Weddings are in full bloom, and so are the bills. The average celebration now costs around $31,281 for the ceremony and reception — and that’s without rings or a honeymoon. As couples plan their big day, new tariffs could influence the cost of imported goods, from gowns, shoes, and invitations to flowers, catering, cake, and the beverage bill. 

For many the celebration is worth the splurge: More than half of couples (53%) go over budget by an average of $7,347, and among them, nearly two thirds (63%) said the economy is a contributing factor.¹ Now, with tariffs entering the wedding picture, some vendors are suggesting couples budget for overall increases of 10% to 15% to offset anticipated price fluctuations.² Here’s a look at some of the items that might be affected most.

Blossoming budgets

Flowers are one of the biggest line items after venues and photography, with the average spend hovering around $2,700.³ But most of those beautiful blooms don’t come from domestic fields and greenhouses. In fact, the U.S. is the largest importer of cut flowers in the world: According to data from the U.S. Agriculture Department, nearly 80% come from other countries — with 90% of those imports originating from South America.⁴ This may have some couples looking to florists who source locally or being more flexible about the types of flowers they select.

Read more: Who pays for what at a wedding?

Dress the part

For some brides, it’s all about the dress, and they shell out some $2,100 on average for the right frock.⁵ About 90% of bridal gowns are produced in China, and while lace is already considered expensive by bridal shop owners, the cost of silk charmeuse, silk satin, and other fabrics has also risen sharply and even doubled in some cases.^6,7 Some bridal brands are already incorporating percentage-based tariff surcharges that are being shared by boutiques and customers, which may add anywhere from $120 to $300 to the retail price of a $2,000 to $2,200 dress.⁸ Completing the look could affect the budget too, as shoes, makeup, and hair styling are also expected to get pricier.⁹

The fine print

Couples who select invitations that are printed on imported paper could see some changes, but it’s other paperwork where the extra dollar signs may show up. Some vendors are putting the anticipated rising costs in writing in their contracts. Engaged couples who have already paid in full for their upcoming festivities or are locked into contracts may not see much of a difference in line items. But those intending to say “I do” later this year and beyond might see their contracts include clauses with pricing cushions allowing vendors to charge an additional 10% to 30% on top of price quotes for “circumstances beyond their control.”¹⁰

Read more: Are weddings priceless? As costs rise, half of people hope to skip the invite

A cake to remember

Imported ingredients like chocolate and vanilla could bump up dessert prices, especially for cakes made with specialty goods. With those tiered layers averaging $540, and catering running about $80 a head, the overall cost ultimately depends on the number of guests.¹¹

Even traditions like the champagne toast could be pricier, depending on what the couple decides to serve — and whether it’s sourced domestically or from a vineyard overseas. With the average outlay running $2,800, the wedding bar bill ranks among the steepest expenses.¹²

Say “I do” to priorities

Ultimately, the impact of tariffs on wedding budgets will depend on the choices couples make. Some may pivot priorities so they can dedicate more money to the things they care about most, whether it’s the venue, the flowers, the food, or something else. But the majority of Americans (74%) draw the line at going into debt to pay for a wedding, a reminder that love doesn’t have to break the bank.