Big Day Budget

The average cost of a traditional church wedding including an overseas honeymoon for the modern bride and groom is £15,000.

Traditionally it was the bride's family that would pay for their daughter's wedding but changes in modern society means the responsibly for the wedding has become less clear.

The modern bride and groom may pay for the whole thing themselves which gives them ultimate control of everything which may make the wedding planning process less stressful as they don't feel obliged to pander to their families ideas and views.

	You may find it hard to discuss money with your parents, but remember, they want the best for you and will want to help if they can so approach both sets of parents and ask them what they think about contributing something towards the wedding, they may be offended if you don't!

	Decide on what money you are happy to spend and keep within that budget, don't be tempted to spend more. If you want to increase spending on a particular item then reduce spending on something else.

	There will always be things you won't have budgeted for so always keep a contingency fund of around £500 so you can deal with any unforeseen costs.

	What happens if disaster strikes? If the dress is ruined before the wedding day? If the photographs don't come out? If the bride, bridegroom or any of their families falls ill, or worse? If the venue for the wedding reception closes? You lose the rings? If you want peace of mind then consider buying wedding insurance. Prices start from around £50 for a basic policy.

	Record what you spend and keep a running total so you can keep to your budget and always get written quotes so there won't be any surprises. We have provided you with a free wedding budget planner which you can print and use to track your spending. Click the link below.

Engagement ring

Engagement party

Bride's dress

Bride's shoes

Bride's lingerie

Bride's ring

Bride's hair

Bride's makeup

Bride's nails

Groom's attire

Groom's ring

Bridesmaid's dresses

Flower girls's dresses

Pageboy's outfit

Flowers

Wedding transport

Registrar fees

Church fees

Reception venue

Catering

Entertainment

Champagne and drinks

Wedding cake

Invitations and stationary

Photographer

Videographer

Evening reception

Wedding favours

First night hotel

Going away clothes and accessories

Honeymoon

Other expences

Total

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