How much would these movie weddings cost today? Our experts weigh in!
Ever watched a movie wedding and thought, “Wow, I wonder how much this would cost in real life?”
From extravagant events with custom couture to magical weddings that defy the laws of physics, the price tags on these cinematic celebrations are bound to leave your jaw on the floor.
Our wedding experts put on their budget hats and crunched the numbers, calculating just how much these iconic movie weddings would cost in Australia. Warning: Some of these prices might make you rethink your own wedding plans!
1. Crazy Rich Asians
Colin and Araminta’s wedding in Crazy Rich Asians is the stuff of dreams—and by dreams, we mean a budget-breaker that only the ultra-wealthy could afford. Think couture dresses, a venue like no other, water running down the aisle (yes, actual water), and a lavish reception that could rival a royal event. Even the guest list is A-list—nothing short of luxurious for Singapore’s finest.
The Breakdown:
- Venue: A grand ballroom with an exclusive water-themed setup that looks like a tropical rainforest oasis.
- Décor: Custom floral arrangements, tropical plants everywhere, and a flowing river running down the aisle.
- Entertainment: Live performers, high-end musicians, and a post-ceremony reception filled with bespoke entertainment.
- Attire: Araminta’s couture gown alone is a showstopper, with the whole wedding party likely decked out in designer attire.
Estimated Cost: $62 million AUD
Yes, you read that right. Director Jon M. Chu himself has mentioned that this wedding would cost approximately $40 million USD. Between the luxurious venue, incredible décor, and every element tailored to perfection, Colin and Araminta’s wedding would be one for the history books—and one for the wealthiest of wallets.
2. Runaway Bride (All Three Weddings Maggie Flees From)
Ah, Maggie Carpenter, the bride who could never quite make it down the aisle–well, until Richard Gere appeared. Girl, we don’t blame you. While her first two weddings were modest, small-town affairs, her third attempt took things up a notch. This wedding is clearly more upscale, featuring a fancier venue, more elaborate décor, and higher-end elements that signal she was going all-in this time (at least before running out the door).
The Breakdown:
- First Two Weddings: Traditional small-town settings, including outdoor or church venues, moderate décor, and basic receptions.Estimated Cost per Wedding: $30,000 – $50,000 AUD
- Third Wedding: A more luxurious affair, with a large outdoor venue, more formal decorations, and a grander reception.Estimated Cost for Third Wedding: $80,000 – $100,000 AUD
Total Estimated Cost for All Three Weddings: $140,000 – $200,000 AUD
With Maggie’s third wedding being noticeably more upscale, the total cost across all three failed attempts adds up. Her last wedding nearly doubled the cost of her first two combined, showing just how much bigger she was going for the grand finale (before her big exit).
3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
In the wizarding world, magic takes the place of high-end vendors, but Bill and Fleur’s wedding in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows is no less spectacular. The event, held on the Weasley property, includes an enormous magical tent, fairy lights, and a truly enchanting vibe. This whimsical affair would certainly translate to a beautiful, if not modest, wedding in the Muggle world.
The Breakdown:
- Venue: Outdoor with a massive tent—rustic, charming, but still requiring setup and rentals.
- Décor: Magical lighting (quite literally), tasteful floral arrangements, and a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.
- Entertainment: No live band, but the presence of magical fireworks and enchanted decor takes this celebration to the next level.
Estimated Cost: $40,000 – $70,000 AUD
It’s not crazy expensive by wedding standards, but it’s still a significant amount for a beautifully enchanted, rustic wedding in the English countryside. Magic might not be real, but if it were, it’d still have a price!
4. Bridesmaids
Lillian’s wedding in Bridesmaids takes things up a notch with a lavish Parisian-themed bridal shower, designer dresses, and a swan ice sculpture at the reception. Everything about this wedding screams high-class, though the behind-the-scenes chaos (thanks to Annie’s misadventures) makes it feel a bit more real. If you wanted to pull off a wedding like this in Australia, here’s what it would cost.
The Breakdown:
- Venues: A chic, elegant setting for both the ceremony and reception, likely in a ballroom or upscale garden.
- Décor: Expensive floral arrangements, ice sculptures, and high-end table settings. Even the bridal shower is decked out!
- Attire: Designer gowns for Lillian and her bridesmaids—nothing is off-the-rack here.
Estimated Cost: $200,000 – $300,000 AUD
From the couture gowns to the extravagant reception (and everything in between), Lillian’s wedding is no small affair. Fancy decor and luxury elements make this wedding a pricier one, proving that even comedic weddings come with real-world expenses.
5. The Wolf of Wall Street
Jordan Belfort’s wedding to the ultra-glam Naomi in The Wolf of Wall Street is exactly what you’d expect from a man who lives for excess. Nothing about this wedding is understated. With lavish, high-end details, a massive guest list, and opulent decor, this event reflects Jordan’s wealth and status to the fullest. If you’re looking to recreate this level of luxury in Australia, here’s what it’ll cost.
The Breakdown:
- Venue: A high-end, likely international location with every possible luxury included.
- Décor: Custom florals, crystal chandeliers, and decor dripping in opulence.
- Entertainment: Top-tier performers, live music, and no expense spared.
Estimated Cost: $1 million – $2 million AUD
This wedding spares no expense, and Jordan’s ego matches the budget. With a bill this high, you’d need to be a Wall Street mogul to afford it. The lavishness alone makes this one of the priciest weddings on our list.
6. Father of the Bride
In Father of the Bride, Steve Martin’s character George Banks is having sleepless nights over the ever-growing costs of his daughter’s big day. And with good reason! The film tells us the wedding costs $250 per guest, with 300 guests attending, meaning the overall price tag isn’t exactly budget-friendly—even for a backyard wedding.
The Breakdown:
- Guests: 300 guests at $250 per person, which includes food, drinks, and likely rentals.
- Venue: While it’s held at the Banks’ home, the cost of tent rentals, catering setups, and a beautifully decorated marquee adds to the budget.
- Décor: Extensive floral arrangements, lighting, and elegant touches throughout the home and outdoor spaces.
- Entertainment: Live music to keep all 300 guests entertained, with high-end touches across the event.
Estimated Cost: $75,000 AUD (just for guests)
With 300 guests and a price tag of $250 per person, the total cost for just the guests is $75,000 AUD (approximately $120,000 USD, given inflation and the film’s 90s setting). Factoring in additional costs like décor, venue preparations, and extras, the total wedding cost would likely hit $150,000 – $200,000 AUD. Even though it’s a backyard wedding, George’s anxiety is well justified with that final bill!