Popping the question on the 14th? Here's how to set your wedding budget

Glamorous weddings are having a big influence on how we celebrate the big day, with the average cost of a wedding now standing at £24,000.

Research conducted for Debt Advisory Centre shows that a quarter of couples start their married lives in debt and many of these regret borrowing to fund their dream day. The financial hangover from a dream wedding can last well into marital life, as almost a third of couples are still repaying their debt after six years.

So how can you start married life on solid financial ground?

Set a realistic budget

Set a realistic budget for your wedding based on what you can afford. Include any contributions from family, so you know how much you need to save. Then be ruthless about sticking to the budget.

The guest list

The guest list starts with close family and can go on to second cousins and even your best friend in primary school. Invite the people who are important in your life now and resist budget-busting pressures.

The jet-setter wedding

Many weddings abroad come as a package, so there isn’t as much freedom. If you are good at planning, you can find local florists, photographers and bakers, so be prepared to do some leg work.

An open bar

An open bar can be an elegant touch, but it could run out of control. Why not pay for the first drink and make it clear on your invitation so guests are prepared to pay too.

The photographer

As soon as you mention the word ‘wedding’ to a photographer their prices can instantly double. Instead ask a friend with a good camera to help out or even hand out disposable cameras to your guests to create a style of photography unique to you.

The luxury motor

Wedding cars have become almost as much of a status symbol as the wedding dress. Keep it simple – you’ll be so excited you’ll barely remember the journey anyway.

The cake

One way to wow guests on a budget is to buy wedding cake layers from supermarkets to assemble and decorate yourself. Use the Internet to find guides on creating a showstopper.

The dress

High street stores and even supermarkets have beautiful dresses that look far from budget. There’s no harm in letting everyone think it is Wang.

The honeymoon

By saving on your wedding, you can afford to kick-back and enjoy your time together without worrying about what you’ve spent on your wedding.

The wedding is only the beginning. Remember, getting married is just the beginning. With so much financial pressure on couples, as they try to find a home and raise a family, starting a life together is tough enough without the extra pressure of wedding day debt.

Debt Advisory Centre: 0161 871 4881