Most costly things you have to consider when you are planning your wedding in Surrey in 2023
Weddings are an incredibly special day for most couples and can be a source of joy and anticipation. However, the cost of such an event can be quite steep, sometimes being the biggest expense that a couple has ever taken on. So what goes into making up a wedding budget in the UK? In this article, we explore some of the main components that contribute to the cost and how you could save money without compromising on your big day.
The Venue
The UK's average wedding cost is estimated by Bridebook.co.uk to be £27,161, with the venues being one of the biggest expenses. Couples may opt to host both their ceremony and reception in the same location to economise, although this isn't always feasible.
If you want something truly remarkable and opulent, you could find yourself paying more. Stately homes and manor houses may have a heftier fee, but the atmosphere they create for you and your guests is unbeatable.
When it comes to budgeting for your wedding, there are plenty of ways to save. Flexibility over date and time could result in lower rates. Or you may opt for an outdoor venue; attractive yet more economical than hiring an indoor space.
The Dress
The dress is one of the biggest expenses to consider when it comes to planning a wedding. The average cost for bridal attire in the UK is around £1,200, though this does not encompass any additional costs such as modifications or adornments.
Wedding dresses can be pricey for a number of reasons. Materials such as silk or satin are usually used, in addition to detailed designs and small details that take time and effort to create. They also usually have single-use, resulting in little opportunity for reuse or recycling.
If you're after a budget-friendly wedding dress, early shopping can give you the time to look around for great value. Renting your gown could be a clever option. Don't forget to add alterations to your total cost.
The Rings
In the UK, when it comes to weddings, engagement rings generally come with a sizeable price tag, often averaging around £1,000. Wedding bands too can set you back an average of £500.
Of course, the cost of a ring will vary depending on the materials used and the size of the diamond. If you're looking for a truly luxurious ring, you may have to spend upwards of £5,000. However, it's possible to find more affordable options if you're willing to compromise on quality.
The final decision on how much to invest in rings rests with the couple. There is no one-size-fits-all solution; just be sure you are satisfied with your choice.
The Photographer
Choosing the right photographer for your wedding is essential, as they will be responsible for capturing all the unique memories and moments of your special day. Unfortunately, this can come at a significant cost, with some professionals typically charging around £1,200.
Conducting research and comparing photographers is the key to securing good value for money. When making your choice, consider whether you are looking for a traditional photographer or someone with a more creative or alternative flair.
The Cake
When it comes to wedding cakes, there are many factors which influence the price. Designs, size and ingredients all contribute to what can be an expensive purchase - in the UK, £500 is typically the average amount spent.
The design of a wedding cake is one of the primary aspects that determine its cost. Opting for a customised one can be more expensive than a simple one, as there may be additional labour and decoration costs involved, such as if fondant or extra adornments are utilised.
Another factor that affects the price of a wedding cake is the size. A large cake will obviously cost more than a small one. However, you don't necessarily have to go with the biggest option available. There are many ways to save money on your wedding cake without sacrificing size or quality.
Finally, another factor that can impact the cost of your wedding cake is the ingredients used. If you want an elaborate cake with multiple layers and fillings, it will likely be more expensive than a simpler one made with fewer ingredients. However, there are ways to save money even if you choose an extravagant design. For example, using fruit or nuts for decoration can be less expensive than using fondant or sugar flowers.
Flowers
When it comes to weddings, the cost of flowers is often one of the most expensive items. In the UK, the average cost of flowers for a wedding is £1,200. This can include everything from bouquets and buttonholes to centrepieces and corsages.
If you are looking to save money on your wedding flowers, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, consider what time of year you are getting married. Flowers that are in season will be cheaper than those that are not. Secondly, think about using local florists rather than national companies as they will often be able to offer discounts. Finally, don’t be afraid to DIY – there are plenty of tutorials online that can help you create beautiful floral arrangements on a budget.
Decorations
When it comes to wedding decorations, the most expensive part is often the flowers. A large, formal wedding with lots of guests can easily rack up a bill of several thousand pounds just for the flowers alone. Other costly decoration items can include things like lighting, draping, and special effects. Of course, how extravagant you want your wedding decorations to be is completely up to you and your budget.
Entertainment
According to a recent survey, the most expensive part of a wedding in the UK is the entertainment. This includes the cost of hiring a band or DJ, as well as the cost of renting equipment such as sound and lighting systems. The average cost of entertainment at a wedding in the UK is £1,200.
Catering
Catering is often one of the most expensive aspects of a wedding in the UK. While the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £27,000, catering can often account for a significant portion of this total. For example, a recent survey found that the average cost of catering for a wedding in London is £4,000.
While there are many ways to save on catering costs, it is important to remember that this is one area where you get what you pay for. Cheap food will likely be reflected in the overall quality of your wedding reception, so it is important to find a balance between budget and quality when choosing a caterer.
Conclusion
As you can see, the most expensive part of a wedding in the UK can vary depending on your budget and preferences. While some couples may splurge on luxury items such as wedding gowns or venues, others might be more focused on simply making their special day as memorable and enjoyable as possible. Ultimately, it is up to each couple to decide where they want to allocate their budget when planning for a wedding in the UK – but no matter what you choose, we are sure that it will be an unforgettable experience!