How to Budget for a Wedding in the UK (and Still Have Style)
So, you’re getting married. Congratulations. Now comes the fun part—the budget.
You might have already Googled “average UK wedding cost” and felt your stomach drop. £20-30K? £40K? More? Who knew saying “I do” could cost as much as a house deposit?
But here’s the thing—you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a wedding that feels luxurious, stylish, and entirely “you.” The key is knowing what matters, what doesn’t, and how to stretch your budget without sacrificing the things that actually make an impact.
Let’s break it down.
1. First, Figure Out Your Magic Number
Your budget isn’t just about what a wedding should cost—it’s about what you’re comfortable spending.
💰 Start by asking:
How much do we actually have to spend? (Savings, contributions from family, etc.)
What’s our ideal total budget?
What’s our absolute max we’d be willing to stretch to?
Most UK couples end up somewhere between £15K-£35K for a mid-size wedding, but small, stylish weddings can be done beautifully for £10-20K if you prioritise well.
2. Prioritise What Actually Matters
This is where things get personal. Ask yourself:
🔥 What’s going to make our wedding feel special?
🎥 What will we actually remember after the day is over?
💸 What do we not care about?
Here’s what typically makes the biggest impact (and is worth spending on):
✅ Photography – After the wedding, the photos are everything. You’ll want a photographer whose work feels like art, not just another set of “nice pictures.”
✅ Venue – The backdrop of your day. A well-chosen venue can cut down decor costs and elevate the whole experience.
✅ Food & Drink – No one remembers chair covers, but everyone remembers a good meal and an open bar.
✅ Entertainment – Live music, a great DJ, or a cool, unexpected experience (think jazz band, vinyl DJ, or even a magician).
✅ Outfits – Your wedding look will be captured forever. It’s worth investing in pieces that make you feel incredible.
And here’s what’s often overhyped (and overspent on):
🚫 Wedding Favours – Most get left behind or binned.
🚫 Excessive Decor – A stunning venue doesn’t need loads of extras.
🚫 Printed Invites – Digital invites are chic and budget-friendly.
🚫 Overly Large Guest Lists – A smaller wedding often means a better wedding.
3. Break Down the Budget
💡 A smart UK wedding budget might look like this:
📍 Venue & Catering – 40-50% (£6K-£15K)
📸 Photography – 10-15% (£2K-£4K)
🎶 Entertainment – 5-10% (£1K-£3K)
👗 Dress & Suit – 5-10% (£1K-£3K)
💐 Florals & Decor – 5-10% (£1K-£3K)
💄 Beauty & Styling – 2-5% (£500-£1.5K)
🏨 Accommodation & Transport – 2-5% (£500-£1.5K)
🎂 Cake – 2-3% (£300-£800)
✉️ Stationery & Invites – 1-2% (£100-£500)
💰 Pro Tip: If photography is a top priority for you, it’s worth shifting more of your budget towards it. You won’t regret it.
4. Trim Costs Without Losing Style
🎭 Go for a weekday or off-peak wedding. Venues cost 30-50% less outside of Saturdays.
📍 Choose a venue with character. If your venue is stunning on its own, you’ll save thousands on decor.
📸 Book a photographer whose work you love. Don't just go for a “budget” photographer—if the photos don’t feel special, you’ll regret it.
🍷 BYO Alcohol. Some venues let you bring your own wine and spirits (huge savings!).
👗 Buy smart. Pre-loved designer wedding dresses and bespoke tailoring can be more affordable than overpriced bridal boutiques.
5. Be Real About Hidden Costs
A lot of couples get caught off guard by these sneaky extras:
🚖 Transport & Accommodation – Even for local weddings, guest transport and hotel stays can add up.
🍽️ Service Charges & VAT – Some venues sneak in extra fees. Always read the contract.
⏳ Overtime Fees – Photographers, DJs, and venues charge extra if the party runs late.
💡 Pro Tip: Always add a 10% buffer for unexpected costs.
6. The Bottom Line
You don’t have to spend £50K to have a wedding that looks and feels incredible. Prioritise the things that actually matter, trim the things that don’t, and invest where it counts.
And if you’re looking for wedding photography that’s bold, stylish, and editorial (without the beige, boring, or gimmicky vibes)—you know where to find me.
