15 Ways to Save Cash on Your Big Day

If wedding budget is a big concern, you may be interested in our tips for making savings. With the average couple splashing out around £21,000 on their special day, it’s no wonder hundreds of brides are looking at ways to slash costs to make their big day more affordable.

From homemade invitations, to a high street wedding dress, to having your best friend do your hair and make-up, there are lots of ways you can save a few pounds without scrimping on the look and feel of the day.

We talked to money saving expert Darren Williams from PromotionalCodes.org.uk about ways to cut down on costs without compromising on your favourite things: “Getting wed on a budget doesn’t mean turning your back on a stylish affair. If anything it means you can make your day more personal to you and your partner and you can have everything exactly as you want it."

“It does take time and effort to hunt down the best buys, but it’s definitely worth shopping around, hunting out deals and taking family and friends up on their offers of help to make your day just perfect,” adds Darren.

Here are 15 ways to save cash when planning your wedding:

1.Get wed out of season
Tying the knot out of the traditional wedding season can save you a fortune, as can getting married on any day other than Saturday. So go for a Friday wedding in November or March and you could be quids in!

2.Wedding Fairs

Find out which wedding fairs run close to you and check them out. There will be lots of discounts on offer, especially if you make a decision there and then. Do your homework beforehand and head straight for the stands you’re interested in.

3.Homemade invitations

Wedding invitations can cost as much or as little as you want ranging from around 25p per invite up to £7.50 for a handmade version. However, make them yourself and not only will your guests receive a beautiful card made by your fair hands, but it will also cost you a lot less for something truly unique.

4.The dress

For any bride, finding ‘the’ dress is their number one priority. But remember, the perfect dress doesn’t have to be the most expensive. Take a look at what the high street has to offer – there are some great designs out there. And don’t forget the designer sample sales , where you can save thousands on couture gowns.

5.Your bridesmaids

Instead of buying a dress your bridesmaids are unlikely to wear again, how about hiring? It’ll mean a designer dress at a fraction of the cost.

6.The venue

If your budget doesn’t stretch to hire one of the most sought after venues then have a look at smaller places - this way you can have a more personal affair with a more affordable price tag. 

7.The reception

The reception is one of the biggest costs – but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of booking a luxury hotel or the local golf club, think about booking your village or church hall. You’ll then have complete freedom to do what you want, when you want for a fraction of the cost.

8. Catering

If you’re opting for a DIY reception, then get family and friends involved in the catering. You don’t need to have a fancy sit down meal. Why not have a barbecue, a vintage afternoon tea or even a cosy family picnic?

9.The cake

If your mum’s an amazing cook, then ask her to bake and decorate your wedding cake. And if you're not a fan of traditional fruit cakes, why not have some yummy cupcakes instead?

10. Reception decorations

This all depends on the look you’re going for, but scour second hand shops for quirky items, get your in-laws making bunting and have your mum and sister on the case with the table decorations.

11. Wedding cars

Don’t shell out for fancy cars – instead ask around and see which friends and family members have a nice motor and are happy to play chauffeur for the day.

12. Something borrowed

Instead of buying accessories for your big day, why not borrow them instead? You save a few pounds and get to wear something from someone dear to you.

13. Hair and make up

Should a friend offer to do your hair and make up on the day, then take them up on the offer. Make sure you have some practice sessions beforehand so your look will be picture perfect.

14. Flowers

Florist's bills can soon mount up when it comes to your bridal bouquet. Instead, why not have a go yourself, keeping it simple and stylish, or enlist the help of an artistic friend.

15. Honeymoon

You can do a honeymoon on a budget. Check out the deals that are available and make sure you look for discount codes online - there are plenty of dream destinations to choose from!

Behind the scenes: Winter photoshoot at The Battleaxes

On this fresh winter’s day, we offer you an exclusive view from this issue of The West Weddings photoshoot. So it’s time to get cosy, as you poor over these stunning images taken by the talented Martin Dabek, from PhotoDabek - the hot chocolate is optional!  

The location of our photoshoot was The Battleaxes in North Somerset – a charming English pub that instantly lures you in with its cosy open fireplace and rooms full of character. With an idyllic countryside setting, the venue oozes charm and period features, making it ideal for wedding day celebrations. 

 

Our ‘bride’ Rachel looked stunning in the gorgeous gowns from The White Collection in Clevedon, which were complemented beautifully with superb accessories from Bridezillas. Her ‘groom’ David tried on a selection of suits, waistcoats and cravats provided by Anne Harding. 

           

Every detail was planned to perfection by our stylist Kirsten Butler, owner of the Little wedding Helper, incorporating seasonal features and maximizing the surroundings. 

We couldn't have created this issue without our talented wedding suppliers: Jax-Glam Beauty, Hairoics Mobile Hair and Beauty, Mim's Flower Shed, Pretty Amazing Cakes, Triggols Vintage Cars and Lighthaus Events. 

 Loved these images? For more ‘Behind the scenes’ looks, check out our previous post here, then come over to our Twitter and Facebook  pages and let us know which looks inspired you for your big day!

Miscellaneous Monday: Unique Guestbook Ideas

Wedding guestbooks needn’t be the usual dull paper album that you find in all the big stores. Instead, make it quirky and personal - a treasured keepsake of your special day alongside your photos. Why not let your guests share their words of wisdom on globes, shells and even vinyl records, and display their messages in a place of pride in your home afterwards.

Take a look at our latest Pinterest board to get some inspiration and get creative! For more planning advice, visit our previous posts and don’t forget to share your thoughts on Twitter and Facebook.   

Follow West Weddings's board Alternative wedding guest books on Pinterest.


Here are our 5 favourite alternative ideas for guestbooks:

Memory box

Build a bigger picture of how everyone enjoyed their day and get some precious marital advice from your family and friends with a special memory box. Provide a beautifully crafted box filled with wooden heart-shaped pieces and encourage everyone to jot down their marital tips throughout the evening – don’t forget to supply pencils!  

Hobbies and happy times  

Who says you can’t incorporate your hobbies into your nuptials? Go even further and make a whole theme out of it– from holidays and sports to your favourite music, books or movies. Invite your guests to write their well wishes on a pair of old skis, a surfboard, a guitar or vinyl record – it will make for great keepsake.

Home decor

If you love shabby chic, you’ll want to hear about this idea! Find a pair of large letters carrying your initials and let them be covered with meaningful messages from all the guests. Not only does this make unique guestbook, but it will also look great in your home for years. 

Fun and games

Show your fun side by setting up a special station with wooden Jenga blocks or blank puzzle pieces, so everyone can sign their name on them. Every time you get the games out to play, you’ll be reminded of your big day.

Travel Treasures

Deciding on a honeymoon destination is not always easiest as there are so many great offers - city breaks, spa retreats, seaside resorts, etc. Why not let your loved ones lend a helping hand? Make a quirky guestbook using vintage travelling tools – from world atlas and globe to map and postcards – and pick a recommended place you’ve never explored before.