Many basic ways to SAVE - Part 1

Plan the wedding of your dreams breaking the bank...

1. If your parents are helping to finance your day, make sure they give you an exact figure of what they're contributing. This may seem awkward, but it's best to sort out these matters from the outset rather than discovering you've overspent.
2. Avoid getting married during peak wedding season. Choosing a midweek date in February will cost you a lot less than a sunny Saturday in the middle of July. 
3. Stick to the reception size you can afford and don't let the guest list spiral out of control.
4. Never accept the first quote you receive, and make sure you approach more than one supplier. That way, you can negotiate with your favourite by showing them what their competitors are charging.
5. A wedding planner may seem extravagant but it's actually one of the best ways of controlling your expenditure - you simply hand over your budget and they will allocate what you have.
6. Set up a separate savings account at www.weddingmagazine.co.uk/saffron, which enables you to keep track of your spending at the touch of a button.
7. Get married abroad. Not only are wedding suppliers overseas often cheaper, but you'll also cut back on the guest list. 
8. Extend your engagement. Having more time to plan the wedding gives you a better chance of getting the suppliers you want within your price range.
9. Don't invite children. It may sound harsh, but their parents may well be thankful for the opportunity to let their hair down, and you'll save yourself the cost of their meals.
10. Go for an ALL-IN-ONE venue. If you can host the ceremony and reception under the same roof, you'll save on transport costs.
11. Look for a venue that doesn't need lots of decorative finishing touches -  these can quickly add substantially to your costs. 
12. If you are happy for another wedding to take place at your venue on the same day, you will save yourself a hefty exclusive-use fee.
13. Limit the number of bridesmaids and ushers. This will cut down on the cost of outfits, bouquets and buttonholes (and quite possibly stress as well).
14. Set up a gift list at www.youbuymywedding.com so guests can make pledges to pay for certain aspects of your big day.
15. Safeguard against any unforeseen emergencies by taking out insurance. Good policies will offer £5000 to £30000 worth of cover for between £50 and £300, and is now available as part of the wedding services at John Lewis, Debenhams and Marks & Spencers. You can also arrange it online at www.eandl.co.uk or www.ecclesiastical.com.