Event Pricing Guide: What You Need to Know Before Your Wedding Day

Planning a wedding can feel like juggling a million details, and the price tags often surprise you. Knowing where every pound goes helps you stay in control and keeps the stress low. Below we break down the biggest cost drivers, hidden fees you might miss, and simple ways to stretch your budget without sacrificing style.

Major Cost Categories and Their Typical Ranges

Start by listing the main sections of your wedding. Most couples spend the bulk of their money on three things: venue, catering, and attire. A countryside venue in the Cotswolds usually runs between £3,000 and £7,000, depending on how many guests you have and whether you need extra rooms for the bridal party.

Catering is next. If you want a three‑course plated dinner, expect about £70‑£120 per head. Buffets or family‑style meals can bring the average down to £45‑£80. Don’t forget service charges, which can add another 10‑15% on top of the food bill.

The dress and veil are where the boutique shines. A custom veil at Cotswold Wedding Veils Boutique starts around £500, while a designer gown can be £1,200‑£3,500. Remember that alterations, veil accessories, and the humble veil‑preservation kit each add a small but necessary cost.

Hidden Fees and How to Spot Them

Anything that isn’t in the headline price is a hidden fee. For example, many venues charge a cleaning surcharge after the ceremony, usually £200‑£400. Photographers often require a travel deposit if they’re coming from out of town, and some will tack on extra hours at a higher rate. Always ask for a breakdown of taxes, service fees, and any mandatory insurance.

Entertainment can sneak in extra costs, too. A DJ might quote £800‑£1,200 but then add a £150 fee for lighting equipment. Live bands often need a sound engineer, which is another line item. Get a flat‑rate quote that includes everything you want, then compare it with other vendors.

Don’t overlook the paperwork. Marriage licence fees, officiant gratuities, and even the cost of extra copies of the marriage certificate add up. They’re small individually, but together they can tip your budget over the line.

Now that you know where the money hides, here are three quick ways to keep the total under control:

• Prioritize: Pick two or three elements you care about most (like the veil or photography) and allocate a larger share there.
• Bundle services: Some venues offer in‑house catering or décor packages that are cheaper than hiring separate vendors.
• Off‑season dates: Weddings in October or early November often get a 20‑30% discount on venue and catering.

Finally, track everything in a simple spreadsheet. List each item, the quoted price, any deposit paid, and the due date for the balance. Seeing the numbers in one place makes it easier to spot where you can cut or where you’ve already saved.

With a clear view of event pricing, you can make confident decisions, avoid nasty surprises, and still walk down the aisle in a veil that feels perfect for you. Happy planning!