Getting married? Here’s how to reduce the costs

Let’s face it, weddings are expensive. Everything from the dress to the venue costs money, but there are ways to throw a fanciful occasion without breaking the bank. That’s right, with a bit of clever organisation you can reduce costs significantly – so take a look at these five handy tips.

Reduce the amount your borrow

Tying the knot is a special event, but you don’t want to walk down the aisle knee-deep in debt. That’s why it’s essential to keep your borrowing costs to a minimum. If you do apply for a credit card or loan, make sure the interest rate is as low as possible to avoid unnecessary fees. Many banking groups offer great promotions for a set period of time and rates of 0 per cent can come in useful.

Choose the right venue

Whether you’re looking for a romantic town house or a stylish country venue – it’s important to shop around. A Downton Abbey-esque mansion might seem appealing, but it could cost five times as much as a hotel setting, so be aware. If you have something specific in mind (like getting married in a castle), see what’s available, but always keep an open mind. Find out what’s included in each package and always read the small print to avoid unexpected charges.

Think second hand

If you’re a little strapped for cash (or simply don’t want to spend a fortune on clothes), why not look for second hand items? Most people only wear their wedding dress once and keep them in a pristine condition, so you’re bound to find something lovely. Charities such as The British Red Cross and Oxfam have plenty of styles and you might even come across a designer frock or two. If you want a brand new gown, be prepared to pay a bit more and alter your budget accordingly.

Think carefully about the date

Did you know that weekend weddings are more expensive? Saturdays and Sundays can hike up the cost of your do, so it’s well-worth going off-peek. Sure, many people work from Monday through to Friday, but if you give them enough notice, they can book the day off in good time. What’s more, if you’re not desperate for a summer wedding, it’s wise to get married in winter. As this is a relatively unpopular season for marriages, venues, chauffeurs and DJs are often cheaper, helping your money go further.

Keep your wedding short and sweet

If you’ve been to an all-day wedding, you’ll know they don’t really need to be that long. Everyone feels a bit sleepy by the evening, so try keeping yours short and sweet. Spend the morning getting ready and have the ceremony late afternoon. If the wedding meal is served at around five or six, you might not have to put on an evening buffet – which will certainly cut costs. Also, if you only hire a venue for half the day, you might get a reduced price, so it’s definitely good to ask!

Everything from taking out a low interest credit card to selecting the right venue can improve the cost of your wedding, so don’t overspend when you don’t have to.