No one want’s to skimp on the biggest day of their lives, but is it really worth starting your life together with mountains of debt hanging over your heads from the wedding? With house deposits, children and holidays to save up for; we show you how to save your money for the things that really matter and still throw a wedding that’s the talk of the town.
Image Source: Sean MacEntree
The Venue
In many cases, the venue is the most expensive part of the whole day. If you’ve had your heart set on one particular venue, there are plenty of things you can do to get it at a fraction of the cost.
A cancellation at a wedding venue may mean heartbreak for someone else, but for you it could be a godsend. If you are organised and can whip friends and family into action quickly, consider making the venue aware that you would be able to do a date at short notice. Very few brides are willing to be this flexible, so you’re not likely to have much competition. It is also worth remembering how much of the cost of the venue (if any) is non-refundable. This puts you in a strong position when talking price for a last minute opening.
If the chance for a last-minute bargain doesn’t present itself, consider booking the venue at a time when it is in less demand. Fridays and Saturdays are the most popular and therefore the most expensive days to get married. Opt for a Thursday or even a Wednesday to secure your venue at a fraction of the cost. Of course, you will need to give guests a decent amount of notice so they can book time off work well in advance.
If you are not limited on where you want to get married, think outside the box. Hiring a big holiday home for a week and holding the reception there is around the same price as a venue but you have the place for seven days. Take the bridal party with you and spend a few days enjoying local sights, visiting the salon and dressing the house for the big day. With everyone there, you can do much of the organising and decorating (and even some of the cooking) yourselves which keeps the costs down.
The Extras
The extras are what makes a wedding, they also add a serious amount to the cost. Utilising the goodwill and skills of family and friends at this point could save you hundreds, even thousands, before the day is over.
Do you know anyone that is an especially good baker? Great! Let them do the cake and you’ll not only have something personal and meaningful, you’ll have a hell of a saving to match. You could even suggest they do it as your gift so you can secure the cake for free!
Alcohol is another big expense when it comes to weddings. Don’t order it through the venue, they’ll inflate the cost. Buying it yourself at a cash and carry or online liquor store and paying the venue corkage will save you a small fortune and puts an end to open bar taps.
Whatever you decided, the trick to a fabulous wedding is one that feels personal. If you enlist the help of the people who love you, inject some personality into the day and (above all) relax, your wedding is guaranteed to be fabulous and affordable.
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