Yes, weddings are expensive. But these tips will save you thousands.
It’s not news to anybody that weddings are freaking expensive.
Recent stats show that the average cost of a wedding for Australian couples is now more than $65,000.
Who can afford that without delaying home ownership dreams by a decade or going into debt (something 60 per cent of Aussie couples are doing, according to an IBISWorld report)?
Wedding days are special. They should be lovely and memorable. But they are just one day in a lifetime full of many days. Of course, no one wants to scrimp on the good things – venue, food, alcohol – but saving on other less-noticeable items would certainly save a few headaches.
Here are some tips about how to save thousands from someone who’s been there:
1. Channel your inner craft goddess and DIY.
When it comes to wedding planning, you’ll quickly notice that anything with the word ‘wedding’ attached comes with a massive mark-up. The easiest way around this? Make as much as you can yourself.
From stationery to wedding decorations and everything in between, it’s amazing how much you can make yourself with a few friends and bottles of wine.
If you’re not the crafty type, use your contacts. Family, friends, family friends, colleague, strangers.
Seriously. People are totally thrilled to be included in the ‘big day’ and they can be surprisingly resourceful.
Top Comments
No way would I spend $65000 on a wedding. I'd rather do it in my backyard with close friends, in casual wear and nanna's best cake and then zip away on a honeymoon with my beau.
We employed #3 and #7, although things didn't quite work out as planned. Since we had no bridal party we used our own car and got the groom's brother to drive us around. Only problem was he forgot to give us back the car keys when he left the reception and our apartment keys were in the car. We ended up having to check into a hotel at 1.30 in the morning and, because it wasn't a planned stayed, had no change of clothes or toiletries with us. So next morning I had to put my wedding dress back on and do a walk of shame through the hotel reception!