Top 10 tips for budgeting

The average wedding in Britain costs in excess of £15,000. In some ways, it’s not really surprising given how quickly costs and expectations spiral. However, for many brides, this is simply unfeasible given the current economic climate. Sure every bride wants her big day to be perfect, but if like many others you’d rather spend the money on other things, or simply don’t have the money to fund a lavish wedding, read on. A tight budget does not mean you have to sacrifice your big day dreams, it just means you need to more savvy. So here are some tips to help you manage the wedding planning process on a budget.

-First of all, you need to decide what matters most to you. What are you willing and unwilling to compromise on. Work out how much you have to spend in each area and then research research research!

-Look in the classified section and on ebay for decorations rather than buying brand new ones. Alternatively, consider opting for decorations that double as wedding favours

-Go over your guest list with a fine tooth comb – every extra guest you invite increases the cost substantially. In addition to the catering costs, you’ll find yourself forking out for extra wedding invitations, favours, and even table centrepieces. If you’re on a tight budget it’s time to get tough with who you invite – cull people you haven’t spoken to in years.

-Ask your florist which flowers are in season, as these will be cheaper than flowers that are out of season and harder to source, particularly when if you’re planning to use large quantities for table centrepieces.

-Attend sample sales when hunting for that perfect dress, or even consider renting a wedding dress. Alternatively, if you know someone with excellent seamstress skills consider asking them whether they would be willing to tailor-make you a wedding dress.

-Go off peak – if you hold your wedding on a Sunday vendors may offer you a better rate due to demand being lower.

-DIY it – DIY is your friend if you’re on a budget. Even if you’re not a craft goddess, get friends and relatives to help. DIY decorations, cakes and invitations are becoming increasingly popular as people appreciate the personal touch. Consider where your (and your helpers’) talents lie and then work out what DIY projects you have time for. This crocheted heart runner on Project Wedding is a perfect example of how easy and effective DIY can be! http://www.projectwedding.com/wedding-ideas/diy-crocheted-heart-runner

-Consider asking guests to donate their time and skills instead of a traditional wedding gift – from flower arranging to hairdressing, getting guests on board with the preparation can really cut costs and allow you more financial leeway on the areas that mean the most to you.

-Find a less expensive venue and/or keep the reception short and sweet. The length of your reception will influence the cost of the venue hire so consider this carefully when choosing. If you don’t have your heart set on a lavish country house, consider holding your reception at a local community centre or even someone’s home. Alternatively, if you do have your heart set on the sprawling country estate, having a reception out of the peak wedding season will help keep your costs down.

-According to tradition, the bride’s family pay for the bridesmaids’ attire so this is a prime area to cut costs; rather than buying ‘bridesmaid’dresses, which will come with a premium price tag, look for suitable dresses in normal high street store ranges.