Saving for your wedding, a honeymoon and setting up your first home together can be tricky business. More often than not, at least one will take a hit and have to be sacrificed. But being thrifty and well-organised could help you have it all. These 10 tips could help you save thousands on your wedding day.
Book Off Peak
Choosing an unusual wedding date is key to saving thousands on your budget. Prices tend to be much higher during the summer months when wedding season is in full swing. Many venues offer special packages to couples who marry during the months from January to April which are much quieter. Booking your special day midweek will also save you mega bucks with most couples seeking to be wed on a Friday or Saturday. It’s a case of supply and demand, so use this to your advantage. Simples.
Something Borrowed
Borrow essentials from family and friends where you can. Don’t be shy, everyone will want to help out and play a special role at your wedding. If one of your relatives drives a fancy car, ask can you use it to transport the bridal party from the ceremony to your venue. Likewise, when it comes to your bridal jewellery, ask your mother and grandmother if they have any pieces you can pair with your gown. Not only will you look stunning with a vintage twist, the added sentimental value will have you beaming from ear to ear as you step up the aisle wearing a piece of family history.
Be Cut Throat With Your Guest List
Make no apologies when it comes to the guest list. Agree that if you both have not spoken to the person in over two years, they aren’t invited. You may be surprised but many people will completely understand the difficulty of trying to save for a wedding and your first home. Explain that you would prefer a more intimate affair with only close family. And if you really can’t minimize your list, invite work colleagues and distant friends to your after party. This way they can still share in the festivities and toast to your happiness while enjoying some light finger food.
Scrap The Sit Down Meal
A full banquet meal can be very expensive per head, especially if you cannot shorten your guest list. If you are having an outdoor summer affair, why not opt for an on-trend backyard barbecue? Hipster hog roasts and large buffets are perfect for a more casual atmosphere where everyone can dig in and help themselves. Choosing larger seating arrangements will also enable you to save on centre pieces and table decor. Plus everyone can sit together and mingle better.
Use Your Family & Friends
Ask your nearest and dearest to offer their talents and services as a wedding gift or at mates rates. Rope in your pals who are great at hair styling and applying make up instead of paying a fortune for a professional. And if you have any relatives who love the limelight, get them to provide the entertainment and get a good sing-song going.
Skip The Open Bar
If you’re a bride trying to cut costs, an open bar could blow your wedding budget apart! Maybe it’s best to give it a miss. Many venues now offer drink vouchers, use these to buy a round for your guests and double them up as a wedding favour. You’ll literally be getting two for the price of one. If you are hiring an exclusive country manor, be frugal and plan ahead. Save supermarket vouchers and coupons and cash these in against alcohol to create your very own quirky pop up bar.
Don’t Be Afraid To Negotiate
Always shop around when it comes to your wedding suppliers. Get a few quotes and play these against each other to try and score a discount. Always remember to play nice because you won’t get any results by releasing your inner bridezilla.
Travel Abroad
Deciding to have a destination wedding will instantly save you thousands. Your guest list will be considerably smaller and you can use it as an opportunity to honeymoon also. Many couples are also travelling abroad to countries such as France to bulk buy cheaper wine for their reception. This option will save cash on corkage charges, allowing you to use the money for other wedding expenses.
DIY Where You Can
Invite your gals over for a glass of vino and get busy making DIY invitations, place cards and ceremony pamphlets. Not only will you have a great bonding session with your hens but the end result will give your special day a stylishly bespoke look. Remember that successful DIY is about playing to your strengths, avoid a major DIY disaster by leaving the tougher tasks to the professionals.
Hire Trainees
Search for recent college graduates or trainees who offer cheaper services in exchange for gaining experience. This is an ideal opportunity to save hundreds on your wedding photography.
Image Credits: 1) Main Image – provided by Smart, check out a round-up of their best photography tips.
