Tips for the bride on a budget

• Marry early-afternoon and host a fabulous tea dance.
• Marry later in the day and move straight from a drinks reception into dinner, or hold a gorgeous cocktail reception instead.
• Keep Menus seasonal and simple.
• Serve your wedding cake as pudding.
• Don't invite additional evening guests who will be expecting food.
• Consider sparkling wine or cocktails instead of champagne. Don't serve champagne for after-dinner speeches just top-up the wine glasses.
• When purchasing alcohol from a wine merchant, buy on "sale or return" basis.
• Keep decorations simple, avoid table clutter and favours.
• Consult wedding magazine for inspiration on home-made menus, place cards and favours.