A UK couple, Ellie, 26, and Alex, 27, defied wedding norms by forgoing a lavish affair in favor of a budget-friendly celebration costing less than $600. Their initial wedding plans projected a cost exceeding $10,000, a figure they deemed excessive. Instead, they opted for a simple ceremony at their local registry office for around $70, eliminating the pressure of a large guest list. Ellie explained that this allowed them to focus on the true meaning of the day without the burden of impressing others.
Ellie's attire consisted of an elegant white gown priced at approximately $300, while Alex sported a stylish suit costing $188. In a unique twist on wedding catering, the couple celebrated their nuptials with a McDonald's drive-thru run, enjoying cheeseburgers and sodas. Ellie expressed their shared sentiment, stating, "We couldn't justify spending £20,000 to £30,000 on one day. I just wanted to get married." While Alex might have initially preferred a larger celebration, Ellie admitted that a big wedding was her "idea of hell." She reiterated her simple desire: "I just wanted to get married."
The couple explored other venues but found them prohibitively expensive, with added costs for guest accommodations. Family members contributed to the celebration, with Ellie's mother providing the bouquet and a friend styling her hair. Ellie described the day as "so good" and remarkably stress-free. Following the intimate ceremony, a small reception for 20 loved ones was held, with the couple's parents covering the $600 cost of the venue, buffet, and DJ. Further savings were achieved by enlisting Alex's brother as the photographer and providing disposable cameras for guests.
Ellie and Alex plan to allocate their saved wedding funds toward a house, their children, and a memorable honeymoon. Ellie shared their decisive moment: "We thought if we didn't just do it then we never would, so we got married in a registry office with my mom and Alex's brother." The bride described the low-key wedding as an "amazing day" without regrets, emphasizing that while marriage is a significant milestone, couples should celebrate in a way that truly reflects their desires. Following their wedding, the couple enjoyed a "mini-moon" in Paris and have plans for a trip to Dubai in May.
Ellie and Alex at their wedding. The two spent less than $600 on their ceremony. (Jam Press)
After their wedding ceremony, the two celebrated by going to a McDonald's drive-thru. (Jam Press)
The low-frills wedding was an “amazing day,” the bride said. (Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
The couple did not want to spend thousands of dollars on a wedding — and the bride said she was nervous about impressing guests. (Jam Press)
