Summer is peak season for weddings and civil partnerships, but the cost of saying ‘I do’ has soared in recent years. Many couples meet these costs themselves, but around 70% still receive some help from parents or wider family.

The average wedding now costs over £23,000 in the UK. If you plan to make a meaningful contribution, starting to set aside funds early can make all the difference. Spreading savings over a decade or more can ease the financial burden and allows you to invest in higher-growth assets, such as equities, which have historically delivered better returns. Stocks and shares ISAs offer a £20,000 annual allowance and tax-free growth for long-term savings. As the big day approaches, consider moving funds into lower-risk assets to protect against market swings.

If you have less time, a cash ISA is a safer bet – just be sure to shop around for the best rate. Don’t forget parents, grandparents and others can make gifts towards weddings or civil partnerships and receive inheritance tax relief. It helps to set a realistic target for your funding and clearly communicate your plans with family to avoid the temptation to overspend. Steady planning means you can help your children achieve the celebration they want. And if they decide against married bliss, you have created a savings pot that can be used for other purposes such as helping towards a first home, further study or boosting your own retirement funds.