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BUDGET
BOOSTING
We all know that when it comes to organising your
wedding day things can get expensive! It’s one of
the most important days of your life, so of course
you shouldn’t have to compromise on those all-
important details. To make sure you don’t have to,
I’ve put together a list of money saving ideas
that’ll enable you to have your cake and eat it!
1
Consider a venue where costs such as lighting,
audiovisual equipment and furnishings are included. Many
event spaces offer this.
2
Make sure you pre-pay for your event – this will ensure
you get the best possible price.
3
You don’t necessarily have to cover the costs of a
marquee in its entirety – you could well share costs with
another couple.
4
Don’t forget that some caterers charge for tastings –
The London Kitchen doesn’t, of course!
5
Does your wedding have to be held at the weekend? If
not, you could take advantage of competitive rates for
weekday occasions.
6
When it comes to lighting, theming, flowers and other
details, you may be able to piggy-back onto another event –
talk to the organisers, either before or after, about which
parts of the venue installation you might be able to share.
7
If you’re not party people, why not cut costs by holding
a daytime event?
8
Everything always costs more than you think, so make
sure you have a contingency – even the most careful
couples come up against unforeseen bills.
9
Protect yourself against any problems by paying for
everything on your credit card.
10
Remember – VAT is often charged on top of quoted prices.
11
You could avoid the dreaded VAT, and maybe even the
venue hire altogether, by holding your celebrations at a
council run venue such as town hall.
12
Thinking of bringing your own booze? Watch out for
corkage – it’s usually so high that any savings made here
will be minimal.
13
When it comes to catering costs, children are just as
expensive as adults.
14
Can you substitute anything? Do any of your nearest
and dearest have a wedding-worthy car that you might be
able to use, rather than hiring a car?
15
Cheese is a winner – not only is it an incredibly popular
and indulgent end to the meal, it’s also incredibly economical.
16
Choose a select few for your seated daytime event,
then extend the invitations for the evening with a standing
reception to keep costs low and the party spirit high.
17
Talk to your caterer about a drinks package – The London
Kitchen offers a wide range of packages which can be adapted
to suit your menus, tastes and the style of your event.
And last but not least – make it personal. It’s your wedding
day, so any format goes. When it came to my own wedding,
my partner and I chose a small ceremony, followed by lunch
with a few close friends before jetting off on honeymoon.
When we returned, the party was waiting – we’d organised
a huge celebration with all those who missed out on the
big day. It’s your wedding day, so how you celebrate is up to
you. Get creative!
Damian Clarkson is managing director of The London
Kitchen www.thelondonkitchen.com
‘Make it personal.
It’s your wedding day,
so any format goes...’
32 » pink weddings magazine
The London KiTchen
Tips
Damian Clarkson
of The London Kitchen gives a guide
to watching the pennies without sacrificing the style