How much does a wedding cost? And how getting married at Boconnion gives you more for your money
The cost of a wedding, much like the couple themselves, is entirely different and unique for every occasion. Weddings are, of course, not the cheapest of affairs but, with careful planning, thoughtful decision making and some creative ideas, they don’t have to cost the earth. Here, we look at how much a wedding costs on average in the UK in 2026 and some clever wedding budgeting tips to help you feel more in control of the spend.
How much does a wedding cost in the UK?
According to the most recent data from Hitched, the average UK wedding cost £21,990 in 2025. This figure excludes rings and the honeymoon. The data put the average cost per wedding guest at £272. They found that 61% of couples used financial gifts or parental support to fund their day.
Data aside, however, a wedding can cost as much or as little as the couple wishes. Weddings range from private elopements with only the couple present; to small and intimate celebrations at home; to medium-sized set ups in a local wedding venue; all the way up to large, extravagant occasions in the grandest of castles. There’s a wedding day to suit every couple and every budget.
How much does a wedding cost? The elements to consider:
Every couple prioritises different peices of the wedding puzzle, with food being of upmost importance for some while the dress is the be all and end all for others. Below is a list of the main components of a traditional wedding that use the majority of a wedding budget.
Guests - can be the biggest factor for many, with the cost of food and drink per head
Venue type - barns, estates and coastal venues cost more than village halls or celebrations at home
Season and day of the week - high spring and summer cost more than off-peak seasons at most venues
Catering style - buffets, three-course meals and sharing boards have different vibes and different price tags
Decor and florals - styling the venue inside and out
Photography and videography - a big cost but one many find a non-negotiable
Accommodation - especially for destination-style weddings
How much does a wedding cost at Boconnion?
As an exclusive-use weekend wedding venue, getting married at Boconnion is inclusive of the entire estate for the whole celebration. The package includes:
2 nights and 3 days on the estate
luxury accommodation for 45 guests across 4 properties
full use of the estate including the manor house, heated swimming pool, tennis court, hot tubs and grounds
option to get married in the barn or on the meadow
option for a pool party on the first night
a wedding planner to guide you through the whole process
In short, you get a lot for your money. We are a dry hire venue, too, meaning we act as a blank canvas for whatever your dream day may look like. You have total creative control over the schedule, theme, decor and extra details. You can go as extravagant or as simple as you like - but with our naturally beautiful buildings and backdrops you needn’t spend excess budget on decorations if you don’t want to.
As a way to help with the cost, we suggest our couples ask their guests to pay for their 2 nights of accommodation. We can help guide you on what that figure should be for everyone to feel comfortable. Take a tour of our luxury properties here.
To receive our current brochure and pricing, please request it below.
10 wedding budgeting tips
1. Know where to save money
If you want the day to feel high‑quality, focus your budget on the venue, catering and photography. These are the elements guests remember and will live on long after the day is over. Cutting costs on areas including decor, guest list, transport and the dress are often less impactful.
2. The 50/30/20 Rule
A simple way to structure your budget:
50% venue and catering
30% photography, outfits, decor, entertainment
20% contingency, travel, accommodation
3. Choose a naturally beautiful venue
A venue that already looks stunning needs fewer flowers, less decor, less lighting and fewer gimmicks to make it feel special. That’s exactly why our couples love us at Boconnion. Our rustic restored barn, tree-framed meadow, iconic golden hours and uninterrupted views of the Camel Valley are more than enough to set the scene. Browse our gallery here.
4. Split accommodation costs fairly
For a venue with on-site accommodation like Boconnion, decide on a fair amount to charge your guests for their stay. With luxury properties featuring roll top baths, walled gardens, hot tubs and sleigh beds, it’s a special escape for them to enjoy. This reduces your venue bill without compromising comfort.
5. Use budgeting tools to stay in control
Tools that help you avoid overspending:
Monzo or Starling pots
Google Sheets budget tracker
Bridebook budget calculator
6. Pick an off‑peak date or midweek
Many venues offer a weekday, a Sunday or an off‑season month (Nov–March) at a lower rate. Ask us about the option for midweek weddings at Boconnion.
7. Rethink the catering style
Quality food doesn’t have to be plated and formal. Sharing boards, family‑style feasts, gourmet buffets, wood‑fired or street‑food style caterers are having a moment. Guests love the relaxed feel and it can reduce the cost of waiting staff. At Boconnion, we work with a recommended list of exceptional local caterers to suit every style. Our wedding planner, Caroline, will talk you through the best options.
8. Use seasonal, locally grown flowers
Florists can create beautiful designs using seasonal blooms and foliage-heavy arrangements to be reused throughout the day. Ceremony flowers go straight to the top table, aisle arrangements can line the bar in the evening and bridesmaids’ bouquets become table centrepieces.
9. Skip favours
Most favours get left behind. Save the money or put it into better food, a welcome drink or upgraded evening snacks. Guests feel the benefit immediately.
10. Borrow, rent or buy pre‑loved
Facebook Marketplace, Vinted and rental companies are goldmines for decor, signage, outfits, accessories and tableware.
Come and see Boconnion for yourself…
If you’re planning a wedding in Cornwall and want a venue that blends natural beauty, historic charm and unforgettable atmosphere, we’d love to show you around.
Get in touch today to book a private tour and start planning your dream Cornwall wedding.