The Cost of Love: A Look at the Average Cost of Weddings in UK
In the UK, the average cost of a wedding in 2022 was £18,400, a 6% increase from 2021, and a 102% increase from 2020, when the pandemic caused wedding spending to drop to an average of £9,100. This increase may seem significant, especially considering the current cost of living crisis, but according to a survey of 2,457 couples who married in 2022, 70% said the current economy did not impact their wedding spending.
In this article, we break down the “average” for each spending category.
The concept of "average" can be tricky when it comes to wedding costs. Often, surveys fail to acknowledge the vast differences between European, Indian, African, and other ethnic weddings.
The truth is that weddings can range in cost from as little as £50 for a simple signing at the registrar's office, to well over £50,000 for a lavish celebration. It's important to remember that these averages are merely guidelines, and the cost of your wedding ultimately comes down to your personal circumstances, priorities, and vision.
We have to highlight that these prices are middle-range but our Tiega Events couples tend to spend over £50,000 for their big day.
1. Venue hire - £8,400
The venue hire cost is usually the most significant expense in a wedding budget. It includes the rental fee for the ceremony and reception spaces, including chairs, tables, linens, and decorations. This cost can vary depending on the type of venue, location, and season.
2. Catering per head - £70
Catering is one of the most memorable elements of a wedding, as it provides the food and drinks for the guests. The average cost of wedding catering per head is £70, and this cost can vary based on the menu, season, and venue.
3. Photography - £1,300
Photography is an essential part of the wedding, as it captures the most special moments and memories of the day. Couples spend an average of £1,300 on wedding photography, which can vary based on the number of photographers, hours of coverage, and editing.
4. Videography - £1,150
Videography is becoming increasingly popular, as couples want to relive their wedding day through a cinematic experience. The average cost of wedding videography in the UK is £1,150, and this cost can vary based on the same factors as photography.
5. Wedding band/DJ - £1,050
Music is an essential part of the wedding, as it sets the tone and mood for the day. The average cost of a wedding band or DJ is £1,050, and this cost can vary based on the number of musicians, hours of coverage, and equipment.
6. Flowers - £1,050
Flowers are a significant element of the wedding decor, as they add colour, fragrance, and beauty to the day. The average cost of wedding flowers is £1,050, and this cost can vary based on the type, season, and quantity.
7. Invitations & paper goods - £300
Wedding invitations and paper goods include save-the-dates, invitations, RSVP cards, menus, and thank you cards. The average cost of these items is £300, and this cost can vary based on the quantity, quality, and design.
8. Wedding dress - £1,350
The wedding dress is one of the most memorable and photographed elements of a wedding. Brides spend an average of £1,350 on their wedding dress, and this cost can increase based on the designer, material, and alterations.
9. Wedding hair & makeup - £155
Hair and makeup services are essential for the bride and bridal party, as they enhance their natural beauty and complement the wedding style. The average cost of wedding hair and makeup is £155, and this cost can vary based on the number of people, location, and style.
10. Bridesmaid hair & makeup - £85
Bridesmaids' hair and makeup services are also important, as they complement the bride's look and add to the overall bridal party aesthetic. The average cost of bridesmaid hair and makeup is £85, and this cost can vary based on the number of bridesmaids, location, and style.
Tips for Sticking to a Wedding Budget
1. Prioritise your spending - Determine which aspects of the wedding are the most important to you and allocate more of your budget towards them.
2. Be flexible with the date - Choosing a date during peak wedding season can increase costs.
3. Consider a non-traditional venue - Opting for a non-traditional venue, such as a barn or outdoor space, can save on venue hire costs.
4. Limit the guest list - Cutting down the guest list can significantly reduce catering and venue costs.
6. Negotiate with vendors - Don't be afraid to negotiate with vendors to get the best price possible.
Planning a wedding can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it's important to keep in mind the financial aspects of it as well. By prioritising spending, being flexible, considering alternative options, and negotiating with vendors, couples can plan a beautiful and unforgettable wedding.
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