Melanie’s Budget WeddingMelanie wrote to me earlier this year about her budget wedding. She explained her frustration at see lots of wedding programmes where people were spending in excess of £15,000 on a wedding. Convinced she could do it for less; Melanie set her budget to £5,000 and achieved just that. Melanie got married in August 2008 and spent just under £5,000. Melanie managed to keep her budget wedding on track by doing lots of things herself. She’s a DIY queen and made her own table centrepieces, favours, stationery and cake – which all saved her a fortune. She even had a go at doing her own bridal bouquet which turned out to be stunning. The outfits After a lot of patience, her perfect dress came up – an Alice James wedding dress, usually priced at £1,500, in the exact colour she wanted. And she won it! Best of all, it came with all her accessories including the tiara, veil, hoop and garter – all for £250 delivered. Her bridesmaid’s dresses were from Next and cost her between £20-£27 each. They were nylon, but looked like silk and were really pretty. The male attendants wore smart trousers and waistcoats as they got married on a hot August day! The reception
Melanie also had a magician to keep the little and big kids entertained. She managed to negotiate £300 off the normal cost and he also threw in some kid’s entertainment for free! Hair and beauty Photography and music For the music in the evening, she had a family friend’s band which was supported by another friend who DJ'd. Both were minimal cost. To end with a quote from Melanie: It’s clear Melanie’s been pretty resourceful and made considered purchases. She did her homework, stuck to her budget and ended up with a lovely day. For me and clearly for Melanie too, getting friends and family involved with the big day makes such a difference. It reduces your stress and brings people closer together – so don’t be afraid to ask. Other budget bride's stories: Why not tell other readers how you managed on your budget? Contact me.  Custom Search |
