Your Guide to Wedding Budgeting
1. The Venue – Your Biggest Investment
Your wedding venue typically consumes 30-40% of your total budget. Reception venues in the UK average between £4,000 and £12,000, depending on location and season. Consider that London and Southeast venues command premium prices compared to other regions. Remember to factor in ceremony venue costs separately if you’re not getting married at the same location. Ask about what’s included – some venues provide tables, chairs, and basic linens, while others require you to hire everything separately.
2. Catering and Drinks
Food and beverage typically account for about 20-25% of your budget. Average costs per head range from £40 to £150, varying significantly based on your chosen service style (buffet, seated meal, or sharing platters). Don’t forget to include:
– Welcome drinks
– Wine for the tables
– Toast champagne
– Evening food
– Staff costs and service charges
– Additional costs for dietary requirements
3. Photography and Videography
Quality wedding photography in the UK ranges from £1,500 to £3,000, while videography typically costs between £1,000 and £2,500. These services often represent 10-12% of your total budget. Consider what’s included in each package:
– Number of hours of coverage
– Second shooters
– Albums or prints
– Highlight films or full-length videos
– Digital file delivery
4. Attire and Accessories
Wedding dresses average £1,000 to £2,500, while suits range from £200 to £800. Remember to budget for:
– Alterations
– Shoes and accessories
– Hair and makeup
– Bridesmaids’ dresses
– Groomsmen’s attire (if you’re covering these)
5. Flowers and Décor
Floral arrangements and decorations typically consume 8-10% of your budget. Average UK couples spend between £1,000 and £2,500 on flowers alone. Consider:
– Bridal bouquet and bridesmaids’ flowers
– Ceremony flowers
– Reception centerpieces
– Button holes
– Installation pieces
– Additional décor items like candles and lighting
6. Entertainment
Live bands cost between £1,000 and £3,000, while DJs range from £400 to £1,000. Factor in:
– Ceremony music
– Reception entertainment
– Sound equipment hire
– Late license fees if required
– Additional entertainment like photo booths or fireworks
7. Rings and Jewellery
Wedding bands can vary dramatically in price, typically ranging from £200 to £2,000 per ring. Consider:
– Material choices
– Engraving costs
– Insurance
– Any additional wedding day jewellery
8. Stationery and Invitations
Budget £400-£800 for your wedding stationery suite. Remember to include:
– Save the dates
– Invitations
– RSVP cards
– Order of service
– Place cards
– Table plan
– Menu cards
– Thank you cards
9. Transport
Wedding transport typically costs between £300 and £800. Consider:
– Bride’s transport to ceremony
– Transport between ceremony and reception
– Guest transport if required
– Evening transport arrangements
10. Additional Essentials
Don’t forget these often-overlooked costs:
– Wedding insurance (£50-£200)
– Marriage license fees (approximately £50)
– Gift list management fees
– Accommodation for the wedding night
– Wedding party gifts
– Emergency contingency fund (10% of total budget)
Money-Saving Tips:
– Consider off-peak seasons (November-March)
– Book mid-week dates for significant discounts
– Reduce guest numbers for evening reception
– Choose seasonal flowers
– Consider DIY elements where practical
– Book suppliers early to secure better rates
– Look for all-inclusive packages
– Be flexible with your date
Remember, the average UK wedding costs around £30,000, but your budget should reflect your priorities and financial situation. Start with a realistic total figure and allocate percentages to each category based on what matters most to you as a couple.
The key to successful wedding budgeting is thorough research, detailed planning, and careful tracking of all expenses. Create a spreadsheet to monitor your spending and include a contingency fund for unexpected costs. Most importantly, be honest about your financial boundaries and make choices that align with both your vision and your budget.