When you first got engaged, you probably imagined the romance, the dress, the “I do” moment—and maybe even a string quartet playing under fairy lights. What you didn’t imagine? A spreadsheet with 20 tabs, price shock over chair covers, and Googling “how much does a UK wedding cost 2024” at 2 a.m.
But don’t worry—you’re not alone. Welcome to the wonderfully chaotic world of wedding budgeting!
Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement in the Lake District or a glam celebration in central London, let’s break down what it actually costs to get married in the UK—and how to make every penny count (while still having a blast).
🎯 Quick Answer: What’s the Average UK Wedding Cost in 2024?
According to Hitched, the average wedding in the UK costs £20,700 in 2024.
That’s an average—meaning plenty of couples spend far less, and some, well, let’s just say Beyoncé would be proud.
💸 Average UK Wedding Budget Breakdown (2024)
| Category |
Estimated Cost |
| Venue & Catering |
£10,000 – £14,000 |
| Photography |
£1,500 – £3,000 |
| Dress & Attire |
£1,200 – £2,500 |
| Flowers & Decor |
£1,000 – £2,000 |
| Music & Entertainment |
£500 – £2,000 |
| Cake |
£300 – £600 |
| Stationery |
£300 – £800 |
| Registrar/Ceremony Fees |
£50 – £600 |
| Transport |
£250 – £600 |
| Favours & Extras |
£150 – £300 |
| TOTAL |
£15,000 – £27,000+ |
🏰 Venue & Catering: Where the Budget Goes to Party
Your venue is usually the biggest chunk of your budget—and with good reason. It’s not just four walls and a view, it’s where the magic happens. From countryside barns like Trevenna in Cornwall to elegant London rooftops, prices vary wildly.
One couple I photographed saved over £2,000 by booking a Thursday wedding at a gorgeous venue in the Peak District. Same charm, fewer crowds, more budget for champagne!
📸 Photography: Memories You Can Frame
This one hits close to home. Photography isn’t just a line item—it’s how you’ll remember every emotion, every happy tear, every wild dance move. Invest in someone whose work moves you.
👋 I’m Serg, the photographer behind Your Happy Moments. I travel across the UK and beyond capturing weddings full of soul, joy, and connection. If you’d like to see if we’re a good fit, check out my photo packages here.
🎶 Music, Decor & the Little Extras
Whether it’s a jazz trio, a sax-playing DJ, or your Spotify playlist with “no skips” energy, music creates the vibe. And decor? Even fairy lights and dried florals can transform a space for less than you think.
Don’t sleep on small extras like signage, favours, or even biodegradable confetti. They seem tiny, but your budget will notice.
🎯 Budget-Saving Hacks That Actually Work
-
Choose off-peak dates (January to March, or weekdays).
-
Repurpose flowers from ceremony to reception.
-
Trim the guest list—each person adds £100+.
-
Borrow, rent, thrift—especially for decor and attire.
-
Don’t DIY everything unless you want to lose sleep and sanity.
🤔 FAQ: Real Couples’ Real Questions
Q: Can we plan a UK wedding for under £10,000?
A: Absolutely! Intimate weddings, elopements, or non-traditional venues (like pubs, gardens, or Airbnb cottages) can cut costs big time.
Q: What’s the most expensive part of a wedding?
A: Usually venue + catering. But add photography, if you’re prioritising quality memories (as you should 😉).
Q: What’s commonly forgotten in the budget?
A: Tips for vendors, marriage license, alterations, postage for invites, backup weather plans (hello, UK), and overtime charges.
💭 Bonus: Thinking About a Destination Wedding?
Surprisingly, saying “I do” in Italy, Greece, or Portugal can sometimes be cheaper! Smaller guest lists, bundled packages, and dreamy backdrops = magic.
I’ve photographed weddings from Lake Como to Santorini, Provence to the Amalfi Coast. You can see some of those destination love stories right here.
💬 Final Thoughts: You Can Budget and Have a Beautiful Day
Weddings are about love, not luxury. A well-planned £10K wedding can be more heartfelt and unforgettable than a lavish £100K affair. Prioritise what matters most to you.
And if capturing your moments with artistry, heart, and a bit of whimsy is on that list—I’d love to be part of your day.
You can browse my portfolio, real wedding stories, and visual inspiration on my blog. Curious about pricing? Explore all packages here. Ready to chat about your date and vision? Reach out on this page—I’m here, excited, and already picturing the confetti flying.
Let’s make your wedding not just memorable, but magical.
