by Sarah Frankton

Created on: November 13, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2012

Unless you are lucky enough to have parents with bottomless pockets and have an unlimited budget for your wedding most couples will be looking at cutting wedding costs somewhere. With so many things to think about and jobs to do, it is easy to get carried away and spend an absolute fortune on your wedding day. It doesn't have to be this way.

The first and most important thing is to sit down and work out your budget, what can you actually afford to spend. Itemise it so that you know what you can spend on each part. You may need to do some research into the cost of each item, such as your dress or the cake. Then you need to work out who you want to invite, write a full list and look at things like 'plus ones'. Do you really have to invite all of them? Look at how many children you have on the list? Can you make a decision not to invite children? Are there family members who you've not seen for ages and don't really know?

The venue and reception are often the most expensive part of the day. Think about alternative venues, such as a marquee in the garden or a beach somewhere. Ask if you can bring your own caterers and wine. Often weddings are cheaper out of season, so maybe think about a winter wedding.

Next, think about the food. Traditionally, guests at weddings expect a full three course meal with all the trimmings but often a slightly less formal buffet can be much cheaper and guests can choose what they eat and how much. Add a touch of the wow factor and go for a hog roast, a much cheaper way of feeding your guests and a great talking point too. To avoid having to provide an evening buffet too perhaps get married slightly later in the day and just serve one late meal.

Lastly, it is alway a good idea to make use of your friends and family. Ask the chef you know if she wouldn't mind making the cake. Your friend who likes making cards might make your invitations. Ask around to see if anyone knows of a good photographer or DJ. Do you have an aunt who can sew and who might make the bridesmaid dresses if you ask? When you start to think about it you will know a number of people who could help with different things. You don't get though if you don't ask.

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