How To Cut Costs

As you know, a dream wedding can be a very expensive business. So here are a few tips on how you can save yourselves some money and still have the wedding of your dreams -

Think about getting married during the week rather than on a weekend. You may be able to get a better deal from the venue and the caterers as business will be quieter than on a weekend.
If the dress of your dreams is a little over your budget, you can get a few quotations from local dressmakers as this will generally cost less than buying off the peg.
Many bridal designers have sales, where they sell off the samples. If you're lucky you could pick up a nice little designer number for about half price.
You can also hire a wedding dress, bridesmaid's dresses and morning suit from a suitable dress hire shop.
Ask your florist for some loose flowers that match your bouquet. You can wear the flowers in your hair, rather than buy a floral circlet.
Go to a hair salon, if your having your hair done on the day. It will be cheaper than having a stylist come to your home. Most salons will give you a discount if you have several appointments.
Ask a friend with a stylish car if they would chauffeur you rather than hiring a wedding car.
If a videographer is a little over your budget then ask a friend with a camcorder to tape the wedding for you. Alternatively, you could try hiring a camcorder from a TV rental shop, normally around £40 a weekend.
Consider your local church hall or bowling club (if you know a member) for a venue. It will normally work out a lot cheaper than a function room at an expensive hotel.
Cut down on the numbers attending the wedding breakfast as it will cost you more per head for a meal that it will cost per head for an evening buffet. You can invite everyone you want to the reception then.
It is polite to offer all your guests a drink as nowadays most evening receptions have a pay bar. So don't feel obliged to pay for all the drinks. As guests arrive offer them a drink that way you won't miss anyone.
Instead of paying for a band or DJ (unless a friend can help), play your favourite compilation CD's.