Gen Z wedding trends: Planning a low-key wedding on a budget
Written by
Tuesday 22nd July 2025
Weddings are changing and Gen Z is leading the way. Unlike previous generations who often dreamt of grand venues and huge guest lists, younger couples are embracing low-key weddings that focus on what truly matters: love, connection, and meaningful moments.
From micro-weddings in the countryside to barefoot ceremonies on a beach abroad, this generation is saying no to tradition - and yes to authenticity and simplicity.
Why Gen Z is redefining modern weddings
Gen Z couples are driven by values like sustainability, individuality, and financial mindfulness. Here’s why smaller, more personal weddings are becoming the new norm:
- Cost-conscious decisions - With the cost of living on the rise, many couples are making budget-friendly wedding plans. Rather than spending tens of thousands on one day, they’re choosing to invest in their future and avoid starting married life in debt.
- Less tradition, more personality - From colourful outfits to food trucks and backyard venues, Gen Z weddings are often full of character. The focus is on what feels right for the couple, not what’s expected.
- Smaller weddings are more sustainable - Fewer guests means less waste and fewer emissions. Many Gen Z couples are opting for eco-friendly wedding ideas like digital invites, plant-based menus, and second-hand outfits.
- Destination weddings on a budget - For some, a low-key wedding means heading abroad with a few close friends or family. It’s often more affordable than a UK-based celebration, and you get to combine your wedding and honeymoon into one unforgettable trip.
Celebrities also choosing low‑key weddings
It’s not just Gen Z couples embracing the low-key wedding trend, celebrities are also stepping away from over-the-top ceremonies in favour of intimacy and individuality.
Charli XCX and George Daniel
The pop star and The 1975 drummer tied the knot in a chic, intimate ceremony at Hackney Town Hall in London on July 19, 2025. With just close friends and family present, Charli wore a striking Vivienne Westwood mini dress and Jimmy Choo heels, followed by a casual after-party look - proving that a stylish celeb celebration doesn’t need to be over the top.
Josh Lucas and Brianna Ruffalo
On July 18, 2025, the Yellowstone actor and ABC meteorologist wed at a small ceremony at the Vatican in Rome. Their intimate black-and-white portraits against St. Peter’s Basilica captured a deeply personal, minimal affair.
How to plan a low-key wedding on a budget
Planning a smaller, more relaxed wedding doesn’t mean compromising on style or sentiment. Here are some practical tips for couples planning a low-key wedding:
- Start with a clear wedding budget - Make a list of everything you’ll need and set a realistic spending limit. This helps you prioritise what's most important, whether that’s the venue, food, outfits, or photography.
Top tip: Use a wedding budget planner or app to stay on track.
- Trim your guest list - A smaller guest list is one of the easiest ways to reduce costs and create a more intimate feel.
Top tip: Invite your core circle for the ceremony, and celebrate with others later at a casual gathering or party.
- Explore non-traditional venues - Village halls, gardens, holiday cottages, and even local pubs can offer unique and affordable wedding locations.
Top tip: Booking off-peak dates, such as weekdays or winter months, can also save you money.
- Embrace DIY wedding elements - From handmade table décor to a friend officiating your ceremony, DIY touches can save money and add personal flair.
Top tip: Consider using pre-loved decorations or sharing items with friends who’ve recently married.
- Choose outfits that reflect your style - Forget the rules - wear what makes you feel amazing! Pre-owned dresses, high-street options, or custom pieces from local makers can all work beautifully.
- Consider getting married abroad - A destination wedding can be more affordable than you think. Countries like Greece, Italy, or Croatia offer stunning scenery, sunny weather, and often cheaper venue options.
Top tip: Many resorts offer wedding packages that include ceremony setup, coordination, and accommodation.
- Use a personal loan to spread the cost - If you’d prefer to avoid dipping into your savings, a wedding loan or holiday loan can help manage the cost of your big day.
Top tip: Look for loans with fixed payments, flexible terms, and clear repayment plans - like those from Novuna Personal Finance.
How wedding loans can help
Even when you're keeping things low-key, weddings often come with upfront costs - like venue deposits, travel bookings, outfits, or supplier fees. And while many couples try to plan within their means, it’s not always easy to cover everything all at once.
That’s where a personal loan can help. For some, it’s a way to ease the pressure and avoid dipping into savings. Whether you're planning a small wedding close to home or getting married abroad, having access to flexible finance can make the process feel a lot more manageable.
Novuna Personal Finance offers both wedding loans and holiday loans, designed to help couples spread the cost in a way that suits their budget. With fixed monthly payments and clear term, they can be a useful tool for planning your big day - without unnecessary stress.
Looking for a wedding loan?
Whether you're dreaming of a micro-wedding close to home or a romantic escape abroad, Novuna Personal Finance is here to help you say I do, your way.
Written by
Anna Stacey is a skilled content writer based in Lincolnshire, specialising in the financial services industry. With over four years of experience in the digital landscape, she has an aptitude for crafting informative and engaging content that addresses a range of customer needs. Spanning diverse topics, from finance and lending to broader digital marketing trends, Anna is committed to delivering customer-centric content that not only educates but also empowers readers to make informed decisions.
