Typical Costs

In 2004, the average cost of getting married was in the region of - 16,000 - but where does all this money go? If you're planning on a traditional wedding, with 3 ushers, 3 bridesmaids and 100 guests, you can expect your money to be spent in the following ways:

Item	Approx. Min. Cost	Approx. Max. Cost
Engagement Ring	£750	£1,250
Stationery	£100	£350
Bridal Gown & accessories	£800	£1,500
Hair & beauty treatment	£100	£250
Mens formal wear (hired)	£300	£500
Bridesmaids dresses & accessories	£450	£600
Church or Wedding Venue Fees	£100	£400
Wedding rings	£200	£600
Flowers (wedding & reception venues)	£220	£450
Photographs	£450	£900
Video	£450	£900
Transport	£350	£700
Gifts to attendants	£175	£240
Reception Hire	£500	£2,500
Catering	£1,000	£3,200
Drink	£500	£800
Wedding Cake	£100	£300
Music / DJ	£300	£800
First Night Hotel	£75	£150
Wedding Insurance	£75	£100
Total	£6,995	£16,490

Many couples are not able to spend such a large amount of money, and it is unwise to borrow and start married life in debt. So, plan a budget � and stick to it!

Look at the items mentioned above, and decide what is important to you, and what you can do without. Start a savings account specifically for wedding expenses. Putting aside a little money each month is easier than finding a large sum just before the wedding day.

Using the budget form in our planning tools section, you will be able to set up a rough working budget, and you can start to see the sort of costs you'll encounter. However, these will just be rough estimates as suppliers are often unable to guarantee prices until firm commitments are made, with dates, times and numbers, and a deposit is paid.