How Much Does The Average Couple In The UK Spend On A Wedding?
Weddings are one of life’s most memorable events, but for many couples in the UK, they come with a hefty price tag. The average cost of a UK wedding is currently estimated at £18,400, according to recent surveys. From the dress to the venue and everything in between, it’s easy for costs to spiral out of control.
However, there’s good news for budget-conscious couples: many of the most expensive elements—such as venue decor and accessories—can be done yourself for a fraction of the cost. By opting for affordable DIY solutions for items like balloon arches, fabric backdrops, and chair covers, couples can make significant savings without sacrificing the aesthetic of their big day.
Let’s dive into the numbers to see how much the average couple spends on these items and how much you could save by taking the DIY approach.
Breaking Down Wedding Costs in the UK
Here’s a typical breakdown of wedding costs for UK couples:
Venue Hire: £6,000
Catering: £4,500
Photography & Videography: £1,500
Entertainment: £1,000
Flowers & Decorations: £1,200
Wedding Dress: £1,300
Stationery: £300
Other Accessories: £800
Decorations and accessories alone can easily add up to £2,000+ once you factor in professional setups and rentals for items like chair covers, balloon arches, and fabric backdrops.
DIY Wedding Accessories: A Smart Way to Save
By sourcing and creating wedding accessories yourself, you can cut costs dramatically. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most common decorative items and compare professional costs with DIY alternatives.
1. Balloon Arches
Professional Cost: Balloon arches created by a decorator typically cost £150-£500, depending on size and complexity.
DIY Cost: Balloon kits are widely available online for £20-£50, and with a little patience, you can create stunning arches yourself.
Potential Savings: Up to £450.
2. Fabric Backdrops
Professional Cost: Fabric or floral backdrops can cost £300-£800 when professionally designed and installed.
DIY Cost: Purchase fabric, poles, and clips for as little as £40-£100. Alternatively, you can rent a backdrop stand and use fabric you already own.
Potential Savings: Up to £700.
3. Chair Covers and Sashes
Professional Cost: Renting chair covers and sashes for 100 chairs can cost £300-£500 (including installation).
DIY Cost: Purchase reusable chair covers and sashes for £1-£2 per piece, totalling £100-£200 for 100 chairs.
Potential Savings: Up to £300.
4. Table Decorations
Professional Cost: Table centrepieces and decorations are often charged at £50-£200 per table, with 10 tables costing up to £2,000.
DIY Cost: Create your own centrepieces using candles, flowers, or greenery for as little as £20-£50 per table, totalling around £500 for 10 tables.
Potential Savings: Up to £1,500.
How Much Could You Save Overall?
Let’s add up the potential savings:
Item Professional Cost DIY Cost Savings
Balloon Arches £450
Fabric Backdrops £700
Chair Covers & Sashes £300
Table Decorations £1,500
Total Savings: Up to £2,950
With nearly £3,000 in potential savings, DIY wedding decor offers an incredible opportunity to cut costs while adding a personal touch to your big day.
Tips for DIY Success
1. Start Early: DIY projects take time, so plan and practice ahead of the wedding date to avoid last-minute stress.
2. Ask for Help: Enlist friends and family to assist with assembly, setup, and decoration.
3. Buy in Bulk: Many retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases of balloons, fabrics, or chair covers.
4. Use Tutorials: YouTube and Pinterest are treasure troves of DIY tutorials for wedding decorations.
5. Rent Where Possible: If buying isn’t practical, consider renting items like backdrop stands or helium tanks for balloons.
Conclusion: A Stunning Wedding Without Breaking the Bank
Weddings can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. By taking the DIY route for accessories like balloon arches, fabric backdrops, and chair covers, UK couples can save thousands while creating a day that’s just as magical and memorable.
With a bit of creativity and effort, you can have a wedding that not only fits your budget but also reflects your unique style and personality. So grab those balloons and sashes—you’ve got this!
Let us know your favourite DIY wedding hacks in the comments below!