The Average Cost of a UK Wedding in 2025 – What Couples Are Really Spending
Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting adventures of your life, but let’s be honest—it also comes with some big decisions, and budget is usually right at the top of the list. From finding your dream venue to choosing a wedding photographer who’ll capture every laugh and tear, it’s helpful to know what couples in 2025 are actually spending on their big day.
According to Bridebook’s 2025 UK Wedding Report, the average cost of a UK wedding is £20,822 (or £26,583 if you include the engagement ring and honeymoon). But averages only tell part of the story—because no two weddings are ever the same. Let’s dive into the real numbers, trends, and tips so you can budget with confidence and create a day that feels completely yours.
How Much Does a Wedding Cost in the UK in 2025?
The average UK wedding cost in 2025 sits at £20,822. While that might feel daunting, it’s really just a starting point. Some couples are planning grand manor house celebrations, while others are opting for relaxed pub receptions or intimate garden weddings.
Gen Z couples, in particular, are putting their own spin on things, with average spends of £19,095. Think DIY wedding signs, second-hand styling, and reimagining family heirlooms into meaningful details.
UK Wedding Budget Breakdown
Here’s a look at where couples are spending their money in 2025:
- Venue with catering – £9,811
- Reception catering – £5,395
- Wedding photography – £1,482
- Videography – £1,386
- Florist – £1,132
- Wedding dress – £1,515
- Reception music – £1,102
- Decor & hire – £1,271
- Wedding planner – £1,892
Of course, these aren’t rules—they’re guidelines. If live music is your must-have, you might spend more here and save on decor. It’s all about what matters most to you.
Regional Wedding Costs in the UK
Where you get married plays a huge role in your budget.
- London weddings average £28,629
- East Midlands weddings average £16,788
Suppliers also vary by region. A Yorkshire florist might cost less than the national average, while a London photographer could be 25% more. If you’re flexible on location, considering a wedding outside major cities could save you thousands.
Cheapest Days of the Week for a Wedding
The day you tie the knot has a big impact on cost:
- Sunday weddings – £25,942 (most expensive)
- Saturday weddings – £21,950
- Midweek weddings (Monday/Wednesday) – around £16,000
If you’re happy to go midweek, you could unlock better venue availability and discounted supplier rates.
Wedding Guest List Costs
Your guest count has one of the biggest effects on your budget:
- Up to 30 guests – £9,358
- 31 to 60 guests – £15,281
- 91 to 120 guests – £22,558
- Over 150 guests – £36,832
Some couples are choosing smaller, intimate weddings and investing the savings into luxury touches or their honeymoon.
Best Months to Get Married in the UK
Timing is everything when it comes to cost:
- Budget-friendly months – January & February (£13,500–£15,200)
- Most expensive month – September (£22,022)
Winter weddings are becoming increasingly popular—think candlelight, mulled wine, and cosy decor without the summer price tag.
Wedding Budget Tips for UK Couples in 2025
Couples in 2025 are finding clever ways to make their budget stretch further without sacrificing style:
- Book venues midweek or off-season
- Keep your guest list smaller
- Choose alternative venues (pubs, barns, restaurants)
- Mix luxury with DIY details
- Get multiple supplier quotes
Remember: your wedding should reflect who you are as a couple. Spend where it matters to you, save where it doesn’t.
Final Thoughts: Your Wedding, Your Way
The average cost of a UK wedding in 2025 gives you a useful starting point, but your day doesn’t have to follow the averages. Whether you’re planning a £5,000 micro-wedding or a £35,000 weekend celebration, the only thing that matters is that it feels right for you.
Ready to Plan Your Perfect Day?
If photography is one of your priorities, I’d love to chat about capturing your story. Your wedding photos are the one investment that lasts long after the day itself.
