Planning

Getting Started Planning for the Purse Strings

Weddings are notoriously seen as being terribly expensive and, as the cost of living rises, the thought of spending big on your big day could, quite frankly, be terrifying! But it needn’t be that way – steal some of our tips below…

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For every couple, there are big ticket items you’re just not going to compromise on – and that’s great! It may be the dream venue, the right photographer (trust us, you’ll be glad you invested in this one!) or, if you’re doing it for the ‘gram, the wow-factor décor. Whatever your priorities are, make sure you can achieve them by going easy when it comes to other aspects of the wedding that won’t make quite so much impact for you two as a couple. And remember, everyone’s different – go your own way! The guest list

Pre-pandemic guest lists were an average of 102 but have since shrunk to just 72, with some couples shunning an audience altogether and going for an elopement. Trimming even five or ten guests could make a big difference overall… Timing

Twilight weddings (we’re talking near-darkness nuptials, not the TV series!) are increasingly popular and make for the most magical celebrations in autumn and winter. Plus, the later you get married, the less you’ll spend on food, drink, décor… Or the better quality you can afford when you do spend! On the timing note, a midweek wedding is much more popular these days. It’s usually a cheaper option and, you’re likely to be able to get married sooner. Saturday wedding waiting lists can be long! Save on stamps

As big fans of our talented northeast stationers, we’d never be ones to shun their services. But could you send their beautiful designs digitally, instead of paying for print and postage?

Do the legal bit then throw a party

If you’re not lusting after a specific ceremony type, how about going with the costeffective registry office option and inviting only witnesses? That way, pennies can be saved for a right old kneesup to celebrate you two being married!

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Be clever with florals

Support local with your flower choices and you’ll be rewarded not just with outstanding service, but with honest pricing for seasonal blooms. When it comes to added extras, like buttonholes and corsages, bear in mind that they can be made from anything so ask your expert what’ll be cost-effective. DIY décor

Whist we’d never suggest you constructing your own sparkly dancefloor or fairy light canopy, creating your own centrepieces and other bits ‘n’ bobs could certainly cut costs. How about saving up bottles or jam jars and adding candles or dried flowers? And could friends and Fam' save up petals from their garden for instantly biodegradable confetti? Go easy on the bridal party

If you’ve got a big entourage, ask the girls to wear their fave fancy outfit and the boys to choose from their own kilt or suit. You could then treat them on a smaller scale with a gift of jewellery for the gals and a hip flask for the boys. Have a dessert table

If you want to splurge on a wedding breakfast to remember, could you go big on the starter and main (there are almost always clean plates with these courses!) then mix up dessert by asking guests to bring something to the table? We feel a GBBO-style competition coming on…! Skip something!

Whether it’s wedding favours, toast drinks or something else, if there’s any part of the traditional wedding day that you’re not 100% feeling, let it go in. That way, you can stick to your budget while keeping hold of the stuff you really want to include. ♥

Handy Cut-out Planning Guide

12 months (or more):

Decide date, budget & guest list Decide & book ceremony/celebrant Choose & book venue Get wedding insurance

9-12 months

Send out Save the Date cards Choose bridesmaids, best man, ushers Book photographer & videographer Book caterers & decide menu Organise transport Book DJ/band Start looking at wedding dresses

6-9 months

Shop for & order wedding dress Buy shoes, underwear, accessories Book hair & make-up Choose & book florist/cake Book extra entertainment Order/make wedding favours

3-6 months:

Buy wedding rings Groomswear & bridesmaids dresses Book wedding night accommodation Book honeymoon Agree order of service, readings & hymns with vicar/registrar Write vows Set up gift list

0-3 months:

Send out invitations Have dress fittings & wear in shoes Buy gifts for bridal party Write speeches and thank yous Have a hair & make-up trial

Final week:

Confirm numbers with venue & caterers Confirm all timings with suppliers Brief bridesmaids, ushers & best man Pay final balances Collect groomswear & wedding dress Have a manicure & pedicure

Get some beauty sleep! ♥