How Much Does It Cost to Get Married in an LDS Temple: A Comprehensive Guide
How Much Does It Cost to Get Married in an LDS Temple?
The straightforward answer to "how much does it cost to get married in an LDS temple" is surprisingly minimal in terms of direct temple fees. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the sealing ceremony within a temple is considered a sacred ordinance, and there is no direct charge for the use of the temple or the officiant's services. This fundamental principle is a cornerstone of the Church's teachings about eternal marriage, emphasizing its spiritual significance over financial transaction. However, while the temple sealing itself is free of charge, the overall cost associated with a temple wedding can vary significantly, encompassing a range of preparatory expenses and celebratory elements that couples choose to include.
I remember sitting down with my fiancée, Sarah, a few months after getting engaged. We were both active members of the Church and had always envisioned getting married in the temple. The question of cost naturally came up, and honestly, we were a little apprehensive, expecting it to be a substantial financial undertaking. We had heard stories of elaborate receptions and honeymoon plans that sounded incredibly expensive. But as we delved deeper, we discovered that the actual temple ceremony was free, which was a huge relief. This realization allowed us to shift our focus from the *temple fee* to the other elements that make a wedding day special and memorable. It’s a common misconception that LDS temple weddings are inherently expensive because of the temple itself. The reality is far more nuanced and depends entirely on the couple’s choices and priorities.
This article will aim to break down the various components that contribute to the overall cost of getting married in an LDS temple, offering insights, practical tips, and a realistic picture of what couples can expect. We'll explore the free aspects, the associated costs, and how to manage them effectively, empowering you to plan a beautiful and spiritually meaningful temple wedding without unnecessary financial strain.
The Core Offering: The Temple Sealing Ceremony
Let's start with the heart of the matter: the LDS temple sealing ceremony itself. For worthy members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the temple is a sacred place where eternal covenants are made. The ordinance of marriage, or sealing, performed within the temple is considered one of the most important spiritual experiences a couple can undertake. It's crucial to understand that the Church does not charge a fee for this ordinance. The temple presidency and the sealing couples who officiate volunteer their time and service, embodying the principle of selfless dedication central to the Church's ethos.
This "free" aspect is a significant differentiator from many other wedding venues and religious institutions that might charge for the use of their facilities or for officiants. The Church provides these sacred spaces and services as a spiritual gift to its members, emphasizing that eternal relationships are not for sale. This allows couples to focus on the spiritual preparation and the eternal significance of their commitment rather than being burdened by a prohibitive venue fee.
The only requirement to be married in an LDS temple is that both individuals must be worthy members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This worthiness is determined by a temple recommend interview with their bishop and stake president, where they affirm their adherence to Church teachings and covenants. The temple recommend is not a ticket to purchase, but rather a testament to their spiritual standing. Once a couple holds a valid temple recommend, they can schedule their sealing ceremony at any temple of their choosing, anywhere in the world, at no direct cost for the ordinance itself.
Understanding Associated Costs: Beyond the Temple Doors
While the temple sealing is free, the wedding day as a whole involves many other elements that do incur costs. It’s important to differentiate between the temple ordinance and the surrounding wedding festivities. Couples typically choose to have a separate reception or celebration to share their joyous occasion with family and friends who may not be able to attend the temple sealing (as attendance in the temple sealing room is limited). These external events are where the majority of wedding expenses lie.
1. Temple Recommend and Worthiness Interviews
As mentioned, there is no financial cost for the temple recommend interview itself. It is a confidential conversation between you and your priesthood leaders. However, maintaining worthiness might involve personal financial discipline, as adherence to the Word of Wisdom (which includes avoiding alcohol, tobacco, tea, and coffee) and living a life aligned with Church principles are part of the discussion. This isn't a direct cost, but it's a spiritual investment that is a prerequisite for temple marriage.
2. Wedding Attire
This is often one of the more significant expenses for any wedding. For an LDS temple wedding, there are specific attire guidelines for the sealing ceremony itself. While the Church provides the temple garments for worthy members, the attire worn *to* the temple sealing ceremony is usually a white dress for the bride and a white shirt and tie (for men, if they are members wearing garments) or a white suit/tuxedo. Outside of the temple, couples can wear whatever they choose for their reception.
- Bride's Wedding Dress: Costs can range from $500 to $3,000+, depending on the designer, materials, and whether it's custom-made, off-the-rack, or a rental. Many brides opt for white dresses that align with temple standards.
- Groom's Attire: This could include a white suit or tuxedo, which can range from $200 to $1,000 for purchase, or less for rental.
- Bridesmaid/Groomsmen Attire: If you have a wedding party, their attire can also add to the cost, though often they bear this expense themselves.
- Accessories: Veils, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories can add another $100 to $500+.
My wife and I decided to purchase our attire rather than rent. We found a beautiful, modest white wedding dress for Sarah at a boutique for around $1,200, and I bought a white suit for about $400. We also budgeted around $300 for accessories and alterations. This was a significant chunk of our budget, but we felt it was worth it to have pieces we could keep as mementos.
3. Photography and Videography
Capturing the memories of your special day is paramount. For LDS temple weddings, photography within the temple sealing room itself is strictly prohibited. However, many temples have beautiful grounds and adjacent buildings where couples can take photos immediately after their sealing ceremony with family and close friends. Professional photography and videography services are common for both the temple grounds and the subsequent reception.
- Temple Grounds Photography: A professional photographer specializing in LDS temple weddings can charge anywhere from $300 to $1,500+ for a few hours of coverage, focusing on the post-sealing portraits.
- Reception Coverage: If you hire a photographer for the entire reception, costs can range from $2,000 to $5,000+, depending on the hours of coverage, number of photographers, and deliverables (e.g., albums, digital files).
- Videography: Similar to photography, video services can range from $1,000 to $4,000+ for a highlight reel or full-day coverage.
We opted for a photographer who specialized in temple weddings. They had a package that included a few hours of coverage, capturing our exit from the temple, family photos on the grounds, and then following us to our reception. It cost us about $1,800, and the photos are absolutely stunning. We chose not to have videography to keep costs down, but we’ve seen some amazing wedding films that are definitely worth considering if your budget allows.
4. Wedding Reception
This is typically the largest single expense for an LDS temple wedding. Because guests are often not invited into the temple sealing room, a reception is the primary way to celebrate with a broader circle of family and friends. The nature of the reception can vary dramatically.
- Venue Rental: This can range from $500 for a community hall or church building to $5,000+ for a dedicated banquet hall or event space. Some couples opt for backyard receptions, which can significantly reduce venue costs but may incur expenses for rentals (tables, chairs, tents).
- Catering: This is often the most substantial part of reception costs, calculated per person. Prices can range from $20 to $100+ per guest. For a 100-guest wedding, this could be $2,000 to $10,000+.
- Decorations: Flowers, centerpieces, lighting, linens, and other decor can add $300 to $3,000+.
- Entertainment: DJ services typically range from $500 to $1,500+. A live band will cost significantly more.
- Wedding Cake: A tiered wedding cake can cost $300 to $1,000+, depending on size and design.
- Invitations and Stationery: Including save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP cards, thank-you notes, and other printed materials, costs can range from $200 to $1,000+.
We decided on a more modest reception. We rented a large community hall for a reasonable fee and hired a caterer that offered a buffet option. With about 150 guests, our catering bill came to $4,500. Decorations, including flowers and centerpieces, cost us around $800. We also hired a DJ for $700. Our wedding cake was simple but beautiful, costing $350. The total for our reception was in the ballpark of $6,350.
5. Rings
Wedding bands are a symbolic representation of your eternal union. The cost of wedding rings can vary widely based on the metal, design, and any gemstones. Simple gold bands might start at $200 each, while more elaborate designs with diamonds or platinum could easily run into the thousands.
- Simple Bands: $200 - $600 each
- Designer Bands: $600 - $2,000+ each
- Diamond or Gemstone Bands: $1,000 - $5,000+ each
We chose classic 14k white gold bands, which were about $300 each. It was important to us that they were durable and timeless, and we found exactly what we were looking for without breaking the bank.
6. Marriage License
Before you can have your temple sealing, you must be legally married in the eyes of the state. This requires obtaining a marriage license. The cost of a marriage license varies by state and county but typically ranges from $30 to $150.
This is a straightforward administrative step. We paid about $75 for our marriage license in our home state. It’s a necessary legal step before proceeding with the temple sealing.
7. Travel and Accommodation
If your chosen temple is not local, you’ll need to factor in travel expenses. This could include:
- Transportation: Flights, gas, car rental.
- Accommodation: Hotel stays for the couple and potentially for visiting family members.
- Honeymoon: This is often a separate budget, but some couples combine it with their wedding travel.
We were fortunate that the temple we chose was only a two-hour drive from our home. We rented a car for the weekend, which cost about $200, and stayed in a hotel the night before and after the wedding, amounting to another $300. For couples traveling from afar, this cost can escalate quickly.
8. Miscellaneous Expenses
There are always smaller, often unforeseen costs that pop up:
- Flowers (Bouquets, Boutonnieres): $100 - $500+
- Gifts for Wedding Party/Parents: $100 - $500+
- Favors for Guests: $100 - $500+
- Marriage Certificate Framing: $50 - $200
- Beauty Services (Hair, Makeup): $100 - $500+
We budgeted about $500 for smaller items like flowers for the bridal party, thank-you gifts, and professional hair and makeup for Sarah. This category is easy to overlook but can add up.
Total Estimated Costs: A Range of Possibilities
Given the wide array of choices, the total cost for an LDS temple wedding can range dramatically. It's important to remember that these are estimates, and individual experiences will vary based on location, guest count, vendor choices, and personal preferences.
| Category | Budget-Friendly Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate | Luxury Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wedding Attire | $500 - $1,000 | $1,000 - $2,500 | $2,500 - $7,000+ |
| Photography/Videography | $500 - $1,500 | $1,500 - $3,500 | $3,500 - $10,000+ |
| Wedding Reception (Venue, Catering, Decor, Entertainment, Cake) | $2,000 - $6,000 (for ~50 guests) | $6,000 - $15,000 (for ~100 guests) | $15,000 - $50,000+ (for 150+ guests) |
| Wedding Rings | $400 - $800 | $800 - $2,000 | $2,000 - $10,000+ |
| Marriage License | $30 - $100 | $50 - $120 | $75 - $150 |
| Travel & Accommodation (if applicable) | $200 - $500 | $500 - $2,000 | $2,000 - $10,000+ |
| Miscellaneous | $100 - $300 | $300 - $800 | $800 - $2,000+ |
| Total Estimated Range | $3,730 - $10,000 | $10,150 - $24,920 | $25,075 - $91,150+ |
As you can see, the spectrum is vast. A very simple LDS temple wedding with a small reception held at a church building and a potluck or simple catered meal could fall into the lower end of the budget-friendly category. On the other hand, a large, elaborate affair with a top-tier venue, gourmet catering, designer attire, and extensive photography could easily reach the higher end or even surpass it.
For Sarah and me, our total wedding expenses, including everything from our attire to our modest reception and honeymoon, came out to just under $10,000. We prioritized certain elements, like photography, and saved on others, like DIY decorations for the reception and a simple cake. It was a beautiful day that felt perfect for us, and it was entirely achievable within our budget.
Tips for Managing Costs for Your LDS Temple Wedding
Planning an LDS temple wedding doesn't have to mean going into debt. With smart planning and prioritization, you can have a beautiful and meaningful celebration that aligns with your financial capabilities. Here are some tips:
1. Prioritize What Matters Most
Sit down with your partner and discuss what aspects of the wedding are most important to you. Is it the photography? The food? The guest experience? Once you identify your priorities, you can allocate more of your budget to those areas and be willing to compromise on others.
2. Be Flexible with Dates and Times
Wedding venues and vendors often offer lower rates for off-peak days (weekdays, Sundays) or seasons. Consider if a Friday evening or a Sunday brunch reception might work for you and potentially save money.
3. Embrace DIY (Where Appropriate)
If you or your friends and family have creative talents, consider DIY projects for decorations, favors, or even the wedding cake. However, be realistic about your time and skill level. Don’t take on too much!
4. Guest List Management
The guest list is often the biggest driver of reception costs, especially catering. While it can be difficult, being mindful of your guest count can significantly impact your budget. Consider a smaller, more intimate reception or a "no-host" bar for the reception.
5. Smart Venue Choices
Instead of a grand ballroom, consider community halls, church social centers, or even a beautifully decorated backyard. These options can be significantly more affordable.
6. Catering Savvy
Buffets or food stations are often more cost-effective than plated meals. Consider less expensive menu options like pasta bars, taco bars, or heavy appetizers. Also, explore local caterers who may offer more competitive pricing than larger, established companies.
7. Second-hand and Rentals
Look for gently used wedding dresses or suits, or consider renting. Many vendors offer rental packages for decor items as well.
8. Limit the Wedding Party
While it’s lovely to have a large wedding party, each member often comes with associated costs (attire, gifts). Keeping your wedding party small can help manage expenses.
9. Negotiate and Compare
Don't be afraid to ask vendors if there's any flexibility in their pricing or packages. Always get multiple quotes before making a decision.
10. Consider a Destination Temple Wedding (with a caveat)
While this might seem counterintuitive, sometimes a destination wedding can be cheaper if it’s a very small, intimate affair where travel costs for guests are minimized. However, for most, a destination wedding will increase costs due to travel and accommodation for the couple and potentially a smaller group of close family.
11. Focus on the Spiritual Significance
Remember the core reason for your union: the eternal covenant made in the temple. The outward celebration is secondary to the sacred ordinance. This perspective can help keep spending in check and refocus on what truly matters.
Frequently Asked Questions About LDS Temple Wedding Costs
How much does it *really* cost to get married in an LDS temple?
The actual temple sealing ceremony is free for worthy members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. There is no charge for using the temple or for the officiant's services. The cost comes from the surrounding wedding events, such as attire, photography, and most significantly, the wedding reception. Therefore, the cost to *get married in an LDS temple* itself is zero, but the cost of the entire wedding day, including the reception and other celebrations, can range from a few thousand dollars for a very simple affair to tens of thousands of dollars for a more elaborate event.
Are there any hidden fees associated with an LDS temple wedding?
No, there are no hidden fees for the temple ordinance itself. The Church operates its temples on a volunteer basis and does not charge for the sealing. Any costs incurred are for services and goods you choose to purchase for your wedding day and reception, such as venue rental, catering, photography, floral arrangements, attire, and the marriage license. These are all standard wedding expenses that are transparently priced by vendors.
What if I'm not a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints? Can I still get married in an LDS temple?
LDS temples are reserved exclusively for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who hold a current temple recommend, signifying their worthiness and adherence to Church teachings. Non-members cannot be married in an LDS temple. However, a non-member can attend the wedding reception and be a part of the celebration outside the temple. If a non-member is marrying a member, the member would need to go through the process of obtaining a temple recommend, and their non-member partner would not be able to attend the sealing ceremony. Many couples find ways to honor the non-member's family and traditions through their reception and other wedding events.
Does the cost of the temple wedding vary by location or temple?
No, the cost of the temple sealing ordinance itself does not vary by location or temple. It is free for all worthy members worldwide. The costs associated with your wedding day will, however, be influenced by your location. For instance, wedding venues and vendors in major metropolitan areas are typically more expensive than those in smaller towns or rural areas. So, while the temple is free, the reception and other services will be priced according to the local market.
What are the most significant expenses for an LDS temple wedding?
Generally, the wedding reception is the most significant expense for an LDS temple wedding. This is because it typically involves costs for the venue, catering (which is often priced per person), entertainment, decorations, and the wedding cake. Photography and videography can also be substantial costs, as can wedding attire. The actual temple sealing is free, so the expenses are all external to the sacred ordinance.
How can I save money on an LDS temple wedding if my budget is tight?
There are many ways to save money. Prioritize your spending on what's most important to you. Consider a smaller guest list to reduce reception costs, especially catering. Look for affordable venues like community halls or church social centers. DIY decorations can save money, but be realistic about your time. Consider a less expensive catering option like a buffet or heavy appetizers. Second-hand attire or renting can also significantly cut costs. Also, be open to off-peak wedding dates or times, as these can sometimes be more affordable.
Is it possible to have a beautiful and memorable LDS temple wedding on a small budget?
Absolutely! The beauty and memorability of a wedding are not solely tied to its cost. The spiritual significance of the temple sealing ordinance is the core of the experience. A budget-friendly wedding can be just as meaningful and joyous. Focus on the love and commitment you share, the presence of your closest loved ones, and the spiritual power of the temple. Many couples create incredibly beautiful and heartfelt celebrations by focusing on personal touches, meaningful traditions, and leveraging the help of family and friends. A simple, heartfelt reception can be just as impactful as an extravagant one.
What are the specific dress code requirements for the LDS temple sealing ceremony?
For the sealing ceremony itself, the bride typically wears a white wedding dress, and the groom wears a white shirt and tie or a white suit. Both individuals must also wear their temple garments. The dress should be modest, with sleeves (or the ability to add sleeves), a higher neckline, and a hemline that reaches the floor. Temple visitors' centers and many bridal shops that cater to LDS brides are excellent resources for finding appropriate white wedding attire. The focus is on purity, modesty, and reverence for the sacred occasion.
Can my non-member friends and family attend the temple sealing ceremony?
No, non-members are not permitted to attend the temple sealing ceremony. Attendance in the sealing room is limited to adult members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who hold a current temple recommend. This is because the ceremony involves sacred covenants and ordinances unique to the Church. However, non-member family and friends are warmly invited to wait outside the temple and often join the couple for photos on the temple grounds and then attend the wedding reception or celebration afterwards.
Conclusion: The True Value of an LDS Temple Wedding
The question "how much does it cost to get married in an LDS temple" leads us to a nuanced understanding. The temple sealing ordinance itself is a free, sacred gift, a testament to the Church's focus on eternal spiritual principles over material wealth. The associated costs are entirely dependent on the couple's choices for their wedding day celebrations, particularly the reception.
Whether you envision a grand celebration or a more intimate gathering, an LDS temple wedding can be tailored to fit your financial situation. By prioritizing what matters most, being strategic with your spending, and remembering the profound spiritual significance of your temple sealing, you can plan a wedding day that is both beautiful and deeply meaningful, honoring your commitment to each other and to your eternal future.