· Johnny Pump · Lifestyle · 4 min read
How to Save Money on a Wedding in the UK
Weddings are a special and memorable occasion, but they can also be incredibly expensive. The average UK wedding costs around £18,000, but with some smart planning and savvy choices, you can significantly reduce expenses without compromising on quality. Whether you're looking to cut costs on the venue, catering, or attire, this guide will help you plan a beautiful wedding on a budget.
1. Set a Realistic Budget
Before you start booking anything, determine how much you can afford to spend. Having a clear budget will help you prioritise your expenses and avoid overspending.
Money-Saving Tips:
- List all expected expenses and allocate a maximum spend for each category.
- Use a wedding budget planner or app to track your costs.
- Be prepared to make compromises on less important aspects.
2. Choose an Off-Peak Wedding Date
Wedding venues charge premium prices for peak-season dates, such as summer weekends and bank holidays. Opting for a less popular date can lead to significant savings.
Best Budget-Friendly Wedding Dates:
- Weekdays (Monday-Thursday)
- Off-season months (January, February, November)
- Morning or afternoon receptions instead of evening events
3. Opt for a Budget-Friendly Venue
Venues can be one of the biggest wedding expenses. Instead of traditional venues, consider alternatives that offer great value.
Affordable Venue Ideas:
- Local community halls or village halls
- Public gardens and parks (check permit requirements)
- Restaurants or pubs with private function rooms
- Airbnb properties with beautiful backdrops
4. DIY Wedding Invitations and Stationery
Bespoke wedding invitations can be pricey. Save money by making your own or opting for digital invites.
Cost-Effective Options:
- Use free design tools like Canva to create invitations.
- Print invites at home or through budget-friendly online printers.
- Send digital invitations via email to save on printing and postage.
5. Keep the Guest List Small
More guests mean higher costs for catering, seating, and favours. A smaller wedding can feel more intimate while also being more affordable.
Tips for Reducing Guest Numbers:
- Only invite close family and friends.
- Have a separate, smaller reception for extended family or colleagues.
- Skip plus-ones for guests who aren’t in long-term relationships.
6. Save on Wedding Attire
Bridal gowns, suits, and accessories can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to cut costs without sacrificing style.
Budget-Friendly Wedding Attire Ideas:
- Buy second-hand or sample sale dresses.
- Rent a wedding dress instead of purchasing one.
- Choose high-street brands with bridal collections (e.g., ASOS, Monsoon, H&M).
- Borrow accessories from friends or family.
7. Find Affordable Catering Options
Food and drink are often the most expensive part of a wedding. Opting for budget-friendly alternatives can significantly cut costs.
Money-Saving Catering Ideas:
- Buffet-style meals instead of plated courses.
- DIY catering with family and friends helping out.
- Food trucks or street food stalls for a unique, lower-cost option.
- BYOB venues to avoid expensive bar tabs.
8. Choose a Cost-Effective Wedding Cake
Traditional wedding cakes can be expensive, but there are alternatives that look and taste just as good.
Budget Wedding Cake Options:
- Buy a simple supermarket cake and decorate it yourself.
- Opt for cupcakes, doughnuts, or a dessert table instead of a large cake.
- Ask a talented friend or family member to bake the cake as a wedding gift.
9. Cut Down on Wedding Decorations
Flowers, table settings, and decor can add up quickly. Get creative with budget-friendly options.
Affordable Wedding Decor Ideas:
- Use seasonal flowers or artificial alternatives.
- DIY decorations using Pinterest ideas.
- Borrow decor items from recently married friends.
- Repurpose ceremony flowers for the reception.
10. Save on Photography and Videography
Professional wedding photography is worth the investment, but there are ways to reduce costs.
Cost-Saving Photography Tips:
- Hire a talented amateur or student photographer.
- Book a photographer for a few hours instead of the whole day.
- Ask guests to take photos and upload them to a shared album.
11. Skip the Expensive Wedding Favours
Wedding favours are a nice touch, but they aren’t essential. Many guests don’t even take them home!
Budget-Friendly Alternative:
- Handwritten thank-you notes instead of favours.
- DIY edible treats like homemade cookies or sweets.
- Skip favours entirely and donate to charity in guests’ names.
12. DIY Wedding Entertainment
Live bands and DJs can be expensive, but there are cheaper ways to keep guests entertained.
Affordable Entertainment Options:
- Create a wedding playlist and use a sound system.
- Hire a solo musician instead of a full band.
- Set up fun DIY activities like a photo booth with props.
13. Consider a Honeymoon on a Budget
Your honeymoon doesn’t have to break the bank. Plan a cost-effective getaway while still enjoying a romantic experience.
Money-Saving Honeymoon Ideas:
- Look for last-minute deals or all-inclusive packages.
- Stay within the UK or consider a city break instead of an exotic destination.
- Use credit card reward points or travel deals.
Conclusion
A beautiful wedding doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By making smart choices, prioritising your spending, and embracing a little DIY, you can have the wedding of your dreams without going over budget. Whether it’s finding an affordable venue, cutting down on guest numbers, or DIY-ing decor, these money-saving tips will help you plan a memorable day without financial stress.
