Average UK Wedding Cost: A Realistic Budget Breakdown

The average UK wedding costs between £20,000 and £35,000, though couples spend anywhere from £5,000 to £100,000+ depending on guest count, venue choice, and style. This guide breaks down where the money actually goes so you can build a realistic budget.

Average spend by category

These are typical UK figures for a wedding of 80 to 100 guests:

• Venue and reception: £8,000 to £15,000 (largest single cost)
• Catering and drinks: £4,000 to £8,000
• Photography: £1,500 to £3,500
• Videography: £1,200 to £3,000
• Wedding dress and accessories: £1,200 to £3,000
• Groom outfit: £400 to £1,200
• Flowers: £500 to £2,000
• Cake: £300 to £800
• Music and entertainment: £500 to £2,500
• Transport: £300 to £800
• Stationery: £200 to £500
• Hair and makeup: £200 to £500
• Rings: £500 to £2,500

Hidden costs

The headline figures often miss things that add up to thousands more: VAT, service charges, corkage, overtime, tips, marriage notice fees, wedding insurance, hen/stag, rehearsal dinner, honeymoon.

Where to economise without it showing

• Seasonal flowers, fewer arrangements
• Digital save-the-dates, simple printed invitations
• Smaller display cake plus sheet cake hidden in the kitchen
• Limited bar (wine and beer only)
• Transport just for the bride

Where NOT to economise

• Photography — your only lasting record
• Catering — bad food is what guests remember
• The venue — affects everything else

Payment timing

Most suppliers want a deposit at booking (20-30%) with the balance due 4-6 weeks before the wedding. Build this timing into your budget.