HELP – I’M GETTING MARRIED !

Q. My partner and I just got engaged and we’re thinking of getting married in June 2026 so to give us time to save. We’re already realising just how expensive this is going to be. We don’t want a huge wedding, but we want to be able to at least feed our family – employments permitting – and friends and maybe provide a DJ ! Is there any way we can make this more affordable? Help! AnneMarie – Greystones Co Wicklow

A. This is a tricky one AnneMarie, as you’ve entered an industry built on tight deadlines and high expectations. There are some ways around it, but I’d advise getting comfortable with compromise from the get go! The traditional answer now is to get married abroad: guaranteed to be a smaller affair, with fewer people making the trip. However, costs are starting to scupper foreign weddings. So if you’re set on the local parish, try these FIVE money-saving tips:

– Are you wedded to your wedding date? Booking years in advance is organised, but not necessarily economical. Try contacting venues to see whether they have a cancellation within the next six months to a year – if you’re flexible, you could get a great deal.
– Shelve your suspicions. Some days are notoriously unpopular, such as Friday 13th. If you’re more practical, this shouldn’t bother you – and it could end up being your lucky day and cheaper !
– As always, start saving now. It may not build up a fortune, but every euro counts when you’re spending thousands. All the banks offer Regular Saver Accounts saving between € 100 and € 1,000 per month up to 3% per annum; or buy Prize Bonds and chance your luck !
– Sign up to every wedding mailing list you can find and trawl the newsletters for discounts and special deals.
– Lastly, get creative. E.g. Oxfam Bridal offers huge discounts on wedding dresses, 90% of which are donated brand new by boutiques and designers plus it’s for charity.

Congrats and best wishes.