Wedding costs in Karachi: what drives the price

Guest numbers and catering per head

Catering is usually the largest cost and is priced per head, so the guest list drives the budget more than anything else. The per-head price rises with the number of dishes, the meat, desserts and live stations.

Venue and hall packages

Banquet halls often sell packages combining the venue, a set menu and basic décor. Hotel ballrooms cost more but include more service. Marquees and farmhouses can look cheaper but often need extra spending on power, transport and weather protection.

Décor, photography and other vendors

Décor varies most with fresh flowers, stage size and lighting. Photography depends on team size, coverage hours and deliverables such as albums and highlight films. Makeup, sound, transport and invitations add smaller but significant amounts.

Charges that are easy to miss

• Generator and fuel charges
• Overtime when a function runs past the hall’s timing
• Service staff and serving charges
• Outside-caterer fees at some venues
• Transport for guests and vendors
• Advance payments that are non-refundable

Season and date

December and the winter season are the busiest and most expensive months. Weekends and popular dates cost more and book sooner.

Fair prices for overseas families

Families living abroad are often quoted higher prices simply because they are abroad. We obtain written quotes from several vendors, compare them like for like and keep our management fee separate and transparent.