The Average Cost of a Destination Wedding

Planning a wedding can be exciting yet daunting, especially when it comes to budgeting. One of the questions we get asked often is whether a destination wedding is a more cost-effective celebration than a UK wedding. With beautiful locations like Greece, Italy, Malta, and Cyprus to choose from, many couples find a destination wedding not only more appealing but also surprisingly affordable.

Average Cost of a Destination Wedding

According to industry insights, the average cost of a destination wedding in Europe can be typically around ￡10,000 which includes essential elements such as venue hire, catering, decorations, and photography.

Greece

Known for its iconic white-washed buildings and stunning sea views, Greece offers exceptional value for money. Popular locations like Santorini and Crete boast stunning seafront venues where ceremony only packages start from ￡1,989 depending on guest count and additional services.

Italy

Italy’s romantic charm attracts couples from all over the world. Tuscany’s vineyards or the Sorrento's dramatic cliffs provide the perfect setting. In Sorrento, the average cost is much lower, with weddings starting from just ￡2,700 for ceremony only. In Tuscany, weddings start from ￡13,800 for a ceremony and reception.

Malta?

The Mediterranean’s historical gem is increasingly popular for its affordability and incredible architecture. Many couples find all-inclusive packages, can? include Maltese cuisine and added touches, and start from ￡3,579 for ceremony only.

Cyprus

Known as the Island of Love, Cyprus offers sunshine almost all year round, making it one of the top locations for a destination wedding. Typically, a ceremony only wedding starts from ￡1,529 with many packages including beach ceremonies and luxury receptions.

UK Wedding Costs in Comparison

Weddings in the UK, by contrast, come with a higher average price tag of around ￡21,000 in 2023, which is set to only increase. Key factors for driving this cost up include:?

1. Venue Hire: High demand and limited availability often mean UK venues charge significantly more, particularly during peak seasons.
2. Catering: The cost of feeding a large guest list quickly adds up, with the average cost-per-head being a lot higher than those in the Mediterranean.
3. Decorations: UK venues often require more elaborate decorations to achieve the same aesthetic appeal naturally provided by sea views and historic locations abroad.
4. Larger Guest Lists: If you live in the UK and have your wedding here, there is a lot more expectation for a larger wedding. Destination weddings mean you can often strip back your guest list and keep it strictly to close friends and family.

Benefits of? Destination Wedding

• Smaller Guest Lists: Destination weddings are often more intimate, with guest lists being typically around 25-30 people, reducing overall costs while ensuring a personal experience.
• Elopements: Elopements are becoming a popular choice for couples seeking a small, intimate wedding with just their nearest and dearest. Whilst they can be done in the UK, the thrill of travelling and tying it in with a honeymoon is an exciting option for couples.?
• Built-In Honeymoon: Many couples combine their wedding and honeymoon, saving on additional travel expenses.
• Scenic Backdrops: Natural beauty reduces the need for extensive decor, lowering overall costs.

Conclusion

While UK weddings remain a popular choice, destination weddings in Greece, Italy, Malta, and Cyprus offer a compelling blend of beauty, affordability, and memorable experiences. With average costs significantly lower than those in the UK, these beautiful Mediterranean destinations are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for couples seeking value without compromising on quality or style.

If you’re considering a destination wedding, start planning today to secure the best venues and rates. Your dream wedding abroad might just be more attainable than you think!