- LightStream: Best for long loan terms
- SoFi: Best for avoiding fees
- Upstart: Best for borrowers with bad credit
- Marcus by Goldman Sachs: Best for members of the military
- Fiona: Best for comparing multiple lenders
Finder makes money from featured partners, but editorial opinions are our own. Advertiser Disclosure
While there are a variety of ways you can pay for your wedding, a personal loan provides the funding you need in one lump sum. And it can cover up to the full cost.
These five lenders make our list because they offer large loan amounts, have relatively competitive starting rates and all allow you to use your loan funds to finance your wedding. But if they don’t suit your needs, there are other lenders — and financing options — that you can use to make your wedding memorable.
LightStream personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.83 / 5 ★★★★★
Min. credit score | Good to excellent credit |
---|---|
APR | 5.99% to 23.99% |
Loan amount | $5,000 to $100,000 |
SoFi personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.45 / 5 ★★★★★
Min. credit score | 680 |
---|---|
APR | 8.99% to 23.43% |
Loan amount | $5,000 to $100,000 |
Upstart personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.15 / 5 ★★★★★
Min. credit score | 300 |
---|---|
APR | 5.40% to 35.99% |
Loan amount | $1,000 to $50,000 |
Marcus by Goldman Sachs personal loans
Finder Rating: 3.8 / 5 ★★★★★
Min. credit score | 720+ FICO |
---|---|
APR | 6.99% to 24.99% |
Loan amount | $3,500 to $40,000 |
Fiona personal loans
Finder Rating: 4.25 / 5 ★★★★★
Min. credit score | Poor |
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APR | 3.49% to 35.99% |
Loan amount | $1,000 to $250,000 |
Check out even more lenders by selecting your credit score range and which state you live in.
Before you and your future spouse commit to a large loan, see what rates you may qualify for by following these steps:
Some lenders, like LightStream, don’t allow you to prequalify for a loan. To keep hits to your credit score at a minimum, apply for preapproval with lenders that offer it first. Then you can check your rates with other lenders that require a hard credit check.
When you’re preparing your budget and determining how much you need to spend, keep these common wedding costs in mind:
The average honeymoon costs $5,000 — but can cost upwards of $10,000, according to The Knot’s annual wedding survey. If you don’t have the time to save, an unsecured personal loan can help foot the expense.
But starting your new life together with debt isn’t ideal since it can make it difficult to qualify for a mortgage or car loan. Look into other no-cost options before you apply for a loan.
Lender | Minimum credit score | Best for… | Finder Rating | What sets it apart |
---|---|---|---|---|
Lightstream | Low rates | ★★★★★ | Competitive rates to begin with, plus a rate beat program for eligible offers. | |
Discover | An adventurous honeymoon | ★★★★★ | 30-day guarantee program that lets you refund at no cost. | |
Laurel Road | Mixed-credit couples | ★★★★★ | One of the only personal loan providers that accepts cosigners. | |
SoFi | Building your financial future | ★★★★★ | Membership perks to improve your financial habits and boost your career. | |
Payoff | Consolidating honeymoon credit card debt | ★★★★★ | A hands-on customer service team that guides you through the consolidation process. |
Before applying for a wedding loan, you and your future partner should sit down and discuss your financial situation so you both fully understand the financial commitment you’re agreeing to. Below are some of the questions you should discuss.
It depends. Some financial experts advise against it, stating that you’re better off saving for this big expense. While building up your savings will mean you don’t pay interest, for many people, that’s often an unattainable goal — especially if you’re hosting a large reception at an expensive venue.
A wedding loan can make it easier to afford your wedding, even if it costs you more in the long run. As long as you and your partner agree to the expense beforehand and have a plan of action in place for dealing with the payments, a wedding loan can be helpful. However, it’s still important to explore your other options.
It depends. Unless you have a large credit limit — or a small wedding planned — credit cards likely won’t be able to cover the full cost of a wedding. But they can be used to pay for things like your dress, venue deposit and flowers.
While there are plenty of ways you can make your wedding more affordable — including choosing a less expensive venue or renting a dress — these are five common ways people avoid borrowing a large amount for their big day.
While the best way to finance your wedding will always be through saving and budgeting, a loan can help speed up the process. To get the best deal, compare all your personal loan options. Planning is a must, so take your time when selecting the right lender and terms for your big day.
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Hello,
I’m Democratic Republic of Congo,I want à loan for my business that can help me to have money for my wedding.
In my country business going good but the problem is how to get initial funds.
Please,help me to go forward.
Hi Joyce,
Thanks for your question.
Unfortunately, the lenders we feature on our website only offer loans to American citizen or residents.
You may want to get in touch with a local lender in your country for your borrowing needs.
Cheers,
Anndy