Wedding Costs 2024: Real Prices, Who Pays, and How to Budget Smart

When you think about wedding costs 2024, the total money spent on planning and holding a wedding ceremony and reception. Also known as wedding expenses, it includes everything from the dress to the cake, the photographer to the venue. There’s no one-size-fits-all number—some couples spend under £5,000, others go over £30,000. What matters isn’t the total, but whether your spending matches your values.

Who pays for what? That’s changed a lot. In the past, families covered big chunks—now, most couples pay for at least half themselves. The groom’s parents, typically responsible for the rehearsal dinner, the groom’s suit, and sometimes the alcohol might still chip in, but it’s not a rule anymore. Same with the mother of the groom, often expected to cover hair, makeup, and outfit costs. But if they can’t afford it? That’s okay. Your wedding shouldn’t break anyone’s bank. And if you’re wondering how much a wedding ring cost, the price of engagement and wedding bands, which can range from under £500 to over £10,000 should be—skip the old ‘two months’ salary myth. A £1,500 ring can look just as beautiful as a £5,000 one if you know what to look for.

It’s not just about the big stuff. A 100-guest wedding in the UK can easily hit £15,000 if you’re not careful. Food, drinks, venue hire, music, flowers, and photography add up fast. But here’s the good news: you can cut costs without feeling like you’re cutting corners. Swap a plated dinner for a buffet. Skip the expensive imported blooms. Book your photographer for fewer hours. Choose a weekday or off-season date. Every small choice adds up. And if you’re still unsure where to start, look at what others have done. Real couples in 2024 are finding creative ways to celebrate without going into debt.

You’ll find real breakdowns below—what a £5,000 ring can actually buy, how much a photographer really costs, who pays for the honeymoon, and how to feed 100 guests without spending a fortune. No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, honest numbers and practical tips from people who’ve been there. Whether you’re planning a small intimate day or a full-blown celebration, you’ll find something that helps you spend smarter—not harder.