How to keep wedding costs down?

The quickest way to reduce your wedding costs is to reduce the number of guests. Every person adds to catering, seating, invitations and favours, so a guest list of 50 instead of 100 can halve your spend. Be firm with the guest list and remember that you do not have to invite everyone you know.

Next, think about the date and time. A Saturday in summer is the most expensive slot. A Friday or Sunday, or a date between November and March, can be significantly cheaper. A daytime or brunch wedding also costs less than an evening dinner, because you can serve lighter food and fewer drinks.

Venue choice matters too. Look for halls, pubs, or community spaces that let you bring your own catering and drinks. You can also cut costs by buying flowers in season, using candles instead of centrepieces, and asking a talented friend to make the cake instead of paying a professional. For stationery, consider digital invitations, which save on printing and postage. Finally, always ask suppliers if they offer a discount for a shorter day or a smaller package, because many do.