How much does a garden wedding cost in the UK?

A garden wedding can be one of the most affordable ways to marry, especially if you already have a suitable garden and can borrow tables and chairs. However, you will need to cover several practical costs. The legal ceremony must take place at a register office, an approved venue, or a religious building registered for marriages, unless you are in Scotland where you can marry almost anywhere with a registrar or celebrant. Many couples have a short legal ceremony elsewhere and then hold a garden reception at home. For the garden itself, you may need to hire a marquee or a large gazebo, plus flooring, lighting, heating and power. You will also need catering, drinks, tables, chairs, crockery, glassware and cutlery. Portable toilets are often essential, as is a generator if there is no outdoor power. You may need to arrange parking, and you should check your home insurance covers events. If you are having music, you may need a licence for amplified sound, and you should check your local council rules. The garden will also need preparation, such as mowing, trimming and possibly levelling. Despite these costs, a garden wedding can still be cheaper than a hired venue, especially if you keep the guest list small and ask friends and family to help with setup and clearing up.