Planning a wedding is a long, time-consuming and expensive process. It requires hours of research, travelling to meet vendors to discuss requirements, and sometimes tricky negotiations. It’s a fun and exciting process, but it can also be difficult and stressful. That’s why many couples decide to relieve themselves of the pressure and enlist the guidance and expertise of a wedding planner.
While that’s a huge amount to pay for something that you could in theory do yourself, there are plenty of reasons why a wedding planner is a must-have for many brides- and grooms-to-be. So, if this is you, how can you save money on a wedding planner so they fit within your budget?
In this post, we’re going to explore the many ways you can save money and make the most of the skills and experience provided by a wedding planner.
With many couples paying thousands for the services of a wedding planner, you might wonder why they’re able to charge so much. Below are just some of the reasons why a wedding planner can be so expensive:
Time – If you’ve already started planning your wedding, you’ll be all too familiar with how much time it takes. A professional wedding planner pours hours and hours of their time into planning a wedding that is perfect for you.
Experience – Wedding planners who have been in the game a long time will have plenty of experience, so will know what to do, where to go and what to say.
Expertise – Along with their experience, a wedding planner will have a ton of expertise, which means nothing you throw at them will be too much.
Connections – If they’ve been in the business a while, a wedding planner will have a whole host of connections to help them get preferential deals.
Personalisation – A planner will work closely with you to make sure they know exactly what you want every step of the way. They’ll also make sure you know what’s happening and when, so you’re involved in every decision.
On top of these, wedding planners also have overheads that need to be covered, including insurance, admin costs, office space, staff costs, technology costs and more.
There are three main reasons why couples choose to hire a wedding planner, and why the seemingly lofty cost is totally worth it to them:
They don’t have the time to plan their wedding themselves
They don’t have the necessary knowledge and expertise
They want to save money
We’ve already explained how wedding planners use their time, knowledge and expertise to plan a wedding that is personal to you and in keeping with your tastes and style. However, it’s also important to highlight that hiring a wedding planner will save you money. According to qualified wedding planner and wedding expert, Hamish Shephard, you could save as much as 20% of what you might otherwise have paid. That means, while you may use 10% of your budget on a wedding planner, you’re likely to save this and more in the long run.
The cost-saving benefits of hiring a wedding planner are obvious, but if you’re on a budget it might be hard to justify spending so much on a service you could do yourself. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to save money on a wedding planner, so you can pay less but still make the most of their expertise. Check out the 10 tips below and read our complete guide on how to save money on your wedding.
A wedding planner provides the most effective service if you hire them before you start planning your big day. So, if you plan on recruiting a planner, don’t jump the gun and book a venue first – in doing so you might have lost out on a discount or deal that means you’re paying more than you need to.
2. Don’t hire the first wedding planner you speak to
Though hiring your wedding planner early is important, make sure you don’t jump in too quickly. Take the time to speak to several wedding planners and weigh up your options. Some may charge you a percentage of your budget; others may ask for a flat fee; and others may charge an hourly rate. Put together a list of planners, their quotes and the service they provide so you can make an informed choice.
A full wedding planning service will be the most expensive option – and that’s because it’s the most thorough and time-consuming. But, most wedding planners will also offer a partial planning service. A partial service helps you with planning specific aspects of your wedding, such as the venue and catering. That way, you can get help with some of the more challenging and expensive parts of the planning process, then do the rest – like the flowers, decor and transport – yourself.
Or, as your big day gets ever closer and the list of jobs keeps mounting up, you could hire a planner for a partial service to help you keep on top of things. Speak to potential planners to find out what they can do for you as part of a partial planning service.
4. Ask friends for recommendations…or hire a friend
Ask your married friends and family for recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals are a great way to secure a discount and find a planner who’s reliable and brilliant at their job. Even a discount of just 5% or 10% is a huge saving when you’re dealing with expensive rates.
Another great option is to hire a friend to help you plan certain aspects. Sometimes, your friends can be just as excited about your wedding as you are, and involving them in the planning process is a great way to include them. Just try not to task them with all the more difficult or time-consuming jobs, and make sure you thank them with a voucher or bunch of flowers on the big day itself.
Don’t be shy about asking a wedding planner for a discount. Once you’ve met with a planner and discussed what you’re looking for, if they like you and are excited about your vision, they may be happy to discuss lowering their rates. After all, if you don’t ask, you don’t get.
While your wedding planner can take care of the difficult parts, you can make a start on other parts of wedding prep and save money in doing so. For example, you could get ahead on designing your wedding invitations or crafting paper flowers for table decorations.
While you’re hiring your wedding planner to fulfil your and your spouse-to-be’s vision for your big day, it’s important to be flexible, because flexibility is a great way to save money. For example, your planner will know that a midweek wedding is far more affordable than a weekend wedding, so being open to their suggestions will probably save you a ton of money.
The more experienced, skilled, knowledgeable and reputable a wedding planner is, the more in demand they’ll be and the more they’ll be able to charge.
That means, if you hire a wedding planner with less experience, their rates will be more competitive and more likely to be in line with your budget. The only risk is that they might not have the same expertise or connections as others who have been in the industry for longer.
If you go down this route, look out for relevant qualifications like an event planning or hospitality diploma. Though they’re not a legal requirement when it comes to wedding planning, they’ll give you more confidence that your planner knows what they’re doing, even if they have less experience.
When you hire a wedding planner, you’ll spend a lot of time with them as they get to know you and what you want to be included in your big day. Many wedding planners will want to do this in person, but this can take time, especially if there’s travel involved.
To save on travel time and costs, ask your planner if they’re happy to connect virtually instead. Using Zoom or Google Meet is a quick and convenient way to meet and still build a rapport.
To get the most out of your wedding planner, and therefore the best value for money, the most important thing you can do is trust them. Your wedding planner will have planned dozens – if not hundreds – of weddings and will know the industry through and through. The last thing you want to do is have a strained relationship with them, so trust the process and let them do what they do best. This will enable them to do a fabulous job and save you plenty of money.
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If you’re looking for a wedding that is romantic, intimate and incredibly affordable, then a registry office wedding is a fantastic option. While a registry office wedding doesn’t offer you the scale and grandiosity of other weddings, it makes up for it in simplicity and elegance.
Even though getting married at a registry office is one of the most affordable ways to tie the knot, the costs involved can still mount. The good news is, there are ways you can spend less.
In this post, we’re going to explore the many ways you can save money on a registry office wedding and still have a beautiful day with your closest family and friends.
Is it cheaper to get married at a registry office?
The cost can vary depending on several factors, such as the time, date, package, and even which local council oversees your chosen registry office. And, of course, how much you spend overall will entirely depend on your own preferences, including what you spend on your outfits, transport, rings and whether or not you have an evening reception.
That said, a registry office wedding is by far one of the cheapest options, which makes it a great choice if you’re getting married on a budget.
Can you save even more money on a registry office wedding?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to save even more money when getting married at a registry office, which means you don’t have to pay even close to the UK average. In fact, if you’re particularly thrifty, you could have a registry office wedding for as low as £130 if you’re happy to cut a few corners and forgo some of the pricier aspects of a wedding.
Then again, getting married is a very special event, so you might want to spend a little more than the bare minimum to mark the occasion. Luckily, there are ways to make that happen while still saving some money.
12 ways to save money on a registry office wedding
A registry office wedding is already one of the most budget-friendly ways to get married, but there are ways to make further savings. Below are 12 tips and tricks to help you save money on a registry office wedding. You can also check out our guide on how to save money on your wedding for more information.
If you live a similar distance from more than one registry office, contact each of them to check how much a ceremony costs. This is especially important if they’re in different counties, as this can affect the price. You can find your nearest registry offices on the government’s website. Of course, you’ll have to bear in mind travel times and costs: choosing the cheapest option might not always be the most cost-effective in the long run.
Another point to consider is whether you’ll have the option to have the ceremony in the registry office or a specific ceremony room, which is often slightly larger and can accommodate more guests. These rooms can cost an extra £200 or so, so if you don’t need the space for guests then it might be an unnecessary expense.
As we pointed out earlier, the season, date and time of your wedding will affect the cost. If you choose to get married during peak times, for example during the early afternoon on a Saturday in the summer, then it will be more expensive than if you were to get married on a weekday in the winter. If you can, consider getting married midweek to keep the costs down. This will also help you save costs when it comes to other vendors.
Registry offices are often small and private, which is why they’re perfect for intimate weddings. It might be tempting to invite dozens of people, but if you do that you’ll have no choice other than to pay for a larger space.
Be brave and keep your guestlist to only your closest family and friends. This might upset a few aunts and uncles, but you can invite them to join you afterwards for a nice meal, or to the evening reception if you choose to have one.
A registry office isn’t a grand and elaborately decorated venue, so it can be tempting to want to decorate it so it fits your style and taste. However, this will bump up the cost. Why not embrace simplicity and go for a minimalist style? That way you’ll have more budget to dedicate to other parts of your day.
If you’re keen to add a splash of your personality to your registry office wedding, check out our guide on how to save money on wedding decor.
Because registry office weddings aren’t as big as other weddings, you could save a lot of money by buying off-the-rack outfits. And just because you’re buying off-the-rack doesn’t mean you won’t all look amazing – you simply won’t spend nearly as much money. Plenty of online retailers offer wedding outfits for brides and grooms which are smart, elegant and cost a fraction of the amount of designer or custom-made outfits. The quality and level of service naturally won’t be quite the same, but if keeping costs low is your no. 1 priority, then this is a great affordable option.
You may want bouquets, boutonnières, corsages and floral accents, but if you’re trying to save money, try to keep the number of flower arrangements you have to a minimum. Wedding flowers are justifiably very expensive, so the costs can very quickly add up.
To save money, choose arrangements which include in-season flowers and a lot of green foliage. For something a little more unique (and long-lasting), you could even have paper craft flowers or a dried bouquet.
It probably doesn’t seem right to head straight home after your wedding, does it? Instead, you’ll more than likely want to have a reception so you and your family can celebrate your marriage into the night.
Try to keep things small. One option is to have an intimate meal at a restaurant, then head to a local pub for a few drinks afterwards. If you want to keep things private, choose a pub with function space you can hire for around £500. Just be mindful that during peak times that cost can be much higher. Don’t be tempted to offer your guests free drinks for the night, as this can add hundreds to your cost, depending on how many you invite.
If you’re on a tight budget, and are prioritising cheap and affordable over bespoke and luxury, do things yourself in lieu of enlisting the services of a quality but also costly professional. This includes your invitations, decor and favours, which aren’t the most expensive things you’ll have to pay for but will still bump up the overall cost of your big day.
Do note, however, that aside from the DIY approach not matching the quality of professional wedding services, you will need to factor in the added time and extra responsibility to source all these materials yourself and put everything together. One of the great joys of outsourcing to a professional is peace of mind – the knowledge that you’ll have what you want on your big day exactly when you want it, without having to worry about all the moving parts that go into making gorgeous custom creations.
Even though you’re not planning an extravagant wedding, you’ll probably still want photographs to help you remember it forever. While photographers usually offer set packages, they’re often open to hearing if you have specific requests. So, why not ask them if they’ll shoot your wedding for an hourly rate, instead? That way, they can take pictures at your ceremony but it won’t cost nearly as much as a set package.
There’s nothing to say you have to outright buy everything you use for your wedding day. If there’s something you need but can’t afford brand new, why not ask a close friend or family member if you can borrow it instead? This includes anything from table linen to a veil.
Another option is rental, which is a fantastic alternative to buying something. For example, you can rent a suit for as little as £50 a day, which can be more than a third of the price of buying one. Just be mindful of return policies so you’re not fined for returning it late.
A wedding cake can be another chunky expense – understandably so, as it’s edible art – so keep costs down by choosing a smaller cake with a simple design. One great option is to choose a cake from a supermarket, such as M&S, which offers a range of affordable wedding cakes.
There are plenty of great tips for slicing your cake costs in our post on how to save money on a wedding cake, if you’re willing to compromise a little.
A great way to save money, and give your loved ones a role to play in your special day, is by assigning everyone something to do. This could include:
Transport – Why not ask someone you know to be your chauffeur for the day to help you get to and from the registry office?
Music – We all know someone who has a huge music collection or is skilled in the guitar, so consider having them play or perform at your wedding.
Beauty – You could ask a talented friend, or one of your bridesmaids, to do your hair and makeup before the ceremony (though this isn’t without its risks – read our post on demystifying bridal beauty costs to learn more)
Videography – Most people have a smartphone, so you could ask someone you trust to record the ceremony for you (again this isn’t without its drawbacks, and is unlikely to match a professionally-shot and edited film)
Once you and your partner are married, your wedding rings will likely become your most consistently worn pieces of jewellery. Because of this – and what they symbolise – couples tend to spend quite a bit of money on finding exactly the right wedding rings.
But, there are things you can do to bring this cost down while making sure you have the perfect pair of wedding rings. Because, of course, you don’t want to compromise when it comes to choosing such an important piece of jewellery – one you’ll each keep for the rest of your lives.
In this post, we’ll explore the many ways you can save money and still have wedding rings that you and your spouse-to-be can wear proudly every day.
Because you’ll wear your wedding ring so often (many rarely take their wedding ring off at all) it has to be incredibly durable. The last thing you want is for your ring to become damaged and misshapen after just a few months of wear. That durability comes at a price, and the more hardy a precious metal is, the more expensive it also tends to be.
For example, two popular choices of metal to use in wedding rings are platinum and gold. Both are more on the more expensive side – with costs starting at around £350 for one ring – but they can easily withstand daily wear and tear. Of course, over time scuffs and scratches will slowly develop, but it will take much longer than if you were to get rings that are made from a much softer and less durable metal.
Some couples will also choose to get wedding rings that are more than a simple band. Customisations, precious stones and engravings all increase the cost, meaning you’ll pay more than you would with a plain wedding band.
Traditionally, wedding rings play a major role in a wedding ceremony, with the exchanging of rings representing a couple’s love and commitment to one another. However, the good news is that there are no requirements that state that rings must be exchanged for you to be legally married. So, if wedding rings aren’t your thing, or they simply don’t fit your budget, then you shouldn’t feel compelled to include them.
Instead, you and your partner could exchange another type of jewellery, flowers or write your own vows. In fact, you don’t need to exchange anything at all for the ceremony to be beautiful and romantic. The best thing about getting married is, it’s your day, so you can dictate exactly how it goes.
One of the questions that couples struggle with is ‘How much should you spend on a wedding ring?’ However, there is no right or wrong answer to this question – only what’s right for you.
If you have a large budget, you may want to spend £1,200 on a pair of platinum wedding bands that are strong and durable. If your budget is tight, you can buy a pair of silver wedding rings for as little as £150. Or, for something a little more middle-of-the-road, you could choose two 9-carat gold rings for around £500.
Ultimately, how much you spend on your wedding rings is down to your preferences and your budget, so try not to pay attention to how much you think you should spend.
If you and your spouse-to-be are excited to exchange rings but not so excited about the cost, there are ways to ensure you don’t have to spend even close to the UK average. Remember, averages are simply that – an average – so that means many couples spend way below that.
Just because you can’t see or try on rings in person, don’t be put off the idea of buying your wedding rings online. No, you won’t be able to get a feel for a ring when browsing a website, but because online jewellers don’t have to pay expensive retail unit costs, they’re in a position to sell wedding rings at a lower cost.
Make sure you get your ring fingers measured properly before placing any order, as getting your rings resized will counteract any savings you might make. Plus, double-check the returns policy of a website before you place an order just in case your rings aren’t quite as beautiful in person as they looked in photographs.
Some jewellers like to tempt excited couples by selling wedding rings with the option of paying monthly. This might seem tempting, but high interest rates could mean you pay way over the odds in the long run. If you can, pay for your wedding rings outright and don’t be suckered into any upsells that they may try to flog you at the checkout.
Some couples like a little extra bling in their wedding rings so it closely matches the engagement ring. There’s nothing wrong with this, of course, but if this is something you’re interested in then be prepared to pay a lot more than the average. Precious stones will seriously bump up how much you pay and aren’t generally the go-to choice when it comes to wedding rings. To keep costs down, forgo the stones, or if you are keen on extra bling, go for something a little less expensive than diamonds.
When it comes to choosing a design for your wedding rings, the world is your oyster. But, to keep costs down, the simpler a design is, the cheaper the rings are likely to be.
When the time comes to start browsing for wedding rings, it can be easy to fall in love with a particular design that leaves you blinkered. Even if you find what you think are the perfect rings, don’t stop looking. Chances are, if you’re patient and you shop around, you’ll find the same rings – or better – at another jeweller that just so happens to offer them at a lower price. Keep your options open and don’t buy your rings without considering all options first.
When it comes to your rings, there are a ton of options available to you. One of the biggest choices you’ll make is which precious metal to go for. Some of the most expensive include platinum, and a plain wedding band could set you back as much as £1,100 for one. At the opposite end of the spectrum, a silver wedding ring will likely cost you around £150 for the pair – however, they won’t be as durable and will likely scuff or become misshapen more easily.
Why not meet in the middle and choose a pair of gold or white gold rings? A pair of 9-carat gold rings could cost you less than £500 and will look great and still be fairly durable.
A popular addition to wedding rings is customisations, such as engraving or etchings. This could be anything from the name of your new spouse to the date of your wedding, or even a quote or phrase that is super meaningful to you. However, customisations like this certainly aren’t free and will add at least a hundred quid to the price tag, but this can vary depending on the number of characters you’d like to include.
If you have your heart set on customised rings, though, many jewellers offer exclusive Bridebook discounts and offers, such as Mrs Bo Jangles, who offers 5% off and free engraving on certain pieces.
Wedding bands can vary in thickness, offering you a large range of choices. However, the thicker the band is, the more metal it needs, and therefore the more it’ll cost. You probably won’t want to go too thin, but avoiding thicker bands will help to keep the costs more manageable.
This isn’t something that you’ll be able to retroactively control, but consider choosing wedding rings that are made from the same metal as your engagement ring. If you have two different metals they’ll wear at different rates, and can even damage each other due to them constantly coming into contact with each other. That means, over the years, you may end up having to have your rings repaired or redipped more often. This isn’t so much a cost you’ll have to worry about right now, but more of a long-term consideration that your future self may thank you for.
Don’t just browse high-street jewellers on your quest to find the perfect rings; there are a plethora of second-hand retailers and antique stores out there that just might have a few hidden treasures. You might not have much luck in charity shops, but vintage and antique retailers will have jewellery cabinets that can be far more budget-friendly than if you were to buy something brand new.
Another option to consider is browsing second-hand sites like Gumtree and eBay. If you can get past the mysterious history of jewellery bought from sites like these, you might just be able to grab yourself a massive bargain.
Not everyone is blessed with natural negotiation skills, but there’s no harm in asking for a discount. Just because a particular piece of jewellery has a price tag beside it in the window, it doesn’t mean that’s definitely what you have to pay. Jewellery store employees often receive a commission on sales, and if they know you’re a serious buyer they should be open to offering you a discount.
If you’re a cash buyer, let them know, as this may help. If you’re lucky, you might be able to wangle as much as 10 – 15% off the asking price for a pair of wedding rings.
Craft fairs can be a fantastic place to pick up unique and bespoke wedding rings that are handmade by talented craftspeople. Not only that, but you might also be able to find yourself a huge bargain. Check out Prima for information on the best upcoming craft shows in 2023.
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The great thing about the groom’s speech is that it’s generally one of the easiest to write. You don’t need to stress about making everyone laugh like the best man or worry about whether your words are heartfelt enough, like the father of the bride. Instead, the groom’s speech is a lovely thank you note to everyone who has helped you plan the wedding.
As the groom, it’s a chance for you to express your love, gratitude, and appreciation to all the amazing people who have gathered to celebrate this joyous occasion. It’s a time to honour your beautiful bride, thank your parents, and embrace the opportunity to let everyone know how grateful you are for their continued support.
In this article, we’ve captured everything you need to know about writing the best groom speech ever. We have 12 brilliant groom speech examples for inspiration, a breakdown of the structure of the speech, and a list of all the little bits and bobs you may need to consider. Let’s get going!
The groom’s speech is a heartfelt speech made by the groom during a wedding reception. It should be no more than 10 minutes long and usually goes second in the order of speeches, coming after the father of the bride speech but before the best man’s speech.
Consider this your opportunity to let your friends and family know how grateful you are for their support. You can also share stories and memories and thank all those who have played a significant role in the journey leading up to the wedding day.
In fact, the groom’s speech is usually positioned as a thank-you note to everyone involved in planning your wedding. For example, your parents, the bride’s parents, ushers, bridesmaids, the best man, the maid of honour, your wedding planner, and the wedding venue staff. It’s also a great opportunity to thank anyone who has supported your relationship thus far and a chance to tell some heartwarming stories about how you and your partner met.
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your groom’s speech:
Thank your family. They’ve guided you through life, helped you become who you are today, and probably contributed to the wedding somehow. It’s time to thank your parents for their support over the years. In addition, you should extend your gratitude to your new in-laws. Let them know how grateful you are to them for raising such a wonderful partner, welcoming you into their family, and for their continued guidance.
The meet-cute. Share some sweet stories and anecdotes about how you met your partner when you knew they were the one, and any adventures you’ve shared along the way. You could also share any laughs you’ve had leading up to the wedding day and maybe sprinkle in a few inside jokes. Just remember, keep it respectful and appropriate for all guests!
Compliment your new spouse. What better day to highlight how beautiful and special your partner bride is than on their big day? It’s time to let everyone know exactly what made you fall in love with them, their impact on your life, and the joy they bring you. Include all these topics and watch their smile light up the room.
A toast. Bottoms up! Finish your speech by encouraging your friends and guests to join you in a toast. Here’s to love and the incredible journey that lies ahead.
Groom’s speech structure
Although the groom’s speech can follow any structure you feel is best, we recommend sticking to the following framework. This way, you can feel confident that you’ve covered all your bases and delivered a well-rounded speech.
Introduction
The introduction sets the tone for your speech, so it’s important to start with confidence. Take this time to welcome and engage your audience, as well as acknowledge everyone’s effort in attending the wedding. Express your gratitude, and let everyone know they look great. Keep it short and move on to the bulk of the speech.
Top tip: To guarantee a big cheer, start with “On behalf of me and my wife…”. It’s a winner every time!
Thank your family
Take a moment to express heartfelt appreciation to your family. Begin with your parents, thanking them for their unconditional love, guidance, and support throughout your life.
Recognise the sacrifices they have made along the way and for any help they have offered in wedding planning.
You can then move on to thanking your new in-laws. Emphasise the love and acceptance they have shown you, how they have supported your relationship, and their role in bringing you and your partner together. And, if appropriate, thank them for their child’s hand in marriage!
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen
Show appreciation for your best man, maid of honour, and the rest of the bridal party. Highlight their support, dedication, and efforts in making your wedding day special. You can also express your gratitude for their friendship, unwavering support, and their role in your special day.
Express your gratitude to the guests
Take a moment to express gratitude to all the guests for their presence and role in your lives. Highlight what their support means to you and the happiness they bring to the occasion.
Take extra time to thank anyone who has travelled long distances or made an extra effort to be there. Let them know how much you appreciate the efforts and how much it means to have them with you.
Thank the staff
Acknowledge the efforts of the staff, vendors, and wedding planners who have worked tirelessly to make your wedding day run smoothly. Show appreciation for their professionalism and attention to detail. After all, the day wouldn’t be possible without them!
Compliment your partner
Finally, express your love and admiration for your new spouse. Share heartfelt compliments that highlight their beauty, grace and the qualities that make them so special to you. Be specific and genuine in your praise. There won’t be a dry eye in the house!
Time for a toast
As you wrap up your speech, it’s time to invite your guests to raise their glasses and join you in a toast. Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness. Chin chin!
Groom’s speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this groom speech template to guide your writing
Although it’s an emotional day, keep the tone of your speech happy and upbeat. Save the tear-jerking stories for the father of the bride or best man speeches. Your speech should be focused on light-hearted gratitude.
Keep it clean!
Although light-hearted humour and anecdotes are appropriate in a groom’s speech, ensure your humour is tasteful and doesn’t overshadow the heartfelt moments! Remember, your new spouse is in front of all their family and friends, so they may not want to share any intimate or embarrassing stories. If you’re unsure whether your partner will be comfortable with the stories you’re sharing, consider running any stories you plan to use past them first.
Confidence is key
A few nerves are to be expected. However, this is your time to shine, and you should do it proudly. Stand tall, speak clearly, and make eye contact with the audience. Project confidence and belief in your words. Remember, the audience is filled with your family and friends who are gathered to have a good time and are all rooting for you!
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of great wedding speech ideas, from the simple and sentimental to the light-hearted and humorous. And remember that these are just examples. You can use them as templates for your own speech, but it’s important to speak from the heart, and add your own personal touch and unique family anecdotes.
A lot of traditional father of the bride speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to your daughter’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Example 1: Heartfelt Groom Speech
Introduction: Can you believe today is already here? It only feels like yesterday that I popped the question to my beautiful bride, [Bride’s Name]. A whirlwind of planning later and we’ve made it. Just in case it wasn’t clear from the introduction, my name is [Your Name] and I’m the very lucky groom. If you didn’t know that, you probably shouldn’t be here!
Thank your family: I want to take this opportunity to say something I know I don’t say enough—thank you! Thank you to my family, first and foremost. You have been my rock from day one. Mum, Dad, you’ve always been there with advice, love, and—on occasion—subtle hints that I might need to iron my shirt before leaving the house. You’ve taught me so much, from resilience to kindness, and I’m the man I am today because of you.
To my new family—[Bride’s Name]’s parents and siblings—you’ve welcomed me with open arms, a full plate, and occasionally a raised eyebrow. I know handing over your daughter to someone like me can’t have been an easy decision, but I promise I’ll do everything I can to take care of her and make her happy.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To the wonderful wedding party—thank you. You’ve held everything together today. To the bridesmaids, you’ve been the dream team, supporting [Bride’s Name] every step of the way and ensuring she looked as radiant as she does right now. You’ve done an incredible job, though I must say, the bar was set pretty high because, let’s face it, she always looks amazing.
Compliment your partner: And now, the part I’ve been most excited about: my wife. (Pause for effect, because that still feels amazing to say.) [Bride’s Name], you are the kindest, most brilliant, and most beautiful person I’ve ever known. You’ve taught me what it means to love and be loved, and you make every single day better just by being in it. Marrying you is the best decision I’ve ever made, though I’m sure you’ll remind me of that the next time I suggest we order pizza three nights in a row.
You make me laugh, you make me think, and occasionally, you make me clean the oven. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I can’t promise to be perfect—because you’ve seen me try to assemble flat-pack furniture—but I can promise to love you with everything I have, to laugh with you in the good times, and to stand by you in the hard ones.
Time for a toast: To everyone here today—thank you for celebrating with us, for your love, your laughter, and for not posting embarrassing photos until tomorrow. We’re so grateful for each and every one of you. Please, eat, drink, and dance like no one’s watching… though fair warning, I probably will be, and I’m taking notes for future blackmail.
Here’s to love, laughter, and a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!
Example 2: Funny Groom Speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls—it’s time for the main event. I’m joking of course, we all know this is [Bride’s Name]’s day and I’m just the backup dancer. What is it you say, babe? You’re Beyoncé, and I’m Michelle? Harsh, but fair.
In all seriousness, thank you all for being here today. For those of you who might not know me—and if you don’t, you’ve either crashed the party or you’re here for the cake—my name is [Your Name], and I am the incredibly lucky groom.
Thank your family: I’m reminded every day of how lucky I am. Not only for my beautiful new bride, but also for the families we’re so blessed to have in our lives. To my own family—Mum, Dad, you’ve done more than I could ever thank you for. You taught me the important stuff: how to tie my shoelaces, why you should never eat yellow snow, and that “because I said so” is a perfectly valid argument.
To my new in-laws, thank you for welcoming me into your family. From the first time I met you, you made me feel like one of your own—or at least like someone you’d tolerate if I brought biscuits. You’ve raised the most amazing daughter, and I promise I’ll do my best to take care of her… even if I occasionally need somewhere to eat after one of [Bride’s Name]’s attempts at a roast.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To the wedding party—you’re absolute legends. You’ve kept today ticking along, even when things inevitably ran a bit behind schedule because someone (no names, but it rhymes with [something like Bride’s Name]) needed to check their lipgloss one last time.I don’t need to be there to know that this is what happened!
But seriously, you’ve been the unsung heroes of this whole operation. You’ve supported [Bride’s Name] through every decision, every moment of doubt, and every frantic text at 2 a.m. about colour schemes. You all look stunning today—second only to my beautiful wife.
To my groomsmen, well, what can I say? Thanks for showing up on time and in matching suits—it’s more than I dared to hope for. You’ve been by my side through thick and thin, and you’ve even managed to keep me calm today, which is no small feat. Special thanks to my best man for keeping your speech just the right side of embarrassing. I owe you a pint—or possibly a restraining order, depending on how the evening goes.
Express gratitude to the guests: To our wonderful guests, thank you for being here today. For travelling far and wide, and for smiling politely through the long pauses in my speech. Whether you’re here because you love us, because you love free food, or because you heard there’d be an open bar, we’re so glad you made it. Your support means everything to us.
Thank the staff: To the teams that made today possible, thank you. From the chefs to the servers to the wedding coordinator who probably deserves a medal for dealing with us, you’ve all been incredible. Everything has been seamless, beautiful, and delicious.
Compliment your partner: And now, the main event: [Bride’s Name]. My wife.
You are the most incredible person I’ve ever met. You’ve brought so much joy, laughter, and love into my life. You’ve got this incredible ability to light up every room you walk into, no matter how dark the mood is.
People often say you marry someone who makes you a better person, and I think that’s true. Since meeting you, I’ve become more thoughtful, more organised, and—according to you—slightly less hopeless at following directions.
I can’t promise I’ll be perfect, but I can promise to always try. I’ll try to make you laugh, even when it’s at my own expense. I’ll try to be the partner you deserve, even when I’m distracted by football. And I’ll definitely try not to make that face when you suggest we go furniture shopping “just for a look.”
Time for a toast: Ladies and gentlemen, I won’t take any more of your time. Please, raise your glasses to the new Mrs [Surname]. You’re the love of my life, the reason I smile, and occasionally the reason I’ve had to Google how to remove red wine stains from a white shirt. To the eternally wonderful Mrs [Surname]!
Example 3: Emotional Groom Speech
Introduction: I’m going to do my best to get through this without crying, but I can’t promise anything. You’ve already seen me cry during the ceremony, so let’s not pretend I’m a stone-cold rock of composure. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of being [Bride’s Name]’s husband. It feels surreal to say that out loud, and it fills me with more joy than I could ever put into words.
Thank your family: I want to start by thanking the people who got me here—not just to this day, but to this moment in life. Mum and Dad, you’ve always been my foundation. Your love, your guidance, and your unwavering belief in me have shaped who I am. You taught me how to love deeply, to be kind, and to never leave a half-empty teapot on the table. Everything good in me, I owe to you.
To my new family, [Bride’s Name]’s parents, you raised an extraordinary woman, and I know that didn’t happen by accident. From the first time I met you, you welcomed me with open arms and enough food to feed a small village. You’ve trusted me with your daughter, and I promise I’ll do everything I can to honour that trust every single day.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To our wedding party, you’ve been more than just our backup dancers today—you’ve been our champions, our support system, and, in some cases, our personal therapists. Today wouldn’t have happened without you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.
Express gratitude to the guests: To our wonderful guests, whether you travelled from far or popped 10 minutes down the road, your presence means everything to us. What a day this is to have everyone we hold so dear in the same room. Genuinely, thank you.
Thank the staff: For the wonderful teams working today, thank you. People don’t say this enough, but you are as much a part of our special day as everyone else, and I can’t thank you enough for your professionalism, your kindness, and your ability to keep everything running smoothly. You’ve helped make this day unforgettable, and we’re so grateful.
Compliment your partner: And now, the person who’s the reason we’re all here—[Bride’s Name].
When I look at you, I see my entire world. You are everything to me. From the freckles on your arms to your gorgeous smile, there isn’t a part of you I don’t love. You’re the kind of person who lights up a room, who makes even the smallest moments feel special, and who loves with a warmth that changes lives. You’ve certainly changed mine.
I promise to support you in every dream you have, no matter how wild or ambitious. I promise to listen, to laugh, and to always share the last slice of cake—even if it takes every ounce of my willpower.
Time for a toast: So now, let’s raise a glass—not just to today, but to the journey ahead. To love that grows deeper with every challenge, to laughter that fills our home, and to a lifetime of adventures with the person who makes every moment worth it.
To my wife, my soulmate, and the love of my life, [Bride’s Name]. Cheers.
Example 4: Humorous Groom Speech
Introduction: Friends, family, people who’ve wandered in off the street, welcome! My name is [Your Name] and I couldn’t be prouder to be standing here today welcoming you all to mine and [Bride’s Name]’s wedding.
Thank your family: First, I want to thank my family. Mum, Dad, you’ve been my biggest cheerleaders and occasionally my biggest critics—mainly when I was eating cereal out of a saucepan as a teenager. Your love, support, and occasional eye-rolls have made me who I am today.
To my new in-laws, thank you for raising the amazing woman I now get to call my wife. You welcomed me with open arms, a cup of tea, and only slightly suspicious glances when I revealed that I don’t know the difference between a flat white and a latte. I’ll never forget your advice on how to keep [Bride’s Name] happy. What was it…? “Feed her on time, compliment her shoes, and don’t ever use her special mug.”
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To the wedding party—I couldn’t have asked for any more. Bridesmaids, you’ve done an amazing job today, not just in making sure [Bride’s Name] looks stunning (though let’s be honest, she did most of the work there just by being herself), but in keeping her calm through the planning process. I don’t know how you’ve done it, but you deserve medals—or at least an extra slice of cake.
To my groomsmen, thank you for making me look good by comparison. I’m joking, I’m joking. Seriously, you’ve been my best mates, my moral support, and only occasionally my worst influences. We won’t mention too much about the stag, but let’s just say I’m grateful that my eyebrows have grown back!
Express gratitude to the guests: Thank you to everyone for making the effort to be here today. I know some of you have travelled great distances, taken time off work, or bravely endured the public transport system to celebrate with us. And for those of you who live locally—thank you for showing up on time. Your presence means the world to us, even if you’re just here for the cake and a nosy at who got seated next to who.
Compliment your partner: Last but not least, to my wonderful wife. [Bride’s Name], you are the light of my life and the reason I get up every day—though let’s be honest, sometimes it’s also because you’ve nudged me and said, “It’s your turn to make the tea.”
I can’t imagine my world without you in it. You make life brighter, funnier, and undeniably better organised. You have this incredible way of making everyone around you feel loved and valued, and somehow, I’m the lucky one who gets to call you my wife.
I promise to always stand by you, to celebrate your wins, and to pretend I can taste the difference between a fancy wine and the one we get on offer at the supermarket. I’ll make you laugh, I’ll listen when you’ve had a bad day, and I’ll always be here to help you pick your next nail colour—even if you never listen to my suggestions!
Time for a toast: So now, I’d like to ask you all to raise your glasses to my beautiful wife, [Bride’s Name]—the woman who makes every moment of life worth it. Here’s to laughter that never ends, love that never fades, and me learning to ask before I eat the last biscuit. To the beautiful Mrs [Surname]!
Example 5: Poetic Groom Speech
Introduction: On behalf of myself and my new wife [pause for cheers], I’d like to welcome you all to this incredible day. It’s been filled with love, laughter, and plenty of champagne, and that’s only the first half!
Thank your family: Family is where it all begins, isn’t it? Mum and Dad, you gave me a foundation built on love, resilience, and a few family sayings that only make sense to us. You taught me to see the beauty in the small things—a steaming pot of tea on a rainy day, the sound of laughter filling a room, and the comfort of a home that always welcomes you back.
To my new family, [Bride’s Name]’s parents, thank you for the gift of your daughter. It is clear to me now that her kindness, her strength, and her beautiful smile are reflections of the home you’ve created. From the moment I met you, I felt embraced—not just with words, but with warmth that spoke louder than any introduction. Thank you for everything, and for everything to come.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To the wedding party—what can I say? You’ve been the calm amid the chaos and the unsung heroes of today. Thank you for sorting out the missing buttonholes, for dealing with the ice bucket emergency, and for keeping us all on schedule—even when herding cats would have been easier.
Express gratitude to the guests: To everyone in the room today, thank you. Whether you travelled far, popped down the road, or simply followed the promise of cake, your presence could not be more welcomed. You have filled this room with love, laughter, and so much joy. For this, we couldn’t be more grateful.
Thank the staff: To the bar staff, waiting team, wedding planner, and everyone who made this wonderful day possible, thank you. You’ve pulled this together with the precision of a military operation and the grace of a perfectly rehearsed symphony. From keeping the glasses full to ensuring every detail is flawless, you’ve been the quiet heroes of this celebration. We are so grateful for all your hard work and dedication.
Compliment your partner: And now, to the person who has made all of this day—and my life generally—so extraordinary: my wife, [Bride’s Name].
[Bride’s Name], you are everything I could have hoped for and so much more. You have a way of making the world brighter just by being in it. Your kindness touches everyone you meet, your strength inspires me daily, and your smile—well, that’s the reason I believe in magic.
Since meeting you, life has taken on a new depth, a new richness. You’ve shown me that love is in the everyday moments—the quiet cups of tea shared on a Sunday morning, the way you instinctively reach for my hand, the way you laugh at my jokes (even the bad ones).
I promise to stand by you, through every joy and every challenge, to be your biggest supporter, and to always remember that your special mug is not interchangeable with any other mug in the cupboard. Thank you for teaching me this.
Time for a toast: So now, let us raise our glasses. To everyone who has made this day unforgettable and to the love that we are celebrating. And most importantly, to [Bride’s Name]—my wife, my heart, my home. Here’s to a lifetime of laughter, adventure, and countless moments that remind me of just how lucky I am. Cheers!
Example 6: Happy Groom Speech
Introduction: What a day this has already been. Friends, family, colleagues, welcome. Welcome to the most wonderful day of mine and [Bride’s Name]’s life. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I am the luckiest man in the world today because I somehow managed to convince [Bride’s Name] to marry me. It’s been an incredible day so far—beautiful weather (or at least acceptable British weather), amazing company, and I haven’t split anything on my suit just yet, which feels like a personal win.
Thank your family: First, a huge thank you to my family. Mum and Dad, you’ve always been my biggest supporters—and occasionally my reality checkers, like when I thought wearing socks with sandals was an acceptable fashion choice. You’ve taught me the value of love, patience, and a good cup of tea, and for that, I’m endlessly grateful.
To [Bride’s Name]’s family, thank you for welcoming me into your lives with open arms and a healthy level of side-eye when I asked to marry your daughter. You’ve raised an extraordinary woman, and I promise to take care of her—even if she occasionally has to remind me where the hoover lives.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To the wedding party—what a crew. Bridesmaids, you’re absolute superstars and you all look fabulous. You’ve kept [Bride’s Name] calm, collected, and eternally lip-glossed.
And groomsmen, well, you’ve been the dream team. Thank you for, equally, showing up fully dressed, and for throwing me a blinder of a stag. We won’t rehash it here (mostly because I can’t remember it), but I know it was an absolute belter.
Express gratitude to the guests: To all of you, for showing up in your finery with gifts, cards, and smiling faces, thank you. Whether you travelled from afar or simply fancied an excuse to wear that outfit you’ve been saving, your presence has made this day unforgettable. You’ve turned what could have been a lovely little ceremony into an absolutely spectacular celebration.
Thank the staff: To everyone who has kept us fed, watered, and ticking along smoothly today—thank you. From the chefs who’ve outdone themselves, to the bar staff who’ve kept the glasses full, and the planners who made sure the only drama today was deciding which table got served first, you’ve all been amazing. Your hard work has made this day seamless and unforgettable, and we’re so grateful for everything you’ve done.
Compliment your partner: And now, the part I’ve been most looking forward to: talking about [Bride’s Name].
[Bride’s Name], what can I say? You are the reason this day exists, the reason my heart is so full, and—let’s be honest—the reason I look this good today (because left to my own devices, I’d probably still be Googling “how to tie a tie”).
You make my life brighter, funnier, and so much more meaningful. I always say I was blessed by a lucky star, but I genuinely believe that star led me to you, and now you’re my lucky star. My darling [Bride’s Name], I couldn’t be prouder to be standing here beside you. You are radiant, brilliant, and lovely, and I still can’t believe you agreed to marry me. No going back now!
Time for a toast: So now, let’s raise a glass—to all the laughter, love, and memories this day has brought us. To everyone who has made this celebration so special, and to the incredible journey ahead.
And most of all, to [Bride’s Name]—my beautiful wife, my lucky star, and my reason for being. I love you, always.
Example 7: Sentimental Groom Speech
Introduction: Welcome, everyone. Welcome to our big day. I know you’re about to hear a lot of speeches, so I’ll try to keep it short (although I make no promises).
Now, a lot of you know we’ve had a pretty tough year this last year. There’s been a lot of surgery, a couple of losses, and even a few moments where we didn’t quite know what the next day would bring. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: my beautiful girl, [Bride’s Name].
Compliment your partner: [Bride’s Name], you are the strongest person I know. You’ve faced every challenge this year with grace, courage, and a determination that has left me in awe. Where others might have faltered, you stood tall—not just for yourself, but for both of us.
You’ve shown me that strength isn’t about never falling; it’s about getting back up every single time. You’ve faced setbacks with a smile, carried burdens far heavier than you deserved, and somehow, even on the hardest days, found ways to laugh, to love, and to remind me what really matters.
You’ve been my rock when I needed support, my compass when I felt lost, and my light in the darkest moments. You’ve taught me that even in life’s most difficult times, love can be a source of endless strength.
Thank your family: Our wonderful family, we couldn’t have got through this without you. You’ve been our anchors, our cheerleaders, and occasionally, our shoulders to cry on. To my parents, thank you for teaching me resilience, kindness, and the importance of showing up when it matters most.
To [Bride’s Name]’s parents, thank you for welcoming me into your family with open arms and for raising the incredible woman I now get to call my wife. Your love and support have been our foundation this year, and we are forever grateful.
Express gratitude to the guests: To all of you who are here today, thank you. Your love and kindness have meant the world to us, not just today, but throughout this past year. Whether it was a message, a phone call, or just being there with a cup of tea when it was needed most, you’ve all played a part in helping us get to this moment. And having you here today, celebrating with us, is more special than I can put into words.
Time for a toast: Time to put all the nastiness to bed. Here’s to health, to happiness, and to brighter days ahead. Here’s to love that carries us through life’s storms, to the laughter that makes even the hardest days bearable, and to the friends and family who remind us that we’re never alone. Cheers, my darling. We did it, together.
Example 8: Inspirational Groom Speech
Introduction: Good afternoon, everyone. I hope you’re all having the best time—I certainly am! I’m a little nervous, so go easy on me. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and today, I have the absolute honour of standing here as the luckiest man alive. Not just because I got to marry [Bride’s Name], but because I get to share this incredible day with all of you.
Thank your family: To my wonderful family, I couldn’t be prouder to be your son. You’ve been my first teachers in love and kindness, showing me the value of patience, generosity, and always leaving enough milk for someone else’s tea.
Equally, to my new family, thank you for welcoming me with open arms. You’ve shown me nothing but warmth, support, and the occasional life hack for how to keep [Bride’s Name] happy (pro tip: snacks are non-negotiable). I feel so lucky to be joining your incredible family.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To our incredible bridal party—what a team you’ve been. Bridesmaids, you all look stunning, that’s a given, but you’ve also been the best support system anyone could ask for. You’ve kept [Bride’s Name] calm, laughing, and looking gorgeous—not that she needs any help with that.
And to my groomsmen, thank you for making sure I got here on time, with my tie straight, and my nerves (mostly) under control. You’ve been my mates, my brothers, and occasionally my questionable decision-makers, but I wouldn’t want anyone else standing by my side.
Express gratitude to the guests: To our lovely guests, thank you for making the effort to be here today. I know some of you have travelled from afar, and others just had to hop down the road, but every single one of you has made this day even more special just by being here.
Weddings are about more than just two people—they’re about the connections we share, the memories we create, and the joy of celebrating together. Seeing all of you here, raising a glass to our happiness, is a moment we’ll treasure forever.
Thank the staff: To the brilliant team around us, thank you. It doesn’t get said enough, but today absolutely wouldn’t have happened without you. Whether you’re on a short shift or have been in it for the long haul, we couldn’t be more grateful for your work.
Compliment your partner: And now, to the heart of it all: [Bride’s Name].
[Bride’s Name], you are, without question, the most amazing person I’ve ever met. You’ve shown me what it means to love unconditionally, to dream without limits, and to live every day with joy.
You’ve taught me that love is in the details—the small gestures, the silly jokes, the way you insist on watching sunsets even when it’s cloudy. You inspire me to be better, to do better, and to treasure every moment we share.
I promise to stand by you, to lift you up, and to remind you every single day how much you mean to me. You are my best friend, my partner, and my everything. Thank you for choosing me.
Time for a toast: So now, let’s raise a glass. To [Bride’s Name], my wife, my heart, and my greatest joy. Here’s to forever.
Example 9: Thankful Groom Speech
Introduction: Friends, family… welcome. Welcome to the happiest day of mine and [Bride’s Name]’s life. After all the planning, all the stress, and all the fuss, who can believe we’re finally here? I’ll start by saying, I absolutely can’t take any of the credit. [Bride’s Name] planned the whole thing, and hasn’t she done a lovely job? [Applause]
I’m [Your Name], by the way, not that I’m important here. No, no—today is all about [Bride’s Name].
Compliment your partner: [Bride’s Name], my beautiful wife. I honestly don’t know where to start, because there’s just so much I want to say about you. You are, quite simply, the most incredible person I’ve ever met. And now, somehow, I get to call you my wife. Lucky doesn’t even begin to cover it.
You’ve worked so hard to make today perfect, and looking around this room, I think everyone would agree—you’ve absolutely nailed it. But that’s no surprise to me, because everything you do, you do with such thought, care, and love.
You’re warm, funny, kind, and so unbelievably intelligent. You see the things that no one else does—the tiny details, the little moments that make life so much richer. You’ve made me see the world in a brighter way, and every day with you feels like an adventure that I’m so lucky to be on.
Thank your family: A huge thank you to both our families. Mum and Dad, thank you for giving me everything I needed to be the man I am today. You’ve shown me love, patience, and the importance of family—and I’m so proud to carry that forward into this next chapter of our lives.
To [Bride’s Name]’s family, thank you for raising the wonderful woman I get to call my wife. From the very first moment I met you, I felt welcomed and loved. I promise to always support her and love her, just as you have done.
Thank the bridal party and groomsmen: To our wonderful wedding party, what a day it’s been. None of this would have been possible without you, so thank you so much. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your patience, your support, and your ability to keep everything running smoothly even when things got a bit chaotic.
Express gratitude to the guests: And to all of you, thank you. Whether you’ve travelled a few miles or a few thousand, it means the world to us that you’re here to celebrate with us. You’ve all played a part in our lives, and having you here today makes it all the more special.
Time for a toast: So, let’s raise a glass—to love, to laughter, and to the incredible future ahead of us.
And most importantly, to [Bride’s Name], my wife. I’m so lucky to walk through life by your side, and I can’t wait for all the adventures we’ll have.
Example 10: Light-hearted Groom Speech
Introduction: Welcome one, welcome all to the event of the year—[Bride’s Name]’s wedding, featuring me. It feels like it’s been a long time coming, and I’m sure [Bride’s Name] can attest, it took me long enough to pop the question. Although it was only 3 years, there is part of me that agrees. I should have proposed the day after our first date, because that’s when I was absolutely sold on [Bride’s Name].
Compliment your partner: But how could I not have been? From her sparkling eyes to her quick wit, [Bride’s Name] has this incredible ability to make every day feel a little brighter. She’s the kind of person who can turn a rainy day into an at-home adventure, a bad day into a hilarious story, and—somehow—an argument about directions into a charming detour.
I mean, just look at her today. She’s absolutely gorgeous, isn’t she? I think we can all agree that she’s completely stolen the show, and rightly so. Let’s be honest, I’m just here as the warm-up act; the real star is [Bride’s Name].
This day has her heart, her creativity, and her perfectionist streak written all over it—though I think we can forgive her for triple-checking the table placements.
Thank your family: And to her parents, the wonderful people who made [Bride’s Name] who she is, and now my wonderful in-laws—thank you. Thank you for raising such an incredible woman, and for welcoming me into your family. I promise to always love, cherish, and occasionally attempt to cook for your daughter, though I can’t promise the results will be edible.
To my own family, thank you for everything you’ve done to shape me into the person I am today. Your love and support have been the foundation of my life, and I wouldn’t be standing here without you—well, I’d probably be here, but I’d definitely be in a wrinkled suit with mismatched socks.
Express gratitude to the guests: To all of you who’ve come here today, thank you. You’ve travelled, dressed up, and, in some cases, probably ironed clothes for the first time in months. Your love and support mean the world to us. It’s not every day you get all your favourite people together in one room, and trust me, it doesn’t go unnoticed.
Time for a toast: Now, let’s raise a glass—to the friends and family who make life so rich, to the memories we’re making today, and to the bride who has made my life so extraordinary.
Here’s to [Bride’s Name], my wife, my best friend, and the reason I’ll never look at a colour-coded wedding spreadsheet the same way again. Cheers!
Example 11: Short Groom Speech
Introduction: On behalf of me and my new wife… [pause for applause] … I’d like to welcome you all to this happy day. Those of you who know me know how hard it is for me to stand up in front of you all like this, so I’m going to do my best to keep this short and sweet, but from the heart.
Compliment your partner: First and foremost, to you, my beautiful bride. [Bride’s Name], I still can’t believe my luck that I get to call you my wife. You’re my best friend, my biggest supporter, and the reason I get out of bed in the morning. Everything I do is for you, and I can’t imagine my life without you in it. Today, and everyday since I met you, I love you.
Thank your family: To Mum and Dad, thank you. You’ve been there for me, supported me, and believed in me when no one else did. You’ve taught me what love, commitment, and hard work look like, and I’ll carry those lessons into this new chapter with [Bride’s Name].
To [Bride’s Name]’s parents, thank you for the gift of your beautiful daughter. From the moment I met you, you made me welcome. It means so much to know I’ve got you both in my corner too.
Thank the wedding party: To our best friends, thank you. Whether you’re in the wedding party on the groom’s side or the bride’s side, you’ve been absolute stars. We couldn’t have done this without you, and we’re so lucky to have such amazing people in our lives.
Thank the guests: And to everyone here today—thank you for being part of this day and making it so special. Having our nearest and dearest together in one room is such a blessing. And thank you again for all the gifts, cards, and words of wisdom. It means the world to us.
Time for a toast: So, before I ramble on too much, let me just say this: today has been the greatest day of our lives. Let’s raise a glass to the health, wealth, and happiness of my new bride and our shared love. I can’t wait to start this new adventure together. Cheers!
Example 12: LGBTQ+ Groom Speech
Introduction: Welcome, everyone, to the wedding of the year. Who’d have thought when [Groom’s Name] and I first met that we’d be here today? Well, probably all of you, because we were inseparable from day one. But still, what a journey it’s been to get to this moment. From awkward first date nerves to standing here today as husbands, it’s been the most incredible ride, and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Compliment your partner: [Groom’s Name], you are, quite simply, the love of my life. You’re kind, selfless, patient, and (most importantly) I’ve never met anyone who can tear up a dancefloor like you. You make every day better just by being yourself, and more than that, you’ve taught me to be myself. Deeply and unapologetically, I love you.
Thank your family: To our families—thank you. Thank you for your love, your support, and for always being there for us. You’ve been our cheerleaders, our advisors, and occasionally, our referees. To my family, you’ve shaped me into the person I am today, and I’m so grateful for the love and acceptance you’ve shown not just me, but [Groom’s Name] as well.
To [Groom’s Name]’s family, thank you for raising such an incredible human being. Your warmth, wisdom, and humour have made me feel like one of the family from the very beginning.
This might not have been what you expected when you thought about your son’s wedding day. But have you ever seen him happier?
Thank the wedding party: To our best friends, thank you. You’ve all been there since day dot, acting as our cheerleaders, supporters, and confidants. You’ve supported us every step of the way, and today wouldn’t have been half as magical without you by our sides. Your friendship means everything to us, and we’re so grateful for each and every one of you.
Express gratitude to the guests: To our gorgeous guests, thank you. Your love, your acceptance, and your support have been the greatest gift we could ever ask for. You’ve shown us that love isn’t just something you feel—it’s something you share, and we’re lucky to be surrounded by so much of it today.
And, as an aside, don’t you all scrub up well? Thank you for looking so fabulous. I for one am beyond excited for the photographs!
Time for a toast: One final thing from me, and then I’ll let you all get drunk: let’s take a moment to truly appreciate what today is all about. It’s about love—unapologetic, unconditional, unstoppable love. It’s about finding that one person who makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.
Today is about celebrating that love, not just between [Groom’s Name] and me, but the love we share with all of you. You’re the people who have made us laugh when we needed it most, supported us when we felt unsure, and cheered us on every step of the way. You’ve already made this day unforgettable.
So, let’s raise a glass—to friendship that lifts us up, to family that grounds us, and to love in every beautiful form it takes. Here’s to love, here’s to us, and here’s to an absolutely fabulous party. Cheers!
The groom’s speech is your opportunity to thank everyone around you for their involvement and support with your wedding.
Take the time to personalise your speech, infuse it with genuine compliments, and practice, practice, practice! Strike a balance between sincerity and light-heartedness, and let the love and happiness that fills your special day shine through. Remember: keep it upbeat, keep it clean, and deliver it with confidence.
If you’re still unsure where to start, sign up to Bridebook for some top tips, tricks, and inspiration for writing a brilliant groom’s speech.! Best of luck!
He’s your best mate. Your partner in crime. You’re brothers in spirit, if not always in blood. And now, you’re his best man. Congratulations!
The honour of being the best man is a true testament to your friendship and the faith the groom puts in you. The best way to pay him back is to write a best man speech that will have everyone in stitches and teary-eyed at the same time.
Writing a best man’s speech might not be easy for everyone. But there’s no need to panic! Whether you were born for the stage or a little more reserved, we’ve got the best man speech ideas and examples to help you get started. Prepare to craft the perfect speech to make your guests laugh, cry, and reminisce on your best friend’s big day.
The best man speech is a speech made by the best man during the wedding reception. It should be about 5 minutes long and include some anecdotes, jokes, and your favourite memories about the groom. These stories should highlight your friendship, adventures, and any lessons you’ve learned together.
The best man’s speech is usually third in the order of speeches: first is the father of the bride’s speech; second is the groom’s speech; and third is the best man’s speech. It can be delivered after the main meal or between courses. This will give guests a break from the monotony of long speeches and capture the attention of everyone present.
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your best man speech:
Thick as thieves. Engage the guests from the get-go with captivating stories about your time with the groom. It’s the perfect time to share your adventures and describe your escapades surrounded by the people who love your groom the most. It’s important to strike the right balance between sharing your craziest moments and not embarrassing the groom too much on their special day!
Share their story. You likely knew the groom before he met his partner bride. Try sharing some stories of how they met, when he decided to propose, or when he told you they were the one. These special, intimate moments will no doubt make the couple smile and pull at the guest’s heartstrings.
A playful roast. Throw in a few light-hearted (and appropriate) jabs at the groom. Keep it clean; keep it playful. The goal is to make everyone laugh, including the groom himself. Balance the teasing with genuine admiration, support, and love, and you won’t go far wrong.
Toast the happy couple. Raise your glass and lead the crowd in a toast to the couple’s future health and happiness. It’s the perfect opportunity to end your speech on a high note and leave everyone feeling uplifted.
Following a clear structure can help you feel more confident when writing a best man’s speech. Try using this structure to get you started:
Introduction
The first part of your speech should be focused on introducing yourself and explaining your relationship to the groom. You’re his best man, but are you also his childhood best friend, partner in crime, brother, or new brother-in-law?
This is your opportunity to build rapport with your audience and share some light-hearted anecdotes about how you met or your journey so far.
Acknowledge the happy couple
Once you’ve introduced yourself, it’s time to shift your focus to the happy couple. This is the perfect opportunity to highlight how beautiful the bride looks and how much you admire her positive qualities. Express how happy you are for the newlyweds, your excitement for their special day, and explain how the bride has positively influenced the groom’s life.
Stories and anecdotes
The next portion of your speech should be concerned with sharing your favourite stories about the groom. These stories could showcase his character, quirks, and any memorable moments you’ve shared.
Balance your jokes with sincerity, ensuring the stories reflect the groom’s best qualities, highlight your friendship, and don’t embarrass him too much in front of his new family!
Reflect on your friendship
This portion of your speech should talk about how you’ve supported one another through the trials of life. You should discuss how you met, the lessons you’ve learned together, and how much your friendship means to you.
Although these types of speech may not come naturally to all, today is a sentimental day and the perfect opportunity to express your gratitude for their friendship over all these years.
Closing and toast
Now is the time to close your speech and raise a toast to the happy couple. Thank all the guests for attending, express gratitude to the couple’s parents, and end on a heartfelt note before raising your glass to the happy couple. Cheers, you did it!
Best man speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Don’t stress. It’s natural to feel nervous when making a speech in front of a large group. However, keep in mind that you couldn’t ask for a better audience! The guests will have already listened to two speeches, are expecting yours, and are likely to have met you before. Take deep breaths, speak slowly and clearly, and maintain eye contact with the audience. Remember, everyone is there to support you, and the couple will appreciate your efforts regardless.
Respect boundaries. Avoid sensitive or controversial topics that could offend or upset anyone in attendance. Some light-hearted roasting is appropriate, but stay away from any stories that may embarrass the couple or make them uncomfortable. If in doubt, check with the groom what stories he’s happy for you to use and disclose beforehand. This way, you can make sure he’s comfortable with the stories you’ll share while keeping your speech’s content a secret.
Practice makes perfect. As with anything – practice makes perfect! Rehearse your speech multiple times before the big day. Try practising in front of a mirror, to trusted friends, or even record yourself making the speech to watch back. This will help you feel more comfortable, ensure a smooth delivery, and help you remember the key points you want to cover. If you’re still feeling anxious, check out our speech delivery skills to help you prepare for your best man’s speech.
Toasting etiquette. This may be one of the first times you’re instigating a toast, so it’s important to have proper toasting etiquette. When raising a toast, ensure your glass is filled with the drink of your choice beforehand. This is traditionally champagne. However, prosecco or a non-alcoholic fizzy drink is also acceptable. Make eye contact with the couple and raise your glass towards them. Encourage others to join in by signalling or making a simple gesture.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of great best man wedding speech ideas, from the short and simple, to the funny and personal!
A lot of traditional best man speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to the groom’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Example 1: Classic best man speech
Introduction: Hello, hello, hello everyone. Is everyone having a good time? My name is [Your Name] and I have the incredible privilege of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man.
Reflect on your friendship: Now, let’s start by saying, being [Groom’s Name]’s best man is no small honour— it’s huge. I mean, out of all the people he knows, all the people he could have chosen to stand up here and speak… he picked me. Which either means I’m the most qualified, or the least likely to tell his more embarrassing stories. Sorry to disappoint, mate!
[Groom’s Name] and I go way back. We met when we were 5, and from the very beginning, I knew he was someone special. Mainly because he beat me at Mario Kart and never let me forget it. But in all seriousness, growing up together has been one of the greatest gifts of my life.
Stories and anecdotes: When we were about 10, [Groom’s Name] was absolutely convinced he could teach me how to backflip into a pool. Spoiler alert: he could not. But he stuck by me, encouraging me every time I belly-flopped. And that about sums him up— always cheering others on, even when it’s pointless and a little bit reckless.
Acknowledge the happy couple: As we grew older, I watched [Groom’s Name] become the man he is today. He’s a loyal friend, a generous soul, and now, the luckiest guy in the room. Because let’s be real, [Bride’s Name], you are absolutely stunning, intelligent, and everything a man could hope for. The fact that you’ve chosen to marry him is proof that love is blind, but hey, we’ll take it! Joking aside, you two are perfect together. The way you look at each other, take care of each other, and love each other is a genuine inspiration to everyone here today.
Closing and toast: So, everyone— please will you join me in a toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. May your love continue to grow, may your adventures together be endless, and may [Groom’s Name] finally learn how to put his boxers in the washing basket.
To love, laughter, and happily ever after! Cheers!
Example 2: Brother’s best man speech
Introduction: Good evening, everyone! For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I have the absolute pleasure of being [Groom’s Name]’s brother. And, as tradition dictates, his best man. Now, when I got the call to take on this prestigious role, I was thrilled. But let’s be honest, I probably would have started World War 3 if I hadn’t got it, so…
Stories and anecdotes: Growing up as [Groom’s Name]’s brother has been an experience, to say the least. He was always the one with the big ideas, the wild plans, and, occasionally, the questionable decisions. I remember when we were kids, [Groom’s Name] convinced me that Mum would be absolutely fine with it if we brought home these two fox cubs we found in the garden. I won’t lie, they were pretty difficult to wrangle. I think we lured them into the house with a bit of ham on some string in the end, but it didn’t take long for Mum to figure out what we were up to. Let’s just say, the foxes had a better chance of staying than we did that evening.
That’s [Groom’s Name] for you—always full of schemes, ideas, and a knack for turning an ordinary day into an unforgettable adventure (or complete chaos, as Mum called it).
Reflect on your friendship: But it wasn’t all mischief and madness. [Groom’s Name] has always had a big heart to match those big ideas. Like the time he spent an entire weekend building me a treehouse because I’d been grounded and couldn’t leave the garden—despite the fact it collapsed the moment I climbed into it.
He’s the kind of brother who would go to the ends of the Earth for the people he cares about, even if you’re 80% sure he’s the reason you got grounded in the first place.
Acknowledge the happy couple: Now, let’s talk about [Bride’s Name]. From the moment you came into his life, it was like something shifted in him. Suddenly, this guy who used to leave the milk out and wear socks that didn’t match started showing signs of being… responsible. You’ve clearly had quite an effect on him, and for that, I owe you a massive thank you.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses tonight, let’s toast to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of love, health, and adventures—hopefully without any foxes this time. May your lives be filled with joy, your home always be warm, and your ham always stay on the plate, where it belongs.
Example 3: Childhood best man speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, and everyone in between—good evening! My name is [Your Name], and I’m so proud to be here today as [Groom’s Name]’s best man. When [Groom’s Name] asked me to take on this role, I was deeply honoured. But more importantly, I knew this was my golden opportunity to share a few of the greatest hits from our childhood. Get ready, this is going to be fun.
Stories and anecdotes: Growing up with [Groom’s Name] was bonkers. There was always laughter, always chaos, and usually, one of us doing something we definitely shouldn’t have been doing. Take, for example, the time we decided it would be a brilliant idea to turn our bikes into “rocket bikes.” All it took was a couple of fireworks, some duct tape, and absolutely zero adult supervision.
We were convinced we’d invented something revolutionary—right up until the moment the fireworks went off and [Groom’s Name] ended up in the neighbour’s rose bushes. Two ruined bikes and a lot of TCP later, we learnt a valuable lesson: leave rocket science to NASA. But honestly, that was the magic of growing up with [Groom’s Name]. Life was never boring, and there was always a story to tell—even if it involved a bit of pain and a lot of explaining to Mum.
Reflect on your friendship: But for all the wild plans, [Groom’s Name] has always been the guy who’d do anything for the people he loves. He’s got this knack for turning the smallest moments into adventures and making you feel like you’re part of something special. You really are the life and soul, and I’m grateful for every moment of our wacky childhood.
Acknowledge the happy couple: But, of course, all good things must come to an end. Well, almost all good things—because one wild chapter of [Groom’s Name]’s life may be wrapping up, but today marks the beginning of an even better one with [Bride’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, when I first heard about [Bride’s Name], I was a bit sceptical. Not because of her, but because I thought, “Who in their right mind would willingly sign up for [Groom’s Name]’s shenanigans?” But then I met you, [Bride’s Name], and it all made sense.
You’re kind, funny, and you’ve clearly got the patience of a saint. You not only see the best in [Groom’s Name], but somehow, you’ve managed to make him an even better version of himself. Together, you’re the perfect match, and I couldn’t be happier for you both. No one deserves this as much as you.
Closing and toast: On that note, please charge your glasses to the new Mr and Mrs [Surname]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and fireworks in all the right places.
Example 4: Twin’s best man speech
Introduction: Good afternoon, everyone. Are you all having a good time? For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name], and I’m not only the best man, but the Groom’s twin brother.
Stories and anecdotes: Now, if there’s one thing you need to know about being a twin, it’s that it’s a bond unlike any other. Growing up, [Groom’s Name] and I were inseparable. Not by choice, of course—our parents tethered us together with those silly baby reins and dressed us alike until we were old enough to protest. But even after we finally got to pick our own clothes, we were still a team. We’ve shared everything—birthdays, inside jokes, and more than a few questionable decisions.
It probably goes without saying, but [Groom’s name] and I are completely identical. Right down to the freckles on our arms. I know you know where this is going, but Mum, Dad—we have a few confessions.
We swapped places for 5 out of 7 secondary school picture days. Even I don’t know who is who in the Year 10 one.
[Groom’s Name] broke up with my ex for me because I just couldn’t bring myself to do it. I honestly don’t think she noticed.
I took [Groom’s Name]’s driving test for him. To be fair, he’d failed twice already, and I thought, “How hard could it be?” Apparently, harder than I thought, because I failed too.
But, that’s twins for you—always in it together, even when it’s a total disaster.
Reflect on your friendship: But beyond the mischief and the laughs, [Groom’s Name], you’ve always been my rock. We’ve shared every milestone, every challenge, and every triumph. You’ve been my best friend, my sounding board, and the one person I know I can count on, no matter what. Being your twin is the greatest privilege of my life, and I wouldn’t swap it for anything.
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then came [Bride’s Name]. I have to admit, when I first heard about you, [Bride’s Name], I wasn’t sure how anyone could handle [Groom’s Name]. But from the moment I met you, I knew you were perfect for him. You balance him out, keep him on track, and I think you might be the only person who can genuinely tell us apart… or so you say.
You’ve brought out a side of [Groom’s Name] that I’ve never seen before—more thoughtful, more grounded, and, dare I say it, even more in love with life. Together, you’re an unstoppable team, and I couldn’t be happier to welcome you to the family. Though, fair warning: we might still try to rope you into a twin prank or two.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to the incredible bond of love, laughter, and partnership. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making my brother the happiest he’s ever been. And [Groom’s Name], here’s to being the best twin, the best friend, and now, the best husband you can be.
Example 5: Nostalgic best man speech
Introduction: Hi everyone, my name is [Your Name], and I’m lucky enough to be standing here today as [Groom’s Name]’s best man. For those of you who don’t know, [Groom’s Name] and I have been best friends since we were just a couple of kids running around in nursery, with scraped knees, a pocket full of Matchbox cars, and far too much energy.
Reflect on your friendship: Looking back, it’s hard to pinpoint the exact moment we became inseparable. Maybe it was the time we teamed up to build the tallest Lego tower the classroom had ever seen… until someone “accidentally” knocked it over (we never liked that girl). Or maybe it was when we discovered a mutual love for hiding from the teachers during nap time, convinced we were rebels. Whatever it was, it started something that’s lasted a lifetime.
Stories and anecdotes: Growing up together meant sharing all the milestones—big and small. I’ll never forget the time we started our first “business” selling conkers to other kids in the playground. We thought we were entrepreneurs, until the headteacher shut us down for “causing a distraction.” We re-grouped, obviously, and started swelling sweets at break time… but I’m pretty sure that’s what got us in internal exclusion, wasn’t it? Sorry if you didn’t know that, [Groom’s Mum’s Name]. We’re all learning things today.
But, the friendship was a lot more than being told off. In fact, [Groom’s Name] was the most sensitive friend I had. He’s the one I knew I could count on, even when things seemed hopeless. Like the time I lost my first football match and was inconsolable. [Groom’s Name] sat with me, telling me stories and insisting that I’d be the next Beckham—even though we both knew I couldn’t score a goal to save my life.
He’s the sort of person who makes you feel like you can do anything, who’s there when you need them most, and who can make you laugh even when you feel like crying. It’s no wonder that he’s found someone as incredible as [Bride’s Name] to share his life with.
Acknowledge the happy couple: [Bride’s Name], from the moment I met you, I knew you were something special. Not because of any big gesture or because you were clearly far too good for him, but because of the way you looked at [Groom’s Name]. It was as if you already saw the best parts of him—the kindness, the loyalty, the big heart that I’ve been lucky enough to know my whole life. You’re everything he could have hoped for and more, and I’m so proud of you both.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, I’d like to toast to friendship, to love, and to the memories that shape who we are. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making my oldest friend happier than I’ve ever seen him. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for being the brother I chose all those years ago in nursery. To [Groom’s Name] and [Bride’s Name]!
Example 6: Uni days best man speech
Introduction: Hi everyone, isn’t this an amazing day? For those of you I haven’t met yet, my name is [Your Name], and I have the immense privilege of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man. [Groom’s Name] is undoubtedly the closest thing I have to a brother, so I couldn’t be more thrilled to stand here today and celebrate this incredible moment with him and [Bride’s Name].
Reflect on your friendship: Now, [Groom’s Name] and I go way back, but some of my fondest memories are from our university days. Life was never dull with him around. Like the time he decided we should pull an all-nighter to prepare for exams—by which I mean playing FIFA until sunrise and deciding caffeine would somehow help us “absorb and process” information. Did we re-sit that one once… or was it twice? Twice for you, definitely.
Acknowledge the happy couple: Something you might not know is that I played a small part in introducing [Groom’s Name] to [Bride’s Name]. I say “small,” but it was more like divine intervention. Picture this: a university party, a bit too much liquid courage on both sides, and me, ever the wingman, awkwardly blurting out to [Bride’s Name], “You have to meet my mate, [Groom’s Name]. He’s not bad looking once you’ve had a drink.”
Anyway, we turn around, and he’s casually vomiting into the mop bucket. Not his finest hour. But, somehow, [Bride’s Name] saw past that, and they went for a drink the following week. The rest, as they say, is history.
Stories and anecdotes: From there, things only got better—well, mostly. [Groom’s Name] managed to charm [Bride’s Name] with his unique brand of humour, his questionable dance moves, and his uncanny ability to somehow always lose his wallet when it’s his turn to buy drinks.
We went from being a dynamic duo—Nottingham’s answer to Ant and Dec—to [Bride’s Name] joining the team and upgrading us to a proper trio. And let’s be honest, it’s been all the better for it. [Bride’s Name] brought a touch of class, a lot of patience, and, most importantly, someone who could finally keep [Groom’s Name] in check—because goodness knows, I couldn’t do it on my own!
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to the real dynamic duo—[Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]. Here’s to a lifetime of adventures, of laughter, and of teamwork. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making my best mate the happiest man in the room. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for proving that even mop bucket moments can lead to something extraordinary. Here’s to your next chapter. Down in one?!
Example 7: Epic bromance best man speech
Introduction: Well, well, well… where do I begin? What a day this has been already. For those of you who don’t know me, I’m [Your Name], and I’ve had the honour of being [Groom’s Name]’s partner in crime, wingman, and, dare I say it, his second greatest love—after [Bride’s Name], of course.
Stories and anecdotes: I never had a brother, but if I had, I can only hope that he’d have been as brilliant—and as ridiculously infuriating—as [Groom’s Name]. Over the years, we’ve shared everything: laughter, bad decisions, and more than a few late-night kebabs that were definitely a mistake the next morning.
Reflect on your friendship: One of my favourite memories has to be the time we went camping and decided to “live off the land.” For us, this involved trying to forage for berries, getting an upset tummy from drinking dirty lake water, and then calling for a pizza to be delivered directly to the tent. Until you’ve used ‘what3words’ to guide a spotty 17-year-old to your very questionable pop-up tent, you haven’t truly experienced the height of outdoor survival, in my opinion. Bear Grylls doesn’t know what he’s talking about.
And let’s not forget the infamous karaoke night when [Groom’s Name] serenaded the entire pub with his rendition of “Wonderwall.” It was both the worst and best performance I’ve ever seen, and somehow, he convinced the audience to join in. That’s just who he is—charming, unstoppable, and, at times, completely ridiculous. Incidentally, that’s the night he told me he’d met [Bride’s Name].
Acknowledge the happy couple: Now, when I first met her, I knew immediately that things were about to change. [Groom’s Name] had met his match—someone who could keep up with his energy, laugh at his jokes (most of them, anyway), and somehow manage to make him a better version of himself. It wasn’t long before I realised that this wasn’t just a passing romance—this was it.
[Bride’s Name], you’ve not only brought out the best in [Groom’s Name], but you’ve also joined the bromance in the most brilliant way. You’ve made space for our nonsense, even encouraged it at times, and for that, I’m forever grateful. It’s clear to everyone here today that you’re not just his partner—you’re his perfect teammate. I graciously and wholeheartedly pass the torch to you.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to the ultimate partnership. To Mr and Mrs [Surname]. Wishing you the world and more—you deserve it.
Example 8: Ride or die best man speech
Introduction: Go easy on me, everyone. I’m not usually one for speeches. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [Your Name] and I’m [Groom’s Name]’s day one best mate. Our Mums made friends in the hospital because they both had nightmare, awkward babies. Paints a picture, doesn’t it? Anyway, fast forward a few years, and those two awkward babies became inseparable partners-in-crime.
Reflect on your friendship: [Groom’s Name] was the worst influence, and yetthe best friend anyone could ask for. Growing up, if there was trouble to be found, you could bet [Groom’s Name] was leading the charge—with me not far behind, trying to talk him out of it (unsuccessfully, I might add). But the thing about [Groom’s Name] is that no matter how chaotic the situation, he could always get you out of it. He had that gift of the gab, you know? I think the kids now call it ‘rizz’.
Acknowledge the happy couple: I’m pretty sure that’s how he landed [Bride’s Name], in fact. Did you know that this happy couple met at a party where [Groom’s Name] confidently told [Bride’s Name] that he could beat anyone in the room at darts? Now, the problem here was that [Groom’s Name] is absolutely terrible at darts—like, “can’t hit the board to save his life” terrible. But somehow, through sheer charm (and maybe a little strategic sabotage), he managed to turn a humiliating loss into a date with [Bride’s Name].
I want lessons in how you navigated that, by the way, because I think we can all agree—[Bride’s Name] is completely out of his league. What a stunner, and the most beautiful bride we’ve ever seen. But in all seriousness, [Bride’s Name], you’re not just stunning—you’re smart, kind, and, let’s face it, a bit of a miracle worker. You’ve managed to keep [Groom’s Name] grounded, organised, and—most impressively—you’ve got him turning up on time to things. That’s nothing short of magic.
Watching you two together is like watching the perfect double act. [Groom’s Name] brings the chaos, and [Bride’s Name], you bring the calm. Together, you balance each other out in the most brilliant way, and it’s clear to everyone in this room that you’re a team built to last.
Closing and toast: Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, please raise a glass to the newly minted Mr and Mrs. [Surname]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and genuine friendship. To Mr and Mrs. [Surname]!
Example 9: Funny best man speech
Introduction: Hello everyone. [Your Name] here, ready to deliver a blinding best man speech. Let’s get the formalities out of the way—I told [Groom’s Name] I wouldn’t sit down until everyone had had a laugh, so you may as well humour me now. [Pause for polite chuckles.] Lovely, thank you!
Stories and anecdotes: I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for 17 years, can you believe it? And in that time, he’s provided me with endless material for this speech. Honestly, I could stand here all night. But let’s keep it clean and simple, shall we? Take, for example, the time he decided he could teach himself to cook during university. One pan, 9 ingredients, no salt, and a smoke alarm later, I was seriously considering calling the fire brigade. And let’s not even get started on his “spaghetti nuggets.”
Equally, there was the time he decided he could master DIY after watching a couple of YouTube videos. Armed with an IKEA flat-pack shelf and far too much confidence, [Groom’s Name] managed to build something that looked like it belonged in the Tate Modern. Impressive, right? Wrong. It was meant to be a Billy Bookcase.
Reflect on your friendship: But that’s the thing about [Groom’s Name]. Even when his plans go sideways—and they often do—he somehow manages to turn it into a laugh. Whether it’s his dodgy karaoke performances, his insistence that he can beat anyone at pool (he can’t), or his legendary “one more pint” philosophy that has led us to some questionable situations, life with him is never boring.
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then along came [Bride’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, I wasn’t sure how she’d fit into this whirlwind of chaos. But it turns out that she wasn’t just up for the challenge—she embraced it. [Bride’s Name], you’ve brought a whole new dimension to [Groom’s Name]’s life. You’ve somehow managed to make him more organised, more thoughtful, and—dare I say it—almost respectable.
But what’s even more impressive is that you haven’t tried to change him. You love him for exactly who he is—dodgy cooking, wonky shelves, and all. Together, you’ve become the ultimate duo, with [Bride’s Name] providing the calm and the cleverness, and [Groom’s Name] providing… let’s call it the “creative flair.”
Closing and toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name], the perfect team. [Bride’s Name], thank you for making [Groom’s Name] the happiest bloke in the room and for laughing along with all of his antics. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for being the walking punchline we all know and love.
Here’s to a marriage full of love, laughter, and maybe a few more dodgy DIY projects along the way. To [Bride’s Name] and [Groom’s Name]—cheers!
Example 10: Supportive best man speech
Introduction: Well here we are. The big day has finally arrived, and I hope you’re all enjoying yourselves (I certainly am)! For those of you I haven’t met yet, my name is [Your Name] and I have the honour of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man.
Reflect on your friendship: Now, as best man, my job is to stand up here and tell you all about [Groom’s Name]. And trust me, there’s a lot to tell. We’ve been through thick and thin together—he’s my partner in crime, my go-to for a laugh, and, I’d never say this to his face, but a bit of a legend.
I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for over 15 years, and over that time, he’s proven himself to be one of the most loyal, supportive, and downright entertaining people I’ve ever met. If you’re in need of a helping hand, [Groom’s Name] is your guy. Just don’t ask him for directions—because if our road trips are anything to go by, you’ll end up completely lost (but somehow still having the best time of your life…
Stories and anecdotes: And speaking of adventures, one of my favourite memories has to be the time he decided we should train for a marathon. Now, this was coming from a man whose idea of “training” was walking to the fridge and back. Needless to say, it didn’t end well. Two runs in, he declared we’d earned a “cheat week,” which somehow lasted six months. But that’s [Groom’s Name] for you—big plans, endless enthusiasm, and an uncanny ability to turn even the most mundane moments into something unforgettable.
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then along came [Bride’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, when I first met her, I thought, “She’s far too clever to fall for [Groom’s Name].” But somehow, he managed it. And honestly, it’s not hard to see why. [Bride’s Name], you’ve brought out a side of [Groom’s Name] that I didn’t know existed—one that’s more thoughtful, more focused, and even a little bit grown-up.
But what’s even more amazing is how well you complement each other. Together, you’ve created a partnership that’s full of laughter, love, and just the right amount of chaos. [Bride’s Name], you’ve joined our little team and made it so much better.
Closing and toast: Ladies and gentlemen—as the final point of my speech, I’ll ask you to join me in a toast. To love, laughter, and being legally bound to your best mate for life. Look after each other…
Example 11: Short and sweet best man speech
Introduction: Hey everyone. My name is [Your Name], and I have the incredible privilege of being [Groom’s Name]’s best man. I’m not one for speeches, and to be honest, I’ve been pretty nervous about making this. But, when your best mate asks you to stand up and say a few words on the biggest day of his life, you don’t say no, do you? So here we are. I’ll keep it short, I promise, because we all know the real highlight is the free bar.
Reflect on your friendship: I’ve known [Groom’s Name] for 9 years, and in that time, we’ve been through it all—dodgy haircuts, questionable life decisions, and more than a few first dates.
Some of those dates, I’m happy to report, were so bad they’re still a running joke between us. But then, thankfully, along came [Bride’s Name], and suddenly, the joke was on me—because for the first time, [Groom’s Name] was dating someone who actually made sense.
Acknowledge the happy couple: When I first met [Bride’s Name], my immediate thought was, “She’s way too good for him.” And, let’s face it, I was right. But somehow, he managed to charm her with his dad jokes, nerdy hobbies, and relentless optimism. It’s clear to everyone here that they’re a perfect match.
[Bride’s Name], you’ve done what I genuinely thought was impossible: you’ve made [Groom’s Name] a better man. He’s more thoughtful, more organised—sort of—and let’s not forget, more punctual. But most importantly, you make him happy, in a way I’ve never seen before. And honestly, that’s all any of us could ever ask for.
Closing and toast: [Bride’s Name], thank you for putting up with him, and [Groom’s Name], thank you for being the best mate I could have asked for. Here’s to the happy couple—cheers!
Example 12: Best man speech for a bride
Introduction: I’m going to try and get through this without crying, but I’m not promising anything. Ladies and gentlemen, my name is [Your Name], and I have the absolute honour of being the Bride’s best man! I know I know—quirky. But our [Bride’s Name] has never been one to follow tradition.
Reflect on your friendship: And honestly, that’s one of the many things I love about her. [Bride’s Name] has always been unapologetically herself—bold, kind, and completely impossible to ignore (not that you’d ever want to). When she asked me to be her best man, I was floored. And not just because I now had to write a speech—but because it reminded me of how lucky I am to have her in my life.
I’ve known [Bride’s Name] for 22 years, and let me tell you, she’s the kind of person who changes your life just by being in it. From the moment we met, she made me feel seen, understood, and accepted in a way that few people ever have. She’s been my biggest cheerleader, my shoulder to cry on, and the first person to tell me when I’m being completely ridiculous (which is always).
Acknowledge the happy couple: And then along came [Groom’s Name]. Now, I’ll admit, I was very protective when I first met him. After all, [Bride’s Name] isn’t just my best friend—she’s family. But within minutes, it was clear he was something special. The way he looked at her, the way he listened to her, and the way he made her laugh—it was obvious that this wasn’t just some fling. This was the real deal.
[Groom’s Name], you’ve not only made [Bride’s Name] happier than I’ve ever seen her, but you’ve also been the person she deserves—kind, supportive, and absolutely smitten with her. And honestly, it’s been such a joy watching the two of you build a life together, full of love, laughter, and far too many shared snacks that you both pretend don’t count.
Closing and toast: So, as we raise our glasses, let’s toast to two of the best people I know. [Bride’s Name], thank you for being the friend and sister I never knew I needed. And [Groom’s Name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves—and for letting me keep her as my partner in crime, even if I have to share her now. To Mr and Mrs. [Surname]!
The best man speech is the perfect opportunity to share stories of your adventures, honour the groom on his big day, and celebrate the newlyweds’ love.
To write a killer speech, throw in a few (respectful) jokes, compliment the groom’s partner, and keep an upbeat pace. These tips will help you strike a balance between comedy and sincerity and ensure that you leave a lasting impression on their wedding day.
Leave plenty of time to write your speech and look up plenty of best man speech examples. Whether you’re the groom’s brother, friend, or new brother-in-law, these top 12 best man speech examples are sure to inspire your writing.
If you’re still feeling stuck, sign up to Bridebook for some top tips, tricks, and inspiration for writing a brilliant Best Man’s speech. Best of luck!
The father of the bride’s speech is the top Daddy duty on your little girl’s big day. It’s a much-anticipated, heartfelt, and tear-jerking speech filled with joy and bittersweet nostalgia.
But writing a great father of the bride speech can be tricky. How do you strike the right balance between wit and sentimentality? How do you keep your audience engaged after a long wedding service? How do you properly capture your love, pride, and hope for their future in one 5-7 minute speech? Don’t stress. We’ve got you covered.
In this post, we’ve captured everything you need to know about writing a heartfelt and funny wedding speech. We break down what you should include, the structure of the wedding speech, a few top tips, and those 12 all-important examples of brilliant father of the bride speeches.
A father of the bride speech is the speech made by the bride’s father during the wedding reception. It should be 5-7 minutes long and end with a heartfelt toast to the new couple.
The father’s wedding speech is a beautiful mix of happy memories, heartfelt advice, and funny anecdotes about the bride. Typically the father of the bride speech welcomes your new son-or daughter-in-law to the family, is an opportunity for a father to reflect on his relationship with his daughter, and offers some words of wisdom to the happy couple as they start this new journey together.
What should you include in a father of the bride speech?
Here are some key elements you should consider including in your father of the bride speech:
All about the bride. Talk about how wonderful your daughter is. Tell her guests about your love for her, her amazing accomplishments, and fabulous qualities. Be sure to let them know she got it all from you!
Welcome the bride’s partner. This is the perfect opportunity to welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law to the family. Share positive thoughts about them, their character, and your hopes for their future together.
Anecdotes and memories. Remember when your daughter came home a little too merry from her first grown-up party? Or the time she went on holiday and didn’t take any knickers? This is the perfect opportunity to share funny, endearing, or slightly embarrassing memories with your daughter. But remember, the point isn’t to make a joke of her on her special day. Any stories you pick should ultimately highlight the special bond you share.
Some pearls of wisdom and advice. Offer some sage words of wisdom to the newlyweds. Draw from your life experience and share insights about love, marriage, and building a strong, lasting relationship.
When structuring your father of the bride speech, following a clear and organised framework can be helpful. Try using this structure to get you started:
Introduction
The first part of your speech should focus on introducing yourself and thanking everyone for attending. Your role is to ensure that everyone feels welcome and appreciated at the reception.
Take a moment to acknowledge and express gratitude to those who have travelled to attend and those who have supported the wedding, whether morally or financially.
The thank yous
You should then move on to thank those who have helped organise the wedding. Give a shout-out to the bridesmaids, the ushers, and other friends and family who have been involved.
It’s also a nice idea to thank the wedding planner (if they used one) and the staff working on the wedding day. They’re as much a part of making the big day happen as everyone else.
This is also a good opportunity to remember any family members who could not attend or are no longer with you. Keep it upbeat, but it’s a nice way to remember those you’ve lost who were a big part of your daughter’s upbringing.
The bride
Now is the time to discuss your special relationship with your daughter. It’s the perfect chance to talk about her childhood, accomplishments, and the little quirks that make her so special. Share any funny stories or special adventures you’ve shared. These anecdotes will add a touch of nostalgia and humor to your speech, creating a heartfelt connection with the audience.
End this portion of the speech with how proud you are of the person she’s become. Talk about her loving relationship with her new partner, and don’t forget to sprinkle in a genuine compliment about how stunning she looks on her wedding day – a moment that will surely make her smile even brighter.
The happy couple
You should then welcome your new son- or daughter-in-law and their parents to your family.
It’s a great time to talk about the groom and your experiences with them. You can reminisce about the first time you met, share funny moments you’ve shared together, or highlight some of their endearing traits. By including the groom in your speech, you’re showing your support and building a bridge of connection between families.
Some words of wisdom
You should then move on to sharing some pearls of wisdom with the newlyweds.
You can draw from your experiences and the lessons you’ve learned along the way. You can talk about love, commitment, their future, and building a strong family.
If it’s more appropriate, some carefully chosen quotes about love and marriage or a nice reading are also great options. Remember to deliver your words with clarity and calmness, whatever path you choose. This is the penultimate part of your speech; you want to round it off well.
The toast
You should then invite everyone to join you in a toast to the happy couple. Raise your glass, and present the couple with their new shared name. Congratulations, you did it!
Father of the bride speech template
To help you navigate the complete breakdown of your speech, it can be helpful to have a visual guide to refer to. Check out our handy infographic below:
Use this father of the bride speech template to guide your writing
Top tips for delivering a brilliant father of the bride speech
Know where you fit into the overall wedding speech order. The father of the bride traditionally gives the first speech at the wedding reception. That means you go before the groom’s speech and are the first family member to address the guest. How you deliver your speech will set the tone for the rest of the reception, so keep it upbeat, funny, and light-hearted.
Don’t panic! Pre-speech jitters are natural. But remember, this is one of the best audiences you could be put in front of. Everyone there knows your daughter or her new partner, and everyone is there to celebrate and have a good time. Embrace the excitement and joy of the moment, and let that energy carry you through your speech.
Let your own personality shine through. This is a unique opportunity to connect with the audience on a personal level using charm and wit. Inject your speech with your personal touch, sharing heartfelt stories, cherished memories, and insights only you can provide. Embrace your authentic self and let your love for your daughter be the guiding light in your words.
Include a few jokes. Humor can lighten the mood, enhance feelings of joy, and engage the audience. Keep the jokes tasteful and relevant to the occasion. Share some light-hearted anecdotes or playful teasing about the bride or groom, keeping it in good spirits. It’s about making the audience smile and creating connections on this special day.
If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our top 12 examples of great father of the bride speech ideas, from the simple and sentimental to the light-hearted and humorous. And remember that these are just examples. You can use them as templates for your own speech, but it’s important to speak from the heart, and add your own personal touch and unique family anecdotes.
A lot of traditional father of the bride speeches and examples will refer to a bride and groom, but you can simply change the references to your daughter’s partner and the appropriate pronouns if you’re attending an LGBTQ+ wedding.
Example 1: Classic father of the bride speech
Introduction: Good afternoon, friends, family, and neighbours. I’m delighted to be here today at the wedding of my beautiful little girl, [Bride’s name].
The bride: I don’t need to tell any of you here just how special [Bride’s name] is. If you’re here, you already know. [Bride’s name] is just incredible. She has this magical way of lighting up a room, not just with her smile, but with her warmth, her humour, and that little spark of mischief that’s been keeping me on my toes since she was a kid. She’s so different to her brothers, full of crazy ideas and spirit. But, equally, she’s someone who’s always cared deeply about the people in her life, who’s never been afraid to chase her dreams, and who has this unstoppable determination to make the world a little brighter wherever she goes.
I couldn’t be prouder to be here today in front of you all today, watching my little girl start this incredible new chapter of her life. Seeing her so happy, so confident, and so deeply loved— it’s every parent’s dream come true.
The happy couple: I’d also like to speak to [Groom’s name]. From the moment you came into [Bride’s name]’s life, it was clear you were something special. You didn’t just love her, you understood her. You’ve brought out the best in her, supporting her in everything she does with your steadfast reassurance. You’re kind, patient, and with just enough wit to keep up with her, which is no simple feat. Genuinely, welcome to our family. I wouldn’t want anyone else.
The thank yous: That ended up being a lot more emotional than I expected it to be! But, I mean every word from the bottom of my heart.
Speaking of the bottom of my heart, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who’s made today so special. To all the friends and family who’ve travelled to be here. It means the world to us to celebrate this incredible day with you. Weddings aren’t just about two people; they’re about the love and support of everyone around them, and looking out at all of you, it’s clear that [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name] have a pretty amazing team in their corner.
Some words of wisdom: As the final point, I’ll tell you what my father told me on my wedding day: Marriage isn’t about big grand gestures, it’s about the small actions you take every day that make their life a little bit brighter. It’s about making them a cup of tea without being asked, sharing a laugh after a long day, and never forgetting to say “I love you”.
The toast: With that in mind, please raise your glasses to the newly minted Mr & Mrs [Surname].
Example 2: Light-hearted father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hello, hello, hello everyone. Friends, family, strangers who’ve wandered in off the street. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud father of the bride. Now, I say ‘proud,’ but let’s not forget ‘bewildered,’ because how exactly did we get here so fast? It feels like just yesterday that [Bride’s name] was running around in a tutu, insisting she could be a princess, a superhero, and a rock star all at once. Honestly, she kind of pulled it off…
The thank yous: Before we get going I’d like to say a few thank-yous. First, to all of you for being here today—whether you’ve come from near or far, or just turned up for the free food and wine, it means the world to us that you’re here to celebrate [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name].
I’d also like to thank everyone who’s worked so hard to make today so special. From the beautiful decorations to the incredible food, everything has been perfect. Sincerely, thank you so much.
The bride: Now, onto the star of the show. [Bride’s name], what can I say? You’re every father’s dream come true. Funny, clever, beautiful, and a dab hand at an oil change. You’ve always been full of surprises—whether it was your ability to beat your brothers at just about anything, or that phase where you insisted you were going to be a pirate and made us all call you Captain [Bride’s name] for a month. And honestly, seeing you today, so radiant and happy, I can’t help but think, “Yep, she’s still my little superstar.”
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], I know we like to have a joke together, but in all seriousness, I’m just as proud of you as I am of [Bride’s name]. From the moment you came into our family, I knew there couldn’t be anyone else for her. You’re the perfect balance to her crazy energy, and you’ve got a knack for keeping her grounded while still letting her shine. You respect her, you support her, and—most importantly—you know how to handle her competitive streak. Honestly, anyone who can survive a family game night with [Bride’s name] and still come back for more deserves a medal.
Some words of wisdom: And if I could just share a couple of pieces of advice for you both as you embark on this wonderful journey called marriage, here they are. Be each other’s rocks, the other person’s biggest cheerleader. Stand behind them when they need it, and hold their head up when they can’t. Oh, and never underestimate the importance of an spontaneous bunch of flowers.
The toast: Everyone, please charge your glasses to the new, wonderful Mr and Mrs [Surname].
Example 3: Sentimental father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hi everyone, thank you so much for coming. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is [your name] and I’m the very proud father of the bride.
The thank yous: We’ll get the thanks yous out of the way before we all start crying (myself included). First, a huge thank you to everyone who’s travelled to be here today. Whether you came from just down the road or crossed oceans to join us, your presence means the world. This day wouldn’t be the same without each and every one of you. I’d also like to thank everyone who pulled together to make the day so special. From the food to the flowers and everything in between, the day wouldn’t have been possible without all your efforts. Thank you.
The bride: Parents spend a lot of time wondering what this day will be like. Who will they end up with, how will it all unfold, and what will I say when the time comes? Well, let me tell you, [Bride’s name], you’ve turned into someone more wonderful than I could have ever dreamed. I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. You’ve grown into someone who’s not only beautiful on the outside, but also kind, compassionate, and endlessly capable. Watching you navigate life with such grace and humour has been one of my greatest joys as a parent.
The happy couple: Now, let me talk about [Groom’s name]. From the first time we met, I could see what made you so special. You’re thoughtful, genuine, and you’ve got this steady calm about you that balances [Bride’s name] perfectly. You don’t just fit into our family—you’ve added to it in ways we didn’t even know we needed. It’s clear to everyone here that you adore [Bride’s name], and as her parent, I honestly couldn’t ask for more.
Some words of wisdom: I couldn’t be happier for you both. You’re starting this incredible journey together, and if there’s one thing I could share with you about marriage, it’s that the little things are what truly matter. It’s not the big gestures or the grand milestones. Although those are lovely, it’s the small, everyday acts of love and kindness that build a life together. The shared laughs, the quiet moments, and even the compromises about whose turn it is to take out the bins. Embrace every little moment. It’s an incredible journey.
The toast: On that note… if you could all please raise your glasses to the couple of the decade, Mr and Mrs. [Surname].
Example 4: Quirky father of the bride speech
Introduction: Welcome one, welcome all to the happiest day of [Bride’s name]’s life. My name is [your name] and I’m the very proud father of the bride.
The bride: When I think back to watching my beautiful little girl grow up, I can’t help but smile at the sheer whirlwind of personality she brought into our lives. [Bride’s name] was never one to do things by halves. Whether it was her brief yet passionate career as a magician (apologies to the neighbour’s cat for that one) or her insistence that she could set up a lemonade stand and manage the family finances at the age of seven, she’s always been determined, creative, and just a little bit chaotic—in the best way possible. As a teenager, of course, she had a knack for keeping us on our toes. From her “unique” fashion phases (I still have no idea how neon zebra print became a thing in our house) to the time she decided she’d become a world-class ukulele player overnight, life with [Bride’s name] has been anything but boring. And honestly? I wouldn’t change a single second of it.
Today, seeing her standing here, all grown up and radiant, I can’t help but think she’s still that same adventurous, passionate soul—just with better taste in shoes. [Bride’s name], you’ve turned into the kind of person any parent would be proud to call their daughter: kind, funny, and with a heart as big as your ambition.
The happy couple: And then there’s [Groom’s name]. The first time I met him, I thought, “He seems normal enough… let’s see how long that lasts.” Turns out, it wasn’t an act—[Groom’s name] truly is as genuine and good-hearted as he seemed.
What I quickly realised is that [Groom’s name] not only loves [Bride’s name], but he also gets her. He understands her quirks, supports her dreams, and even seems to enjoy her impromptu ukulele serenades. He’s braver than most, I’ll give you that. You’ve become an integral part of our family, [Groom’s name], and for that, we’re truly grateful. Just one piece of advice: always double-check what she’s ordering online after midnight. Trust me on this.
Some words of wisdom: In all seriousness, my main advice would be that marriage is about being a team. It’s not just about love, though that’s a big part of it. It’s about partnership, patience, and biting your tongue when someone insists they definitely know how to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions. It’s about finding joy in the little things like laughing at the same old jokes or getting their favourite biscuits in without asking. You’ll find your rhythm, I know you will.
The thank yous: As a final point from me, I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who made this day possible. To my wife, who graciously returned my cheque book to me, to the wedding planner, who managed to coordinate this beautiful chaos with the precision of a Swiss watch, and to everyone who played a part in making today so special. Genuinely, thank you.
The toast: So, let’s wrap this up before I get too sentimental—or worse, attempt to tell a dad joke. Here’s to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]: may your life together be full of laughter, love, and plenty of biscuits. Cheers!
Example 5: Poetic father of the bride speech
Introduction: Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce myself as the very proud father of [Bride’s name]. As I stand before you today, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions: pride, joy, a touch of nostalgia, and perhaps just a little disbelief at how quickly time has flown. It feels like only yesterday [Bride’s name] was my little girl, with wide eyes and big dreams, and now here she is, beautiful, radiant, and beginning the most wonderful chapter of her life.
The bride: [Bride’s name], from the moment you came into my life, you brought a light that I never knew I was missing. Watching you grow has been one of my greatest privileges. Every laugh, every challenge, every triumph has been a gift. You’ve always been a dreamer, a doer, and someone who leaves the world a little better just by being in it. I couldn’t have been prouder today to give you away to [Groom’s name], who I know will steer you steady through the course of life.
The happy couple: And then there’s [Groom’s name]. The first time I met him, I’ll admit, I had my questions (a father’s prerogative, after all). But it didn’t take long for me to see the depth of his character and the sincerity of his love for [Bride’s name]. He reminded me of the words of Jane Austen: “There is no charm equal to tenderness of heart.” [Groom’s name], you’ve shown us all your tender heart—not just in how you love [Bride’s name] but in how you’ve embraced our family. Truly, we are blessed to have you.
The thank yous: Thank you to everyone who made this day so special. Your presence, presents, and kindness have not gone unnoticed.
Some words of wisdom: I wish you the very best on your journey through life together. Today I am blessed to be able to share my wisdom with you, and this is: Marriage is a delicate balance of independence and togetherness. Remember, communicate openly, forgive freely, a little space is no bad thing, and never lose sight of the friendship that brought you together in the first place.
The toast: Ladies, gentlemen, and non-binary friends, please raise your glasses to the new Mr. and Mrs. [Surname].
Example 6: Thoughtful father of the bride speech
Introduction: Friends, family, esteemed guests… Welcome, to the wonderful wedding of [Bride’s name], my little girl, and [Groom’s name]. I cannot tell you how proud I am to be here today, representing my wonderful daughter on the happiest day of her life.
The thank yous: We’ll get the thank yous out of the way before I lose the ability to speak, no doubt. First off, thank you to everyone who’s made the effort to be here today. Whether you’ve travelled miles or just popped over from down the road, your presence means everything to us. This day wouldn’t be the same without the love and laughter you’ve all brought into this room.
A special thank you to everyone who’s worked so hard behind the scenes to make today so beautiful—the flowers, the food, the music—it’s all been perfect, hasn’t it? And a big thank you to [Groom’s name]’s family for welcoming [Bride’s name] into your hearts. Knowing she’s joining such a kind and supportive family makes this day even more special.
The bride: Now, let’s talk about [Bride’s name]. Where do I even begin? From the moment she came into my life, she turned my world upside down in the best possible way. She’s always been a little spark of joy, full of energy, mischief, and, let’s be honest, more than a few strong opinions. Growing up, she kept me on my toes—from her wild ideas about turning the garden shed into a “pet sanctuary” to her unwavering belief that glitter made everything better (and our carpets still haven’t recovered). But through it all, she’s shown a kindness and determination that I’ve always admired.
[Bride’s name], seeing you today, all grown up and glowing with happiness, I can’t help but feel a little emotional. You’ve become such an incredible person—strong, compassionate, and with a laugh that lights up the room. You’ve always been my little girl, but today, I’m handing you over to someone who I know will cherish and support you as much as I do.
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], let me just say, you’ve set the bar pretty high. The first time I met you, I could tell you were someone special. You weren’t just polite and charming; you had this calm confidence about you that told me you were here for the long haul. It’s been clear from the start how much you love [Bride’s name], but what’s even more important to me is how you understand her. You get her quirks, her passions, and her occasional stubborn streak (good luck with that, by the way). In all seriousness, I couldn’t wish for a better son-in-law, so thank you.
Some words of wisdom: If I can offer you one piece of advice, it’s this: don’t sweat the small stuff. Marriage isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up every day for each other, even when life gets messy. Be each other’s biggest supporters, keep laughing together, and don’t let anyone or anything come between you. You’re an unshakeable team, and I know you’ll do just fine.
The toast: Ladies and gentlemen, please raise your glasses to the health, wealth, and happiness of the new Mr and Mrs. [Surname].
Example 7: Personal father of the bride speech
Introduction: Well… what a day this has already been. Can you believe we’re here? Because I certainly can’t. Where has my little girl gone? My little girl who used to run around the house with mismatched socks and a million questions… I can’t help but reflect on how we got to this moment.
The thank yous: Before we get going, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this day possible. From the bar staff to the priest and everyone in between, this day has been truly magical. Fit for a princess, truly.
The bride: Now, my [Bride’s name]. My little girl. You’ve grown into the most incredible woman—kind, smart, and strong—and yet, in my eyes, you’ll always be that little whirlwind of energy, full of curiosity and laughter. Watching you today, glowing, looking so happy, it’s hard not to feel a lump in my throat (and not just because of the speech nerves, I promise!).
You’ve taken every stage of your life in your stride, and today is no different. Seeing the love between you and [Groom’s name], it’s clear you’ve met your match. He makes your eyes sparkle and your laugh just a little louder. That’s all a dad could ever want for his daughter, to find someone who treasures her as much as we do.
The happy couple: To [Groom’s name], welcome to the family, mate. You’ve passed the ultimate test: her mother likes you. But truly, you’ve not only won her heart but ours as well. Seeing how happy you make her—it’s all we’ve ever wanted for her. As I stand here looking at you both, I can see the perfect balance you bring to each other. [Bride’s name], you’ve found someone who loves and respects you for the amazing person you are, and [Groom’s name], you’ve got yourself a partner who will stand by your side no matter what life throws at you. Together, you’re a force to be reckoned with, and I have no doubt that the future holds incredible things for you both.
Some words of wisdom: It won’t always be smooth sailing, of course. Marriage isn’t. But if you keep steering your ship with love, patience, and a good sense of humour, you’ll always find your way back to calm waters.
The toast: To Mr. and Mrs [Surname]. Wishing you a lifetime of love, laughter, and maybe a little bit of chaos because let’s face it, it keeps things interesting. Here’s to your happily ever after!
Example 8: Humorous father of the bride speech
Introduction: Time for the main event! I’m joking, of course. I know you’re all here for the cake. My name is [your name], and I’m the very proud, if a little emotional, father of the bride, and it’s my absolute pleasure to stand here today and say a few words.
The bride: Now, I have to start by saying how stunning [Bride’s name] looks today. Absolutely radiant, isn’t she? It’s hard to believe this is the same person who used to think that tidying her room meant shoving everything under the bed or into that chair—you know the one. The one where clothes go to die.
Growing up, [Bride’s name] was always the queen of organised chaos. Shoes in the fridge? Sure. Homework on the dog? Why not? But somehow, she always managed to keep it together, even if her surroundings didn’t. And you know what? That’s one of the things I love most about her. She’s not perfect—thank goodness, because none of us are—but she’s real, she’s genuine, and she’s got a heart as big as this room.
The happy couple: Now, let’s talk about the other star of the show—[Groom’s name]. From the moment I met you, I could see how much you loved [Bride’s name]. It’s in the way you look at her, the way you laugh at her jokes—even the bad ones—and how you’re always there to lift her up. You’re the kind of person every parent hopes their child will find: someone who will cherish, respect, and challenge them. So, thank you for loving [Bride’s name] the way you do.
The thank yous: Thank you to all of you, too. Everyone who has travelled from afar, everyone who helped make this day as special as it is. From the venue staff to the florist, and of course, the catering team, who ensured we’ve all been very well fed. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, so thank you.
Some words of wisdom: But the biggest thanks of all go to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. Not just for giving us an excuse to dress up and eat cake, but for reminding us all what love and partnership look like. You’ve brought all of us together today, and I think we can all agree—it’s been a pretty spectacular day.
The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to the happy couple: may your lives be filled with love, laughter, and maybe a tiny bit of tidiness (but only if it doesn’t cramp your style). To [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]! Cheers!
Example 9: Heartfelt father of the bride speech
Introduction: Testing, testing… No, I’m joking. I know it’s on. Welcome, everyone to this special day. My name is [your name], and I’m the bride’s father. Honestly, I couldn’t be prouder to say that. What a moment this is in a father’s life.
The thank yous: Before we get started, I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who made this magical day possible. From the venue staff to the florist, the caterers, and everyone who worked behind the scenes. You’ve all helped create a day that’s nothing short of perfect.
The bride: [Bride’s name], you look absolutely stunning today. I mean, you always look lovely to me, but today you’ve outdone yourself. Watching you grow up has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. From the little girl with scraped knees and a fearless spirit to the incredible woman sitting here now… It’s been quite a journey, hasn’t it? And I couldn’t have been prouder to hold your hand throughout.
The happy couple: Until, of course, you met [Groom’s name]. From the moment we first met him, it was obvious he was something special. He’s got that steady, grounded way about him that balances out your whirlwind energy perfectly. And I’ve seen the way he looks at you, with so much love and admiration…. It’s all I could have ever hoped for you.
Some words of wisdom: Looking at the two of you, I’m filled with so much hope for the life you’re about to build together. If I can, I’d love to give you a little advice: Always dance in the kitchen. Even if there’s no music. Especially if there’s no music. Those silly, unexpected moments will remind you why you chose each other. Don’t just love each other—like each other. Be friends, partners in crime, and the person the other one wants to call with the good news, the bad news, and the “you won’t believe what just happened!”
And finally, remember that it’s the little things that matter most. Not the big gestures, but the everyday kindnesses. Like letting the other have the last slice of pizza, even when you really, really want it. Those are the things that build a lifetime together.
The toast: Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a toast to the new Mr and Mrs [Surname]. I couldn’t think of anyone who deserves this more.
Example 10: Candid father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hello, everyone. Welcome to the wedding of [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. What a beautiful day this has been so far—and what an emotional one, too. I’ve been doing my best to hold it together, but seeing my little girl all grown up and starting this incredible new chapter… Well, let’s just say it’s a good thing I didn’t wear mascara.
The bride: [Bride’s name]. I love you. I know I don’t say that enough, but I could say it a million times and it still wouldn’t have been enough. As your dad, it’s been my greatest privilege to walk alongside you, to cheer you on, to wipe the occasional tear (and maybe cause a few when I said no to a hamster). Watching you grow into the woman you are today—strong, funny, and with a heart so big it barely fits in this room—has been nothing short of amazing.
There’s a bond between a father and his daughter that’s hard to put into words. It’s love, pride, and the occasional panic when you first ask for the car keys. But it’s also unshakable, no matter how far life takes you. And while today marks a new chapter in your life, know this: you’ll always be my little girl. Always.
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], thank you. I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of her love. You and I both know that [Bride’s name] isn’t just any woman. She’s a force of nature. She’s clever, compassionate, and a little stubborn at times. But that’s part of what makes her so remarkable. And seeing the way you love her, not despite those qualities but because of them, fills me with so much joy.
From the moment I saw the way you looked at her, I knew. You weren’t just a boyfriend or a fiancé, you were her partner in every sense of the word. You’ve brought a calm, steady presence into her whirlwind world, and for that, I’ll always be grateful.
Some words of wisdom: So, to wrap this up—because I know no one wants to see me cry—I just want to say this: Marriage is a journey, and like all great journeys, it’s made up of small, everyday moments. Make those moments count. Laugh often, forgive easily, and never stop holding hands.
The thank yous: Thank you to everyone who helped out with today. What a fabulous day it’s been so far.
The toast: Let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. [Bride’s name], you’ve always been my little girl, and while today you’re taking on a new title, “wife”, you’ll never lose that special place in my heart. And [Groom’s name], thank you for loving her the way she deserves. Together, you two are unstoppable, and I can’t wait to see the incredible life you’ll build.
Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and the little moments that make it all worthwhile. May you always find joy in each other, even when the socks don’t match and the Wi-Fi’s gone down. To [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]—cheers!
Example 11: Short and sweet father of the bride speech
Introduction: Hello, ladies and gentlemen. Are you all having a good time? My name is [your name] and I’m the bride’s father. I’m not one for speeches, so if it’s ok with you, I’ll keep it short and sweet.
The thank yous: A huge thank you to everyone who has made this wonderful day possible. It’s already been a day to remember, and I can’t wait for tonight to see everyone’s dodgy dance moves. Whether you travelled from afar, cooked the whole menu, or even just turned up ready to celebrate, thank you. It means the world to all of us, and I know it means the world to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name].
The bride: [Bride’s name]. Look at you. My little girl, and now all grown up. I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. From day dot, you’ve been an absolute superstar, full of life, laughter, and just a little stubbornness. You’re more than I ever could have dreamed of, and you are truly my greatest achievement.
The happy couple: [Groom’s name], what can I say? You’re the perfect match for my daughter. You make her laugh, you support her dreams, and most importantly, you seem to have mastered the art of letting her win an argument now and then. That’s a skill that will serve you well! Welcome to the family—it’s a slightly chaotic but very loving one, and we’re thrilled to have you in it.
Some words of wisdom: Life will throw its surprises at you—both wonderful and challenging—but if you tackle them together, with a bit of patience and a lot of humour, you’ll be just fine. Oh, and remember, [Groom’s name], the answer to “Does this dress make me look…?” is always no.
The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Bride’s name] and [Groom’s name]. May your life be filled with love, laughter, and just enough surprises to keep things interesting. And may you always find your way back to each other, even if someone’s gone and nicked the last slice of cake.
Example 12: Gender-neutral father of the bride speech
Introduction: Welcome, welcome, welcome everyone to the wonderful wedding of [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. Isn’t this a spectacular day? I couldn’t be prouder to be stood here today as [Child’s name]’s father, celebrating this incredible moment with all of you. Honestly, what a privilege it is to be part of such a special day, surrounded by so much love, joy, and probably a fair bit of prosecco.
The thank yous: First off, let me say a massive thank you to everyone who’s helped make today what it is. From the stunning venue to the delicious food and the flowers that I definitely can’t name but know look amazing—what an effort. And to all of you, thank you for showing up with your best outfits and your biggest smiles. It’s a real testament to how much love [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name] inspire.
The happy couple: Now, let’s talk about the stars of the show: [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. You two are a perfect match, like tea and biscuits or a Friday night and a takeaway. Watching your relationship grow has been like watching the best kind of rom-com—one that’s full of laughter, a bit of bickering over what to watch on Netflix, and a whole lot of love.
[Child’s name], I’ve always known you were destined for something extraordinary. You’ve always had this spark, this way of lighting up a room and making people feel instantly at ease. And then you met [Partner’s name]. From the moment I saw you two together, it was clear—this wasn’t just a spark. This was a full-on firework display.
[Partner’s name], thank you for loving my child as deeply as you do. You’ve not just joined our family—you’ve completed it.
Some words of wisdom: So, here’s a bit of advice from someone who’s been around the block a few times: Life is unpredictable. There will be highs, there will be lows, and there will definitely be arguments over who left the milk out. But if you keep choosing each other—every single day—you’ll weather anything that comes your way.
And don’t forget to keep laughing, even when the dishwasher’s broken, or someone’s forgotten to replace the loo roll. Laughter is the glue that holds it all together.
The toast: So, let’s raise a glass to [Child’s name] and [Partner’s name]. May your days be full of joy, your nights full of laughter, and your love for each other only grow stronger. And may you always find a reason to celebrate— big or small, rain or shine. To the happy couple— cheers!
Start planning your father of the bride speech today!
The father of the bride speech is one of the most anticipated parts of the wedding reception. It’s your chance to tell the world how amazing your little girl is and how proud you are of her.
Make sure you leave plenty of time to plan your wedding speech. This way, you know you’ll be happy with the content and have plenty of time to practice. Follow a time-honoured structure, throw in a few jokes, and let your personality shine through. You’ve got this!
If you’re still feeling nervous, we can support you in writing a brilliant father of the bride speech. Whether you want to keep it simple or make it funny and heartfelt, we have plenty of wedding speech ideas to give you inspiration. Sign up to Bridebook today and write a cracking speech!
Now that couples in the UK can legally get married outdoors, wedding marquees are growing in popularity. If you dreamed of getting married in the middle of a vineyard or deep within the rolling British countryside, you can!
But, thanks to the great British weather being as volatile and unpredictable as it is, you won’t want to risk a washout in the event it decides to drizzle… or worse.
That’s where a wedding marquee comes in. It’s a fantastic way to add cover and customisation to your wedding. Even if you’re not getting married outside, many couples hire a marquee anyway to add more indoor space to their venue.
If the cost is putting you off of having a marquee at your wedding, then don’t start making alternative plans just yet. In this post, we’re going to take a look at how you can save money on a wedding marquee and what you need to look out for so as not to exceed your budget.
Is it cheaper to hire a marquee for your wedding instead of hiring a venue?
In general, the cost of a marquee can be more affordable than hiring a venue. The average cost of a wedding venue is £9,877 with catering included, and £6,084 without catering. But, if you’re not careful, then the costs involved with a marquee can spiral, which means it might not be any kinder to your budget. Hiring an all-inclusive venue which includes catering can often be the most cost-effective option overall (as just hiring a marquee won’t factor this in).
There are a variety of different marquee types you can hire for your wedding, which includes everything from a tipi to a circus tent. Generally, the more premium it is, the more customisable it is, and the more difficult to transport and set up it is, the more expensive it will be to hire.
One of the cheapest types of marquee to hire is a circus-style tent – costs at Bigtopmania start from as low as £100. But, if you’re looking for something a little less niche, a traditional marquee, a clearspan marquee or a pole marquee are among the most affordable. However, the costs will generally start at around £1,500+ for each, depending on the size you need. Of course, the more guests you invite, the larger your marquee will need to be.
Can you save money by buying a marquee rather than hiring?
Large marquees are expensive, so it more than likely won’t save you any money if you decide to buy one, and even cost more. You may be able to buy a marquee for around £500, but it won’t nearly be big enough to host your wedding – in fact, a marquee for that amount will probably fit in your average back garden.
If you’re looking to hire a marquee that will accommodate 100 guests, it’s far more budget-friendly to hire one rather than buy one. Hiring costs will also include setup and takedown fees and you won’t have to worry about where you’re going to store your marquee once your wedding’s over.
When compared to hiring a venue, a marquee can initially seem like a far more affordable option. But, it’s important to bear in mind that hire costs don’t include the site rental, power generator, staff, toilet hire, furniture hire or insurance costs. You may also need to hire a second marquee for the catering staff, which can significantly add to your costs.
It may be another additional cost, but you will need to secure marquee insurance in the event something unexpected happens on your big day. Insurance will cover you and your guests, and while it’s yet another thing to pay for, it could potentially save you many thousands. If you have wedding insurance (which we really recommend) then you should check with your insurer if your marquee is included in this cover (as basic cover rarely includes). The good news is that you can add marquee cover as an additional premium… the not-so-good news is that it will cost – usually around £50 on top of what you’re already paying.
If a marquee is a big part of your wedding plans, then there are ways you can save money. Here are five tips to help you spend less on a wedding marquee so you can have your dream wedding without breaking the back.
1. Hire from a company outside of London
When deciding on a cheap marquee rental company to hire if you’re on a tight budget, try to choose one that isn’t based in London. As with most professional services and vendors, those located in London naturally cost a little (or a lot) more than those found outside the capital. The same applies to hiring a marquee – after all, storing a marquee when it’s not set up takes up a huge amount of space, which is expensive for London businesses. If you can, hire a local company or one that doesn’t call anywhere inside the M25 their home.
2. Avoid peak dates
Just like with any other vendor or service you may hire for your wedding, including your venue and caterers, if your wedding takes place during peak times, it will cost more – sometimes several thousands more. The most popular times to get married are during the summer months and at the weekend, so if you’re thinking about getting married during either (or both) of these then expect to pay more for marquee rental when competition is highest.
If you can, consider getting married during off-peak times, such as during the winter or midweek. Hiring a marquee for a Tuesday wedding in February will be considerably kinder to your budget than a Saturday wedding in August.
3. Make good use of the space
As you’ve no doubt realised, marquees can be pretty huge – especially if you want one that fits 100 guests. However, it’s important to remember that you and your guests won’t be the only bodies inside your marquee. You also have to consider the staff you hire, including where the catering team is going to prepare your food, and if there’s room for a DJ and dance floor.
So, you may need to go one or two sizes bigger to make sure all the relevant vendors have room, too. If not, then be prepared to hire a second, smaller marquee – which could cost you even more.
The good news is, you can get creative with the space to prevent the need for going bigger. For example, during the wedding breakfast, you can put tables on the dance floor which can be quickly moved out of the way before the evening reception. With a little musical chairs action you can get the most out of the space you have, which will save you some money.
4. Make your booking early (or late!)
Hiring a marquee for a wedding is growing in popularity, especially since laws in the UK changed to allow couples to get married wherever they like. As a result, marquee rental companies tend to fill up their availability many months in advance. If you’re keen to hire a marquee, then make sure you secure your booking early – the closer to the date you book, the more expensive it can be (not to mention more difficult to find availability). Plus, if you book really early you might even be able to secure a juicy discount.
Another important tip when making your booking: ensure the price you’re quoted is fixed so it won’t go up at a later date due to inflation or other reasons.
5. Book a package deal
Remember earlier in this article when we mentioned how, on top of the costs involved with hiring your marquee, there were additional costs on top of this? Well, some wedding marquee vendors, such as Capri Marquees, Tailor-made Marquees and Grice Foster event hire, offer package deals that include many of these extras, such as furniture, decor and power. Booking a package will be far more budget-friendly than booking each part from a separate vendor.
That said, make sure you take the time to compare both options to make sure you really are getting the best deal in your specific situation.
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The soundtrack to your wedding is one that you’ll remember forever. From the soft and soothing music as the two of you lock eyes for the first time on the big day, to the crowd-pleasing bangers your guests will dance to throughout the night, music plays a huge part in a wedding.
But, with music being such a vital part of your wedding, it might be a non-negotiable for you and your spouse-to-be. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can save money if you’re on a more restrictive budget.
In this post, we’re going to take a look at how you can save money on music at your wedding while still making sure your day hits all the right notes.
Music literally plays such a big part in your wedding day. There’s music playing as your guests arrive, at the ceremony itself, welcoming guests to the breakfast, and of course long into the night. So, the costs quickly add up.
On top of this, when you’re hiring musicians and DJs, you also have to bear in mind that you’re paying for their skill and professionalism, their expensive equipment and setup fees, their travel and time, and often, in the case of wedding-specific professionals, their experience at working weddings . And of course, the more musicians you’re paying, the more expensive it’s going to be.
These costs are in addition to any non-musical entertainment you may also wish to have (such as magicians and lawn games), so saving money on your music can help you to have a wide range of entertainers at your wedding.
If music is important to you and you know it’s something that has to play a vital role in your day, then it doesn’t necessarily have to cost a ton. Below are 10 ways you can save money on wedding music.
A great wedding band can set you back by more than £1,000, which is quite a big chunk of change. However, a DJ is generally half the cost and sometimes even less, and therefore kinder on your budget. If you’re still umming and ahhing, check out our post on how to choose between a band and a DJ.
If live music is important to you, the most affordable option in most cases is to hire a solo artist. Remember, while a band will generally set you back four figures, a solo singer will typically cost a similar amount to a DJ. Depending on what you’re going for, they may also play an instrument, such as a guitar or piano, or have pre-recorded backing music.
The main reason a band tends to be so expensive is simply because there are more musicians who need to be paid, as well as instruments and equipment. When you hire a band, generally speaking, the more members there are, the more expensive it’ll be. So, to lower costs, why not choose a band with three or four members, rather than five or six? In this case, less is less!
The same applies to classical musicians, with a harpist or cellist usually being more affordable than a string quartet (though this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule).
It might not be the most glamorous way to entertain your guests, but it’s possible to do your music yourself if keeping costs low is your no. 1 priority. All you need is a decent sound system, which your chosen venue might already have, and a smartphone with the right adapter. Then, with a few well-chosen Spotify playlists, you can ensure your wedding has music playing non-stop into the night.
As ever with the DIY approach, bear in mind going down this route comes with its own risks. A professional won’t just provide top-quality, professional-sounding music, but also provide the best possible service so you can just relax and enjoy the biggest party of your life. If something goes wrong with your own music, you’ll be the one who’ll have to sort it out, and be ready with a backup plan.
If there’s a performing arts school or conservatoire close to your chosen venue, why not approach them and ask whether there are music students available to perform at your wedding? Not only will it save you money, but students are enthusiastic and are sure to put on a great performance.
Remember that it’s expensive to travel. If you’re hiring a band which has to travel 100 miles to reach your venue, then that’s going to add a huge amount to their rates both in travel and potentially in accommodation costs too. To keep costs down, make sure you hire local musicians and check how far their catchment area stretches before committing to booking them.
To find bands and DJs close to you, check out our huge selection of wedding musicians. From bands to DJs and more, you’re sure to find the one for you!
Be mindful that the longer you require a musician, the more you’ll have to pay. For example, if you hire a string quartet, you could ask them to play to welcome your guests, during the ceremony and during the breakfast. That means they’ll play for several hours, which can get rather expensive if you’re on a tight budget. To cut down costs, consider having them play before and during the ceremony, then switch to pre-recorded music later on.
Wedding vendors across the board will usually charge premium rates during busy periods, such as during the summer months and at weekends – this includes musicians and DJs. Instead of a Saturday wedding in August, why not think about having it on a Tuesday in December instead? You’ll save money not only on your music, but also on everything from your venue to your catering.
Have you got a sister who can hold a note or a group of mates who formed a band in sixth form? Recruit them to perform at your wedding! It’ll be great for them to be involved, you’ll save money and you’ll have loads of fun too.
Just make sure that they’re happy to perform and that their standards are high… and try not to rely on them TOO heavily (remember they’re not professionals, and so you can’t expect the same quality of performance and service). You could put together a cracking playlist for the gaps in between and after, or as a possible plan B. You could give your mates a thoughtful gift to thank them for putting on a show, or perhaps a drink or two to give them a little Dutch courage.
Live music at your ceremony can turn a beautiful wedding into one that is truly memorable. However, that can come at a cost. To save money, pre-recorded music can be still be effective at creating a welcoming and romantic atmosphere – it just won’t be quite as unique. But, it’s important to remember that, first and foremost, your guests aren’t coming to your wedding to listen to live music – they’re coming to watch someone they love get married to the love of their life.
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Forest weddings are whimsical and beautiful. There’s nowhere better to declare your everlasting love than in an enchanting forest surrounded by birdsong and the beauty of nature.
But hold on tight, because planning a forest wedding isn’t just about picking a location and calling it a day! You need to balance the practical details like finding a venue, choosing a photographer, and inviting your beloved guests to your beautiful, nature-inspired backdrop.
So, whether you’re planning an intimate, elven ceremony tucked away under a canopy of trees, or a fabulous flower-strewn soirée, this article will be your go-to guide for turning your dreams into a magical reality.
Ready to learn how to have a wedding in a forest? Let’s dive in!
A forest wedding is either a full wedding ceremony and reception in a forest, or simply a wedding reception hosted in a forest. It’s a beautiful and unique way to celebrate your union amongst the sights and sounds of nature.
Forest weddings offer endless possibilities for personalisation and creativity. Whether you’d like delicate, natural-inspired decor or a full-blown alternative wedding or eco-warrior wedding, you’ll have full control with a forest wedding.
⭐Did You Know: If you want to be legally married at your beautiful venue, double-check that the location of the wedding venue is an Approved Premises under the Marriages and Civil Partnerships (Approved Premises) Regulations 2005. If not, you may need to have the ceremony elsewhere and move to the forest for the reception.
Forest weddings have become increasingly popular in recent years. Many couples are drawn to the natural beauty, tranquility, and enchanting atmosphere that forests offer as a wedding backdrop.
In fact, according to our 2023 UK Wedding Report, over ¼ of wedding ceremonies took place outside. This includes the nearly one-in-five couples married in 2022 who opted for a “unique location or venue”, such as a boathouse, forest, or scenic loch.
But while outdoor, alternative, and forest weddings are growing in popularity, they certainly won’t feel overdone. The peaceful vibe and privacy of a forest wedding are second to none, and with thoughtful planning, you can create a memorable and enchanting experience for you, your partner and your guests amidst the beauty of nature.
Let’s check out some of the key steps you need to take and elements to consider when planning your forest wedding:
1. Pick your dream venue
Picking a venue is likely one of the first things you’ll do. It will be the backdrop of all your photographs and determine the size of your wedding. Make sure you visit lots of venues, chat with in-house wedding planners and discuss budgets before committing to a location.
With our wedding venue search tool, you can filter by venue types such as ‘Outdoor’ and styles such as ‘Rustic’ to see exactly what’s out there. This tool will also give you an approximate price, number of bedrooms and how many guests the location can hold. These approximations can help structure the rest of your planning and help you decide where to have an enchanting forest wedding.
Note that it may be difficult for external suppliers to make it to a wedding in a forest. So be prepared to factor in additional transport costs or pay for wedding insurance add-ons in case their stock is damaged.
2. Embrace nature-inspired decor & styling
Wedding decor can include anything from flowers and bouquets to tablescapes and fun photo booths. Incorporate wildflowers, ferns, moss and rustic wooden accents to create a whimsical and organic ambiance.
Twine, dried flowers, moss, burlap and other natural elements from the forest are often free or low-cost and look beautiful. You could also use eco-friendly paper options or consider seed paper that guests can plant afterwards! Leave a little note with the seed paper explaining the symbolic gesture of your growth as a couple and your connection to nature.
The cost of this decor will depend on your vision and how much you’re willing to do yourself. The great thing about forest weddings is that you can often use natural elements like foliage, dried flowers and rustic elements in your decorations. This decor is easy to DIY, and there are tons of tutorials online. Doing it yourself can help reduce costs, while hiring a professional wedding stylist or florist can increase expenses.
To keep costs down even further, you could create your own invitations using dried flowers, cardstock and twine. This will contribute to the rustic theme and add a personal touch to your big day. If the task feels like too much to do on your own or you aren’t very handy, ask a trusted friend (with nice handwriting) to join you in a craft evening. Then, spend some time creating your wedding invites – you’ll be surprised how much fun you have!
3. Don’t forget the essentials
This includes chairs, tables, lighting, sound systems and any necessary permits or license fees. Check with your venue whether they offer a package that includes these essentials to minimise costs.
If they don’t, look out for companies that offer plastic or polished wood furniture. These will be easier to clean and will contribute to the fresh, woodland theme.
4. Craft a woodland-inspired menu
When hosting a forest wedding, try incorporating nature-inspired elements into your food offerings to create a memorable and cohesive experience for your guests.
For example, try hosting a vegan buffet with farm-to-table ingredients. Alternatively, host a barbecue or rent food vans. These interactive catering experiences will contribute to the laid-back environment of a forest wedding and allow guests with different dietary requirements to manage their plate. Plus, you won’t need to print place cards reminding everyone what they ordered!
5. Capture the magical moments
After putting so much work into your big day, capturing the special moments of your forest wedding is essential.
Holding a forest wedding will allow for truly breathtaking wedding photography. With an ample supply of natural light and a beautiful backdrop, your wedding photos will be something to behold. Ask your photographer if they offer:
Wide-angle lenses. To capture as much of the beautiful forest as possible.
An indoor set-up in case of weather changes. Mother nature can be unpredictable, so opt for an experienced photographer who will be prepared for every eventuality.
A candid photoshoot session. Candid moments convey genuine emotions and create a more authentic story of the wedding day.
Retouching at the standard price. Although a forest backdrop makes for beautiful photos, the untameable foliage is likely to produce a few outof-place leaves or twigs. A talented photographer should be able to edit these out using software. However, you should check that this won’t come at extra cost.
🧠Pro Tip: Check out the photographer’s social media accounts as well as their portfolio when considering your options. Often, photographers will include behind-the-scenes information, their editing process and their favourite angles to use on their social media accounts. This will help you understand whether they’re the right fit for your wedding or not.
6. Combine practicality with style
When considering what to wear to a forest wedding, it’s important to consider the landscape. For example, if you live in an area that has a lot of rainfall, you might want to choose a shorter dress to ensure no mud catches on your hems.
If you really want to lean into the floral, boho theme, look for materials that have flower appliques or lace fabrics. In addition, breathable, flowing fabrics will keep you comfortable all day. Oh, and maybe leave the heels at home!
7. Don’t forget the rings
Wedding rings are one of the most important details of your wedding and an investment piece you’ll wear for the rest of your life. Be sure to pick wedding rings you love and ensure someone reliable has them on the big day.
If you’re looking for something bespoke, there are jewellers who can combine natural elements into your wedding bands. For example, sand from a beach, flower petals, or clay from the forest floor. This material is usually sealed in resin to create an unusual contrast with the metal of the ring. Or, consider having hand-crafted wedding bands – we particularly love Eco Wood Rings, lovingly made from sustainably sourced or salvaged wood and recycled precious metals.
The cost of a forest wedding can vary greatly depending on several factors. This includes your location, head count, wedding attire, the decor and your personal preferences.
Did you know that the average cost of a wedding in 2023 is £19,184, or £24,069 including the rings honeymoon? Average wedding spending has increased in almost every category since 2021!
If that figure makes your eyes water, the good news about a forest wedding is that a lot of the decor and styling is DIY-friendly. It’s easy to make a forest wedding either budget-friendly or extravagant. It totally depends on your preference and priorities.
Here are our top tips to help you plan your forest wedding:
Location, location, location: Research and visit potential forest venues to find the perfect location for your wedding. Although aesthetic appeal is important, consider factors such as accessibility, capacity and available facilities. Look for a venue that aligns with your vision and offers the necessary amenities for your wedding day. In addition, ensure that there is an accessible route for caterers, entertainers and other suppliers to help with set-up. A solid track leading into the forest can make all the difference for small wheels and big carts!
Consider the weather: If you opt for a forest wedding, the weather will make a big difference. Try to steer clear of cold and rainy seasons. However, if this can’t be avoided, cover all bases and rent a marquee to protect your guests from a potential downpour.
Dress to impress: You want to look your best on your special day. Unfortunately, looking your best can come at a price. The cost of your wedding outfit will include the price of a dress, shoes, veil, hair and makeup. For budget-conscious or eco-friendly couples, consider renting your wedding attire. This will reduce costs significantly and ensure your dress isn’t single-use.
Consider the lighting: Although a forest wedding will have ample natural lighting, that beautiful sun won’t last all day! If you intend to party into the wee hours to celebrate your love, consider adorning the trees with some lanterns or fairy lights to tie in with the whimsical theme.
Although it might feel overwhelming at first, planning a wedding is one of the most exciting times of your life, and planning a forest wedding is an opportunity to create a particularly magical and unforgettable celebration.
There may be a lot of logistical concerns when planning a wedding surrounded by nature’s beauty. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can design a one-of-a-kind experience for your and your guests.
Embrace the magic, infuse your personal touch and plan ahead to ensure a truly enchanting celebration that will be cherished for a lifetime.
There you have our guide on planning a magical forest wedding ceremony! Get started on Bridebook to discover plenty more inspiration and expert advice.
Wedding gifts are something that can leave many of us racking our brains, whether you’re a guest who’s been invited to a wedding or you’re about to get married at your very own wedding.
From the point of view of a guest, how do you know what to buy and how much you should spend on a gift?
From the point of view of a couple getting married, how much is too much when it comes to creating a registry, and can you simply ask for cash?
The good news is that everyone is in the same position as you, because understanding how much to spend on wedding gifts is a confusing topic in general. So, in this post, we’re going to explore everything to do with the cost of wedding gifts, including how much you should spend as a wedding guest, what to ask for if you’re a couple getting married, and how to approach the awkward topic of asking for money.
1. You’re a guest going to a wedding
We get it, you’ve been invited to a wedding and you’re not sure how much to spend on a gift for the happy couple – we’ve all been there. There are so many unwritten rules as to what is the right amount to spend, which can vary depending on how well you know the couple, whether or not you’re in the wedding party, whether you’re an evening or a day guest and whether you’re in a couple yourself.
See, we told you it’s confusing!
So, if you’re umming and ahhing over what to buy a couple as a gift for an upcoming wedding, below should give you a rough idea as to how much you might spend.
How much should you spend on a wedding gift?
The most straightforward and simple answer to this question is you should spend as much as you’re able to and feel comfortable with. But, it’s only natural to worry about how much is enough or right and whether it’s in line with how much others are spending. Paranoia can sometimes get the best of us, with questions like ‘what if they don’t think I’m as generous as everyone else?’ creeping into our minds.
When the time comes for the happy couple to open their gifts, when they finally get to yours and see what you’ve given them, thoughts like these won’t even cross their minds. You haven’t been invited to their wedding because they think they’ll get something out of it – you’ve been invited because they want you there. Whether or not you give them a gift, and regardless of how much it is or what it’s worth, it’s simply a gesture from you to celebrate their marriage.
But, if you really want a rough idea as to how much you should spend on a wedding gift, the below guide should give you an approximation. Just remember, this isn’t set in stone and is by no means a rule you should stick to.
Cost suggestions based on how well you know the couple
What’s the average amount to spend on a wedding gift?
Many guests will spend between £40 – £100 on a wedding gift. This is a fairly typical amount; however, it totally depends on your own circumstances and how well you know the couple. For example, if you’re immediate family but are on a tight budget, the couple won’t mind one bit if you don’t spend £100 on a gift. Similarly, if you’re a colleague then the couple will absolutely not expect a luxury gift from you.
Should you give cash as a wedding gift?
Some wedding guests don’t feel overly comfortable with giving cash as a gift, particularly those who may have spent their lives gifting toasters and knife sets in the past. But, during a time when a quarter of couples live together before marriage, many couples already have the appliances and homeware they need.
It also goes without saying that, after throwing the most expensive and luxurious party of their lives, couples will be grateful for a little extra cash. Plus, after a year of chaotic planning, a honeymoon after the wedding is always appreciated, and a cash gift will help make that happen.
In fact, some couples aren’t shy about asking for money instead of gifts, and this is absolutely fine, too. They may even have included information about this on their invitation or their wedding website if they have one, with information on where a bank transfer can be made before the big day.
At the end of the day, when newlyweds are gifted money they’re given far more freedom to do what they want, whether it’s go on their dream honeymoon, buy the exact toaster they’ve had their eye on, or decorate the spare room – all of which you could help make happen by giving a cash gift.
Popular wedding gifts and how much they cost
If you’re keen on giving a gift to a couple but you’re not sure where to start, here are a few ideas and a rough idea of how much they cost, to give you a little bit of inspiration.
Personalised artwork
A lovely way to mark the occasion, personalised artwork can be displayed to remind a couple of their big day, such as a map showing where they first met or a neon sign that spells out their new shared surname. Costs start from around £40.
Cookware
Perhaps a little old-fashioned, but who doesn’t love a nice casserole dish or a new set of pans? Prices for these will start at around £50. For something extra luxurious, a La Creuset dish is a wonderful gift, but on the pricey side at around £150.
Kitchen appliances
This one may be a bit of a cliché, but new appliances like a kettle, toaster or microwave are great gifts for couples about to move into their first home together. Costs start from around £30 for basic appliances and go up from there. Or, for real extravagance, a KitchenAid mixer would be a real treat for a keen baker and costs around £280.
Personalised homeware
An exciting and unique gift for a newly married couple is a personalised item they can display or use. A chopping board, doormat, or set of mugs are fun and useful, with costs starting at around £35.
Experience vouchers
Treat the newlyweds to an overnight stay somewhere, or a luxurious meal for two in a fancy restaurant. Or for more adventurous couples, something more exhilarating like a helicopter flying experience or rock climbing will get their blood pumping. Costs start at around £120.
What if you can’t afford to buy a gift?
If you’re not in a position to buy a gift for a couple about to get married, then don’t worry. A wedding is a celebration, and a couple gets married to come together and share their love – not because they want a bunch of gifts. Plus, the couple will know that you’ve already gone to great lengths just to be at their wedding, such as by taking time off work, buying a new outfit, travelling and the cost of your accommodation. Simply spend as much as you feel comfortable with and don’t worry about what you think someone is thinking.
If you want to buy a gift and you’re looking for affordable options, check out our post featuring 50 wedding gift ideas for every budget, or for some money-saving tips, our post on how to save money on a wedding gift could help you save a few pennies.
2. You’re a couple getting married
Getting married is super exciting – not only do you get to come together to build a new life with the person you love the most, but you get to throw one heck of a party and invite all your family and friends, which costs an average of £20,775.
Another big bonus is that a lot of your guests will also want to give you gifts, which could range from small token gestures to huge, generous ones – it all depends on who they are, their relationship to you and – of course – their budget.
What should you include on your gift registry?
While not everyone is going to buy you a wedding gift, many of your friends and family will want to. But, many of them will likely be stumped and have no idea where to start – which is why a gift registry is a great idea. Websites such as The Wedding Shop make it quick and easy for you to put a gift registry together.
When putting your list together, you’ll need to be open to including a range of items that fit a range of budgets. Some great items to put on your list include:
Dinnerware set
Tupperware set
Artwork
Kitchen appliances
Experience days
Spa visit
Vases
Ornaments
Blankets
Pillows
Luggage
Basically, you can include anything on your gift registry that you and your new spouse will use and enjoy. However, it’s usually items the two of you will use together in your home, or as part of a shared experience, rather than, say, video games or a new pair of trainers for one of you.
If you’re not putting a wedding registry together but would still like to let your guests know what they could give you, read our post on wedding registry alternatives.
Is it rude to ask for money as a wedding gift?
While it’s definitely not rude to ask for money as a wedding gift, there are ways to approach it delicately. After all, asking for money can be awkward, but it’s absolutely fine to ask for cash instead of gifts. Iif you and your new spouse-to-be are already living together, you’ve probably got most of the things you need in and around your house, and you don’t want to risk ending up with five new toasters (unless you really love toast).
You could simply explain to your guests that, if they’re considering giving you a gift, a cash gift would be appreciated so you can go on your honeymoon or buy a new car or replace the leaky roof on the garden shed. Once they know why you’re asking for money, most of your guests won’t mind at all. But, don’t be surprised if one or two of your guests decide to give you a gift anyway.
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When all the excitement and chaos involved in planning your wedding is over and the two of you have said, ‘I do’ and partied with your family and friends, many couples embark on their first journey together as a married couple in the form of the honeymoon. It’s a way for the two of you to unwind after a hectic year or more of planning, and spend time in each others’ company while soaking in some sun, being pampered and enjoying some delicious food.
But, with a wedding already costing so much money, how much is a romantic honeymoon going to add to your overall cost? In this post, we’re going to take a look at how much couples spend on their honeymoon, what it costs to visit some of the most popular honeymoon destinations and why many couples are opting for a far more affordable minimoon.
The average amount spent by couples on their honeymoon in the UK is £4,329. While this is an average, many couples can spend far less than this – or far, far more. It all depends on what you’d like to do on your honeymoon, how far you’d like to go and whether you want to splash out on luxuries such as the honeymoon suite or first-class flights.
This is by no means a cheap getaway – it is your honeymoon, after all, and a great reason to treat yourself and your new spouse. It’s especially expensive when you take into consideration the average costs involved with the rest of your wedding, which, as set out in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, is £20,775. That means, together with the honeymoon, you could be looking at a total cost of £24,069.
But how much should you spend on a honeymoon? Well, that’s another question entirely, and one that only you and your partner can answer. There is no right or wrong amount to spend on a honeymoon, it’s simply down to your tastes and what’s possible within your budget.
Once upon a time, almost immediately after the reception, newlyweds would jump on a plane in search of sun and sand. But, that’s becoming something of a rarity these days. In fact, the majority of couples now postpone their honeymoon, with 76% waiting at least four months after their wedding before jetting off. Of course, this is understandable, as not many couples have the budget to go on an expensive holiday right after throwing the most lavish and expensive bash of their lives.
That being said, the biggest wedding splurge is undoubtedly their honeymoon, with 40% of couples having a post-wedding getaway as their biggest expense.
The average amount of time couples are away on their honeymoon is seven days, but many go away for two or even three weeks. It all depends on where you want to travel to and the budget you have available.
You should start planning your honeymoon around the same time you start planning your wedding. This will give you a good idea as to how much your dream honeymoon will cost, and whether or not you’ll be able to go on it immediately after your wedding or a few months later.
Whether or not you book your honeymoon early is purely down to your budget. On one hand, if you book your honeymoon early you’ll be able to pay it off in chunks or set up a direct debit to pay monthly. On the other hand, if you wait until a few weeks before your wedding you may be able to secure a last-minute deal which is much cheaper. But, the risk with that is you might not be able to go to your first-choice destination.
If you’re keen on rewarding yourself with a honeymoon after months of busy wedding planning, what are some of the most popular honeymoon destinations for couples from the UK, and how much do they cost? Here are 10 of the most popular destinations and a rough guide to how much you might spend (based on two weeks during the summer in a standard room with economy flights).
The Maldives
A collection of islands located in the Indian Ocean, over 100,000 Brits visit the Maldives every year. With crystal clear water, white sandy beaches and stunning coral reefs, it’s a slice paradise that is perfect for honeymooners. Costs for a couple start from around £5,000.
Mauritius
Sharing the same ocean as the Maldives and not too far from South Africa, Mauritius has fabulous beaches, towering mountains, and luscious forests and gardens. Costs start from around £4,000.
Thailand
For a real adventure, Thailand is just about as far as a couple can travel from the UK, and offers a chance to see incredible sights and get immersed in a new culture. Costs start from around £3,200.
Seychelles
The ultimate luxury honeymoon destination where your comfort is always a priority. There are also a few private island resorts in the area if your budget allows. Costs start from around £5,500 but can easily exceed £10,000.
Caribbean
With fabulous food and culture, the Caribbean has plenty of options for an idyllic honeymoon, on islands such as Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. Costs start from around £4,500.
Mexico
If you’re looking for a balance of great beaches, rich history and delicious food, you really can’t go wrong with Mexico. Costs start from £3,600.
Greece
Not only does Greece have a huge selection of fabulous resorts and beaches, but it also has a rich history and plenty of culture to keep you busy exploring. Greece is always a great spot for couples on a budget, with costs starting from around £2,000.
Italy
Great food, great wine and great sights. There’s something for everyone in Italy, and costs can be reasonable for a two-week stay, starting at around £2,500.
Kenya
For a honeymoon on the wild side, a trip to Kenya or Tanzania combines relaxation with the chance to explore breathtaking landscapes in search of incredible wildlife. Costs start from around £3,500.
Dubai
A relative newcomer on the honeymoon scene, Dubai has fabulous weather, clear seas and world-renowned entertainment. Costs start from around £4,000.
While many of the above costs are approximations, there are plenty of factors that can influence how much your honeymoon might cost, much like any other holiday you might book.
Location – The more popular the destination, the more you’re likely to pay.
Date – If you’re travelling at peak times, such as during the summer (and especially during school holidays) then expect costs to be way (way) higher.
Hotel/resort – The more premium the resort, the more it’ll set you back.
Upgrades – Because you’re going on your honeymoon you may be keen on a room or flight upgrade, but the costs involved can be eye-wateringly high.
Board – Whether you stay full board, half board, all-inclusive, or room only will affect the cost.
Activities – An adventure-packed honeymoon will cost more than a honeymoon spent lazing by a pool or on the beach.
Spending money – If you plan on eating a three-course meal every evening the costs will add up. Similarly, if you know you like to buy a lot of souvenirs you’ll need to budget accordingly.
If you want to get away on your honeymoon but don’t have a huge budget, check out our post on how to save money on your honeymoon.
If you want to get away after your wedding but don’t have the budget to spend on a two-week honeymoon, a minimoon might be exactly what you need.
A minimoon is a shorter, more budget-friendly way of getting away after your wedding until you’re able to save and get away from a longer honeymoon. There are no rules for what’s classed as a minimoon, but they’re often a few nights and will cost less than £1,000. It’s purely a means to get away, relax and decompress after a year or more of planning your wedding.
If you’re looking to stay in the UK, some popular minimoon destinations include the Cotswolds, Cornwall, the Lake District and the Peak District.
If you’d prefer to hop on a plane to somewhere a little further afield, great international minimoon destinations include Paris, Bruges, Mallorca and Venice.
Wherever you choose to go, and for however long you choose to go, it’s a great way for you and your new spouse to enjoy some well-earned time together.
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Wedding favours offer you the opportunity to provide your guests with a small gift or keepsake that they can take home (or eat!) and remember the time they spent celebrating with you on your big day.
But when you’re already spending thousands on your wedding, how much should you spend on wedding favours that are thoughtful, personal and something that your guests are going to appreciate?
Below, we’re going to take a look at the cost of wedding favours, including the average amount couples spend, how much some of the most popular wedding favours cost, and what factors can influence how much you might spend.
What are wedding favours and do you need them at your wedding?
Wedding favours are small tokens or gifts that you give to the guests who come to share in your celebrations on your wedding day. They’re small, personal gestures that are used to express your gratitude and work as a little souvenir for your family and friends.
Favours don’t need to be expensive – many wedding favours cost around £1 each – but they act as a way for you to show your appreciation. Many couples even choose to put together DIY wedding favours, which can be anything from a packet of sweets to a custom-made Rubix cube (although something like this will set you back a lot more than £1).
Even the most affordable or DIY wedding favour options will add to your ever-increasing list of expenses, which is saying something when you consider that the average cost of a wedding in the UK is £20,775. Does that mean, if budget is a concern, it’s something you could cut to save a bit of money?
While favours aren’t something that your guests will expect – and certainly aren’t the reason they’re coming to your wedding – their absence may be noticed by some (but certainly not all). In fact, some of your guests may choose to not take their favour home at all, and if you’re gifting food or sweets, they may even be devoured before the first course is served at the breakfast.
If you’re looking to save budget, or it’s simply not something that interests you or fits with your style or theme of your wedding, then you shouldn’t feel pressured to provide favours simply to appease others or because it’s something you believe your guests expect – because they definitely don’t.
In the UK, the average amount spent by couples on wedding favours is around £160 in total. This might not be a huge amount when you consider your overall budget (it’s about 2% of what couples pay for the average wedding venue) but if you want custom, handmade favours or you’re inviting 120+ guests, that figure can be much higher.
Similarly, you could keep costs down while still honouring the tradition, by simply leaving a small packet of Love Hearts sweets for every guest. This would cost you much less than the average, with 250 packets costing around £17 (and leaving you with some to keep for yourself).
It’s also important to remember that low-cost wedding favours don’t need to be generic or boring. For more information, check out our blog post on 29 ideas for affordable wedding favours.
If you’re looking for some wedding favour ideas but you’re not quite sure where to start, the below guide will give you a rough guide for how much some popular wedding favours cost so you can gauge if they fit within your budget.
Edible favours
Retro sweets – You can pick up ready-made packs of retro sweets, or put together your own if you shop around to find cheap sweets in bulk. Costs start from £1 each.
Honeycomb – A real crowd pleaser, honeycomb not only looks great but is delicious too. Costs start from £1.50 each.
Fudge – Fudge is creamy and luxurious and is a fantastic way to satisfy your guests’ sweet tooth. Cost start from £2 each.
Hot chocolate kit – A unique favour that most of your guests won’t resist and can be presented in many creative ways. Costs start from £2.50 each.
Popcorn – A cheap and tasty favour that no one will turn their nose up at. Costs start from £1 each.
Mints – Mints offer a breath of fresh air. Costs start from £1 each.
Jellybeans – Sweet treats that are affordable and come in a variety of flavours. Costs start from £1 each.
Cake pops – Cake pops are a lot of fun and a handy way to give your guests a cakey hit if you don’t have a traditional wedding cake. Costs start from £1.50 each.
Marshmallows – Affordable, sticky and sweet. Costs start from £1 each.
Non-edible favours
Bubbles – Everyone loves bubbles! Plus, they’re super affordable. Costs start from less than £1 each.
Personalised playing cards – Massively personal and always something your guests will want to keep. Costs start from around £5 each.
Second-hand books – A great talking point that is hugely affordable. Costs start from around 50p each, or even less if you check out some local charity shops.
Pens, notepads or pencils – A practical favour for everyone. Costs start from £2 each.
Jewellery charms – A cute memento that can be used in a huge variety of ways. Costs start from £3 each.
Wildflower seeds – Not a personal favour, but is certainly thoughtful. Costs start from £1 each.
Charity donation – A hugely thoughtful and generous gesture. You can donate as much or as little as you like.
Soap/hand sanitiser – A useful and unique favour. Costs start from £2 each.
Scratchcards – An exciting way to get your guests talking. Plus, one of your guests could leave your wedding a lot richer (and hopefully they’ll share some with you!). Costs start from £1 each.
Personalised candles – Who doesn’t love a candle? Costs start from £2.50 each.
Personalised coasters – A really unique gift that will remind your guests of your big day whenever they sit down for a cuppa. Costs start from £3 each.
Personalised keyrings – Everyone has at least a couple of keyrings, and there’s always room for one more. Costs start from £2 each.
Disposable camera – Quite a retro favour these days, but it can be a lot of fun having the photos developed to see what happened while you weren’t around! However, disposable cameras are becoming more expensive, with costs per camera starting from around £15 (and of course the cost to develop after the wedding). It can be hugely worth it if you have the budget, though.
If you’re on a budget, it can be much cheaper to do wedding favours yourself. However, if you’re looking for highly personal or customised favours, such as personalised playing cards, you may find the DIY approach more challenging. If you haven’t done anything similar before, there’s also the risk of inconsistent quality.
If you’re looking for something simple, such as a bag of retro sweets, you should be able to put this together with little effort and without much room for error. It should save you some money, too.
What factors can impact the cost of wedding favours?
When choosing wedding favours, as well as the type of favours you go for, there are several factors to bear in mind which can impact the overall cost.
Quantity – It may seem obvious, but the more guests you have the more you’ll have to spend on favours.
Personalisation – Highly personalised wedding favours will cost more than something you can grab off a shelf or make yourself.
Vendor – A small, independent vendor may have higher prices than a large company with hundreds of employees. However, the level of care and quality is also likely to be better from a smaller vendor.
Quality – The higher the quality of materials or ingredients you use, the more expensive your favours will be. Remember, your favours are only a token gift to your guests and they won’t be expecting something premium.
Presentation – Marshmallows or honeycomb may be fairly inexpensive, but if you choose to package them in a fancy box with ribbon they may not be inexpensive for long.
Season – Depending on what you go for, the time of year may play a part in cost. For example, during peak periods when gift companies are in demand, costs may be much higher.
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Here at Bridebook, we’re on a mission to help make the wedding planning journey as joyful as possible for all engaged couples. That means supporting every couple, everywhere. And so, to commemorate Pride Month, we’re celebrating LGBTQ+ couples and suppliers and championing inclusivity at Bridebook and throughout the wedding industry. In this feature, check out the inspiring stories and gorgeous wedding photos of some of our fabulous LGBTQ+ couples. And if you and your partner are looking for an inclusive venue, be sure to check our top LGBTQ wedding venues. They’re going the extra mile to make sure all couples feel supported on their special day.
We met through mutual friends when we were 17. I was mesmerised by her and thought she was way out of my league. We met face to face in person at a birthday party of our mutual friends.
What is your favourite shared memory?
Our wedding day has to be the most amazing day and memory we share.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
We lived 160 miles apart and we overcome that with Kimberley moving away from family. But other than that, we have overcome everything life has thrown at us – health problems, financial uncertainty, getting married in a pandemic to name a few!
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We had rainbow pin badges for wedding favours that were sent by Cancer Research, we had a steel pan artist play our wedding song for Daniella to walk down the aisle to keep her Jamaican roots, we had bowling at the venue. We had all family and friends that meant so much to us.
We met through a mutual friend over drinks during a night out in Glasgow. We just became friends in the same social group over many months, so we never had that awkward first date moment!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Without a doubt our wedding day in 2022. After getting engaged in Toronto in 2018 and having set a date to get married May 2020, we were putting the finishing touches on our wedding and honeymoon plans, however, the covid pandemic struck and cancelled all our plans. We re-scheduled to 2021, that got cancelled again and the we re-scheduled to September 2022. So after all that hassle, stress and uncertainty, it was awesome to finally celebrate our Big Day together with our closest family and friends – a celebration of freedom and fun for us all.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
Buying our first home together in the area we wanted. It took endless viewings, many offers and lots of last minute closing dates where we lost out by only small amounts to finally get the flat of our dreams by chance. We were about to give up and look at different areas but then we managed to cut a quick deal with sellers that avoided closing dates and the rest is history. We’re in the process of doing our flat up and truly love where we stay, so it was worth it in the end.
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We wanted our day to be a fun relaxed day of celebration for ourselves and our family and friends. We kept our ceremony light-hearted and chose to do a Rock Paper Scissors contest in front of our guests to decide which of us would walk down the aisle first. I, Chris, lost, and Stephen, my fairer half, won and walked down first. Our celebrant was fun and got everyone involved in the ceremony including a big group selfie after we got married. We had an acoustic guitarist playing during our ceremony, followed by a cocktail reception afterwards with gin 75 cocktails and nibbles. Dinner and speeches followed . After that, we cut our cake together and a modern vintage swing jazz band entertained our guests for the rest of the evening with fun upbeat covers of classic and pop songs.
We were in the same year at school! Had our first romance at the age of 13, found each again at the ages of 19 then went our separate ways and Meg had a little girl in 2011. We lived separate lives until fate brought us back together again for the final time at the age of 31!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Our wedding day felt like our life had come full circle and it the day we had been waiting for.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
COVID! In 2020 we hadn’t lived together long then all of a sudden we were together with our daughter 24/7. We both caught COVID at the start when it was still quite frightening, but we made it through and got engaged that summer.
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We had an intimate day with no more than 30 of us then we hired a DJ and had a party in the evening with around 100 people.
Instagram – Gem liked one of my photos so I messaged her we got to know each other virtually for a while. After a month of talking we finally went on a date at Dinton Pastures. After two years of living together we got engaged there too – Gem had absolutely no idea that I was going to propose.
What is your favourite shared memory?
Apart from our actual wedding day (which was absolutely beautiful), and getting engaged, we loved our trip to Mexico!
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
We have overcome a lot of challenges, but the greatest would be how we together challenge people’s perceptions of lesbian couples. There seem to be so many misconceptions out there and we do our best to show that we are just the same as everyone else!
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We had an under the night sky theme that ended with fireworks! We kept everything as “traditional” as we could. We were surrounded by our wonderful friends and family at Warbrook House and had the best day. We were even married by a married couple! We were so worried it wouldn’t happen due to COVID but were so lucky that we could have everyone there to celebrate with us.
We met on a dating app while at Cardiff University back in 2013 while I was doing my postgrad and he was in his first year. It turned out his friend lived a few doors down from me so he came over for coffee and the rest is history.
What is your favourite shared memory?
Probably our first holiday to Disney World together with my family. One day we got caught in a massive rainstorm and ended up in a pub just chatting away in the middle of Epcot. It was magical!
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
Probably surviving long distance for 4 years while he finished his studies in Wales and I worked in England – driving 4 hours each way every weekend to see each other.
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We went for a simple day with lots of family and friends. It was at a lovely hotel in Milton Keynes with about 60 day guests. We walked down the aisle with our mothers, and embarrassingly both cried (tears of joy haha) as we did so. Then my dad gave a wonderful speech that was so accepting and charming that it just made the day.
We met in an LGBTQ+ choir! My wife was already a member and I joined and we hit it off!
What is your favourite shared memory?
I think our honeymoon is up there. We had a few nights in Brighton in August and it was so nice. One evening we went down to the hotel bar for cocktails and spotted a mini golf course on the beach so we spontaneously decided to play tipsy mini golf and it was silly and fun.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
We now have a child together! They were 6 years’ old when I met Megan, and we have co-parented together ever since – which is always challenging!
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We had a subtly space themed wedding, with a galactic buttercream cake and little moons on all the tables and things. My makeup had star freckles dotted on and my wife had cosmic blue hair!
We met at work – the office I was working at closed down and we were relocated to the office where Kaz worked!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Besides our wedding day, it would have to be our lockdown holiday to Devon.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
Kaz was rushed in for a major back operation 4 weeks before the date of our wedding. We wanted a low-key wedding that was personal and all done by us. I suggested postponing but Kaz was adamant she would be walking down that aisle, so I was adamant I would pull every string out of my bag of tricks to make sure it was perfect for her. The recovery is still ongoing so we have daily struggles, but we do it all together. And it just works!
What did you plan for your wedding day?
A small ceremony with our closest family and friends. Owls flew the rings down the aisle and we had photos with them and for our guests as owls are my favourite! I planned an ice cream van to show up for Kaz as an absolute surprise! So I was able to pull her first ice cream as my wife!
Through a dating app. We went for a date to a lovely hotel bar and the rest is history!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Getting our dog Freddie!
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
Looking after our dog after a major surgery on his back – months of rehab!
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We had quite a small wedding. To start we bucked trends and got ready together. Drove ourselves and best friend down to the venue, had a small ceremony, 20 of us in total. We then had a Christmas feast, made everyone change into black tie, and welcomed another 30 guests for a champagne drinks party. We sang carols around a grand piano and danced the night away!
Samantha’s sister was playing on a football team at university with Holly and introduced us!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Renovating our 1960s house – many tears but so much fun!
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
Living three hours apart for two years! Lots of late night train rides on a Friday night after work.
What did you plan for your wedding day?
Ice cream canapes, fish and chips main course and a whole load of fun. I spent 18 months learning calligraphy so I could make all the wedding signs and stationery.
We met at Preston Grasshoppers Rugby club! We played rugby together on the same team. I pursued Dawn and had to convince her to go out with me!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Watching the dancing panda in Prague.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
Probably Al’s endometriosis diagnosis and health issues after that.
What did you plan for your wedding day?
We had it at Spring Cottage, Rivington, which is such a beautiful venue. It was a day event only and we had 40 guests. It was just so simple and perfect and really relaxed.
We love to travel, and do a lot of activities together, from hiking to jumping off paragliding and to simple things like cooking dinner and watching our favorite TV shows in Netflix.
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
So many different things – the pandemic really hit us hard as it imposed a huge threat to our health. We were basically living and breathing the till death do us part!
What did you plan for your wedding day?
Our wedding was an amazing garden wedding. We had an intimate audience of family and friends from around the globe to celebrate the day with us in the UK.
Became friends at work and you know the saying…fell in love with my best friend!
What is your favourite shared memory?
Apart from our wedding day a gorgeous trip to Venice!
What is the greatest challenge you’ve overcome together?
I (Em) went through life changing surgery. The build-up and recovery were long and hard, with some dark days where Emma became my strength.
What did you plan for your wedding day?
Ours was an Easter wedding. It was a gorgeous sunny day with our guests and ourselves staying at the venue’s glamp site. We had an Easter egg hunt in the forest outside the cottage we got married in, and a live band in the evening. Plus our dog was with us all day at the wedding!
Pride goes beyond June. We’re here to support, to inspire, to educate – and above all to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community – not just for one month, but for all time always.
Two common choices for couples are getting married in a civil ceremony or a traditional religious ceremony. They’re both fantastic choices but come with certain limitations if you’re hoping for a more bespoke ceremony. That’s why the third option, a wedding celebrant, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for couples tying the knot.
By hiring a celebrant, you’re free to have your wedding be as personal and customised as you like. But how much does a wedding celebrant cost and what’s included?
In this post, we’re going to explore how much a wedding celebrant costs, what factors can influence that cost and why they ask for as much as they do.
A wedding celebrant is someone who will officiate your wedding. A celebrant doesn’t only officiate weddings, but many of life’s other important events, such as funerals, naming ceremonies and renewals. You may find yourself hiring the same celebrant for various events throughout your life.
When a celebrant officiates your wedding it will be highly personalised so it’s specific to you and your partner. They can be as religious as you like, or have no references to religion at all, which is why they’re a popular choice for couples with no beliefs or mixed religious beliefs.
Believe it or not, there are several types of celebrants that can officiate your wedding:
Interfaith ministers – A great choice for couples who may have different faiths or no faith at all. They have knowledge of different beliefs and can accommodate accordingly.
Humanists – They officiate highly personalised weddings, usually not focused on religious beliefs. They also officiate alternative weddings regularly.
Independent celebrants – Authorised independent celebrants can solemnise marriages.
No, a wedding celebrant isn’t the same as a registrar and it’s important to be aware of the differences when planning your wedding.
A registrar can legally officiate a wedding via a civil ceremony. They oversee the approval of your marriage license and it’s legally binding.
A celebrant cannot legally marry you (apart from in Scotland!), but can support you through your wedding and help you with everything you need for getting your marriage license. When a celebrant officiates your wedding ceremony you will still need a registrar so your marriage is legally binding. However, this doesn’t remove any of the personalisation from hiring a celebrant.
With this in mind, you’ll also need to factor the cost of a registrar into your overall budget, which averages at around £300 (check out our ultimate wedding budget breakdown for more information).
The average amount spent by couples in the UK on a wedding celebrant is around £500. However, some celebrants can cost much more than this, while others cost less. If you’re looking for your ceremony to have a personal touch, then a wedding celebrant is the best way to do that. For more information, check out our ultimate bedding budget breakdown.
To the average guest at your wedding, a celebrant appears to play a small part in your celebrations. But, they don’t simply pop in for half an hour to officiate at the ceremony then head off to the next wedding – there’s a lot of work involved.
As we’ve already highlighted, a celebrant will help make your wedding ceremony hugely personal. It’s unlike any other wedding that came before it nor any other wedding that will come after it – and that doesn’t happen by accident. Once you’ve hired your celebrant they’ll sit down with you and your partner to discuss how you met, what interests you share, where you’ve travelled, times you’ve laughed, times you’ve cried, and you’ll share many, many other stories as they really get to know you. After all, how could they make your ceremony personal if they don’t know the real you?
Many celebrants will send out questionnaires that encourage detailed answers, which they’ll study carefully to create a beautifully crafted script for the big day. They may even talk to your family and friends to get some of the juicy information from them that you may have conveniently not mentioned. They’ll also arrive at your wedding and meet with you and your partner individually to help calm any nerves you might have before you walk down the aisle.
There’s also years of training and experience behind a skilled wedding celebrant that got them to where they are today, so you can be confident they’re going to officiate your wedding with style, confidence and professionalism.
So, while your guests might only see your celebrant for less than an hour, there’s a lot of work involved beforehand that helps to justify the cost.
Natalie Beer, experienced celebrant and proud founder of Velvet Moon Ceremonies, shares her top tips on how to save money on your wedding:
“The best way I found to save money as a 2023 bride myself was forgoing anything I didn’t want but others perhaps thought ‘should’ be part of a wedding. That way you’re not spending money on things you don’t care about and you get a wedding that’s more ‘you’ and only includes things you really want.
Having the big wedding day not be legally binding was part of that for us, so saving money on the fee of a registrar visiting our venue could go towards the celebrant cost we booked for the big wedding day and then had a simple legal ceremony a couple of days before. It was night and day difference throughout the whole process – the celebrant-led process was so much more personalised, we felt so much more cared for, and the ceremony itself, despite having perhaps triple if not quadruple the audience compared to the legal ceremony, was so much more relaxed as we were really put at ease and the atmosphere was so much more us!
As celebrants we can bring such personalisation, fun and creativity to your ceremony so that it’s exactly what you want, and you almost have a friend standing up there taking your ceremony more so than a stranger. That’s a cost that for us was absolutely worth it, and for all of my couples it is too. If it’s something that couples feel is important to them, to have a ceremony that really reflects them and is so much more meaningful than a generic script, then it’s definitely worth considering booking a celebrant.”
What factors affect the cost of a wedding celebrant?
While the average cost of a wedding celebrant may be £450, this figure can be higher or lower depending on a number of factors.
Experience – A more experienced celebrant will often have higher rates.
Reputation – A skilled and reputable celebrant will be able to ask for more due to the demand for their services.
Location – Where the celebrant is based will affect their rates, for example, if they’re based in London they’ll usually be higher. They may also ask for more if they have to travel a long way to meet with you and on the day of your wedding.
Style of your wedding – If your wedding is complex or takes more preparation it could affect the cost.
Rehearsals – If you choose to have rehearsals then this will increase the cost of your celebrant.
Additional services – Additional services, such as asking your celebrant with help writing your vows, will affect the overall cost.
How long before your wedding should you book a celebrant?
It’s recommended that you book a celebrant as early as possible, as many affordable, skilled and in-demand celebrants are fully booked for many months. If you find the perfect celebrant who is excited about the stories you and your partner share, the last thing you want is for them to book another wedding on the same day as yours – so get in there quick!
“I’d recommend that couples book their celebrant as soon as they are able to! Mainly because, like other suppliers, the earlier you book the more likely the celebrant is to be free. Booking far in advance also means there’s plenty of time to get to know each other and for the ceremony script to be written, and perhaps even visit the ceremony space together to discuss ideas and make the couple comfortable with how everything will run. I’ve had some couples book me two years in advance and others book with just a couple of months to go until their date, so it’s all doable as long as the celebrant is free on their wedding day!”
Planning your wedding is an exciting time, but it can also be time-consuming and stressful – not to mention overwhelming. Where do you start? How do you approach vendors? Do you know how to secure the best deal or negotiate with venues?
Of course, using Bridebook is a great way to take away a lot of the stress of planning your wedding, but there’s so much to do and so many things to remember, that it can still feel daunting at times.
That’s why many couples choose to hire a wedding planner. A wedding planner is an expert and will know exactly what to do to give you the wedding of your dreams.
That expertise does come at a cost – but it can definitely be worth it, saving you time, stress and even money. In this post, we’re going to explore how much a wedding planner costs, including what a wedding planner will do, the average amount couples might spend, and how a wedding planner could save you money.
What’s the average cost of a wedding planner in the UK?
The average amount couples spend on a wedding planner in the UK is £2,436. This may sound like a lot for something you can do yourself, but it will save you a lot of time, energy, stress and money in the long run. Wedding planners also have years of experience planning weddings behind them, so know exactly what you need to execute your ideas for the perfect wedding. As revealed in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, the average overall cost of a wedding is £20,775, and a wedding planner can help keep spiralling costs down to a manageable level.
Remember, this figure is an average, so some wedding planners will cost way less. But, more expensive planners will likely have more experience in the industry, along with better connections and negotiating skills, so paying that bit more could be worth it.
As you might expect by the name, a wedding planner takes the reins and helps you plan your wedding. They help you by making bookings, securing deals, making decisions and sorting out any problems that might arise. Depending on what you agree with your wedding planner, they may also help you to set up and manage the day as well.
However, while they may take the lead in planning your wedding, you don’t lose out on the excitement, or lose any control. You’ll have in-depth discussions with them about what you’re looking for and your budget to make sure they’re always aligned. Then, they’ll go and do all the long-winded bits, so you have the pleasure of making the decisions while avoiding the boring and tiring leg work.
While at first the average cost of a wedding planner can seem like a big expense on top of an already expensive wedding, a good wedding planner can save you a lot of money.
An experienced wedding planner will have planned dozens, if not hundreds, of weddings. In that time, they’ll have made connections with venues and vendors, know all the right questions to ask and have learned how to negotiate the best rates. They’ll help you save money in ways you might not have even realised were possible.
As well as saving money, they’ll help you organise everything to avoid expensive mistakes. What might seem like an unnecessary cost could actually be one of the best decisions you make to make sure your wedding goes to plan and sticks to your budget.
On top of saving you money, a wedding planner also saves you time, which could be spent doing other more valuable things, particularly if you’re self-employed. Planning a wedding is time-consuming, so why not let someone else do the hard work?
What does it mean when a wedding planner receives a commission?
When you’re finalising the details with your wedding planner, you may notice in the paperwork that it mentions the planner may receive a commission when they make a booking. But what is that commission and where does it come from?
Don’t worry, this isn’t an additional fee you have to pay. This simply means your wedding planner may receive a small amount of commission when you book a specific venue or vendor and is usually a small percentage based on the cost. However, a good wedding planner won’t be driven by their commission, so shouldn’t allow it to sway their decisions about what is right for your wedding.
If you’re not sure about anything, just speak to your wedding planner before hiring them – they’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have.
What factors can affect the cost of a wedding planner?
A wedding planner will usually charge a flat fee based on the scope and scale of your wedding. What that fee is can vary depending on a number of factors, including:
Your budget – the higher your budget, the more a wedding planner will usually ask for. Not because they think you can afford to pay more, but because there will be more work involved. Often, a wedding planner will ask for between 10% and 15% of your overall budget.
Location – The location of your wedding will play a big part in the cost. For example, a wedding planner based in London will be more expensive than one outside the capital. However, if you’re getting married in London, you’ll probably want to consider a London-based wedding planner as they’ll have the local knowledge and contacts.
Service – A partial wedding planning service will be more affordable than a full planning service.
Number of guests – The more guests you intend to invite, the more work a wedding planner will need to do to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Can a wedding planner also be your wedding coordinator?
Many wedding planners also offer a package that includes coordinating your wedding day. After all, who better to manage the big day itself than the one who helped you to plan it?
On-the-day coordination helps to reduce the stress further, make sure everyone knows what they’re doing and fixes any potential hiccups that might occur. This leaves you to enjoy your day, knowing it’s being managed by an experienced professional.
If you’re looking to hire a wedding planner to provide a full planning service, the best time to do so is right at the start, before you’ve made any other bookings or reservations. This is so you can fully utilise their services and allow them to help you consider all options and secure the best deals.
If you’re only interested in a partial wedding planning service, you’ll need to hire them with around three or four months to go before your big day.
Planning a wedding can be a long, tiring, stressful and expensive process. That being said, it’s also a lot of fun! However, not everyone has the time and energy to spare, which is where a wedding planner shows their true value. If you find planning challenging or may struggle to find the time to spare, then you’ll definitely get a lot out of hiring a wedding planner.
A wedding planner can also be a lifesaver if you’re interested in a destination wedding. A local planner will have the knowledge and insight you might lack by getting married away from home and will save you hours and hours of avoidable research on just the area alone.
In fact, according to qualified wedding planner and wedding expert, Hamish Shephard, organising a wedding can take 200 to 300 hours of planning. When you think of it like that, the average cost of a wedding planner is actually pretty great value, especially as they can also save you a lot of money down the line.
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Here at Bridebook, we can help you with planning every aspect of your wedding – including if you want to hire a wedding planner. Sign up today and take the stress out of planning your big day.
If you’re not interested in a large wedding or have a smaller budget, a registry office wedding is a great option for your big day. You may not want a lavish ceremony where you get married in front of a hundred people – you may prefer a more intimate wedding attended only by those closest to you. There is no right or wrong approach – only what’s right for you.
In the UK, the average cost of a wedding has risen to £20,775. For many couples, spending that amount on a wedding isn’t possible, and seeking affordable alternatives to expensive venues is just one way to cut this figure in two.
In this post, we’re going to explore everything to do with the cost of a registry office wedding, including the average amount couples pay, the factors that can affect that cost, and why couples choose to get married at a registry office.
What’s the average cost of a registry office wedding?
According to our data, the average amount spent by couples getting married at a registry office is £1,342. It’s also important to remember that this figure is an average, and it can be cheaper still to get married in a registry office – much cheaper.
Many registry offices offer a basic ceremony rate, which includes hiring the room, for as low as £57. However, this basic figure can vary depending on where you’re based and the, as the cost is set by the local council. This also doesn’t include the cost of a ceremony room (which is different from a registry office) which can cost around £200.
It’s important to remember that this isn’t the only fee you’ll pay. As well as the cost of the room, you’ll also need to pay for each of you to give notice (from £35 per person) and any additional marriage certificates (around £10). There may also be administration and postage fees, starting from around £10.
Registry office wedding costs can therefore be broken down like this:
Overall average registry office wedding cost – £1,342
Basic UK registry office ceremony rate – as low as £57
Cost of ceremony room – £200
Cost to give notice – from £35 per person
Marriage certificates – around £10
Admin and postage fees – starting from around £10
See the infographic below for a full breakdown of registry office costs:
This infographic shows a breakdown of registry office wedding costs
What’s the average cost of registrar fees?
As revealed in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, fees for a registrar to attend a civil marriage venue (for example, a town hall, or a hotel) cost an average of £300 in the UK. This cost can also vary depending on the day of the week. Expect to pay higher fees on weekends and bank holidays. By contrast, weekdays during office hours are generally the most affordable option.
Monday to Friday (office hours) – £300-400
Monday to Friday (outside of office hours) – £400-£450
Saturday – £500
Sunday – £550
Bank Holiday – £525
Special Days (for example, Valentine’s Day, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, New Year Day) – £600-£650
Is it cheaper to get married at a registry office?
With the average cost being £1,342, a registry office wedding is by far the cheapest venue option for couples, coming in at 75% cheaper than getting married in a place of worship, 82% cheaper than a hotel and 89% cheaper than a castle. This figure does include the cost of the registrar, which as stated above, costs an average of £300. This is also the most important cost to be aware of, because without a registrar you can’t have a legally binding marriage!
As we’ve already highlighted, the average overall cost for a wedding is £19,184. With the average cost of a venue being a huge chunk of that cost (almost half in fact), getting married in a registry office can make a wedding far more possible for many couples. Plus, some couples simply don’t want a large wedding and are much happier to save some money by hosting an intimate ceremony with their closest family and friends.
What factors can affect the cost of a registry office wedding?
While the cost of getting married in a registry office is, on average, the cheapest type of venue throughout the UK, there are factors that can affect the cost.
Location – Depending on where you’re getting married, some registry offices can be more expensive than others, as the cost is set by the local council.
Time and day – It can be more expensive to get married during more popular dates and times, such as on Saturday afternoons.
Season – During peak seasons, such as the spring and summer, the price may be higher.
Guests – A registry office will have a limited capacity and there may be an additional charge if you want a larger number of guests.
Additional services – Additional music and decorations (if allowed) may affect the cost.
There are also the costs associated with a wedding at any other venue, such as if you’re hiring a photographer or videographer.
Do you have to pay a deposit when booking a registry office wedding?
As well as losing your deposit, you may be charged a fee if you cancel your wedding (particularly if you cancel last minute) and there may be admin charges to rebook.
How long does it take to get married at a registry office?
A registry office wedding is perfect for couples who don’t want a long ceremony or the attention that comes with getting married at larger venues. The ceremony itself will take around 20 – 30 minutes, and you’ll need to arrive around half an hour to an hour early, so you can be interviewed before the ceremony takes place. This means that several marriages can take place at the same registry office on any given day.
Why might you choose to get married at a registry office?
Whether you’ve been married before, have a tighter budget, or simply don’t want the fuss that comes with a larger wedding, there can be many reasons why getting married at a registry office is the right choice for you.
As our data shows, a registry office wedding is a much more affordable option. Just because it’s cheaper it doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful – far from it. Even a more intimate wedding can still be beautiful and highly personal – it’s just far kinder on your budget.
Once your registry office wedding has finished and the two of you are married, it’s up to you what you do to celebrate. Depending on what you choose, costs will obviously vary greatly – an intimate meal with family and friends will be far more budget-friendly than hiring a venue and hosting a party.
At Bridebook, we can help you plan everything to do with your wedding, from the venue to the stationery. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option for your post-registry office wedding celebrations, we’ve got plenty of brilliant restaurant wedding venues you can choose from.
If you and your partner have fairly niche interests, why not join the host of other couples who have planned their own unique themed wedding? There’s no better way to show off your personalities and get creative! Victoria and Chris did exactly that with their non-traditional themed wedding inspired by their love for each other and their shared love of mythology and lore. Check out the details of their wedding planning, and their gorgeous photos, below and get ready to be inspired.
The Inspiration & Wedding Planning
We aren’t very traditional people, met at Boomtown music festival, as wild west performers, and it was definitely love at first shot! For the wedding planning, there was a lot of research!
We started with deciding on which mythologies and lore we wanted to represent, and ended up with different realms that represented parts of our life together and our families: Land of the Fae, Valhalla, Arkham, Olympia, Atlantis, Sherwood, Gallifrey, Loch Ness, El Dorado, and Camelot.
Our wedding venue was Forever Green, a beautiful venue in the heart of natural forest land, making it the perfect venue for a hideaway wedding, especially one with a mythology and lore theme!
Forever Green is a unique and magical wedding venue, as its views into the surrounding forest of Ransomwood give you the feeling that the venue and the forest are merged as one.
We brought different items together to remind people of stories of each place, so naturally had a wedding reception escape room where all our guests worked together to unlock the wedding cake!
We were also very lucky to have suppliers who were just as excited by our theme as we were! So much personal attention was given to the pre-planning and running of the day.
If you’re feeling inspired to have your own magical storytelling themed wedding, why not start planning all the little personal touches, and reaching out to suppliers who share your vision? Victoria and Chris have shown that with plenty of research and creativity, you can have the wedding of your dreams, that’s as unique as you are, not to mention fun for all those involved!
Childhood memories are precious, and often hold a special place in our hearts. What if you could relive those cherished moments on your wedding day? A themed wedding inspired by your childhood can transport you and your guests back in time, creating a magical and unforgettable experience. Get inspired by Mel and Andy’s whimsical Alice in Wonderland themed wedding, complete with quirky DIY touches and a host of unique, interactive activities.
The Inspiration & Wedding Planning
Since I was a kid, I have been obsessed with Alice in Wonderland. I have about 20-25 copies of the book, two Alice in Wonderland tattoos, and always wanted an Alice in Wonderland wedding!
Thankfully, my husband was happy to let me have my dream wedding – he went with all my crazy ideas and helped make everything. Our wedding ceremony was a White Rabbit theme; our wedding breakfast was a Mad Hatter’s tea party; and our evening party was a Red Queen theme.
My husband and I set up everything in the wedding breakfast the night before and it took hours! My mum and I then stayed over at Nunsmere Hall Hotel the night before together.
Our wedding coordinator was Erin at Nunsmere Hall, and she was the best ever! She saw our vision and was as excited as we were. We have her Hufflepuff flowers on the wedding day as a thank you (made my friend Amee at A Thousand Years Bouquets). We also gave my mum, my mother-in-law and hairdresser Alice in Wonderland flowers, and pocket watches to my three dads.
We wanted our wedding to be created by ourselves. I was the painter, Andy was the craftsman. I painted six giant paintings from the original Tenniel drawings in the original book, while Andy crafted a this way/that way sign, which I then painted, as well as stands for my paintings and signs, and our own photo memory board. We made all of our own themed invites and table names too.
We collected tea cups, tea pots, plates etc. for our table decorations. It took two years to collect enough items to make our wonky table decorations, which were covered in card and flowers and keys. Most of our decorations came from charity shops. Our centerpieces for the wedding breakfast were all homemade, and took us about nine months to complete in little stages.
My bouquet was handmade by my friend Amee at A Thousand Years Bouquets (she can be found on Facebook). They are made of an old copy of Alice in Wonderland and blue card. She is amazing!
My wedding shoes were Alice in Wonderland converse-style, which I bought from ShoeArtCottage on Etsy. I also had Alice in Wonderland socks, which were a gift.
I had my nails done by Karen at Shanti Beauty in Crewe, Cheshire. They were French nails, but my ring fingers were blue with bows on them. Andy bought me stopwatch earrings for the day, and I bought him his cufflinks. I had his tie and pocket square made from blue Alice in Wonderland fabric by my friend Stewart. My bracelet and necklace were from Pandora, and featured all of the Alice in Wonderland collection, which my mum and stepdad had bought me as gifts on the day.
My hen do was at the Rabbit Hole Team Room in Stoke. It was an Alice in Wonderland afternoon tea that my best friend and chief bridesmaid Vickie arranged.
Two of my dads walked me down the aisle, and Andy wrote the best speech and had everyone laughing. He wrote me a poem in his speech, too, and it was just beautiful.
We had a chessboard dance floor and provided games like Jenga, and cards for the evening party. We made our own photo booth frame, which we used our own camera for, with props to go with it.
We had a sweet table with “Eat Me” jars on it, which my two dads arranged for us. Our wedding favours were little shots of gin in “Drink Me” bottles, and “Eat Me” cookies shaped like mushrooms.
Dreaming of planning your own childhood-inspired themed wedding? Then take a leaf out of Mel and Andy’s book, and start putting together your own unique ideas – the possibilities are endless!
Finding the perfect wedding dress or suit can be a huge relief, however, that’s not where it ends when it comes to putting your attire together for the big day. There are still accessories to choose from to complete the ensemble, from the shoes you’re going to wear that balance style and comfort (you’re going to spend a lot of time on your feet!) to the jewellery that ties it all together.
But, what do couples spend on accessories during the build-up to a wedding? In this post, we’re going to take a look at everything related to wedding accessory costs, including shoes, bags, headpieces, jewellery and everything in between.
Wedding accessories are the extras you’ll wear on your wedding day in addition to your dress or suit. They add a little extra sparkle and complement the overall style and theme of your wedding.
Bridal accessories include a veil, a headpiece, jewellery, shoes and a handbag or clutch.
Groom accessories include a tie or bowtie, cufflinks, a watch, a pocket square, shoes and a belt.
There are also accessories for the ceremony and reception, such as ring pillows and flower girl baskets, and accessories at the reception, like table numbers that complement the decor.
The average amount couples spend on wedding accessories is around £300-£400. This can include bridal accessories such as a veil and garter, and groom accessories like cufflinks and a pocket square.
If you’re looking for an idea of what individual accessories might cost, the below guide will give you an estimate of what to budget for. You can also use our ultimate wedding budget breakdown for an understanding of how much your overall wedding may cost.
Veil
A traditional bridal dress is worn with a veil, but it’s certainly not a requirement. In fact, over half of today’s brides choose not to wear one, so there is no right or wrong answer. If you’re keen to wear a veil, depending on the style you choose, expect to spend anywhere from £50 – £250. Bespoke veils with personalised detailing will naturally cost more than standard designs.
Nathalie Neuilly, founder of Dressarte Paris, shares her expert insights as an experienced dressmaker: “We often do custom veils adding custom messages, initials etc. But it’s true that more than 75% of our brides decide to go without veils. Instead they prefer to add fresh flowers when styling their hair, or upcycle their mum’s veil and create a custom accessory.”
Headpiece
If you’re not wearing a veil, a headpiece, such as a tiara or hair comb, can add a little extra sparkle. Costs will be around £100 – £250 but can go higher.
Jewellery
Of course, you’ll likely already have jewellery that would work nicely on your wedding day, but you may want to treat yourself to something new for such a special occasion. Costs for new jewellery can range from a simple pair of earrings at £20 and go up from there.
Jacket
If you’re wearing a strapless dress or getting married during the colder months, you may want to consider a bridal jacket that complements your dress for when the temperature drops. Costs start from £75.
Garter
A garter is a traditional accessory worn around the bride’s thigh and is usually made from lace. It’s another accessory that many brides choose not to wear, but if it’s something for you then you might spend between £20 – £50.
Handbag or clutch
Not many wedding dresses come fitted with pockets, and the modern bride needs somewhere to keep your phone that isn’t your bra. Plus, a small handbag or clutch can complement a dress beautifully. Costs for a clutch will often fall between £25 – £80.
Tie
The groom’s tie is a way to tie a suit together with the overall style and colour scheme of the wedding. Ties will often cost around £25 – £60.
Cufflinks
Cufflinks are a popular gift for a bride to gift her groom ahead of the ceremony. They can be unique and personal and can be customised so that they have meaning behind them. They cost around £50 – £100.
Pocket squares
Pocket squares are another traditional wedding accessory and one that is still typically upheld. It’s another great way to introduce a touch of colour to a suit. Thankfully, they’re relatively inexpensive at around £10 – £15.
Belt
A belt is something already found in no short supply in many drawers, but a new belt for the big day will cost around £15 – £25.
Another key accessory to budget for is the shoes you’ll wear on your big day. At your wedding, you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet, from the time the two of you are exchanging vows to when you’re dancing the night away ten hours or so later. For that reason, you’ll each need a pair of shoes that are kind to your feet.
The average cost of wedding shoes will vary, but couples in the UK spend around £200 on new footwear.
Whether you’re looking for a flat or something with a heel, practicality is just as important as style on your wedding day. The cost of your bridal shoes can vary, but if you budget for between £60 – £150 you should find something to suit any taste.
How much do the groom’s shoes cost?
Grooms have a similar range of choices, including style, colour and even heel if you’re looking to gain an inch or so. Costs for groom’s shoes also vary, but will be around £50 – £130.
There’s a lot to buy during the build-up to your wedding, and whether or not you should buy new jewellery is your decision.
As it’s your special day, you may want to treat yourself to a new piece of jewellery to mark the occasion. Of course, if you’re hoping to wear several accessories, you may have to wear some that you own already. When you consider the cost of a headpiece, a necklace, earrings, a bracelet, cufflinks and a watch, the cost can quickly add up. Our data shows that the average amount couples spend on jewellery is £1,000, and this doesn’t include the cost of the wedding rings. But, it depends on you, your budget and the sentimentality as to whether or not you should buy new jewellery. It’s always nice to have a little treat though, of course!
This is another question that doesn’t have a right or wrong answer. Whether the groom should wear a hat and gloves or not depends on the formality and the theme of the wedding. At a formal wedding, they’re not generally worn, but at a very formal wedding, where the groom may be wearing a tuxedo rather than a suit, they may also choose to wear a top hat, gloves, and even carry a walking stick. But, it’s purely a matter of taste and what suits your style. If this is something you’re looking to wear, then the cost for a hat and gloves will start from around £200.
Accessories at your wedding ceremony, the wedding breakfast and evening reception do often cross over into wedding decor territory, which is worth bearing in mind when it comes to accessorising and budgeting for your overall wedding.
Examples of wedding ceremony accessories include:
Ring pillow or box
Basket for the flower girls
Guest book and pen
Aisle runner
Examples of wedding reception accessories include:
What is a wedding without music? If you think about it, music plays a major part in every wedding. It greets your guests as they take their seats, it accompanies you as you walk down the aisle, and it’s the reason why your uncle decided to do the Macarena alone on the dancefloor because everyone else refused to join him.
Music sets the tone for your wedding, creates atmosphere and gets everyone moving. But, with so many options available, should you choose a solo musician, a band, or a DJ? And what about the music at the ceremony itself?
In this post, we’ll take a look at how much wedding music costs, including the average price couples pay, the cost of various options available to you at the ceremony and reception, and the factors that affect the cost of wedding music.
As revealed in our ultimate wedding budget breakdown, the average amount couples spend on wedding music in the UK is £1,800. To be specific, based on our 2024 UK Wedding Report, that breaks down to £1,127 for reception music, and £641 for ceremony music. This figure doesn’t include the costs that may come with hiring additional non-music entertainment, like magicians or dancers, which can cost an extra £800 on average.
This cost can, of course, be much higher or lower, and depends on various factors such as the number of musicians and singers, how long they’re needed and the type of music they play. It may seem obvious, but a band that comprises five members will usually be more than a solo musician or a DJ.
If it’s important to you that there’s music at your wedding but your budget is on the smaller side, check out our blog post on saving money on wedding entertainment.
How much do wedding bands, singers and DJs cost?
The average spend may be £900, but the price you pay for music at your wedding may be vastly different depending on what you’re after.
Solo musician
A solo musician will be accompanied by pre-recorded backing music or may play an instrument such as a piano or guitar. Some great solo musicians for a wedding include Kate Ferguson and Jon Hart. Costs start from £350.
A duo is a pair of musicians, with one or both often playing an instrument. Great duos include Mango Acoustic Duo and The Boardwalk Duo. Costs start from £500.
Welcome your guests and walk down the aisle to beautiful music by a string quartet. Many quartets even offer classical versions of well-known pop songs! Consider quartets like 4tissimo String Quartetand Crystal Palace String Quartet. Costs start from £500.
A safe option for almost every wedding, a DJ will play the tunes to suit your taste and even take questionable requests from your guests. Some of the DJs you can discover on Bridebook include Iggy Davis, Disco Nytsand The Wedding Players. Costs start from £360.
A choir brings harmony and class to your wedding and is a wonderful way to begin your celebrations. Fabulous choirs include Crystal Gospel Choir and Lyrica Singers. Costs start from £300.
If you’re looking to celebrate your Celtic heritage, the bagpipes are a fantastic way to include some traditional Scottish charm into your wedding. Talented bagpipers include Andrew Brian Highland Bagpiper and Spud the Piper. Costs start from £150.
Delicate and elegant, a harpist is a great way to welcome your guests and a beautiful choice of music to walk down the aisle to. Great harpists include Nottinghamshire Harpist and Meredith McCracken. Costs start from £225.
For a touch of wedding tradition, an organist (or pianist) provides just that. Organ players we love include Musical Sam Servicesand Grant Jones. Costs start from £120.
If you’re on a tight budget, then a live musician isn’t a must-have for your wedding – your guests will still have an incredible time celebrating your big day by throwing some shapes thanks to a DJ. But, if you do have a larger budget to dedicate to musical entertainment, then it will add a unique and personalised touch.
A talented live musician or band not only provides background music to your wedding but also works as a feature and talking point. There’s so much variation out there, whether you’re a fan of rock music, pop, classical, jazz or more. Check out our selection of wedding musicians and find the perfect musical entertainment for your big day.
How much does wedding ceremony music cost?
It’s unlikely you’ll want a band or singer at your wedding ceremony (but if you do, go for it!) but live music can add a lovely, personal touch. A string quartet, a harpist or even a bagpiper ensures a welcoming atmosphere and ambiance that pre-recorded music can’t match.
Because your wedding ceremony is one of the shortest parts of your big day, the cost of a live musician at the ceremony can be far more affordable than a musician you may hire for the entire day or evening reception. If you’re looking for a musician to perform during the ceremony alone, the costs will be around £120 – £350. The more specialist the musician is, such as a harpist, the more expensive they’ll be.
What factors affect the cost of wedding music?
Several factors can affect how much you’ll pay for wedding music, including:
Location: If you’re in London you’ll likely pay more than if you’re hiring a musician outside the capital. You may also have to pay an additional fee if you’re outside their usual catchment area.
Date: Expect to pay more for a musician during peak times, such as during the summer months and at weekends.
Type of music: The type of music played can affect how much you’ll pay. For example, a band will usually be pricier than a DJ.
The number of musicians: It may seem obvious, but you’ll pay more for a band than a solo singer.
Experience: An experienced performer will cost more than an up-and-comer, but is more likely to entertain your guests for longer.
Time: The longer you want the musician at your wedding the more they’re going to charge.
Extras: A lighting package, smoke, bubble or confetti machine, plus mics for the speeches, may be available for an additional cost.
Plan your wedding today with Bridebook
Sign up to Bridebook and start planning your wedding today! We have a wide range of musicians available to book for your wedding to suit all tastes and budgets.
And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding music, we’ve got all the hacks you need to help you hit the right notes.
