by Susan Hibberd

Created on: February 24, 2010

If you want to marry the person you love in perfectly relaxed surroundings, then the impersonal luxury of a large hotel is not for you. Getting married at home helps to keep the budget in check and lets you stay in control.

Before you make your decision, however, consider these things:

*Having a wedding at home means that you don't have to book (and pay for) an expensive reception venue, which is great.

*You have the luxury of being able to set everything up before the day - there is no rushing around the night before of even on the morning of your wedding checking ribbons and place settings, as it can all be done well in advance.

*There will never be any worry about forgetting things like the ring or wedding favors. If you do forget anything, you can just pop upstairs and get it!

*Having a wedding at home means that you will be much more in control of everything. You don't have to worry about wedding planners doing things you won't like while your back is turned because you can be there all the time, or even do it yourself.

*All your friends will know where to come, and won't get lost on the way.

*It is easier to invite acquaintances to just part of the event if you are having it at home, because they won't have to travel to be there.

*If you have small children they can all be packed off to bed while the party continues.

*There is not 'home time' or bar closing hours - you can party all night if you want to!

*You can have a lot of toys and games around to keep the kids occupied. They can even slope off to the den to watch videos if they get bored and crotchety.

*A wedding reception at your home is much cheaper than having to hire another venue, even if you have to hire a marquee. If you need more space, ask the neighbours if you could take down some fence panels and spill out into their yard.

*A home reception is much more relaxing than one in a more formal location.

*Having a wedding in your own home might prove quite stressful if you are trying to get yourself and bridesmaids ready AND worry about the catering and decorations etc as well. Some people thrive on this, and if that is you, then go for it. You could also enlist the help of friends and family to take over various aspects of the day.

Other points to consider are:

*You will need to consider where all the guests will park their cars. If you live near a school or large business they might let you use their yard.

*You can leave a trusted member of the family (your mother?) in charge of the cleanup so you can jet off on your honeymoon.

*Keep your neighbours on side and invite them to the wedding.

*Have you got enough bathrooms for the amount of people you wish to invite? If not, you can hire luxury temporary toilets.

*You will need to hire waiting staff and bar staff or get friends kids to stand in and do it.

A wedding at home can be a very intimate and relaxing event if it is planned properly. Whatever type of wedding you choose, forget the small stuff and enjoy your special day!

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