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Wedding budget breakdown
Quick answer: Venue and catering are usually the largest costs, together about half the average UK budget, so decide those first and split the remainder across photography, outfits, flowers, music, transport and a contingency. Our planner gives an editable starting split.
A budget is a set of trade-offs. Decide what matters most to you, spend more there and less elsewhere.
A starting split (you can change it)
| Category | Starting share |
|---|---|
| Venue and hire | 25% |
| Catering and drinks | 25% |
| Photography and video | 10% |
| Outfits, rings and beauty | 10% |
| Flowers and decor | 7% |
| Music and entertainment | 6% |
| Invitations, stationery and favours | 3% |
| Transport and accommodation | 4% |
| Contingency | 10% |
This is our suggested starting point, not a UK statistic. For reference, Bridebook's 2026 average puts venue hire at about 29% and reception catering about 26% of an average £20,604 wedding.
How to use it
- Enter your total in the budget planner.
- Adjust the shares to fit your priorities.
- Get quotes and update the real figures as they come in.
- Keep the contingency for the unexpected.
Common budget traps
- Forgetting extras such as corkage, service charge and VAT.
- Guest numbers growing late.
- Alterations and last-minute outfit costs.
- Not budgeting for tips, transport and accommodation.
See also what a wedding costs in the UK and ways to save.
Frequently asked questions
How should I split my wedding budget?
A common starting point is about half on venue and catering, then photography, outfits, flowers, music and a contingency. Adjust to your priorities.
How much contingency should I keep?
Many people keep around 10% for the unexpected.
Keep reading
Information checked November 2026 against the sources linked above. Rules and prices change, so check GOV.UK and your suppliers before you commit.