So, you’re in love. You’ve said yes (hooray!). And now… you have to plan a wedding. In the UK. From scratch. Breathe in, sip your tea (or wine, we don’t judge), and let’s turn the stress into excitement.
Planning a wedding in the UK can feel like building a castle with no blueprint — unless, of course, you have this guide. I’m here to walk you through it all: the legal stuff, venues, weather quirks, British traditions, and all those little nuggets no one tells you about… like how to politely prevent Aunt Margaret from doing karaoke.
Let’s dive in.
👰🏽♀️ Start with the Vibe
Before you book anything, ask yourselves: what kind of wedding feels like you?
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Elegant English garden affair? Picture the Cotswolds, delicate florals, and long tables under twinkling lights.
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Edgy city elopement? London rooftops and black velvet suits, yes please.
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Rustic countryside celebration? Think Yorkshire barns, fairy lights, and rolling hills.
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Scottish castle dream? Yes, kilts are encouraged.
This is your Pinterest vision board moment — mood matters!
📜 Legal Bits (Not Sexy, But Important)
To get legally married in the UK, you’ll need to:
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Be at least 18 (or 16 in England/Wales with parental consent)
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Provide a 29-day notice at your local register office
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Choose a licensed venue for civil ceremonies (unless it’s a religious ceremony in an approved church)
👉 For full details, head to gov.uk/marriages-civil-partnerships
Are you coming from abroad? Check visa and documentation requirements early to avoid those 3AM panic scrolls.
🏰 Dream Venues in the UK
Honestly, the UK is a playground of chef’s kiss venues — castles, cliffs, chapels, and even quirky spots like old train stations or greenhouses.
Here are some top-tier gems:
Pro tip: book your venue 12–18 months in advance if possible. The Brits love a long engagement!
🌦️ Weather, Darling
Let’s be honest: UK weather is… quirky.
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Best months: May through September
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Rain-prep essentials: umbrellas, clear marquees, cozy plan B options
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Winter weddings: moody and romantic, especially with candlelight and mulled wine
Some couples even lean into the drizzle. A kiss under the rain? Iconic.
💸 Budgeting Like a Brit
A typical UK wedding ranges from £15,000–£35,000, but micro-weddings can be much less, and grand affairs can go into six figures.
Break down your budget like this:
Spreadsheet it. Colour-code it. Love it.
🌿 British Traditions to Embrace (or Not)
Some you’ll love. Some might confuse you. All are optional.
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Wedding breakfast = your first married meal (even if it’s dinner)
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Confetti toss — often petal-based for eco-friendliness
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Speeches — usually dad, groom, best man. But feel free to remix that.
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Top hats and fascinators — still a thing!
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A pre-wedding pub pint — it’s tradition. We don’t make the rules.
📸 Let’s Talk Photography
This one’s personal. Because I’m Serg, a destination wedding photographer who’s captured love stories all over the UK (and the world).
When the cake is gone and the guests are sleeping off the champagne… your photos are what last. I specialize in documenting moments that feel raw, real, and joy-filled — whether it’s a tearful vow or a wild dance move your uncle swore he retired in 1993.
Want a wedding gallery that feels like a movie you never want to end?
✨ Explore real stories here
✅ Quick-Glance UK Wedding Checklist
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Decide your wedding vibe
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Set a rough guest count + budget
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Check legal requirements (especially if abroad)
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Choose location + venue
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Book priority vendors (planner, photographer, celebrant)
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Sort accommodation + travel (especially for guests)
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Think weather + backup plans
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Add personal touches (traditions, entertainment, style)
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Celebrate the heck out of your day!
📍Bonus: Unique UK Wedding Ideas
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A sunset ceremony on the cliffs of Cornwall
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A romantic city elopement in Edinburgh followed by whisky tasting
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An Oxford garden party with afternoon tea and lawn games
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A literary-themed wedding in the Lake District (yes, Mr. Darcy attire allowed)
💌 Want a Photographer Who Feels Like a Friend with a Fancy Camera?
Whether you’re planning an elopement in London, a Scottish castle bash, or a countryside escape with your closest people — I’m here for it. I’m Serg, the storyteller behind Your Happy Moments, and I believe your wedding should feel like you, from start to forever.
📸 Curious about packages? Peek here: Photography Investment
🧳 Ready to chat ideas or ask questions? Let’s connect: Contact Serg
🌿 Dive into love stories, dreamy locations & tips: Browse the Blog
Let’s capture your story, beautifully.
