How to have a cheap wedding

Wedding budget tips to help cut your costs...

Getting married can be an expensive business. Here’s how to stick to that all-important budget by cutting a few corners...

Outfits

Find out when and where your nearest wedding fayre or exhibition is on and go along to bag some bargains. To find out when the next one is on, visit nearby bridal shops, check the local newspaper or ask at nearby hotels, as this is often where they tend to be held. For an off-the-peg wedding dress, at a fraction of the price of a designer dress, look at high street department store bridal collections as they're often reasonably priced. For designer bridal gowns at low prices look out for designer dress sample sales where you could save hundreds on a top designer dress.

The groom's and best man's outfits can be hired to cut down costs - look in our supplier directory for a company near you. Look for bridesmaid’s dresses, shoes and accessories on the high street, particularly around summertime and instead of buying expensive wedding shoes, look for something that can be worn again.

Hair

Have your hair cut and styled at a salon's 'model night'. If you decide to do your make-up yourself, go for a make-up trial at a local department store, and wait until there is an offer to buy your chosen cosmetics.

Photos

Use a good photographer, but only for a few crucial hours; treat yourself to a good digital camera and ask someone you really trust to be your photographer once all the important group shots are taken care of by the professional. That way, you get your wedding photos at a price you can afford, and you can keep the camera for future memories.

Cars

Book a special vintage car or limo just for you and your groom, and then ask a friend who has a great car to drive the bridesmaids and your mum to the ceremony. Alternatively, if you live close to the church (and you're getting married in the summer)... walk!