Tradition states the brides family pay for the majority of the wedding costs..... However today couples are either paying for the wedding entirely on their own or with a little help from their families.

Every couple is completely different and as soon as you have set a date the budget should be dicussed to ensure everyone knows what they are responsible for. The best way to organise the wedding budget is to grab a pen, paper and calculator and decide what you want and the estimated costs. Working out what is most important to you on the wedding day will help you determine where to allocate the most funds.

Simple ways to save

* DIY Invitations and stationary. With so many DIY kits and information on the internet it is easy to create your own invitations, placecards, thank you cards, save the date cards and menu cards. Many invitation suppliers will sell you the materials you need to and will often have examples so you can see the final results.

* Having your wedding on a weekday or a sunday or havng it in winter instead of the popular spring/summer period can save you up to 30% at some venues. This will also give you more flexibility with dates as these times are less popular and do not book out as quickly as the most popular periods. 

* Cocktail receptions are becoming more and more popular for the budget concious brides and grooms or as an alternative to a sit-down reception. Cocktail receptions generally have canapes and drinks served for a few hours and no dancing. This gives you time to mingle with your guests in a more relaxed atmosphere.

* Hiring a DJ rather then a band can help save you hundreds.

* Hiring executive cars can save you money on traditional wedding hire cars. Find a car hire place and ask trusted friends to drive them on the day.

* Using silk flowers rather then fresh flowers can save you money. Many silk florists can create the same look for your wedding flowers for half the price. The added bonus is they will last forever. 

* Find a dressmaker to make your wedding gown. Using a dress maker rather then buying a designer gown can save you money and you can also make changes to the design and create something unique.

* Do away with bomboniere. Research has shown that after most weddings a large number of the bomboniere (wedding favours) are left behind on the tables. If you choose not to have bomboniere chances are no one will even notice and it can save you a lot of money.