An average Australian wedding can set you back around $30,000. It’s a lot of money to spend on one day and many couples are starting to think creatively as to how they can still have their perfect wedding and save some of that money to pay off debts or put money towards a home.

There are many ways to cut costs and still create a magical, memorable day. Here are some ideas to get your started.

Planning a budget wedding Maleny: The dress

You might think your wedding dress is the one thing you don’t want to cut costs on, but you can still look a million dollars without it costing you more than a hundred or two. Online auction websites like eBay are a great place for finding pre-loved dresses as is Facebook, especially on the ‘buy/sell’ groups in your areas.

Another option which is growing in popularity is to make your own gown. If you, or anyone you know is great at dressmaking then you could create the gown of your dreams for a fraction of the cost. You could even turn it into a group project amongst your bridesmaids or girlfriends… especially if there are a lot of sequins to sew on!

Bridal party: How to keep to your budget

Consider starting your search at shops like Target or Kmart rather than upmarket bridal boutiques. You might find just the right gowns which you can ‘dress-up’ with accessories or a little alteration.

Once again, if you or someone you know is a sewer, you can pick up a pattern and some fabric from a store like Spotlight and make your gowns for a fraction of the cost.

As for the men, do your research into hire companies. If you shop around, you’ll find they can be quite competitive. If it’s a less formal wedding, you might find the men can all be decked out in matching black pants and a fashion shirt and look great.

Budget Wedding Invitations

Fancy wedding invitations can cost a fortune. Start by looking at designs online or at invitations stores, then purchase the materials and make them yourself. Once again this can be a great activity for the girls to get together with. Just make sure you make the cards before you crack open the champers!!

Planning a budget wedding Maleny: Photography

A good wedding photographer can cost you many thousands of dollars. While they are worth it, you might want to consider other options that can still bring great results. There is always one keen photographer in the family or amongst friends, so ask them if they’d take your photos for you.

Most people have cameras these days or cameras in their phones. Whoever you decide on to take the main photos, enlist the support of family and friends to take as many photos as they can on the day and then send them to you afterwards. This has the added benefit of capturing some lovely candid shots.

Transportation: How to save on cars

Not many people will have a limo or horse and carriage tucked away in their garage, but you’ll be surprised what you might find if you ask around.

If you can’t find some sparkling treasure, then you might like to hire a rental vehicle and have someone in your circle act as chauffeur for the day.

Reception: Planning the party without going over budget

With a large guest list, the reception is generally the most expensive aspect of your wedding. A few ways to cut costs, yet still keep everyone happy is to invite everyone to witness the ceremony then have an intimate wedding, or cut down from three to two courses or have your wedding outside of peak seasons or weekends.

Rather than a formal sit down meal, you might think about a high tea or wedding breakfast or brunch. Cocktail weddings are also becoming more fashionable as they allow for a more relaxed, social occasion.

Cake: Ways to save on dessert

You know what we’re going to say, right? Yes… bake your own, or find someone in the family with a talent for cake decorating. Most times you’ll find an Aunt somewhere who would love to do it for you. You’ll find loads of ideas online and if you (or Aunty) are creating the cake, make sure you have a trial run first, or create the cake well in advance in case it turns out less-than-perfect!

Planning your budget Maleny wedding music

Music is important for creating an atmosphere and keeping your guests entertained it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Ask your friends if they know of an inexpensive DJ or perhaps you can load all your favourites into your ipod and just have someone look after it for you. As long as people are dancing and having a good time, that’s what matters and sometimes the ‘originals’ achieve that better than a band!

Whichever way you go, remember it’s your day and you’re doing it your way. If that means saving $20,000 to put towards your first home then that’s something to celebrate!