Like everything else in the country, Malay weddings in Singapore can become expensive. But it’s unavoidable if you want to push with this important life event. What’s worse is that calculating the average wedding cost is difficult due to the wide array of options out there.
For example, the price can change by tens of thousands of dollars depending on the wedding package. In this guide, we’ll focus on the essential wedding components for an average wedding. This includes the traditional wedding banquet.
Wedding Banquets – SGD 30,000
This part of the wedding has the bulk of your total wedding expenses. Through the years, the prices of banquets increased due to the customization options for the venue and the fancy menus.
Most Singaporean couples say that they choose the venue of the banquet for their parents. After all, they see their children’s marriage as a “face-value” question. The average table cost is around SGD 1,180 for weekday lunches, assuming it accommodates 10 people.
As for weekend dinners, the prices can change depending on your date preferences. But as a general rule, you’re likely to spend around SGD 1,340. So, if you’re inviting around 300 guests, the average banquet cost will be around SGD 37,000.
The price can spike up to $95,000 if you invite the same number of people to the most expensive venues in the country. But for weekday lunches in inexpensive venues, the banquet can only cost around SGD 10,000. The consolation is that you’re likely to receive red packets from your wedding guests, which can cover around 60% of your banquet expenses.
Bridal Packages – SGD 3,000-6,000
To manage your wedding better, you should get a bridal package. This is a convenient choice since you’ll rent both the gown and suit, as well as pre-wedding photography. It looks expensive, especially since you’re only renting gowns and pre-wedding photo coverage.
The caveat is that going a la carte can be a more expensive option. For example, a custom-tailored wedding gown can cost you more than SGD 2,000. Add that with other services, you’ll end up spending almost as much as the banquet.
A bridal studio lets you choose 3-4 gowns that they can modify, free of charge. You’ll also get a make-up artist, an outdoor photoshoot, and an indoor photo studio. The price of these packages will depend on several factors.
It can get pretty expensive if you’re getting premium gowns with a lot of alterations. It also depends on the number of photoshoot locations and how far they are. The number of wedding album photos can also increase the price.
Wedding Rings – SGD 2,000-6,000
Assuming that this comes after the engagement ring, you’ll need to look for wedding bands for the actual wedding day. These rings look simple, but it can cost anywhere between SGD 1,000 and SGD 3,000, depending on the material.
The price also increases if the ring has precious gemstones such as diamonds. If you want to get the most expensive ones, you can get designer brand rings. Some of these include Bvlgari B.Zero 1 and Trinity De Cartier.
Dowry – SGD 500-5,000
This can be negligible if no in-laws practice this tradition. But in case it’s needed, it can come as a form of cash gift or jewelry. If this is the case, prepare at least SGD 2,000-worth of dowry for the bride’s family.
Otherwise, you’re lucky enough to get away with a token that’s worth a few hundred dollars.
Solemnization – SGD 1,000-5,000
Most Singaporeans will hold a solemnization since they need marriage before collecting Build-To-Order HDB flats. If you’re holding this ceremony, it won’t cost a lot since it’s more casual compared to your wedding. That means you can get away with simpler venues or hold it at the registry.
If you chose the latter, the minimum fee is around SGD 1,000 for catering. But if you want to make the most out of the experience, get a fancier venue. The ones that offer luxury lunches can cost about SGD 5,000.
Wedding Photography and Videography – SGD 2,500-4,000
You’ll likely want to capture your special day’s wonderful moments. That’s why you need to hire a wedding photographer and videographer that specializes in Malay weddings in Singapore. Depending on their equipment, expertise, and reputation, expect to spend around SGD 4,000 for higher-tier ones.
Honeymoon – SGD 5,000-8,000
If you’re planning your wedding for around a year, you’ll want to go on a honeymoon. It’s a great way to relax, even if you don’t spend a lot of time on break. An average couple will spend around 2 weeks in an exotic destination, so you might need to prepare SGD 5,000 at least.
The good news is that you can always opt for a more local destination. If you plan to spend your honeymoon within the country, you might get lucky and spend a lot less. In most cases, you’ll end up spending around SGD 2,000.
Miscellaneous Costs – SGD 1,000-2,000
This expense will cover all the myriad things you might need to spend on. For example, you might need to give red packets to your bridesmaids and groomsmen to show your appreciation. In some cases, you’ll need to rent wedding cars or get more entertainment at the after-wedding party.
Regardless, make sure to prepare SGD 2,000 to cover unexpected fees. That way, nothing can dampen the spirits of your wedding day.
Make Your Malay Weddings Memorable
You have a lot of options if you want to save on your wedding expenses. The easiest way is to use different credit cards for rebates and the like. But if you aren’t able to pay these expenses within a month, you might need to apply for personal loans.
Regardless, follow these tips and you’re guaranteed to have a financially-possible wedding.
Do you want your wedding day to be as memorable as possible? If so, we can help you with our videographer services. We have packages that can cater to your specific needs, ensuring that your special day will have the coverage it deserves.
