What is a simple budget for a wedding?

A simple budget means stripping back to what matters: getting married legally and celebrating with a few close people. Start with the legal costs. In England and Wales, you both give notice at your local register office, and the ceremony can take place there or at an approved venue. In Scotland, you submit a marriage notice to the registrar, and in Northern Ireland, you give notice to the registrar for the district. Fees vary, so check with your local register office. For a simple wedding, you might skip a big venue and hold the ceremony at a register office, then have a meal at a restaurant or a party at home. You can ask two witnesses to sign the schedule or document, and you do not need to hire a photographer if a friend can take photos. For outfits, you can wear something you already own or buy a simple new outfit. Flowers can be a single bouquet or none at all. For catering, a buffet or a potluck with family can work well. You can also save on stationery by using e-invites and a simple order of service. Remember that in England and Wales, a humanist ceremony is not legally binding on its own, so if you want one, you will need a separate civil ceremony. Keep your budget flexible and focus on the day being meaningful, not expensive.