The Real Cost of Weddings
Understanding the Numbers and Managing Your Budget
When it comes to planning a wedding, one of the most common complaints is that vendors seem to inflate their prices as soon as they hear the word wedding. However, there is more to the average wedding cost in the UK than just vendor pricing. Here, we will delve into the current averages, breakdowns, and trends to help you understand and manage your wedding budget effectively.
The Average Wedding Cost in the UK
As of 2025, the average total cost of a wedding in the UK stands at around £23,250 to £25,625, depending on the source. This figure has seen a significant increase from previous years, with a 12 percent rise from 2023 to 2024, and a further 3.7 percent increase from 2024 to 2025.
Regional Variations
It is important to note that wedding costs can vary significantly depending on the location. For instance, weddings in London can cost as much as £36,778, while those in Scotland and Wales are generally lower, at around £19,387 and £15,529 respectively.
Breaking Down the Costs
To better understand where your money is going, let us look at the typical breakdown of wedding costs.
Venue Hire
This usually accounts for 35 to 40 percent of your total budget, ranging from £2,000 to £15,000. The venue is often the most expensive single item on your list.
Catering Services
Plan to spend around 25 to 30 percent of your budget on food and beverages, with costs ranging from £50 to £150 per person.
Photography
This typically takes up 10 to 12 percent of your overall budget, with packages varying widely in scope and coverage.
Entertainment
Expect to spend 5 to 12 percent of your budget on entertainment, whether it is a DJ set £300 to £1,000 or a live band £1,700 to £6,500.
Wedding Dress
The dress usually costs between £1,500 and £2,500, plus additional expenses for accessories, alterations, and potential customisations.
The Impact of Economic Conditions
The recent period of high inflation and the cost of living crisis have significantly impacted wedding budgets. Nearly half of the couples who got married in 2024 reported that the economy had affected their wedding spending.
To cope, many couples increased their budget at least once during the planning process, and over half included more do-it-yourself elements than initially planned.
Managing Your Budget
Given the rising costs, managing your wedding budget is more crucial than ever. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track.
Set a Realistic Budget
Understand what you can afford and stick to it. Consider all the elements mentioned above and allocate your funds accordingly.
Prioritise
Identify what is most important to you as a couple and allocate more funds to those areas. For example, if photography is a top priority, you might need to cut back on other areas.
Do-It-Yourself Elements
Incorporating DIY elements can help reduce costs. From decorations to favours, there are many creative ways to save money without compromising on quality.
Venue and Catering
Consider having your wedding during the off-season or on a weekday to negotiate better rates with venues and caterers.
Guest List
The average cost per wedding guest is £261.24, so keeping your guest list manageable can significantly reduce overall costs.
Conclusion
Planning a wedding involves more than just avoiding vendors who might inflate their prices. It requires a thorough understanding of the average costs, regional variations, and how economic conditions can impact your budget.
By breaking down the costs, prioritising what matters most, and being creative with DIY elements, you can have a beautiful and memorable wedding without breaking the bank.
At Cutts and Co Accountancy, we understand the importance of budgeting and financial planning. Whether you are planning a wedding or managing your everyday finances, our expert advice can help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals. Contact us today to see how we can assist you in your financial journey.
