I know I'm going against the tide here, but when DH and I got married, the costs came to $34,000. We had 240 people attending, and we had a full on huge party with open bar.
My mother's family alone was 80 people. My friends and coworkers were about 50. Our immediate families were 25. My dad's side was another dozen or two. DH'S friends and his parents ' friends were another dozen. My parents had friends, and the were mission volunteers who were there when we met.

We were inclusive. We includes a guest for all singles and all family kids.

My parents contributed $23,000. I paid for the rest. DH and his parents could not afford to pay, so they didn't. DH already owned a tuxedo. I paid for all hotel rooms for his family.

I saved money by allowing a friend to prepare the flowers, which I bought from the NYC flower district wholesale. I kept a spreadsheet of all expenses and was aware of all of the costs.

It was kind of a going away party for me, too, since I was quitting my job to move 1300 miles to be with DH.

I was also aware that the only thing that really mattered was that I wind up married to the right guy by the time it all was over.

I do not believe that the cost of the wedding has anything to do with the value of the marriage.

DH and I hit 11 years married last May, and decades more are currently likely.