It’s easier than you think to save money on your big day. Here’s the first part with those easy peasy ways to keep to your budget during the wedding planning process…
Set yourself a budget
It’s essential to have a clear idea of what you can and can’t afford before you even begin any planning. With a strict, set budget, you’ll be able to keep track of where your money’s going and you won’t end up overspending!
Prioritise
Before you start planning, think about what’s most important to your on the day. Plan to splurge only on the things that are really meaningful to you and your h2b, and save on everything else.
Simplify
It’s important that your day reflects you. Don’t try to plan an extravagant wedding if you don’t have the funds! Simple, elegant weddings can still be perfect and you won’t blow the budget. Remember – your wedding day is about sharing and showing your love for your partner, not showing off.
Shop around
Don’t rush into buying anything as soon as you’re engaged. Dress shopping is definitely a planning highlight, and it’s so easy to get carried away and end up buying the first dress you fall in love with. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the best offers and get an idea of different styles that are available. Likewise, get several quotes to make sure you’re getting the best price and research carefully so you don’t end up being overcharged.
Hunt for bargains
You don’t have to splash out on a designer gown if you don’t have the money. The high street has a great selection of wedding gowns and if you search vintage shops you may discover quirky and original finds for a fraction of the price.
Let your bridesmaids wear their own dresses
It can be a nightmare finding bridesmaid dresses that your girls all agree on. If you let your maids choose their own, not only will you cut out any dress shopping drama, but they’re also more likely to foot the bill at the end!
Create a salon at home!
You can still look and feel fab if you do your own hair and make-up. While getting styled by the professionals is a definite luxury on the day, if you’re used to doing your own make-up, you’ll still be able to create a natural, beautiful look as well as saving money.
Just remember that it’s important to practise a few different styles before the big day to avoid any beauty mishaps! Why not book an appointment with a beauty consultant in a department store or go to a masterclass as party of your hen do?
DIY details
Why not make the finishing touches for your big day yourself? Homemade decorations and personal additions not only look great but are cheap, too!
Borrow things from your friends
While we’re not suggesting that you borrow money, many of your loved ones will be more than happy to be a part of your wedding by loaning you items that will add to the day. This could be anything from table decorations or props to accessories, shoes or jewellery!
Choose off-peak
Weddings are much cheaper between November and April, so avoid a summer wedding and you’ll save yourself £££s!
Ditch the florist!
To make your wedding more personal you could grow your own flowers for the event and arrange them with your bridesmaids. This handpicked look will give your wedding a relaxed, boho feel.
Seasonal blooms
Do your research before contacting your florist. Flowers that are in season are much easier to source and will therefore be much cheaper for you. Remember to think of this early as it can completely change your theme!
Double up
Thank you presents can be expensive, so instead of shelling out on extras, double up and let your bridesmaids keep their accessories as their thank you gift, or let your groomsmen keep their suits!
Choose a midweek wedding
Not only will there be much more availability midweek, but you won’t have to pay expensive Saturday prices either! Just let your guests know well in advance.
Fewer guests
Cutting your guest list is a great way to save. Why not say no to plus-ones or have a child-free day? Not only will this slash the price of your wedding, but an intimate gathering can be much more meaningful for everyone involved.
Be creative with your location
Popular wedding venues can be very pricey, so to avoid this, hunt for somewhere unique that will work perfectly for you. This could be anywhere from a local farm to a cute village hall.
That’s what your friends are for
See if any of your guests can help with the photography, music or floristry. Involving your guests can help cut the costs as well as helpful to lift the stresses of planning, and they’re likely to feel honoured to be more involved with your day.
Picture perfect
Have your photographer at your wedding for a few hours, not all day. You’ll still get the amazing pics you need but at a much cheaper price.
Make favours
Individual shop-bought favours can get expensive, so why not make them yourself? This could be anything from pots of jam to homemade lemonade in personalised bottles.
Buy local produce
This is great for the local community as well as your pocket, as you won’t have to pay shipping costs. For instance, try buying flowers at a local market rather than an out-of-town florist.
Say no to the open bar
Allowing your guests free rein at the bar is definitely likely to leave you out of pocket Guests will understand your reasons and it’s perfectly acceptable for them to pay for their own drinks – they would anywhere else!
Must-have saying
Keep your eyes open for vouchers and offers. Collecting coupons throughout your engagement will definitely help bring the costs down. You might also find something you love that you wouldn’t have found otherwise!
Ditch the cake
Ask your guests to bring cupcakes and create a cake tower together! Not only will this save you a huge amount of money on expensive cake, but you also won’t have any wasted leftovers.
Hire a DJ
Hiring a DJ instead of a live band not only saves you pennies, but also means you’ll have more music styles available on the day – plus they can do requests!
Have a buffet
While a three-course meal is great, a buffet will save you money and still keep your guests happy. Fewer serving staff are required than at a sit-down meal and everyone will be able to choose the food they want.
