Wedding Costs: What You’ll Actually Pay and How to Keep It Low

If you’ve started looking at venues, gowns and cakes, you’ve probably felt a gut‑punch when the numbers appear. You’re not alone – most couples wonder where the money disappears and how to keep it under control. The good news? Most wedding expenses follow a predictable pattern, and you can trim the fat without sacrificing style.

How Much Do Common Wedding Items Cost?

Here’s a quick snapshot of what couples in the UK typically spend in 2025. These figures are averages – yours could be higher or lower depending on location, guest list and personal taste.

• Venue hire: £3,000‑£8,000 for a Saturday in Bristol. Off‑peak days can drop the price by 30%.
• Catering (per head): £70‑£120 for a three‑course meal. Buffets or family‑style service often cost less.
• Wedding dress: £1,200‑£2,500. Second‑hand or sample sales can shave off 40%.
• Photographer: £1,800‑£3,500 for full‑day coverage. A 10‑hour shoot is the sweet spot for most couples.
• Flowers: £800‑£1,500 total. DIY bouquets or dollar‑store stems mixed with a few real blooms keep costs down.
• Invitations (100 pcs): £300‑£600. Online designs and local printers are cheaper than premium paper.

When you add up the big ticket items, a 100‑guest wedding usually lands between £20,000 and £30,000. Of course, luxury weddings can double that, while a $10,000 budget wedding is doable with clever choices.

Smart Ways to Save on Your Big Day

Saving money isn’t about cutting corners; it’s about being strategic. Start by deciding what matters most to you – maybe the dress, maybe the food – and allocate more of the budget there.

Book your venue and photographer early. Popular vendors offer early‑bird discounts of up to 15% for bookings made a year in advance. If you’re flexible with the date, consider a Thursday or a winter month; both tend to be cheaper and less crowded.

Swap out pricey décor for personal touches. Family photos, handwritten signs and thrift‑store finds often look better than generic rentals. For flowers, use a mix of fresh and faux – a few real roses paired with artificial greenery can look lush for a fraction of the price.

Ask vendors for package deals. Many caterers will include cake, drinks and linens if you bundle services. Similarly, a photographer who also offers videography may give a discount for the combo.

Finally, track every expense in a simple spreadsheet. Seeing the numbers in one place helps you spot overspending early and move money around before it’s too late.

Planning a wedding is a marathon, not a sprint. By knowing the typical costs and applying a few smart strategies, you’ll stay in control of your budget and still enjoy a day that feels uniquely yours.