Updated for 2026 Weddings
Planning a wedding can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the costs involved. So, how much does the average wedding cost in the UK? Recent data suggests that most couples spend anywhere between £15,000 and £25,000, depending on the venue, season, guest numbers and the level of detail they’re dreaming of.
In this updated 2026 guide, I’ll break down the average wedding cost in the UK and show exactly where your budget is likely to go, from venues and catering to photography and everything in between.
What Is the Average Cost of a Wedding in the UK?
Most couples are shocked to discover just how quickly wedding spending can add up. The average UK wedding cost now sits between £15,000 and £25,000, though this varies widely based on location, guest count and season.
Here’s a simple breakdown of typical total budgets:
| Wedding Type | Typical Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Small / Intimate Wedding | £8,000 – £12,000 |
| Standard UK Wedding | £15,000 – £25,000 |
| Premium / Luxury Wedding | £30,000 – £60,000+ |
These figures include everything: venue, food, dress, photography, entertainment and décor.
What Do UK Couples Spend the Most On? (Major Cost Areas)
Wedding budgets vary, but almost every couple spends the majority of their budget on these four categories:
1. Wedding Venue & Catering (40–50% of the Budget)
The venue is the biggest cost factor. Popular hotels, barns and estates often have minimum guest spends, meaning venue + catering usually totals £6,000–£12,000.
Costs include:
Ceremony fees
Room hire
Food
Drinks package
Evening buffet
Service charges
London and the South East often sit at the top end of the price range.
2. Wedding Photography (Typically £1,200 – £2,000)
Most experienced UK wedding photographers charge between £1,200 and £2,000 for full-day coverage.
What affects the price?
Experience & demand
Hours of coverage
Editing time
Travel distance
Second shooters
Albums & prints
Photography is one of the most valued parts of the day, as it’s the only part you take away with you.
See My Wedding Photography Prices for comparison.
3. Wedding Dress & Attire (£1,000 – £3,000)
Wedding dresses vary dramatically. Most brides spend between £1,200 and £2,000, while alterations, accessories and shoes can easily add another £300–£600.
Grooms typically spend £300–£600 on suits or hire options.
4. Entertainment (£500 – £2,000+)
From DJs to live bands, entertainment costs can range significantly. A DJ may cost £500–£900, while a band often starts at £1,200–£2,000+.
Full Breakdown of Average UK Wedding Costs
Here’s a detailed look at typical price ranges for every major supplier type:
| Item | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Hire | £3,000 – £8,000 |
| Catering | £40 – £85 per head |
| Photographer | £1,200 – £2,000 |
| Videographer | £1,200 – £2,000 |
| Wedding Dress | £1,200 – £2,000 |
| Suits | £300 – £600 |
| Flowers | £400 – £1,500 |
| Cake | £250 – £700 |
| Entertainment | £500 – £2,000+ |
| Makeup & Hair | £150 – £350 |
| Stationery | £200 – £600 |
| Décor & Styling | £500 – £3,000 |
| Transport | £250 – £600 |
| Miscellaneous / Contingency | £150 – £500 |
Why Weddings Cost More Than You Expect
Many couples underestimate the true cost of a wedding because they don’t realise how many suppliers are involved — or how much work goes into the day behind the scenes.
Here are a few reasons why costs can rise:
High demand for venues and suppliers
Peak-season pricing (May–September)
Guest list inflation
Decor and styling extras
Multiple outfits or cultural ceremonies
Once everything is added up, the total quickly exceeds initial expectations.
How to Plan Your Wedding Budget (Without Stress)
Managing your costs effectively makes the entire experience more enjoyable. Here are some simple tips to stay financially in control:
1. Decide Your Non-Negotiables
Every couple has priorities — photography, food, entertainment, or the venue. Splurge on what matters most and save on what matters less.
2. Create a Detailed Budget Spreadsheet
Every couple has priorities — photography, food, entertainment, or the venue. Splurge on what matters most and save on what matters less.
3. Compare Off-Peak vs Peak Pricing
Choosing a weekday or out-of-season wedding can reduce venue and supplier costs by 20–40%.
4. Consider Guest Numbers Carefully
Each guest adds cost for:
Food
Seating
Favours
Stationery
Venue size
Reducing your guest list is one of the fastest ways to reduce costs.
What’s the Realistic Total for a UK Wedding in 2026?
Taking all the factors into account, a realistic budget for most UK couples in 2026 is:
£15,000–£20,000 for a standard wedding
£20,000–£35,000 for a premium experience
£35,000–£60,000+ for high-end luxury weddings
This is why planning early, choosing priorities and understanding pricing ranges is so important.
Final Thoughts
A wedding is one of the most memorable days of your life, and understanding the true cost helps you plan a celebration that feels personal, meaningful and stress-free. Every couple is different, so your budget should reflect your priorities and the experience you want to create.
If you’re currently exploring suppliers, I’d be delighted to help capture your day.
Feel free to explore my Wedding Photography Packages, or get in touch for availability.
This is only intended as a guide, couples are encouraged to research costs with local suppliers and venues as prices will vary.