Most of us know that tying the knot can be expensive. Even so, many couples are still shocked at how quickly the cost of a wedding sky rockets. The average cost of a wedding is estimated to be around £25,000 – and for many of us hoping to get married, it’s a figure that can be heart breaking. But don’t despair, if you’re savvy enough, you can still have your dream day for a fraction of the cost – or at least with a considerable discount.

Don’t worry, you can still have your fairy tale dress and mobile bar if you really want, however, the guide below contains a few simple but money saving ideas that will hopefully ease the eye watering price tag of marriage!

Know your budget

This is crucial. Only when you know your budget will you know how you can tackle it and bring it down! Instead of asking yourself what you want, ask yourself what can you afford to spend? Remember, the key here is to stay grounded. A simple, close knit family and friends get together will be far more special and memorable than an expensive party for 250 people, most of who you haven’t spoken to for years.

Prioritise

Now you know your budget, you can figure out how much you have to spend on each part of your wedding. Prioritising what it is that YOU want. Yes, your soon to be mother in law might think a 4-tier wedding cake made of fruitcake and marzipan is traditional and therefore a must – but she’s not the one getting married, or paying for it! So, make sure you don’t fall into the trap of what is “traditional” and what you “must have”, times and styles have moved on, and weddings are more personal these days.

Discuss between you what is more important. Yes, you might want a fancy wedding car to take you to the reception, but would you prefer an all-inclusive, 5* honeymoon instead? Make a list and stick to it!

Choose your big day carefully

The venue itself is a huge chunk of any wedding budget, so to keep costs down, choose an unconventional day to get married. Unpopular days such as Fridays or Sundays will get you a cheaper price – as will midweek days. If you’re not superstitious then Friday the 13th is often discounted!

Many photographers will offer discounted prices during quieter periods, so you can also save money there too.
A midweek wedding might mean that some guests might not make it, but that could also save you money too. Every cloud

Talented friends

Now is the time to get in touch with those friends who have hidden talents and get them involved! Do you know someone who is a great baker who could create you a wedding cake? Do you know a budding photographer who could take photographs on the big day? Does someone you know have a classic car you could borrow for transport?

The possibilities are endless. With a little imagination you can have the wedding of your dreams for a fraction of the price!