Tying the knot is an expensive exercise and chances are that the wedding gift you’d really like is a bit of cash to help you pay for it.
With the average wedding cost sitting around $22,669, it makes sense to request cash as your gift of choice come your big day – although, it may not be for everyone!
A recent study revealed that 44 per cent of Aussie newlyweds request cash as a gift.
But talking about money, let alone asking for it, can be a little awkward, so how do you go about asking for a fiscal contribution from your guests?
One of the best ways to request cash as a wedding gift is to state it in your invite.
You can do this by saying something like: “Gifts aren’t necessary, but if you’d like to offer something, please make it small and make it fiscal.”
You want to make it clear that you don’t expect every guest to give you a cash hand-out but you also want them to know your preference.
As long as you do it in a tasteful way, it should be well received.
Once you’ve got this out of the way, it’s important that you understand how to manage your wedding-related costs.
Consider these tips to ensure you don’t blow your budget:
1. Set yourself a wedding budget and be conservative
From photography to catering to the venue hire, the cost of hosting a wedding is exorbitant.
Consider using a budgeting app to outline all the costs involved, and remember to add a contingency buffer of 5–10 per cent in case something doesn’t go to plan.
2. Consider getting married during the cooler months
It’s widely known that wedding prices are inflated during summer and spring, so consider getting married during the cooler months to save on venue or accommodation costs.
3. Keep your cards close to your chest when dealing with suppliers
When speaking with suppliers, including florists, venue hire companies and caterers, don’t feel the need to disclose that it’s for a wedding.
As soon as suppliers hear that you’re planning a wedding, they’ll jack up the price.
Of course, you may want to tell them that you’re planning your wedding at some point so they understand the importance of everything going smoothly, but don’t disclose this during your initial price negotiations.
4. See if friends and family can pitch in
You can save on wedding costs by asking friends or family to lend a helping hand for various tasks.
For instance, consider asking a family member to design your invites, to look after the photography or to bake the cake.
5. Have one location for the ceremony and reception
You can save money on transport and potentially venue costs if you keep your wedding centralised by having the ceremony and the reception in the one location.
So if you fall in love with a venue, think about having the whole event there.
