Uk Wedding On A Budget: Tips For Frugal Nuptials

Planning a wedding on a budget? You're not alone. The average UK wedding costs around £20,700, but there are plenty of ways to cut costs without compromising on your dream day. From choosing a unique venue to DIY decorations, here's how to make your wedding cheap in the UK.

First, consider the venue. Opting for a cheaper location can make a big difference to your overall spend. Think village halls, pubs, or even a friend's garden. Getting married outside of peak season will also save you money, with winter weddings and weekdays typically costing less.

Next, let's talk food and drink. A sit-down meal is more expensive than a buffet, and you can save by buying booze in bulk or even BYOB. Ask your talented friends and family to help with the cake, flowers, hair and makeup to cut costs, or go DIY with your decorations.

Finally, entertainment and transport can eat into your budget. A well-considered Spotify playlist is a great alternative to a band or DJ, and you may not need to hire transport if your venue is within walking distance.

With some creativity and flexibility, you can plan a beautiful wedding on a budget that's uniquely you.

Opt for a weekday wedding

Opting for a weekday wedding is a great way to save money on your big day. While weekends are the most popular time slots for weddings, they also come with a hefty price tag. By choosing a weekday wedding, you can save a significant amount on venue hire and other costs.

Many venues offer discounted rates for weekday weddings, especially if you choose a date outside of the peak summer months. This is because weekdays are less in demand, so venues are often willing to offer more competitive prices. You may also find that you have more flexibility with dates and can choose a time that works best for you and your partner.

In addition to saving on venue hire, opting for a weekday wedding can also help you save on other aspects of your wedding. For example, you may find that vendors such as photographers, caterers, and entertainment are also more affordable on weekdays. This is because they are typically in higher demand on weekends, so their rates may be higher.

When considering a weekday wedding, it's important to keep a few things in mind. First, make sure to check with your desired venue to see if they offer weekday discounts. Not all venues will have the same policies, so it's worth shopping around to find the best deal. Second, keep in mind that some of your guests may have work or other commitments during the week, so you may need to be flexible with your guest list. Finally, if you're planning a wedding with short notice, weekdays can be a great option as they are typically easier to book than weekends.

By choosing a weekday wedding, you'll not only save money, but you may also have more flexibility and choices available to you. So if you're looking to keep costs down, a weekday wedding is definitely an option worth considering!

Choose a unique venue

The venue is usually the biggest single expense at a wedding, so opting for a unique, cheap wedding venue can make a huge difference to the overall cost of your day.

Pubs, village halls, campsites and sports clubs

Pubs, village halls, campsites and sports clubs can make lovely, inexpensive wedding venues.

Holiday rentals

Renting a big holiday property that doubles as a wedding venue and accommodation can also be a great way to save money. Just remember to check the owner is OK with it!

Airbnb

According to a survey by Hitched, the average cost of a UK wedding venue is a whopping £7600. Airbnb offers affordable wedding venues with everything from village halls and pubs to private rooftops and converted barns starting from just £10 an hour.

Dry hire venues

If you're thinking of having a micro wedding, or just want to plan your day on a budget, it's worth considering a dry-hire venue where you can bring your own caterers and decorations.

Gardens

Having your wedding reception in a garden has become increasingly popular over the years. If a friend, family member or even you have a big enough outdoor space, ask if you could use it for the evening to host the celebration.

Registry office

A registry office is the cheapest wedding option and can come in for as little as £170.

Church

If you're a religious couple, a church wedding is your second-best option and will cost just £512 if you marry in your home parish.

Wetherspoons

Check out cheap all-inclusive venues, such as Wetherspoons.

The great outdoors

If you're having an outdoor wedding, a boho theme could be cost-effective. Nature plays a huge part in a boho-chic wedding theme. Mix and match flowers with wooden decorations for a stylish, yet rustic look.

Ikea

While many are tempted to go for bespoke decoration options, Ikea can prove to be a great asset; it’s a treasure trove for affordable wedding decor: affordable candles, candle holders, mini plants and much more.

Hotels

Hotel wedding venues are one of the most popular choices for weddings. They can be a great option for a hotel wedding where everything is within walking distance, which is much easier than booking lots of separate vehicles for your wedding party.

Local gems

It really pays to think outside the box when it comes to the venue. Investigate all ideas – whether that's speaking with local farmers, charities based in amazing buildings, or woodland trusts. Don't think anything is off-limits until you know for certain that it is.

Vineyard

Take over an entire vineyard and choose from any number of beautiful, rustic spots to hold your wedding ceremony, drinks and wedding breakfast.

Cricket pavilion

The London Shenley Club in Hertfordshire is a truly unique wedding venue, which is able to cater to both small, intimate weddings and larger affairs. This beautiful 19th-century cricket centre plays host to plenty of weddings each year, with many couples opting to use the cricket pavilion long room for their drinks reception and the summer or heated winter marquee for the wedding breakfast.

Town hall

Standing proudly within the picturesque model village of Saltaire, West Yorkshire, is Victoria Hall: a stunning Grade II Listed wedding venue that can be hired for just £1,500.

Barn

A 200-year-old barn with all its original features could be yours for the day for just £325.

Castle

Comlongon Castle in Dumfries is a magnificent, 15th-century Scottish castle that could be yours for just £500.

Golf club

Hidden away at the end of a tree-lined driveway and nestled between two 18-hole golf courses, you’ll find Chichester Golf Club: a converted flint farmhouse with the capacity for up to 120 guests. Hire of the Cathedral Suite from 2.30 pm to midnight starts at £750 and marquee hire starts at £1,750.

Country house

Nestled in the foothills of the Peak District National Park, The Ashes Barns and Country House is one of the most beautiful yet affordable wedding venues in the country. This exclusive-use, no-corkage wedding venue will cost you between £2,450 and £8,950.

Restaurant

Described by many as a hidden gem in the heart of Dorset, The Millstream Bistro is nestled by a beautiful babbling brook. A Michelin-trained chef can help you create a bespoke menu for your big day, whether you opt for a traditional sit-down meal, an elegant afternoon tea, a relaxed barbecue, or a buffet. Price per head ranges from £12 to £38.

Art gallery

House For An Art Lover in Glasgow takes its inspiration from the Art Nouveau artist and architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh and has been developed from original designs dating back to 1901. This affordable wedding venue combines colourful history with pleasing visuals to provide three beautiful spaces for you and up to 150 guests.

Boat

Getting married on a boat doesn't have to mean pushing yourself to your financial limits.

Ask guests to bring cakes

A wedding cake is a significant part of the wedding tradition. However, it can be an expensive endeavour, with prices ranging from £250 to £1000 for a simple wedding cake. A cost-effective alternative is to ask your guests to bring cakes. This idea can be turned into a fun activity by making it a "Bake-Off"-style competition, with guests voting on the best cake. Not only will this save you money, but it will also involve your guests in a unique and memorable way.

• Communicate dietary requirements: Ensure that you know about any allergies or dietary restrictions among your guests and communicate these to your baking guests. This is an important step to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all your guests.
• Check with your venue: Discuss with your wedding venue beforehand if they allow homemade cakes to be served. Some venues may have legal restrictions or specific guidelines that you need to follow.
• Provide clear instructions: Let your guests know how many cakes you expect and any specific themes or decorations you have in mind. You could even provide a basic cake recipe and ask guests to get creative with the flavours and presentation.
• Consider storage and display: Plan ahead for how you will store and display the cakes. You may need to provide cake stands or arrange for refrigeration if the cakes need to be kept cool.
• Have a backup plan: While your guests may be enthusiastic bakers, it's always a good idea to have a backup plan in case of any last-minute changes or issues. Consider having a simple store-bought cake on standby, or ask a talented baker friend or family member to create a backup cake.
• Combine with other desserts: If you're worried about having too many cakes, you can combine this idea with other dessert options. For example, you could ask some guests to bring cakes while others bring cookies, cupcakes, or other sweet treats. This will create a diverse and enticing dessert table for your guests to enjoy.

Buy booze in bulk

Buying booze in bulk is a great way to save money on your wedding. Here are some tips to help you get the most for your money:

• Shop around for deals: Keep an eye out for sales and discounts at supermarkets and wholesale retailers. Buying in bulk when there's a promotion will help you save even more.
• Calculate how much alcohol you need: It's important to calculate how much alcohol you'll need to avoid overspending. Consider the number of guests, how long the event will be, and the types of drinks you want to offer.
• Display the drinks creatively: Instead of a traditional bar, get creative with your drink presentation. You can use an old bathtub, wheelbarrow, or bin to display the drinks, adding a unique touch to your wedding.
• BYOB: If your venue allows it, you can ask your guests to bring their own drinks. This can save you money on supplying alcohol for everyone and also ensures that your guests have their preferred drinks.
• Choose a corkage-free venue: Most wedding venues charge "corkage" if you bring your own alcohol. Consider choosing a venue that doesn't charge corkage, or opt for a dry hire venue where you can bring your own drinks without any additional fees.
• Compare prices: Don't just settle for the first option you find. Compare prices at different retailers and look for the best deals. Websites like Hitched and Bridebook can be great resources for finding affordable drinks and venues.
• Stock up throughout the year: If you have the storage space, start buying drinks in advance when you find good deals. This spreads out the cost and ensures you're well-prepared for your big day.

DIY hair and makeup

Doing your own hair and makeup for your wedding can be a great way to save money and time. It also ensures that you have full control over your look. However, it is important to be aware that it will require careful planning and practice. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautiful DIY hair and makeup look for your wedding:

Hair

• Ask your bridesmaids to do each other's hair. There is usually someone in the bridal party who is skilled with hair tools and can create beautiful hairstyles. Make sure you practice beforehand to ensure that you are happy with the results.
• Book a professional hairstylist from your local area. Hiring someone local will save you money on travel costs and potential overnight stays.
• Consider wearing your hair in a style that you are comfortable with and that you usually wear. This will make you feel more confident and reduce the risk of any last-minute mishaps.
• Practice your desired hairstyle several times before the wedding. This will help you perfect the look and identify any adjustments that need to be made.
• Use hair accessories such as veils, hairpins, or fresh flowers to add a touch of elegance to your hairstyle.

Makeup

• Decide whether you feel comfortable doing your own makeup. If you are confident in your abilities and have the time to practice, DIY makeup can be a great option. Otherwise, consider hiring a professional makeup artist.
• Start with a solid skincare routine several months before your wedding. Healthy, glowing skin will enhance your makeup look. Consult a dermatologist or licensed esthetician for a pre-wedding skincare routine.
• Choose lightweight, hydrating, and illuminating skincare products that will create a perfect base for your makeup without being too slippery.
• Avoid adding shine to your T-zone and the centre of your forehead and cheeks, as this can create an unwanted shiny effect in photographs.
• Stay away from trendy makeup looks that may not suit your face or personality. Instead, focus on emphasising your best features and creating a timeless look.
• If you are getting married outdoors or during the summer, consider using sunscreen to protect your skin. Test different sunscreens beforehand to find one that won't create a white cast in your photos.
• Blend your bronzer well and ensure that your face matches your neck and shoulders. If you plan to use a spray tan, be sure to test it beforehand and choose a foundation that matches your tanned skin tone.
• Apply slightly more blush than you think you need, as it tends to get washed out in photos. Take photos during your makeup trial in different lighting conditions to determine the right amount.
• Neutralise any uneven colour on your eyelids using a colour corrector or concealer. This will brighten your eyes and create a perfect base for eyeshadow.
• Keep your lipstick application minimal to avoid transferring it onto your partner or your champagne flute. Use a lip liner to fill in your lips first, then apply lipstick with your finger for a long-lasting stain.
• Use high-quality makeup products, especially for foundation, eyeshadow, and lipstick. Cheaper alternatives may not blend seamlessly and can result in an uneven or chalky finish.
• Keep your eyebrow makeup simple by using a gel or pencil to fill them in. Go with what you think looks best and will age well in photographs.
• Use taupe eyeshadow for a universally flattering look. It is a great neutral shade that will suit everyone.
• Always use an eyelash curler before applying mascara to enhance the curl of your lashes. If you need more bend after applying mascara, gently push your lashes back with your thumb.
• Layer a cream (non-waterproof) mascara followed by a gel-based (waterproof) mascara to create full and thick lashes that will last all day.
• Test out fake lashes before your wedding day to ensure that you are comfortable with the application process and that they complement your eye shape.
• Be mindful when wiping away tears to avoid creating a tear line that will smudge your eye makeup. Hold the mirror in front of your chin and look down while applying eye makeup to prevent this.
• Apply your eye makeup before your face makeup to easily correct any fallout or smudges. Use a big brush to buff away any eyeshadow that may have dropped onto your cheeks.
• Practice your wedding day makeup look several times and take photos in different lighting conditions to ensure that it looks flawless in all settings.
• Create a wedding-day makeup bag with touch-up products such as a foundation stick, blotting papers, lipstick, and blusher. This will help you maintain your look throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions