Planning a small wedding can feel like a relief, especially when compared to the overwhelming costs of larger weddings. If you’re planning for a compact wedding, you must wonder — how much does a small wedding cost in the UK?
On average, a small wedding in the UK can range from £5,000 to £10,000. The cost will depend on factors like venue choice, number of guests, catering, and entertainment. Smaller weddings typically have fewer expenses compared to larger weddings, but it’s still important to plan carefully.
In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the specifics of small wedding costs and explore how you can save without sacrificing the celebration. So, keep reading!
When you think about weddings, you might imagine grand venues, hundreds of guests, and endless decor. But today, more couples are asking, "how much does a small wedding cost in the UK?" The answer can vary. But what’s great about small weddings?
In the UK, a small wedding generally means fewer than 50 guests. These weddings are all about intimacy, focusing on the people who matter most, rather than a long guest list of acquaintances.
With fewer people to worry about, the logistics become easier to manage. The real draw for many couples is the chance to create a personal, relaxed atmosphere. Expect less formality and more room for personalization.
More couples are opting for small weddings in the UK, and for good reason. Here’s why this trend is on the rise:
A small wedding allows you to connect deeply with each guest. It’s not about catering to a massive crowd but rather sharing your big day with the people who truly matter to you.
With fewer guests, you’re able to spend quality time with everyone and create lasting memories. This personal touch is one of the biggest pros.
Planning a wedding for 300 people can be overwhelming. A small wedding, however, is much easier to manage.
With fewer logistics, you can focus on what really matters, like personalizing your ceremony and reception. Whether it's picking a unique venue or choosing the perfect songs for your live band, small weddings let you personalize every little detail.
The costs of a small wedding in the UK are considerably lower than those of large weddings. Fewer guests mean less catering, fewer tables to decorate, and a smaller venue.
It allows you to save significantly, freeing up money to spend on the things that matter most to you, like live entertainment or even a luxurious honeymoon.
Small weddings allow you to focus on the experience rather than the grandeur. Rather than worrying about impressing a large crowd, you can make sure your guests have an unforgettable time.
Whether it’s a close-knit ceremony followed by a cozy dinner or dancing with a live band, a small wedding makes every moment feel special.
Small weddings allow you to focus on what really matters. The average cost for a small wedding will vary depending on several factors, like location, style, and what you prioritize.
For some couples, a budget-friendly wedding is possible for as little as £5,000, while others may spend up to £10,000 for a more refined experience.
What’s important to note is that the overall cost of a small wedding is typically much lower than that of a traditional wedding with a large guest list, ranging between £20,000 and £35,000.
So, how much does a small wedding cost in the UK, depending on each cost component? Here’s an estimated cost breakdown:
|
Cost Component |
Average Cost Range |
|
Venue |
£500 to £3,000 |
|
Catering |
£30 to £60 per person |
|
Photography & Videography |
£600 to £2,000 |
|
Decor & Flowers |
£300 to £1,000 |
|
Live Entertainment |
£300 to £1,500 |
The estimate of how much does a small wedding cost in the UK is also influenced by the live entertainment and wedding band costs. Such as:
When it comes to live music for small wedding entertainment, you have several options depending on the vibe you want to create:
Solo musicians like acoustic guitarists, pianists, or vocalists are a great option for intimate weddings. They create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for ceremonies. Expect to pay from £300 to £600 for a 2-hour performance.
If you want a little more variety, consider a duo or trio, which might include a guitarist and vocalist or a small ensemble. They work well for receptions or dinner music. Prices range from £500 to £900 for 2-3 hours of music.
Acoustic bands are a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a relaxed yet energetic vibe.
These small groups can play a mix of mellow tunes and crowd-pleasing hits, ideal for smaller weddings. For a 2-4 hour performance, expect to pay between £800 and £1,500.
At UK Live Entertainment, we understand the importance of making your small wedding special without blowing your budget. Here's how we ensure that you get great value:
Flexible Packages: We offer packages that can be tailored to your needs, whether it's a solo performance for your ceremony or a lively band for the evening reception.
Affordable Rates: Our pricing is designed with small weddings in mind, so you don’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability.
Customizable Options: Choose the genre of wedding music, length of the performance and the type of entertainment that fits your wedding style. Whether you want an acoustic set or a vibrant indie band, we’ve got you covered.
Here are some practical tips for planning a wedding that’s special, personal, and affordable.
Start by deciding what really matters to you and where you want to invest your money. Here’s how to allocate your budget for maximum impact:
A great live performance can set the mood for the entire day, while high-quality photos will let you relive those precious moments for years to come. If you're going to splurge on anything, focus on these.
Instead of over-the-top decorations, you can save money by hiring a local decorator and requesting minimalist wedding decorations.
Next, for the food, opt for a simpler menu. Buffet-style meals, small plates, or family-style dining are all great options that are more affordable and still give your guests a great dining experience. You don’t need to overdo it with a multi-course meal.
Live music can be a game-changer for a small wedding, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how to enjoy high-quality music without stretching your budget:
One of the easiest ways to save money is by booking your live entertainment early. Many musicians or bands offer discounts for early bookings, giving you more options for your budget.
You don’t need a band to perform all night. Consider a shorter performance, like a 1-2 hour set for the ceremony and cocktail hour. It still creates an amazing atmosphere without the additional costs of a full evening performance.
Instead of hiring large bands, consider local bands, often a more budget-friendly option compared to hiring well-known bands. You’ll get the same high-energy performance, but at a fraction of the cost.
Your venue is one of the biggest expenses, but there are ways to find something perfect without sacrificing the ambiance or style:
Instead of traditional large venues, look for smaller, charming spaces like boutique hotels, small country houses, or even local vineyards. These venues are often more affordable, yet still stunning and memorable.
If you’re looking to save, think outside the box. A private garden, a friend's house with a beautiful view, or a local park can all serve as beautiful, affordable venues for your wedding.
Weddings in the off-season (autumn or winter months) often cost less. If you can be flexible with your wedding date, you can save 20-30% on venue and vendor costs.
When you have fewer guests, you can focus on meaningful details rather than quantity. Here’s how to keep the decor simple yet stunning:
Besides cutting off costs on decoration, another best way to save money is to do it yourself. There are countless DIY wedding decor ideas out there that can look stunning without costing a fortune.
Simple centerpieces, personalized signs, or homemade flower arrangements can all add charm to your space.
With a smaller wedding, less is more. Opt for elegant simplicity—maybe just a few floral arrangements, candles, and some fairy lights. These can create a magical atmosphere without overwhelming the space or your budget.
Use your ceremony flowers at the reception, or repurpose table settings for the evening party. This minimizes waste and ensures that you’re getting the most out of what you’ve already spent.
Besides the above tips, there are some other practical tips that can reduce the load on your estimate of how much does a small wedding cost in the UK:
The more people you invite, the higher your costs will be. Stick to inviting your closest friends and family. A small guest list makes everything from catering to seating and decor much more affordable.
Skip the cost of printed invitations and consider digital invites. You can still make them beautiful and personal, and it’s one less thing to worry about.
So, how much does a small wedding cost in the UK? The price can vary depending on your location, decoration, and other essential components. With careful planning, you can create a memorable day without breaking your bank balance.
Ready to enhance your wedding with live music? Contact UK Live Entertainment today for customizable packages that fit your style and budget, and make your small wedding truly unforgettable.
