln:

• Wedding invitations: $500 - $1,500 for custom designs.
• Wedding cake: $400 - $800.
• Wedding bands: $500 - $3,000.
• Favors and decor: $300 - $1,000.

Money-saving tip:

• DIY your invitations by using online templates or designing your own.
• Opt for a smaller cake or a dessert table—having cupcakes, cookies, or a small cutting cake is often cheaper and still provides a sweet treat for guests.

The average cost of a wedding in Lincoln, Nebraska, ranges from $18,000 to $52,000, depending on your choices. By researching and planning ahead, or choosing a more intimate wedding rather than a grand celebration, you can find ways to stay within your budget and still have the wedding of your dreams.