Weddings in South West England: Trends, Costs, and Fascinating Insights for 2024

FPM Music Management
Oct 24, 2024
6 min read

Updated: Nov 2

Hello! We’re FPM Music Management, and we’re proud to play a part in over 300 weddings annually across the South West, providing expertly delivered live music that enhances the magic of these special occasions. As a leading entertainment agency, we bring extensive industry experience and a deep local connection to every celebration, helping couples craft the day of their dreams.

Drawing on our years of hands-on expertise, we’ve seen wedding trends come and go, and with the latest insights for 2024, we’re here to share valuable data and guide you through the planning process - from setting budgets to embracing new trends. Whether you’re on the hunt for the perfect venue or looking to infuse your big day with the latest styles, FPM’s knowledge of the South West wedding scene ensures you’re in trusted hands.

Weddings in South West England

With its rolling hills, rugged coastline, and picturesque villages, the South West of England offers a captivating backdrop for life’s most meaningful moments. Nearly a third of all UK weddings take place in the southern counties, and an estimated 23,000 are held annually in the West Country alone, showcasing its appeal as a premier destination for couples drawn to the region’s natural beauty.

Key Wedding Statistics for 2024

Average Cost: The average UK wedding now costs around £20,755. Including additional expenses such as engagement rings and honeymoons, the total can rise to approximately £25,952*. Understanding these figures is crucial as you set your budget, especially given regional variations across the South West and the rest of the country.

Year	Average Wedding Cost (UK)	Additional Information
2018	£23,800	This was a peak year for wedding costs, driven by trends in lavish venues and extensive guest lists.
2019	£23,500	A slight decrease, but spending remained high, with increased investment in photography and videography.
2020	£9,100 (COVID-19 impact)	Due to lockdowns, celebrations were postponed or significantly downsized, resulting in a dramatic drop in cost.
2021	£17,300	As restrictions eased, micro-weddings became popular, leading to a partial recovery.
2022	£18,400	A rebound year with couples eager to celebrate, incorporating more traditional elements alongside modern trends.
2023	£20,700	Continued emphasis on personalisation and unique themes, including a rise in green-themed décor.
2024	£21,000	Current estimates indicate a further increase, with average entertainment spending at around £2,500 and venue costs significantly influencing budgets.

Popular Months and Days: August remains the most popular month for weddings, followed closely by May**. While Saturdays are still the top choice for many couples, Thursdays have risen in popularity by 11% compared to previous years, reflecting a shift towards more flexible midweek celebrations****.

Age of Marriage: There is a trend towards later marriages, with the average age now at 35 for men and 33 for women. This reflects a growing emphasis on personal and career development before tying the knot.

Choosing a Venue: Proximity is important, with 52% of couples choosing local venues. Despite the rise in virtual tours, most still prefer visiting in person to get a real feel for the space.

The Perfect Attendance: The average UK wedding typically hosts between 80 and 120 guests***, with smaller, more intimate celebrations often including around 60 to 80. In the South West, guest numbers align with these trends, as many couples prefer mid-sized gatherings that balance intimacy with a festive atmosphere.

Themes and Styles: Green is the standout colour of 2024, with couples gravitating towards nature-inspired aesthetics. Rustic and bohemian styles remain popular, highlighting a preference for a unique and personalised experience.

A Few Things You Might Not Know

Digital Love Stories: Around 30% of couples now meet through dating apps, showing the influence of technology in modern relationships and the changing dynamics of how love stories begin.

Financial Contributions: Approximately 70% of newlyweds receive financial help from family or friends to fund their wedding, an increase from previous years. This extra support helps ease the financial pressure considerably.

Modern and Traditional Elements: While 17% of couples are now opting for drone footage - capturing the day from a new perspective - some traditional practices are fading. For instance, the bouquet toss is becoming less common, with only 10% of couples including this in their celebration.
Sustainable Choices: Sustainability is a growing priority, with 68% of couples incorporating eco-friendly practices. This includes sustainable confetti, upcycled decorative touches, and even choosing local, in-season flowers.
Multi-day Celebrations: Multi-day weddings are gaining traction, especially among younger generations, with many opting for pre-wedding gatherings like BBQs or brunches. This trend is largely driven by a desire for an extended celebration and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Breakdown of Wedding Costs in 2024

This comprehensive breakdown of essential wedding costs highlights everything from venue hire to the finishing touches like flowers and entertainment. Use this guide to budget effectively and prioritise the elements that matter most to you.

Source: Bridebook

A bar chart showing the average UK wedding costs by category, with the venue (£9,877) and catering (£5,732) as the largest expenses

Average Cost by Month/Day

Knowing how much the cost varies throughout the year can make a huge difference during the planning process. The graphs below illustrate the average wedding cost from January through December and for each day of the week, helping you identify budget-friendly times to book.

Source: Bridebook

Top South West Venues

At FPM Music Management, we take pride in managing some of the finest wedding bands in the South West and collaborating with exceptional venues across Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, and beyond. Here are some statistics highlighting the annual number of celebrations hosted by some of our valued partners:

Sandy Cove Hotel and The Venue: Hosting between 150 to 200 weddings each year, this stunning location on the North Devon coast offers breathtaking coastal views and a romantic atmosphere.

Tunnels Beaches: Known for its secluded shoreline, Tunnels Beaches in Ilfracombe accommodates approximately 125 to 150 weddings annually, making it a sought-after choice for couples seeking a seaside celebration.

Trevenna Barns: Nestled in the heart of the Cornish countryside, Trevenna Barns is a popular venue for around 120 to 140 weddings each year, providing a picturesque setting for rustic-themed ceremonies.

Upton Barn & Walled Garden: Encompassing four beautifully restored spaces, Upton Barn in Mid Devon hosts between 50 to 75 weddings annually, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere - perfect for couples desiring a smaller to mid-sized celebration.

These venues showcase the diversity and beauty of the region, and we’re always honoured to contribute to some of the magnificent weddings held in these amazing spaces.

Planning Tips for Your South West Wedding

Set a Realistic Budget: With average wedding costs nearing £20,000*, it’s essential to establish a budget early on and stick to it. Identify which aspects are most important to you and allocate funds accordingly.
Explore Local Venues: The South West is home to a wealth of beautiful venues that suit various tastes and budgets. Choosing a local venue can also help reduce travel costs and simplify the planning process, as many venues work closely with trusted local suppliers.
Incorporate Trends with Care: Embrace current trends, like the popularity of green-themed décor and drone footage, to add a contemporary touch. Ensure these elements reflect your style to make the day unmistakably yours.
Make the Most of Digital: While in-person visits are invaluable, don’t underestimate the convenience of digital tools. Many couples (73%) prefer communicating with their venue and suppliers via email, Zoom, and WhatsApp - offering a direct line of communication and saving time in the long run.
Add a Personal Touch: Couples are increasingly seeking ways to personalise their wedding. Let your celebration tell your story - whether through custom venue styling, music selection, or a special ceremony that represents your journey together.
Seek Inspiration: Draw on ideas from those who’ve recently wed in the South West - their experience can offer real, down-to-earth insight. Facebook groups dedicated to local wedding planning can also be a great starting point.
Wedding Fairs: Visiting a wedding fair gives you the chance to meet local suppliers in person and discover unique touches for your big day. These events often include exclusive promotions and samples, giving you the chance to experience products firsthand.

A couple embrace in a garden at sunset, with the ocean in the background. Yellow flowers and shrubs frame the scene

A Last Word

Weddings in the South West of England continue to evolve, shaped by regional character and broader trends. Understanding these shifts can help you plan with clarity and confidence.

Whether you’re dreaming of a beachside ceremony in Cornwall or a cosy countryside celebration in Devon, the West Country offers something special for every couple. Embrace the beauty of this region and let your love story unfold in one of the most romantic settings in the UK.