Set a Realistic Budget:

The first step in saving money is setting a realistic budget. Be honest about what you can afford, and allocate funds to the most important aspects of your wedding. Prioritise what matters most to you and your partner, whether it's the venue, photography, or entertainment.  Give yourself plenty of time to realistically save for your big day.

Plan Ahead:

Time is your ally when it comes to saving money. Start planning well in advance to take advantage of a wide range of venues and suppliers, possibly with early booking discounts and to allow for more flexible choices. Last-minute decisions can restrict you and you may end up with less desirable suppliers.

Consider Off-Peak Dates and Times:

Wedding season and weekends are peak times for weddings, which can mean higher prices for venues and vendors. Consider getting married during the off-peak season or on a weekday to secure better deals. Many wedding suppliers offer discounts for events held on Fridays or Sundays.

Choose a Budget-Friendly Venue:

Your choice of venue can significantly impact your overall budget. Opt for more affordable locations, such as community centers, parks, or even a family member's garden. Outdoor weddings in natural settings can be not only beautiful but also cost-effective.

Consider a non-licensed wedding venue

There are some beautiful venues that do not have a licence to legally marry, but are often more budget friendly because of this.  You can go to the registry office on a separate day, to do the legal bit - which will also save you money on the registrars attending the venue.  You can have a wedding celebrant, or even a friend or family member take the ceremony, making it more personal to you.

Consider location and logistics

If you are getting married in beautiful venue, you may have to pay for hotels nearby, or transporting all your guests to a registry office / church then onto a reception venue - factor in travel and accommodation costs, as this could also push costs up.  By getting ready and married at one location you can eliminate the costs of wedding cars.

Limit the Guest List:

The number of guests directly correlates with your expenses. A smaller, more intimate wedding not only allows for a more personal experience but also reduces costs associated with catering, seating, and venue size. Try and concentrate your guest list to who you want to spend the day with, not who you feel you should.

Explore Alternative Catering Options:

Traditional catering services can be expensive. Consider alternative catering options such as food trucks, family-style meals, or buffet-style dinners. These options can be both cost-effective and enjoyable for your guests.

Borrow or Rent Wedding Outfits - or buy pre-loved!

Wedding outfits can be a significant expense. Consider borrowing or renting your wedding gown, bridesmaid dresses, and groomsmen attire.
Many bridal shops and online platforms offer these services, allowing you to have stunning outfits without the hefty price tag.

DIY Decor and Invitations:
Get creative and put your personal touch on the wedding decor and invitations. DIY projects not only add a unique flair to your wedding but can also save you money. From centrepieces to invitations, there are countless online resources and tutorials to guide you.  Try not to get carried away, the decor looks great on the day but is rarely remembered by your guests in years to come.

Wedding Favours:

Wedding favors are small gifts given by the bride and groom to their wedding guests as a token of appreciation for their attendance and support and, serving as a memento of the special day.  However, if you speak to lots of brides they say lots of the favours were disregarded and left behind - so try not to go overboard, a simple scratch card can be budget friendly and be a nice ice breaker when guests sit down for the wedding breakfast.

Opt for a Smaller Wedding Cake:

Wedding cakes can be a major expense. I've had some couples buy plain white supermarket cakes and decorate with flowers to get the aesthetic without overspending.