How to Budget a Wedding in 2026: From Affordable to Extravagant

Planning a wedding in 2026? Congratulations.

Now comes the question most couples wrestle with: the wedding budget.

Weddings can be magical, but without planning they can also be financial black holes. The truth is, your dream day does not have to drain your savings. Whether you are planning on a modest scale or going all out, this guide explores three clear budget levels – Affordable, Mid-Range, and Extravagant – so you can create the wedding you want in 2026.

The Affordable Wedding (Under £10,000)

Yes, you can still have a beautiful, memorable wedding on a smaller budget.

Venue & Ceremony (£500 – £3,000)

Registry office weddings are simple and inexpensive.
Village halls, community centres, or a family garden can be surprisingly charming.
Some pubs and restaurants include free venue hire if you meet food and drink minimums.
Weekday weddings are cheaper and more flexible.
Keep the guest list short – the people who matter most will make the day special.

Attire (£200 – £1,000)

High street bridal dresses can look incredible with a skilled tailor.
Pre-loved gowns are a smart choice.
Grooms can rent or refresh a favourite suit.
Bridesmaids can mix and match high street dresses for a stylish, budget-friendly look.

Flowers

Wedding flowers often cost more when labelled “wedding”. Local florists or DIY table flowers can cut costs. Small, personal touches can still look elegant.

Food & Drinks (£1,500 – £4,000)

Buffets, BBQs, or food trucks are fun and affordable.
Family-style dining creates atmosphere and value.
Streamline timings: canapés, one main meal, then cake.
Buy alcohol in bulk and provide a cash bar later.
Let your cake double as dessert.

Entertainment & Extras (£1,000 – £2,500)

DIY playlists work just as well as DJs.
Music students or solo performers bring charm for less.
Photographers building a portfolio can be cost-effective.
Keep decorations simple or second-hand. Guests rarely notice favours.

Top Tip: Decide where to spend. If food is a passion, invest in catering. If music is your priority, book live entertainment and simplify elsewhere.

The Mid-Range Wedding (£10,000 – £30,000)

This budget range creates a stylish, Pinterest-worthy wedding without financial strain.

Venue & Ceremony (£3,000 – £8,000)

Converted barns, boutique hotels, or small manor houses are popular.
All-inclusive wedding packages can reduce costs and stress.
Weekdays often mean better deals.
Destination weddings abroad become a possibility.

Attire (£1,500 – £4,000)

Bridal boutiques, outlet stores, and sample sales balance luxury with value.
Tailored suits add personality to the groom’s look.
Bridesmaids can coordinate with colour palettes instead of identical dresses.

Food & Drinks (£4,000 – £8,000)

Sparkling wine and canapés set the tone.
Three-course meals or family feasts keep guests happy.
Professional cakes and dessert tables double as décor.
Open bars with house wines, beers, and mixers strike the right balance.

Entertainment & Extras (£3,000 – £7,000)

Live bands, DJs, or acoustic duos.
Professional photographers and videographers.
Extras such as photo booths, cocktail stations, or fireworks.
Florists and décor teams take away the stress.

Top Tip: Guests remember food, music, and atmosphere more than décor details.

The Extravagant Wedding (£30,000+)

For couples ready to go all out, this is where creativity meets luxury.

Venue & Ceremony (£8,000 – £30,000+)

Castles, stately homes, yachts, or five-star hotels.
Bespoke décor, floral installations, and after-party venues.
Celebrity officiants or rehearsal dinners for added impact.

Attire (£4,000 – £15,000)

Couture gowns or runway-inspired designs.
Custom-made suits for the entire wedding party.
Designer accessories and personal stylists.

Food & Drinks (£10,000 – £50,000)

Champagne and gourmet canapés.
Michelin-starred chefs creating tasting menus.
Signature cocktails, champagne bars, and luxury wine pairings.
Late-night buffets and dramatic dessert stations.

Entertainment & Extras (£10,000 – £100,000)

World-class bands or celebrity performers.
Drone photography, cinematic wedding films, and social content creators.
Guest experiences such as spa treatments or luxury welcome gifts.

Top Tip: A high-end wedding planner is essential at this level to protect your investment and bring your vision to life.

And finally…

Your wedding budget should reflect your priorities. Perhaps flowers are less important but live music is non-negotiable. Perhaps you prefer to elope and host a big party later.

There is no “right” way to plan a wedding. What matters is that the day feels like yours.

Extra Tip for Tight Budgets: If money is very limited, consider alternatives. A private lunch at your favourite restaurant followed by an after-party at a pub can cost less than £1,000.

Most importantly, enjoy the planning process. Capture photos, record videos, and savour every stage. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, whatever you spend.

Wedding Budgeting