London weddings: This is how much it really costs to get married in the capital
Bridebook’s annual report revealed that 14% of couples in London spent over £40k on their weddings.
Living in London doesn’t come cheap, so it will come as no surprise that getting married here is an expensive game too.
In fact, it’s such a huge expense that many couples may be forced to choose between tying the knot, and owning a home.
Bridebook, the world’s leading wedding planning app, has revealed its 2025 UK Wedding Report.
Drawing insights from over 7,000 UK couples married or engaged during 2024, the report highlights the evolving dynamics of wedding planning, offering a snapshot of spending habits, trends and shifting generational priorities.
The survey found that the average cost of weddings has risen again, with couples now spending an average of £20,822. In London, this figure rises to an average spend of £28,629.
There is a significant variation in average spending by region:
- London remains the most expensive region and is 31% higher than the next most expensive region. Central areas (East and West Midlands) have seen a fall in average costs in 2024, and are now lowest in the country.
- 14% of couples in London spent over £40k on their weddings, this was the highest percentage of all UK regions
- London suppliers typically cost 30% above the national average
The results also showed that couples from London are most likely to have their ceremony and reception in two separate venues, 9% of couples in London opt for this style of wedding, compared to the national average of 5%.
Across the UK, hotels are the most popular wedding venue, with 24% of couples choosing to tie the knot here. This is the same in the big smoke, 20% of London respondents chose to get married in a hotel last year. This is followed by restaurants and pubs, with 15% of London couples choosing this venue type in 2024.
“London couples need to plan and budget”
Hamish Shephard, Founder of Bridebook, comments: “The growing costs of weddings makes it increasingly more important for couples to plan and budget their finances for their big day. In London, couples are facing costs that are above the national average for venues and suppliers. The report shows that budget-savvy couples who are marrying in London are exploring non-traditional wedding venues like pubs and restaurants while those looking to splash the cash are still booking luxury venues that often come to mind when thinking of marrying in the capital.
“Using budget planning tools can help immensely to make sure that you can achieve your dream wedding, whilst sticking to your achievable finance goals. It also means that providing clear, upfront pricing has never been more important for venues. Couples are making decisions based on transparency and trust, and venues that offer indicative pricing are much more likely to win bookings.”
Shephard concludes: “Bridebook’s 2025 UK Wedding Report reflects a wedding industry at the crossroads of tradition and modernity. Couples are honouring the past while embracing the flexibility and creativity afforded by today’s technology and shifting cultural values. As we look ahead, it’s clear that weddings will continue to evolve in exciting and meaningful ways.”