Whether you're dreaming of a grand celebration or something more intimate, having a clear understanding of wedding costs in the UK will help you budget, prioritise, and make informed decisions. In this blog, we'll break down the average wedding costs in 2025, hidden fees to watch out for, budgeting tips, and why Stone Court House in Maidstone might be the perfect venue for your celebration.
Average Wedding Cost in the UK (2025)
According to the latest industry research, the average cost of a UK wedding in 2025 is estimated to be between £19,000 and £21,500. This includes everything from the venue to the dress, entertainment, catering, and more. While some couples choose to spend less and others more, this figure offers a useful benchmark to start planning.
Full Wedding Budget Breakdown
Let's take a look at how that budget might typically be spent:
Venue Hire Costs
The venue is often the biggest single expense. In the UK, venue hire averages around £7,000, but this varies greatly depending on location, capacity, and whether catering is included. At Stone Court House, Dry hire starts from £320 and Full wedding packages begin at £5,000.
Stone Court House Wedding Packages
Catering Costs
Expect to spend around £5,000, depending on your guest list and menu choices. This usually includes:
- Welcome drinks: £400–£600
- Canapés: £600–£900
- Three-course wedding breakfast: £2,000–£3,500
- Evening food options: £500–£800
Wedding Dress and Attire
- Wedding dress: £1,350 (average)
- Groom's suit: £350–£500
- Bridesmaids' dresses and accessories: £400–£600
- Accessories and shoes: £200–£400
Photography & Videography
- Photographer: £1,500–£2,000
- Videographer (optional): £900–£1,200
Flowers and Decorations
- Bouquets and buttonholes: £300–£500
- Ceremony flowers: £250–£400
- Table centrepieces and venue décor: £400–£700
Entertainment and Music
- DJ: £600–£900
- Live band: £1,200–£2,000
- Ceremony musicians: £400–£600
Wedding Planner Costs
- Partial planner: £800–£1,500
- Full-service planner: £1,500–£2,500
Transport and Accommodation
- Wedding car hire: £300–£500
- Guest transport (minibuses/coaches): £500–£700
- Accommodation for couple and close family: £700–£1,000
Wedding Rings
- Bride's ring: £400–£1,200
- Groom's ring: £300–£800
Stationery and Signage
- Invitations and save-the-dates: £150–£300
- Table plans, menus, place cards: £150–£300
Hair and Makeup
- Bridal hair and makeup: £150–£250
- Bridesmaids/mother of the bride: £150–£250
Read Our Complete Guide On How To Plan A Wedding!
Hidden Wedding Costs You Might Not Expect
Even with a solid budget, there are often hidden costs that can catch you off guard. Watch out for:
- Posting invitations – Especially with international guests
- Vendor tips and service charges – Common with caterers and venues (10–15%)
- Overtime fees – Charged by DJs, photographers, and venues if timings run over
- Dress alterations – Usually not included in the purchase price
- Marriage licence and registrar fees – Local authorities charge for legal ceremonies
How to Save Money on Your Wedding Without Sacrificing Style
Planning a beautiful wedding doesn't have to break the bank. Here are smart ways to cut costs:
Budgeting Tips and Prioritisation
- Focus on 2–3 elements that matter most to you
- Reduce spend on items that don't bring as much value
- Track every cost to avoid overspending
Off-Peak Weddings and Weekday Discounts
- Consider winter weddings or weekdays- Stone Court House offers flexible pricing all year round
- All-Inclusive Venues - Save time and money with bundled packages, Stone Court House wedding packages from £2,500 include many essentials
DIY Elements
- Create handmade signage or favours
- Involve friends and family for creative input
How Much Should You Budget for a Wedding?
Let's explore what kind of wedding you can have at different budget levels:
£5,000–£10,000 Wedding: What's Possible?
- Intimate guest list
- Simple venue and decor
- Focus on essentials: venue, attire, photographer
- Embrace off-peak dates and DIY elements
£10,000–£20,000 Wedding: Mid-Range Planning
- Balanced guest list and professional services
- Room for videography, live music, and more detailed styling
- Great value venues like Stone Court House provide premium feel without overspending
Stone Court House Wedding Packages
£20,000+ Wedding: Premium Options and Extras
- All-inclusive planning services
- Luxury catering and décor
- High-end fashion, entertainment, and guest experiences
Why Choose Stone Court House for Your Wedding?
Situated in the heart of Maidstone, Stone Court House offers a truly unique wedding experience in a beautifully restored historic building. Benefits include:
- Dry hire from just £320 – Ideal for creative couples
- Wedding packages from £5,000 – Save time and simplify planning
- Elegant Georgian architecture with original features
- Central Maidstone location with great transport links
- Flexibility for different wedding sizes and styles
Couples spend an average of 250 hours planning their wedding — save time and stress with our flexible packages and experienced team who are here to help every step of the way.
Ready to Start Planning?
Now that you know what to expect when budgeting for your big day, the next step is finding the perfect venue. Whether you're going all out or keeping things simple, Stone Court House offers timeless elegance, flexibility, and incredible value.
Book your wedding today and take the first step toward a celebration that's stylish, stress-free, and unforgettable.