I was just thinking, if I was a bride to be, how would I feel about the current ‘credit crunch’? Would I still expect to pull out all the stops and go for the wedding of my dreams regardless, risking a lot of money in an uncertain financial climate?  Or would I economise, cut back and always feel a bit sad that I wasn’t quite able to have my dream day, but at least not be broke…?

The truth is, everyone’s situation is different, some people have been more affected by this than others, but having a little inside knowledge of the wedding industry, I thought I might share a few of my tips on how I would get the very best I could with the resources I had available.

1.  Don’t try to keep up with the Jones’s ………………  Really, do you want that pink cherub balloon structure, just because you best friends cousin had one?  Sometimes less is more, think about what you really want, and stick to it, don’t try and compete.  Decide what is important to you, and buy the very best you can afford.

2.  Wedding Insurance.  Seriously, we have had brides, who due to unforeseen circumstances have had to cancel or postpone their wedding, and with many deposits being non-refundable, it has been worth its weight in gold. For the peace of mind it gives you, I would definitely consider it.

3. Buy Cheap, Buy Twice… (actually that’s a quote from my beloved) but he’s got a point, don’t just buy something because its cheap, how many things have you bought in the sales that have never seen the light of day? Value for money is what you should consider. Quality is so important on your wedding day, ask lots of questions and make sure you’re getting exactly what you expect. More often or not, the expression you get what you pay for is very true.

4.  Payment Plans.  Ask if you can spread payments, especially if its interest free.  It could make your cash flow much easier to manage.

5.  Reputation.  There are new businesses popping up all the time, and sadly failing too. Do your homework, find out how established they are, it may give you an idea of their security.  Whilst you have insurance, your costs will be covered if they go bust, but would you want to be searching for a dress or venue just weeks before your wedding? 

6.  Budgeting doesn’t always have to mean compromising on Style or Quality.  Especially when it comes to the wedding dress, ask about sample sales, most bridal shops have samples they need to move on, especially at this time of year, when all the new collections are arriving in store.  You can get a designer gown, that maybe just needs a few alterations and a professional dry clean, for as little as half price!  Can be limited to certain sizes, but always worth a try.

7. Something borrowed.  Exactly that, especially with the vintage trend set to continue, does Grandma have anything you could borrow?  Maybe a string of pearls or vintage brooch?  What about sharing a tiara with a sister or family member?  We do have brides who have a ‘family tiara’, the family invested in something really beautiful, and now the family tradition has become that all the brides in the family wear it.  This obviously requires an amount of shared taste, but a tasteful classic item can be much more value for money in the long term.

8. Shoes.  Now I know we’re all shoe queens at heart, but if you’re on a budget, Jimmy Choos aren’t really necessary. As long as they’re comfortable, and suit the gown, you can get shoes for a fraction of the price. Look out for discontinued ranges, such as Gabriella and Lucido (who have just re-branded as Rainbow Couture) the old styles need to be sold off to make room for the new styles, and they really are lovely! And as a lot of our brides say, nobody sees them anyway!

9. Love.  Don’t forget  why you are getting married, its not all about the show, its about cementing your relationship with your partner in a way that is meaningful to the two of you, not just for your mates who fancy a bit of knees up!

I hope there has been something here of some use to you.  We’re always happy to help and answer any questions you have, however random.  We understand it can be a stressful time, and getting the very best service is crucial to help you through what should be one of the most exiting times of your life.

Emma x

PS. Dont forget to ask for your VAT savings!