Save your wedding costs with good planning:



Try to cut down on the amount of guests. Decide who you really want to have at your wedding and celebrate with others at another time. Consider getting married in the 'off-season'. If you get married between April and October you could even find prices have halved and if possible, avoid choosing a Saturday because it is usually the busiest day of the wedding week and therefore more expensive.

Another cheaper option is to get married in the morning - a continental breakfast is cheaper than lunch or dinner and alcohol could be cut out completely. You might also get cheaper rental rates during morning hours.

Involve your talented friends and family wherever possible. If your sister is a jazz singer then ask her to sing at your ceremony. Ask their advice because they might know of someone who can help you for free or get discounts.

If you decide to have a small wedding you can probably afford a longer honeymoon and vice versa; big savings can be made from this decision.

The wedding destination:

Consider having the ceremony on public grounds - at the beach or on an estate. You might need to get permission first or pay a small fee but these locations can be just as beautiful and save you money on a church wedding.

If the dress is not extremely important to you, try hiring or buying a ready-to-wear piece for a fraction of the cost. You might even be able to wear it for another occasion. You could also wear a vintage dress borrowed from your mother, sister, aunt or friend and customise it to suit you.

Don't get sucked into buying 'wedding' things that are overpriced. Shop around and save on mainstream items that look the same or can do the same job.

Reception and wedding gifts:

If you are on a really tight budget, think about do-it-yourself options. Being creative and thinking outside the square is a great way to save. Also try to cut down on frivolous items; do you really need those pearl-studded organza chair bows? If you want to have bomboniere or favours for your guests think about using a gimmick instead of a professional gift, like printed candle holders with the names of the bride and groom on them, personalised lollies or even keyrings.

Remember, every aspect of the wedding is negotiable, from the bridesmaids' earrings to the flights for the honeymoon, so try for the ultimate bargain and you might just get it!