Top tips for making your wedding budget go further
Research shows that the average cost of UK weddings in 2021 was around £20,000. That’s a lot of money to find at the best of times and with the cost of living spiralling upwards rapidly many couples will be looking to economise where possible when tying the knot. In this post we share some ideas that will help you achieve this in ways that won’t cramp your style too much.
Decide on your priorities
Are you enthusiastic foodies? Then splurge on the catering. Mad about music and dancing? Get a great band or DJ. Is style your thing? Then don’t skimp on the décor. Then save money on all those other things you really don’t care about.
Trim your guest list
Cutting the head count will make a huge difference. Before you throw your hands up in horror at this suggestion here’s a way to soften the bad news. Invite fewer people to the formal wedding breakfast (which will save on food and drink) but include them in the evening celebrations. Or have a get-together at a local pub for all those you can’t afford to accommodate on the day. You’ll find that people are pretty understanding these days and some may be quietly grateful as attending a wedding may be a cost (accommodation, trave, outfit) they could do without.
Pick a day where there’s a discount
The venue is probably your biggest expense so even a small discount will make a big difference in how much you have to spend on other stuff. Many venues offer discounts for bookings outside of peak season or for mid-week bookings – so bear this in mind when you do your research.
Choose a venue that doesn’t need a lot of decorating
A village hall or a banqueting suite/ballroom in a hotel can be rather soulless and bare so you’ll need to spend a lot on décor to create any atmosphere. An impressive venue, with grand architectural features, lovely gardens and gazebo and style to spare (like Clevedon Hall!) may cost a little more on paper but it will require little effort and expense on your part to give it the “wow” factor.
The gazebo and gardens at Clevedon Hall
Dress for less
A lot of wedding dress designers hold sample sales offering savings of up to 70%. Follow your favourite designers and boutiques on social media, subscribe to their news updates and watch out for their sale events. There are also some lovely dresses available from high street retailers at a fraction of the cost you pay for designer styles. If your heart is set on something really high end then renting can be a very attractive option.
Email the invites
Parents and older guests may raise their eyebrows at this departure from formal tradition but you’ll save a surprising amount on postage and printing. It this is a step too far for you just skip the RSVP cards and stamped addressed envelopes – get people to respond by email.
Beg and borrow
You probably have friends who got married not long before you who may have items they’d lend to you for the day – fabric flowers, bunting, even a tiara. Do you know anyone with a vintage car or hot set of wheels who can provide transport on the day?
Beware getting carried away by what others have done
Pinterest is great for inspiration but do you really need a DIY cocktail station, extravagant wedding favours, a photobooth, a magician and a food truck serving late night burritos and tacos?
Let them eat (less) cake
Cutting corners on the cake is another easy way to save. Start by having a good think about who you know who is a Bake Off wannabe – if they really have the talent and skills then give them the opportunity to show them off. If this is not an option talk to your professional cake provider about including some fake layers (Styrofoam, but decorated in the same way as the edible ones). You’ll be surprised to discover that this is a trick they’re often asked to perform!
There may be room to save on photography
Rates for wedding photographers vary widely so look out for someone who is up and coming rather than going for an established favourite. Someone who is less booked up and keen to expand their portfolio will charge a lot less and probably try a bit harder. Make the most of their time too – you could save some more by booking them for eight to ten hours rather than for the full day.
Honeymoon at home
Travelling to exotic locations is fraught with risks and difficulties right now so a staycation honeymoon is much the best idea anyway. You’ll save a ton on flights (and on PCR tests!) not to mention making life a lot simpler and a lot less stressful.
Anything else we can help with?
The team at Clevedon Hall have a wealth of wedding planning experience they are more than happy to share. Whatever kind of event you have in mind they will probably have some further tips that could help you make your budget go even further.