How Much Does a Wedding Really Cost in 2025?
If you’ve started scrolling through Instagram and see endless fairy‑tale weddings, you might wonder how much all that glitters actually costs. The short answer? It varies, but the average UK wedding in 2025 sits between £30,000 and £37,000. Knowing where that money goes can help you decide where to splurge and where to trim.
Breaking Down the Main Costs
Here’s a quick snapshot of the biggest line items:
- Venue & catering: Around £12,000‑£15,000. This covers the space, food, drinks, and usually a bit of décor.
- Dress & attire: £2,500‑£5,000 for the bride, plus £500‑£1,500 for the groom’s suit and accessories.
- Photography & videography: £2,000‑£4,000. Most couples book 8‑10 hours of coverage.
- Flowers & décor: £1,500‑£3,000, depending on seasonal blooms and elaborate setups.
- Entertainment: £1,000‑£2,500 for a DJ or live band.
- Stationery: £300‑£800 for invitations, save‑the‑dates, and thank‑you cards.
- Rings: £1,000‑£3,500 for a pair of quality bands.
Everything else—transport, cake, hair and makeup—adds another £2,000‑£4,000. When you add it all up, you land right in the average range mentioned earlier.
Tips to Save Without Sacrificing Style
Want to keep the vibe big but the price low? Try these easy tricks:
- Choose a weekday or off‑season date. Venues often cut prices by 15‑30%.
- Opt for a combined ceremony and reception in the same space. You save on transport and extra décor.
- Consider a brunch or afternoon tea menu instead of a full dinner. Food costs drop dramatically.
- Rent or buy a pre‑owned wedding dress. Many boutiques offer like‑new gowns for a fraction of the price.
- DIY simple centerpieces with seasonal flowers. A little creativity can replace pricey arrangements.
- Limit the bar to wine, beer, and a signature cocktail. Full‑open bars are a major budget killer.
Remember, a wedding is about the couple, not the spending. Focus on moments that matter—first dance, vows, family toasts—and allocate money there.
Lastly, track every expense in a spreadsheet or budgeting app. Seeing numbers in front of you stops surprises later and lets you tweak categories on the fly.
Whether you’re planning a lavish celebration or a modest gathering, knowing the average cost gives you a solid starting point. Use these benchmarks, apply the saving tips, and you’ll craft a day that feels exactly right without breaking the bank.
