Cost saving tips for your wedding

The Wedding Dress

• Start shopping early.
• The simpler the dress the lower the price.
• Renting a wedding dress is also an option worth looking at.

The Reception Site

• Fridays and Sundays are cheaper days to book a reception site.
• In most cases, the earlier you book the location the cheaper.
• If you rent tables or cutlery, make sure you return them on time to avoid late return fines.
• Think about "off peak" time such as November to April.

Food and Drink

• Morning and lunch time receptions tend to be cheaper than evening receptions.
• Try choosing cheaper foods, such as chicken.
• Weigh up the option of having a wedding cake as your desert.
• Serve wine and beer at your reception.
• Set a limit to the bar, or close the bar before the reception ends.

Photography

• Think about approaching a school or varsity. They sometimes have an advanced photography course that may have a student who does weddings.
• Place disposable cameras on each table for guests to take photographs at the wedding.

Flowers

• Use seasonal flowers.
• Use more greenery in the church.
• Take ceremonial flowers along to the reception.
• Mix silk flowers with real flowers on the table.

Music

• Hiring a band may save you more money than if you were to hire a DJ.
• Using a student who DJ's part time may save you money, but may not guarantee quality of sound.
• Use in house DJ's or bands from your reception site if they have any available.
• Remember that the musician you choose for your reception will play a big part in the success of your wedding, so it may in fact be worth paying a little extra to ensure great quality, and a great reception.