Wedding planner Oliver Stanton reveals two simple strategies for 2026 couples to slash thousands from their big-day budgets without sacrificing quality.
Opt for a Weekday Wedding
Stanton, an experienced wedding planner and on-the-day coordinator, emphasizes that choosing a weekday for the ceremony delivers major savings. Couples can secure the same venue, catering, and suppliers at a reduced cost, often by several thousand pounds.
“There is quite an easy way to save a few grand on your wedding,” Stanton explains. “You can have the same venue, same food, same suppliers, but it’ll just be a few grand cheaper.”
As a freelancer surrounded by others with flexible schedules, Stanton urges couples to consider this option seriously, noting it suits many modern lifestyles.
Embrace Off-Season Dates
Another effective approach involves scheduling the wedding during the off-season, from November to March. While Stanton prefers warmer months, he acknowledges the financial benefits outweigh personal weather preferences for budget-conscious pairs.
“The other big way is to get married in the off-season,” he states. “I would much rather get married on a Wednesday in June to save some money, rather than a Saturday in November.”
Couples Share Real Savings Stories
Stanton’s video has resonated widely, attracting 14,000 likes and numerous testimonials from engaged couples. One viewer shared: “I got married on a Thursday and saved nine grand!! Nine THOUSAND POUND!!! and not for all the bits, just the venue!!!!”
Others report similar wins: a Monday wedding saved thousands overall, while a Thursday in August eliminated minimum guest requirements and cut costs dramatically. A Friday in early October trimmed £3,000 from the venue alone.
Weekday choices also boost flexibility, with one couple noting abundant supplier availability and another hosting a Thursday twilight ceremony at 4 p.m. to skip the full wedding breakfast. Guests often extend stays, turning the event into a weekend getaway, as seen in a Lake District wedding where accommodations were covered strategically.
These tactics prove accessible, helping couples maximize value on their special day.
