How to Plan a Wedding for Under £10,000

Planning a wedding on a budget doesn't mean compromising on your dream day. With thoughtful decisions and a bit of creativity, you can have a beautiful, memorable wedding for under £10,000. Here’s how:

1. Set a Realistic Budget and Stick to It

Break down your £10,000 into key categories:

Venue: £3,000
Catering: £2,500
Dress and Attire: £1,000
Photography/Videography: £1,000
Decorations and Flowers: £500
Music/Entertainment: £500
Invitations and Stationery: £200
Miscellaneous/Contingency: £800

Having a clear allocation will help you avoid overspending.

2. Choose an Affordable Venue

Look for venues that offer package deals or non-traditional spaces like:

Local village halls or community centres
Parks, gardens, or beaches (permits may be required)
Family homes or gardens

Consider venues that allow you to bring your own catering or drinks to save on costs.

3. Trim the Guest List

Keep the guest list intimate by inviting only close friends and family. Smaller weddings not only save on catering but also create a more personal atmosphere.

4. Go Digital with Invitations

Save on printing and postage by opting for digital invitations. Use our services myitson.com to design beautiful e-invites for free or at a minimal cost.

5. Get Creative with Catering

Hire a local food truck or small catering business instead of a traditional caterer.
Offer a buffet or family-style dining to cut down on server costs.
Skip a three-course meal and serve fun alternatives like grazing boards or dessert bars.

6. Rent or Buy Pre-Loved Attire

Look for pre-loved wedding dresses on platforms like Still White or Borrowed & Beautiful.
Rent suits instead of purchasing.
Consider high-street brands with affordable bridal collections.

7. DIY Decorations and Flowers

Use seasonal flowers or greenery for your arrangements.
Craft centrepieces, signs, and favours using DIY tutorials from Pinterest or YouTube.
Repurpose decorations between the ceremony and reception.

8. Hire Local or Aspiring Vendors

Support local talent or students for photography, videography, and entertainment. Many aspiring professionals offer quality services at lower rates to build their portfolios.

9. Rethink the Wedding Cake

Instead of a traditional tiered cake, consider:

A small cutting cake paired with a dessert table.
Cupcakes, donuts, or a macaron tower.
A friend or family member who loves baking might offer their skills as a wedding gift.

10. Embrace Minimalism

Focus on what matters most: your union and the experience. Extravagant extras like elaborate favours or luxe rentals aren’t necessary for a beautiful day.

Sample Budget Breakdown

Here’s a sample plan for a wedding under £10,000:

Venue: £2,500 (local hall with BYO catering)
Catering: £2,000 (buffet-style dinner)
Dress/Attire: £800 (pre-loved dress and rented suits)
Photography: £900 (aspiring photographer)
Decorations and Flowers: £300 (DIY and seasonal blooms)
Music: £300 (DJ or playlist with sound system rental)
Invitations: £100 (digital invites)
Miscellaneous: £1,100

With careful planning and prioritising what’s most important to you as a couple, you can create a day filled with love and joy all within your budget.

Do you have tips for planning an affordable wedding?

Create your Free Account Today.

Start your journey with us and enjoy a seamless, stress-free wedding planning experience.

Get started for free Learn more