Wedding Expenses: Real Costs, Smart Savings & Budget Tips

Planning a wedding in Bristol feels exciting, but the numbers can scare you fast. How much will a venue, photographer, or even a single invitation really cost? Below you’ll find a straight‑forward guide that pulls the most common expenses together and shows you where you can trim without looking cheap.

Break Down the Big Numbers

Start with a simple spreadsheet – one column for each major category: venue, catering, dress, photography, flowers, stationery, and extras like transport or a wedding cake. In 2025 a typical 100‑person Bristol wedding sits between £15,000 and £20,000, but the range is huge. Venue fees alone can be £3,000‑£6,000 depending on location and day of the week. If you pick a Saturday in June, expect to pay the higher end; a Thursday in November often saves you 20‑30%.

Food is the next big slice. Most couples budget £80‑£120 per guest for a three‑course meal. Multiply that by 100 guests and you’re looking at £8,000‑£12,000. Some venues include catering in the hire price, which can simplify the spreadsheet but also hide extra charges like corkage or staffing.

Photography is a love‑it‑or‑leave‑it item. The average UK wedding photographer charges around £2,500‑£3,500 for full‑day coverage. If you’re happy with 6‑8 hours instead of a full 10‑hour day, you can drop the price by a few hundred pounds. Remember to ask what’s included – editing, a USB drive, or an online gallery can add value.

Flowers and décor often surprise couples. Traditional bouquets, boutonnieres, and table arrangements can easily hit £2,000‑£3,500. To keep costs down, consider seasonal blooms, local growers, or even a mix of real and high‑quality artificial flowers. A recent post showed how dollar‑store flowers can look stunning with the right tricks.

Stationery isn’t just pretty paper; it adds up fast. 100 wedding invitations typically cost £350‑£600, especially if you add calligraphy or custom prints. You can save by ordering online, choosing a simpler design, or sending digital “save‑the‑date” emails.

Smart Ways to Stretch Your Budget

Ask who will pay what early. In many Bristol families, the bride’s side covers the dress and flowers, while the groom’s side handles the suit and rings. Clarify expectations to avoid awkward conversations later.

Mix and match vendors. Some photographers also offer videography at a reduced bundle rate. Likewise, a venue may provide a list of preferred caterers who know the space and can offer discounts.

Trim the guest list strategically. Cutting just ten guests can save you over £1,000 on food and drinks, plus reduce invitation and décor costs. Focus on people who truly matter and let others know you’ll share photos later.

Consider off‑season dates. May, September, or even early winter often have lower venue fees and more flexible vendor schedules. You’ll still get beautiful weather in Bristol, and you’ll keep extra cash for a great cake or live music.

DIY where you can. A simple lace runner, borrowed family heirloom décor, or a friend‑made cake can add personality without the premium price tag. Just make sure you have enough help on the day so DIY doesn’t become extra stress.

Finally, keep a contingency fund of 5‑10% of your total budget. Unexpected costs—like a broken vase or extra lighting—pop up, and having a buffer prevents panic.

Weddings are personal, and every couple’s budget looks different. Use these numbers as a starting point, then tweak based on what matters most to you. With clear categories, realistic per‑guest math, and a few smart savings tricks, you can plan a Bristol wedding that feels luxurious without blowing your wallet.