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As Scotland’s beloved poet Rabbie Burns once wrote: “The best laid schemes o’ mice an’ men gang aft a-gley.” 

Or, in other words, even the most well-made plans often go awry. 

Brides and grooms can often struggle to keep wedding budgets on track. But there’s no need to break the bank when getting married. Sticking to a budget can be done: you just need to follow these tips… 

1. Start with a defined budget 

Don’t base your budget on supplier costs. Instead, start by deciding how much you can realistically afford to spend on your wedding. 

This figure differs dramatically from couple to couple, based on financial circumstances and personal preferences when it comes to saving and spending. 

Some people are happy to devote a large portion of their savings to have the day of their dreams, while others prefer to keep an eye on the pennies while still celebrating in style.

There’s no one right way to do things: your budget is completely down to you and your partner, and shouldn’t be influenced by anyone else.

2. Make a list of must-haves 

Once you’ve defined your budget, you can draw up a list of essential wedding elements that you don’t want to compromise on.  

Maybe you’d like a traditional handfasting ceremony, perhaps there’s a wine you simply must serve guests, or maybe you’ve always dreamed of having a bouncy castle at your reception (yes, that’s a thing). 

When you know what you won’t compromise on, it makes it easier to decide where to spend your money and where to hold back, allowing you to stick to a realistic budget.

3. Edit

Are your Pinterest boards overflowing with cute wedding favours, decorations, entertainment and outfit ideas? There’s so much inspiration out there, and it’s exciting to think about all the possibilities for the big day. 

But we’ll let you in on a secret… 

Lean in closer… 

… 

You don’t have to incorporate every idea you like into your wedding celebrations! 

It’s easy to get carried away, but you don’t need a doughnut board, ten outfit changes and the cast of Cirque du Soleil at your wedding to have a good time.  

Once you’ve put together a plan for the look and feel of your wedding, we advise avoiding Pinterest and wedding magazines. Unfollow #weddinginspo on Instagram and have faith in your original ideas – they’re usually the best ones anyway. 

4. Leave some room for manoeuvre

Let’s say you have a set budget for your wedding outfit. Are you really going to say no to the dress, kilt or suit of your dreams because it’s £20 over the limit? Probably not. 

By adding a little bit of wiggle room to your budget, you stand a better chance at sticking to it. 

Caution, though: if you become tempted to overspend in every area, let us gently direct you back to point 2. Keep in mind which elements are essential and where you can compromise.

5. Keep track

Keep a log of your spending and budget commitments so that you know exactly how close you are to your limit. 

We recommend doing this at least a couple of times a month and ideally, weekly, so no nasty surprises crop up. 

6. Seek out package offers

Often, venues can provide package weddings that combine services like venue hire, staff, equipment, cutlery, glassware, and food and drink into one fixed offer. 

Package offers are usually more affordable than doing everything yourself, as the little extras that you often don’t account for when planning a wedding are generally included. 

Eskmills Venue provides a number of affordable wedding packages with transparent costs to help you keep your budget on track. 

Our packages are also ideal if you need a bit more of a helping hand, as our wedding planners and day-of coordinators are available to support you whenever you need them. 

Next steps

Planning a wedding? Explore our package offers or get to know Eskmills Venue.