the SWD bridal price guide

The following guide is based on The SWD’s undercover investigations and was compiled to give you an indication of typical prices when you’re just starting out with your wedding plans. These figures are generalisations – costs depend on a lot of factors and you may be quoted more or less for various reasons. Remember to discuss what you’re looking for with potential suppliers; most are willing to work to a budget.

THE CEREMONY & PAPERWORK - click here for a detailed breakdown

Church Weddings: £100-250

Civil Weddings: £103.50+

Humanist Ceremonies: £250 (+£30 membership fee)

BRIDAL PARTY FASHION - click here for a detailed breakdown

Groom’s Outfit - kilt hire: from £55

Mother of the Bride/Groom’s Outfit: £100-800

Bridesmaid Dresses: £150-300 each

Wedding Dress - buying a gown: £250-3000+
Wedding Dress - alterations: £50-250>

Bridal Lingerie: £50-300

Fabric: £12-30/metre

Gown Cleaning: £85-130

HEALTH & BEAUTY - click here for a detailed breakdown

Bridal Party Hair & Make-up: £200-600

PLANNING BUDGET - click here for a detailed breakdown

Flowers: £350-1000+ for the package, including pedestals/table arrangements for the church/reception

Insurance: £49-299

Wedding Rings : £150-3000+

Stationery - professional: £200-1000
Stationery - DIY method: £100-190+

Transport: £150-500+ per car

Videography: £375-2999+

RECEPTION ESSENTIALS - click here for a detailed breakdown

Cake: £250-400

Decorations: £100-350+

Entertainment: £200-550+

Favours: £75-350+

Fireworks - £750+ for a professionally choreographed display.

Linen hire: £400-1500

Music - Piper: £180-235 Daytime musicians: £250-600+
Music - Band:£450-1500 DJ: £250-550+

Toastmaster: approximately £275

Wedding Meal: £20-100+/head for a three-course meal

Hidden Extras?

There are certain costs that never occur to some couples until after they’ve spent most of their original budget. The golden rule is, don’t assume anything’s free until you’ve got it in writing! So here are a few classics to watch out for that are easily overlooked:
* Ceremony room/function suite hire * Drinks/Champagne reception room hire * Drinks package (not always included in the quoted meal price) * Evening buffet * Gifts for people in the bridal party (mums, bridesmaids, best man etc) * Late licence fee * VAT * Accessories (for the bride, groom, bridesmaids etc)

PLEASE NOTE: These prices are intended to give you guidance but as each event is unique and therefore has unique requirements, we urge you to talk to potential suppliers directly about your specific needs and the associated costs.