The average UK wedding costs over £18,000—and that's before the honeymoon. But you don't have to start your marriage in debt or blow your savings. Here's how to plan a wedding you'll love at a price you can afford.
Step 1: Set Your Total Budget
Before Pinterest boards and venue tours, know your number:
- How much can you save before the wedding date?
- Are parents contributing? Get specific amounts confirmed.
- Will you use any existing savings?
- How much debt (if any) are you willing to take on?
⚠️ The Debt Question
Starting marriage with wedding debt adds stress to your first years together. We strongly recommend spending only what you can save in advance.
Step 2: Allocate Your Budget
Typical wedding budget breakdown:
- Venue and catering: 40-50% (the biggest expense)
- Photography/video: 10-12%
- Attire and beauty: 8-10%
- Music/entertainment: 5-8%
- Flowers and decor: 5-8%
- Stationery: 2-3%
- Transport: 2-3%
- Rings: 2-3%
- Contingency: 5-10% (essential!)
Decide Your Priorities
You can't have everything. Decide what matters most:
- Amazing food or more guests?
- Professional photographer or DJ?
- Dream venue or elaborate flowers?
Spend more on your priorities, cut ruthlessly elsewhere.
Track Your Wedding Savings
Use our savings goal calculator to plan exactly how to save for your wedding.
Step 3: Create a Wedding Savings Plan
If your wedding is in 18 months and you need £15,000:
- Monthly savings needed: £833
- Can you cut expenses to reach this?
- Can you increase income temporarily?
- Should you extend the timeline?
Where to Keep Wedding Savings
- Separate high-interest savings account
- Labeled so you don't accidentally spend it
- Easy access for deposits and payments
- Not invested (too short a timeframe)
Smart Ways to Cut Wedding Costs
Venue and Catering
- Marry on Friday or Sunday instead of Saturday
- Off-peak months (November-March) cost less
- Afternoon tea instead of full dinner
- Pub or restaurant instead of traditional venue
- Smaller guest list = biggest savings
Photography
- Hire for fewer hours (ceremony + first hour of reception)
- Book a talented newer photographer building portfolio
- Digital only, no albums
Attire and Beauty
- Sample sales and pre-owned dresses
- High street bridesmaid dresses
- Do your own makeup or have a friend help
- Hire suits instead of buying
Decor and Flowers
- In-season flowers only
- Greenery over expensive blooms
- DIY centerpieces and decorations
- Candles create atmosphere cheaply
💡 The Guest List Reality
Every additional guest costs £80-150+. Cutting 20 guests can save £2,000+. Be honest about who you really want there.
Hidden Wedding Costs to Budget For
- Gratuities for vendors
- Alterations for dress/suits
- Hair and makeup trials
- Marriage license and celebrant fees
- Postage for invitations
- Welcome bags and favours
- Hen and stag contributions
- Night-before accommodation
Handling Family Contributions
- Get contributions confirmed in writing
- Understand if strings are attached
- Receive money before committing to bookings
- Be prepared if contributions fall through
- Don't let money buy control over your wedding
About iBudget
iBudget helps couples and families take control of their finances with simple, collaborative budgeting tools. Track spending, set goals, and build wealth together.
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