The Ivy Wedding Cost: A Complete Guide: Fast-Track Guide to Understanding Your Wedding Budget at The Secret House of Ivy

The Ivy is renowned as one of the UK’s most iconic restaurant brands, making it a dream venue for couples seeking an elegant and stylish London wedding. But how much does a wedding at The Ivy really cost? In this complete guide, we’ll break down all the factors that impact The Ivy wedding cost, including venue hire fees, catering options, guest numbers, and tips to maximize your budget while bringing your dream celebration to life.

Venue Options at The Ivy

The Ivy has several locations in London and beyond, each offering unique spaces for intimate gatherings or larger receptions. The flagship in Covent Garden features private dining rooms like The Loft and The Private Room, which are popular for both ceremonies and receptions. Venue hire fees at The Ivy typically start from £1,500 and can go up significantly depending on day, season, and chosen space.

Catering Costs

The Ivy is celebrated for its cuisine, with wedding catering packages often priced per person. Expect set menus to start at around £65-£120 per guest for three courses, including tea, coffee, and petit fours. Drinks packages can add £30-£90 per head depending on your selections. The minimum spend for private events generally applies, and this is often in the region of £3,000–£15,000 depending on the room and date.

Decor, Floristry, and Styling

While The Ivy’s iconic interiors mean you may need minimal decoration, most couples still invest in personal florals, table styling, or light installations. Budget around £800-£2,000+ for flowers and styling. As a designer, I always advise couples to consider how thoughtful touches—like bespoke table plans or mood lighting—can make even a classic space feel truly their own. Leveraging digital tools such as a room planner can also help you map out layouts and décor choices before committing.

Extra Fees and Hidden Costs

1. Service charge: Usually 12.5%, automatically added to food and beverage.
2. Audio/Visual equipment: May be extra, from £200 upwards.
3. Extended hours: Later finishes can add £150-£500+ to your bill.
4. Cake cutting/ corkage: Check if fees apply for external cakes or drinks.

Estimated Total Cost

For a typical Ivy wedding of 50–80 guests, budget between £8,000 and £18,000, with higher costs for peak dates, larger parties, or more elaborate styling.

Tips 1:

Always schedule a venue viewing and request a comprehensive quote—this ensures there are no surprises and your vision aligns with what the space can offer. Use digital visualization tools during your planning: as a designer, I find that mapping out table arrangements, decor, and lighting on a virtual platform helps couples optimize the layout and ambiance within the venue’s beautiful architecture.

FAQ

Q: What is the average cost for an Ivy wedding?

A: For most couples, the total Ivy wedding cost ranges from £8,000 to £18,000 for 50–80 guests, including venue hire, catering, and basic styling.

Q: Is there a minimum spend for weddings at The Ivy?

A: Yes, typically there’s a minimum spend based on date, guest count, and space, starting around £3,000–£15,000.

Q: Can I bring my own wedding cake or wine to The Ivy?

A: Sometimes, but expect a cake cutting or corkage fee. Always check details in advance with your event manager.

Q: How far in advance should I book my wedding at The Ivy?

A: Booking 12–18 months ahead is recommended, especially for popular months like May to September.

Q: Is exclusive hire of The Ivy available for weddings?

A: Full buy-out may be possible, especially for larger events. This will significantly increase your minimum spend requirement.