When it comes to planning a wedding, getting your finances in order is a top priority. Creating a wedding budget can help ensure that your big day stays within your desired spend, so you can start married life with fewer worries related to debt. This guide is specifically designed for couples in the UK and provides information about how to create a budget, where to save money, and lists of average wedding cost prices.
What You'll Need for Your Wedding Budget
The best way to organize your wedding finances is to create a spreadsheet. You'll need to make a number of columns that include:
- Budget item – Name of budget item (flowers, photographer, venue, etc.)
- Estimated cost – The estimated cost for the item (what you think the item will cost you)
- Actual cost – How much the item actually costs when you purchase it
- Source – Who is providing the item or service? (e.g. florist, venue)
- Notes – Additional notes about the item or service
You can also include columns for the date you purchased the item or service, and for any payment method used. This will help you keep track of where each item or service is coming from, as well as how much you paid and when. Don’t forget to include the wedding rings in your budget, and if you have children, you should also include any costs associated with them.
Where to Find Wedding Cost Prices
There are several sources that can provide average wedding cost information. Many different websites and forums have helpful information from other couples who have gotten married in the UK. You can also use a wedding budget calculator to give you an estimate of the costs for the big day.
How to Create Your Wedding Budget
When creating your wedding budget, the most important step is to set a total budget limit. This is the amount of money you have decided you can spend on the wedding in total. Once you’ve determined this, it’s time to start breaking down the budget into smaller categories, such as clothing, stationery, and catering.
When setting your budget for each item or service, research prices ahead of time. Knowing the average cost of the items and services you’re looking for will help you set realistic expectations. Don’t forget to factor in taxes and fees. Once you’ve set a budget for each item or service, track your actual costs in your spreadsheet.
Once you’ve finished researching prices and setting a budget for each item or service, it’s time to prioritize. You should focus on booking the most important pieces first. This will ensure that you get the best deal possible and won’t overspend on more costly items.
Where to Save Money on Your Wedding
When it comes to saving money on your wedding, the best place to start is by researching DIY options. Try to create as much as possible by hand- everything from the invitations to the wedding decor can be done yourself. This will save you a lot of money.
If you’re not interested in making your own items or services, there are other ways to save money. Look for discounts or coupon codes online, or ask vendors if they offer packages. Many venues offer discounts for booking multiple services, such as catering and decorations. Additionally, some vendors offers special prices for days when they’re usually less busy, such as weekday weddings.
UK Average Wedding Prices
To help guide your budget, here’s a list of average wedding cost prices in the UK. Keep in mind that these amounts are only estimates and will vary depending on the venue and vendors you choose.
- Venue: £5,000-£20,000
- Catering: £2,500-£6,000
- Flowers: £500-£1,500
- Photography: £1,500-£3,000
- Videography: £1,000-£3,000
- Dress: £800-£2,000
- Tuxedo/Suit: £200-£500
- Transportation: £200-£1,500
- Music: £500-£2,000
- Reception Decor: £500-£1,500
Creating a wedding budget can help you plan and save for your big day. This guide provides you with the information you need to create a budget, where to find the average wedding cost prices in the UK, and where to save money on your wedding. By understanding your finances and deciding on what’s most important to you, you’ll be able to plan a wedding that fits your budget.