What Budget Areas Can I Cut Down On?

by Tammy Chapman
(Nottingham)

I am getting married this July and I’m on a really tight budget. Is there anything that I could do to cut down on things that are not necessary for the wedding or not important? The budget is £5000.

Answer:

There are so many ways to cut costs and eliminate things from your wedding budget.

The best place to start is to write down the items that you feel are a must.

From there, you can see if those items can be done cheaper by having friends and family help with them. For example, you may know someone that could make your cake or you could make it yourself.

Catering is the biggest part of your budget and there are ways to cut costs. You could have family cater your wedding or you can cut down on the foods that you offer. Instead of having two or three food choices, only offer one. Serve beer and wine instead of a full bar.

If you know someone that is an amateur photographer ask them if they could take your pictures for you rather than giving you a wedding gift.

You can make your own invitations instead of having them professionally printed. You’d be amazed at how much you can save by making and/or printing all of your stationery yourself, this includes invitations, orders of service and place cards.

Decorations are an option to cut from your budget. Your venue may be nice enough that you don’t need any decorations. Remember that your tables will be cluttered with place settings, glasses, water, butter and salt and pepper so you might choose to go without centrepieces or use something simple and inexpensive.

You could eliminate transportation costs by borrowing a friend’s car or using your own.

Your flower budget can be cut down by carrying single stems rather than large bouquets. If you have your heart set on bouquets, gather your bridesmaids together and make them yourself.

Be realistic about your guest list and don’t feel like you have to invite people that you aren’t close to.

I hope these tips help to get you started. Browse through the site and you’ll find many other ways to cut costs and still have the wedding you’ve dreamed of.

I hope that helps.