How do I set a wedding budget for a same-sex wedding?

A same-sex wedding is legally the same as any other in the UK, so your budget should follow the same logic. Start with a total you are comfortable with, then list what matters most to you as a couple. You might want a big party, a quiet ceremony, or a mix of both. There is no need to budget for anything extra just because you are same-sex, unless you want to, for example, if a religious venue is important to you.

Check the venue's policy on same-sex weddings. In England and Wales, civil venues cannot discriminate, but religious organisations decide for themselves whether to hold same-sex ceremonies. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, humanist and belief celebrants can conduct legal weddings, and same-sex marriage is legal everywhere. If you want a religious ceremony, contact the place of worship directly to ask about their approach and any requirements.

Think about your guest list and family dynamics. You may have relatives who are not fully supportive, so decide in advance how to handle invitations and seating. Focus your budget on creating a day that feels authentic to you both, not on pleasing everyone. Use your guest count to set the scale, and remember you only need two witnesses. If you want to combine a religious ceremony with a civil one, budget for both, but check with the registrar about the legal process.