KEY POINT SUMMARY
• Wednesday weddings are up as Saturday nuptials decline
• Midweek weddings can save couples £2,000–£6,000 on venues
• Some guests skip due to work, helping trim guest lists naturally
• Midweek ceremonies may end early as guests leave for work
• More couples choose weekdays to marry within the same year

Wednesday weddings are no longer rare. More couples are now tying the knot midweek to cut costs, skip planning delays, and trim bloated guest lists. New data shows that midweek ceremonies — especially on Wednesdays — have doubled in popularity since the 1990s, while traditional Saturday weddings are on the decline.

Wednesday Weddings Help Slash Costs

Back in 1999, 66% of weddings happened on a Saturday. Today, that figure has dropped to 43.6%, while Wednesday weddings and other weekday ceremonies have surged, according to official figures.

Luxury venues often offer deep discounts for midweek events. For instance, hosting a wedding at Hedsor House from Monday to Wednesday can cost £19,950 plus VAT — compared to £27,500 plus VAT on a Saturday. Couples are putting those savings toward lavish honeymoons or home deposits.

The Hidden Benefits Of Midweek Ceremonies

Hannah Rose, a veteran wedding planner, says the weekday shift isn’t just about money. “Venues offer deals because the space would otherwise go unused,” she explained. “The real savings come from your venue, not your suppliers.”

Despite potential downsides, such as guests leaving early due to work, Wednesday weddings often bring unexpected perks. A shorter guest list means lower catering costs and a more intimate vibe.

Guest List Shrinks Without The Stress

Couples no longer need to awkwardly cut distant relatives or coworkers. As Rose noted, “People who aren’t close won’t burn vacation days. The guest list trims itself.”

This natural reduction not only slashes costs but often improves the atmosphere, making it easier for the bride and groom to spend quality time with those who truly matter.

Planning Timeline Drives More Wednesday Weddings

One reason midweek weddings are gaining popularity is logistics. Saturdays during peak seasons can be booked years in advance. For couples eager to get married within the year, midweek options are often all that’s available.

Plus, the modern wedding industry — fueled by social media and ever-expanding trends — has shifted expectations. From multi-day events to full wedding weekends, some couples now stretch their celebrations over several days.

Wednesday Weddings Still Face Downsides

Despite the savings, weekday weddings come with trade-offs. Some guests may skip entirely, and those who do attend often leave early. “The dance floor empties fast,” Rose said. “People need to work the next day.”

Still, many couples on tight budgets accept those trade-offs. With UK weddings averaging £20,000, the appeal of saving thousands is undeniable. For the most budget-conscious, a Church of England ceremony still costs just £675.