What size should a wedding cake be?

A 3-tier cake (10, 8, 6 inches) usually serves 75–100 guests. Larger weddings may need more tiers or sheet cakes.

How much does a wedding dessert table cost?

On average, dessert tables cost $3–$8 per guest depending on desserts and display setup.

What desserts are good alternatives to cake?

Cupcakes, donuts, pies, cookies, and mini tarts are fun, affordable alternatives to a traditional wedding cake.

What’s the difference between a last dance and an exit song?

The last dance is the final song on the dance floor. The exit song plays as you leave or during a sparkler or tunnel send-off. They can be the same or different.

Should we go upbeat or slow for the exit?

An upbeat song creates a big sing-along, high-energy goodbye. A slow song creates a romantic spotlight moment. Choose the vibe you want captured in your photos and video.

How long should the exit song be?

Aim for 3–4 minutes. Your DJ can start at the chorus and fade at the perfect time so it feels seamless.

Can the DJ handle clean edits and timing?

Yes. Professional DJs use clean versions, cue guests, and coordinate timing with photographers and planners so the exit feels flawless.

How much should we budget for a wedding DJ?

National averages typically range from $1,000–$1,700 depending on the source. In Washington, DC, couples commonly invest $1,600–$2,200 for full-day coverage on peak dates. Always compare all-in quotes for a fair match.

Does ceremony audio cost extra?

Usually yes. Ceremony sound often requires a second system, wireless microphones, and additional setup time. Expect an add-on of about $300–$600.

Why do big venues or multiple rooms cost more?

Larger spaces or split-room layouts may require extra speakers, microphones, cabling, or an additional system for cocktail hour. More coverage means more gear, setup time, and labor.

What hidden wedding DJ costs should we watch for?

Common add-ons include overtime, travel/mileage, extra systems for additional rooms, dance lighting or uplighting, photo booth services, and peak-season premiums. Ask for a line-item breakdown.

What’s included in professional DJ pricing?

Typically: ceremony audio, cocktail-hour system, reception system, wireless mics for toasts, basic dance lighting, setup/teardown, backup equipment, and planning/prep (timeline review, music pulls, coordination).

Are wedding DJ prices negotiable?

Pros may adjust based on hours or off-peak dates, but established companies usually maintain set pricing to reflect labor, experience, and reliability.

What’s the difference between a cheap DJ and a professional DJ?

Lower-cost DJs may lack backup gear, insurance, MC skills, or timeline management. Professionals bring reliability, polished MC work, and the experience to keep energy and flow on track.

Do DJs charge for setup and teardown?

Most professionals include setup and teardown in their quotes. If it’s not specified, request that it be detailed in writing.

Do DJs bring their own lights?

Basic dance-floor lighting is often included. Uplighting or specialty effects are usually available as add-ons.

How do travel fees work for DJs?

Many DJs include travel within a local radius (e.g., 30–50 miles). Beyond that, mileage or flat travel fees may apply; confirm the details in your quote.

How far in advance should we book our DJ?

Peak Saturdays can book 12–18 months ahead. If you want better availability or pricing, consider Fridays, Sundays, or off-season dates.

How can we save on DJ costs without cutting corners?

Consider off-peak dates, trim coverage hours if your timeline allows, and ask about package pricing when bundling services like DJ plus lighting.

Wedding Transportation: Costs, Timing & Best Options

Bride smiling from car window with bouquet on the way to ceremony—on-time wedding day transportation

Intro:

Your wedding day should feel effortless. This guide shows you how to choose, book, and communicate transportation so everyone arrives together, on time, and in style.

Who Needs Transportation?

• You and your partner — a comfortable, photo-ready ride and an easy grand exit.
• Wedding party — keep timelines tight and the crew together.
• Out-of-town guests — especially without cars or with limited rideshare access.
• Elderly/VIP guests — reduce walking and make them feel cared for.

Accessible van with wheelchair ramp extended—ADA-friendly shuttle option for wedding guests and VIPs

Did you know? Couples usually start researching transportation 5–7 months out. It’s a great window to price-check florals, rentals, and cake tastings and hold dates before peak season.

Compare Your Options at a Glance

Type

Capacity

Avg. Cost

Best For

Pros

Cons

Party Bus

15–30

$700–$1,200

Wedding Party

Fun, unified, BYOB-friendly

Requires booking early

Shuttle Bus

30–50

$900–$1,500

Guest Groups

Efficient, safe

Not very glamorous

Vintage Car

2–4

$250–$700

Couple Getaway

Stylish, great for photos

Limited seating

Rideshare/Uber

1–4

Varies

Guests or backup

Flexible, cost-effective

Unreliable in rural areas

Pro Tip The best vehicles get scooped up early—especially in spring and fall. Start now so mid-tier options feel like an easy win.

Charter coach bus parked with open door at golden hour—high capacity wedding guest shuttle

Budget: What It Really Costs (and How to Save)

Typical range: $500–$1,800+ depending on vehicle type, distance, season, and minimum hours.
• Bundle rehearsal/bachelor(ette) rides to negotiate a better rate.
• Shorten distances between venues to cut idle time and mileage fees.
• Prioritize VIPs and let most guests self-organize if budgets are tight.

City taxi line at night—example of backup option when shuttles end after the reception

7 Smart Planning Tips

Pad travel time for traffic or weather (20–30 minutes).
Reserve a seat for your photographer for transit shots.
Create a shuttle list (names, stops, times) so no one is left behind.
Leave room for gifts, décor, and overnight bags.
Choose vehicles with a few extra seats for comfort.
Confirm music, lighting, and beverage policies in writing.
Post pickup maps, times, and rideshare codes on your wedding website.

Questions to Ask Before You Book

• Is gratuity included? What about fuel, tolls, and cleaning fees?
• Minimum hours? Overtime rates? Idle/wait time policy?
• Backup vehicles/drivers if something breaks down?
• Can we see the exact vehicles ahead of time?

Couple posing with golf cart at venue—short-distance wedding transport

Download the Wedding Transportation Checklist

Download the Wedding Transportation Check