8 ways to stick to your wedding budget

Your wedding is one of the biggest days of your life - but it can also be one of the most expensive.

So it’s alarming to see many couples are spending more than they intend to when tying the knot.

New research from wedding website Hitched.co.uk shows that more than half of newlyweds (56%) overspent on their original wedding budget. 

And only a third (32%) managed to stick to their plan.

With the average wedding now costing nearly £22,000, going over budget can be very costly.

So how can you make sure you start married life without a huge financial hangover?

1.    Set a realistic total budget

Before booking anything, decide how much you can realistically afford without relying on credit or sacrificing other financial priorities and goals.

2.    Be clear on family contributions

Nearly two-thirds of couples (61%) rely on gifted money from family to help pay for their big day.

So if you’re getting financial support from relatives, make sure you’re all clear on details like whether it’s actually a gift or if they expect to be paid back.

3.    Break your budget down

Once you’ve worked out how much you want to spend, split your total into clear categories, such as the venue, catering, outfits and flowers. 

It’ll then be much easier to see where your money is going and where you might be spending too much.

4.    Decide your priorities early

The average spend per guest rose to £272 last year, up from £261 in 2024.

While that’s partly because of rising costs, it’s also down to couples investing in making sure guests have a great time.

In fact, many are inviting fewer guests, but spending more on food, drink and the overall experience for those who attend.

So work out what matters most to you early on, and make sure you’re spending money on what you really value.

5.    Build in a buffer

Even if you set a budget, it’s likely that you’ll face unexpected costs somewhere along the line.

So instead of paying more than you planned, set aside a small share of your budget - perhaps five or 10% - so you can absorb any possible last-minute price increases or extras.

6.    Track your expenses

Use a budgeting app, a spreadsheet or a pen and paper to keep track of your wedding costs.

By staying on top of your balances, deposits and payment deadlines, you’ll be less likely to face costly surprises.

7.    Don’t compare yourself to others

A dream wedding doesn’t have to break the bank.

So if you see people on social media paying huge amounts for big elaborate occasions, remember that you don’t have to do the same.

8.    Think beyond the big day

You don’t want to start married life short of money and struggling with debt.

So keeping your spending under control ahead of your wedding day can make a big difference in the long run and let you focus on what really matters - building a life together.