Cost of wedding planning: On the rise again

Has the era of the recessionista bride come to an end? Is "splurge" really the new "save"?

Over the past year or so, many engaged couples have been cutting back on expenses related to wedding planning - but a new report suggests spending could be edging up once again.

The Wedding Report's Q3 market research findings - based on a survey of brides, grooms and wedding vendors - show a surprise jump in how much people are spending when they walk down the aisle.

Between the second and third quarter, the average cost of a wedding increased from $16,546 to $22,121, buoyed by the popularity of October nuptials, according to the report.

In particular, brides and grooms increased their spending on reception bar service and food service by 69 percent and 55 percent respectively.

Meanwhile, spending on a live band increased by 53 percent, and the amount used to pay for an antique car rental went up by 52 percent.

Hmmm. Perhaps those couples who are looking for an extravagant musical addition to their reception might be interested in hiring Jay-Z? Last week, the rapper announced he wants to branch out into providing the soundtrack for weddings and bar mitzvahs - for a hefty price.