Photo Credit: Thomas Frost Photography
As the average cost of a wedding in the UK surpasses the £20,000 mark, the interest in micro weddings has seen a remarkable increase, driven by the ongoing cost of living crisis. Data from Hitched.co.uk, a premier UK wedding planning platform, reveals a 669% global increase in online searches for micro weddings, with the term now being searched over 12,000 times per month. This surge is also evident in the UK, where there’s been an 11% year-on-year increase in searches, indicating a growing trend towards smaller, more intimate weddings.
The National Wedding Survey by Hitched.co.uk has shown that the average wedding cost now stands at £20,700. This financial strain has led 59% of couples to exceed their original wedding budgets, often adjusting their financial plans to accommodate rising costs. Despite these challenges, 70% of couples received financial support from family members, whereas reliance on credit cards (19%) and loans (10%) was less common.
Zoe Burke, Hitched.co.uk’s wedding expert, notes the importance of guest experience and cost management for couples planning their weddings. She highlights that micro weddings offer a unique opportunity to celebrate in an intimate setting without compromising on the day’s quality. Burke suggests that smaller weddings allow for a more personalised and memorable guest experience.
Amid this shift towards intimate celebrations, Hitched.co.uk showcases five standout micro wedding venues across the UK, catering to the rising demand for smaller-scale ceremonies:
- Frieda and the Moon, Cornwall: Specialising in intimate weddings and elopements, this venue offers a whimsical setting for up to 12 guests. Couples can enjoy personalised ceremonies, including unique options like a handfasting ceremony or animal ringbearers, in a picturesque woodland setting.
- Hive Bar and Kitchen, Somerset: This charming venue accommodates weddings of 10 to 50 guests, offering bespoke dining experiences crafted by owner and head chef Andrew Dombrowski. The Hive Bar and Kitchen promises an unforgettable celebration tailored to each couple’s tastes.
- The Hawk Conservancy Trust, Hampshire: For those who love nature, this venue offers indoor and outdoor spaces for micro weddings, complete with close encounters with majestic birds of prey. With a capacity of 50 guests, it provides a unique backdrop for ceremonies and photos.
- Skipton Boat Trips, Yorkshire: Offering a distinctive venue option, Skipton Boat Trips invites couples to celebrate on a beautifully appointed canal boat, cruising through the countryside. The Dalesman dining boat can host up to 46 guests for a memorable reception.
- Rayleigh Windmill, Essex: This grade II listed windmill presents a quaint and historic setting for weddings, ideal for 2 to 20 guests. The venue offers a unique charm for intimate ceremonies and receptions, surrounded by heritage and beauty.
These venues reflect the diverse options available for couples considering a micro wedding, combining the appeal of cost-saving with the desire for a personalised and intimate celebration. As wedding costs continue to rise, micro weddings offer a viable alternative for couples looking to celebrate their love in a meaningful yet financially sensible way.
Hitched, as part of The Knot Worldwide Inc., continues to support couples in planning their perfect wedding day, providing inspiration, tools, and advice to navigate the journey from engagement to honeymoon.
