Sample issue

Hi there,

This issue's saving: ask about a Friday

When you contact a venue, ask for prices for a Saturday evening and a Friday or Sunday in the same month. Many venues, and some vendors, charge noticeably less outside peak times. The difference can be enough to cover your photographer.

More in Off-peak dates and affordable venues.

A contract detail to check

Look for the words "service charge" in catering quotes. It's often added on top of the per-person price, sometimes along with tax and a separate gratuity. Ask for the full total per guest. See Catering and bar costs.

Reader question

"Should we take out a loan to have the wedding we want?" We'd gently suggest not. Starting married life with wedding debt adds pressure for years. A smaller guest list, a different date, or a little more time to save usually gets you a wedding you love without the payments.

Sweetly saving,
Money Honey Guide