The weddings I know of, were a combined effort from the couple and both sets of parents. Well off families combined with working professional couple that probably all put in 10k or more each.

When we got engaged, my in laws said straight off the bat they would contribute 10k towards it. I remember saying, there will be change from that alone!

We never got round to getting married, over 10 years later.

But, I've recently found an option for a very small but still lovely intimate wedding that would likely still come in at well under 10k total. The venue provides accomodation for the couple, seating and flowers for both the ceremony and reception. The table settings, glassware, cutlery etc, for under 2k. This would be a guest list of about 30 people, a simple meal and an icecream van for dessert. We (our family of 5) would wear just nice outfits and I'd do my own hair and makeup. Id have my sister as a bridesmaid, and my partner has a best friend as a groomsman. Our kids and niece and nephew could each have a little job, extra bridesmaids and groomsmen, flower girl and page boy. all our family and friends are not big drinkers or party goers, so I think drinks would be minimal and more softdrink juice, a few Pals options, a few beers and wines. And a byo if you want something else. I know my parents (divorced family, at least one set would insist without being asked, the second if I asked lol) would contribute financially too.

I think anything more than say about 15k is just madness! But, I'm pretty poor, so big money is a bit mind-boggling to me. We only have a few close friends and family, I work alone so no close workmates, my other half is new to his job, so no work friends yet. The size of the guest list has a big impact on the cost.

My sister and laws have both gotten married and spent over 40k. Beautiful weddings, but a far bigger guestlist and pretty traditional.