A guide to saving for a wedding

This article is designed to be a brief overview to help you save towards a wedding. You may wish to speak to a financial adviser for more guidance and information. 

How to save for a wedding 

Planning a wedding is an exciting time for everyone, but it can be a daunting task – especially when managing the budget. For some, the cost of a wedding can stretch into the tens of thousands of pounds. And even if you’re good at budgeting, it’s easier than you might think for the cost to creep up. However, by planning carefully and thinking smart, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank.  

Set a realistic budget 

Before you start planning, establish a realistic budget. You should base this on your financial situation and how much you’re willing to spend without causing undue stress. Prioritise what’s most important to you and your partner, whether it’s the venue, the dress, or the photography. Look to allocate more of your budget to these specifics and be prepared to cut back on less important areas. 

Create a savings plan 

Once you have a budget in mind, create a savings plan. Determine how much you need to save each month leading up to your big day. Research the rates available on the latest savings accounts and look into opening one dedicated to your wedding funds. This can help you keep track of your progress. It can also help you to resist the temptation to dip into these savings for other expenses! 

Choose an off-peak date 

Weddings held during the peak season (usually late spring to early autumn) and on Saturdays tend to be more expensive. So, see if you can secure an off-peak date, perhaps during winter, or a weekday ceremony. Many venues offer discounts for off-peak dates, which can significantly reduce your costs. 

Limit the guest list 

The number of guests at your wedding hugely impacts the overall cost. Each additional attendee increases how much money needs to be spent on catering, invitations, and favours. Be as selective as possible with your guest list. Consider inviting only close family and friends. After all, a smaller, more intimate wedding can be equally as beautiful, and memorable, as a large one. 

Do it yourself where possible 

Embrace the DIY approach for certain wedding elements. Consider making your own invitations, centrepieces, and decorations. Not only can this save you money, but it also adds a personal touch to your wedding. There are plenty of online tutorials and resources available to help you with DIY projects. 

Something borrowed… 

See if you can borrow items from friends or family, including wedding accessories, jewellery, or even the wedding dress itself. In addition, explore second-hand options. Websites like eBay and Preloved, plus dedicated Facebook groups can be treasure troves for rarely used wedding items at a fraction of the cost. 

Book early 

Many wedding suppliers offer early booking discounts. Once you’ve set your date, look to book your venue, photographer, and other key services as soon as possible. This should ensure you secure your preferred options, as well as lock in lower prices. 

Negotiate with suppliers 

Don’t be afraid to negotiate! Many wedding suppliers are often willing to offer discounts or flexible packages to secure your custom. Be upfront about your budget, then see if they can tailor their services to meet your financial requirements. 

Opt for a buffet 

A traditional sit-down meal can be one of the most expensive parts of a wedding. Consider alternative catering options such as a buffet or a food truck. These options can be more affordable and create a relaxed, communal atmosphere. 

Simplify the cake 

Wedding cakes can be surprisingly costly. However, you can opt for a simpler design or a smaller cake for display and a larger sheet cake to serve guests. You can also consider alternatives like cupcakes or a dessert table, which can be more cost-effective yet equally memorable. 

Use in-season flowers 

Flowers can quickly eat up a significant amount of your budget. Therefore, it can pay to choose in-season flowers for your bouquets and decorations. Not only will they be fresher, but they should also be less expensive. You could even opt for more greenery and fewer flowers for a chic, natural look. 

Hire an amateur photographer or student 

Professional wedding photographers can be very expensive. So, if budgets are tight, why not consider hiring a talented amateur or a photography student? They often charge less, while still delivering high-quality photos. Just make sure you review their portfolio in advance and have a clear agreement in place! 

Skip the fancy transport 

Luxury wedding cars can add a hefty amount to your budget. If the ceremony and reception are in the same location, you can even skip the transport altogether. Alternatively, consider more budget-friendly options, like a friend’s car or a taxi. 

Keep track of expenditure 

Keep a detailed record of all your wedding-related expenses. Use spreadsheets or budgeting apps to monitor your spending and ensure you’re staying within your budget. Regularly review your finances and be sure to adjust your plans if necessary to avoid any last-minute surprises. 

Saving money for your wedding requires careful planning, creativity, and a willingness to prioritise. By setting a realistic budget, exploring cost-effective alternatives, and monitoring your spending, you can save for, and enjoy, a memorable occasion without financial stress.  

Wedding budget planner example 

Here’s an example of some of the basics you could add to a spreadsheet or list. This will help you to get budgeting and could also help you to decide what to cut.