Weddings have been suspended in Scotland for almost a full year as lockdown restrictions and public safety guidelines were put in place to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
Stricter rules for indoor and outdoor gatherings have impacted those looking to tie the knot. However, these rules were relaxed last month, as ceremonies and receptions can now accommodate up to 50 guests.
However, there are still strict rules for each lockdown level, including no singing and dancing, prohibited occupations, no live music, and wearing face masks at all times except while eating.
And for beloved couples looking to tie the knot in a post-pandemic Scotland, financial experts at NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have compiled a list of eight top tips to help you cut costs and save money without compromising.
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On the subject of matching items
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On the subject of matching items
Expensive flowers, photographers, and groceries can bring back thousands of pounds for the newlyweds. So planning a wedding is all about knowing where to prioritize and allocating the budget accordingly.
Eight tips for saving money at weddings
These tips from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk can help you keep your wedding expenses on track and on budget.
Everything in the date
The best way to save the cost of the venue is to pick a less desirable date for the event.
Saturdays are usually the most expensive as they are best on weekends, closely followed by Sundays and Fridays.
To save some money, opt for a weekday wedding. Not only will the venue be cheaper but also some other providers, such as caterers, as weekends are in high demand.
Getting married during the off-season wedding in your area is another simple trick that can keep your money growing. There is little demand for the dates, so the venues are offering them at a discount.
Help with rental planning
While wedding planners are an expense in themselves, they can help couples get the most affordable deals from vendors and stay within their allotted budget.
Those who cannot turn to a human planner can use apps and journals to create guest lists, spreadsheets, budgets and checklists. A paper planner also allows brides and grooms to have all of their income, expenses, and ideas in one place.
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Hold on to memories
Book a photographer for a shorter day so they can still capture the most important moments, but not bill for the full 12-14 hours.
Prices can drop significantly if late nights and early morning hours are not required. It is also worth reaching out to newly qualified photographers. Your portfolio will be available on social media and your daily rate will be much cheaper due to lack of experience.
If a photo booth is better suited for the wedding, you can save money by setting up a Polaroid station with some cameras, props, and rolls of film.
Book small
Couples can upgrade their package or wedding plan at any time, but downgrading is much more difficult. Book the big day based on the minimum number of guests with the lowest catering package and adjust as the date approaches and more people respond.
That way, there is no worry if guests get off in advance or if something unexpected happens.
The best weddings are not always the biggest ceremonies
(Image: Getty Images)
Offers and discounts
Familiarize yourself with wedding expenses and only shop against the big day when deals are available.
Follow the most popular clothing stores, suppliers, and florists on social media to stay up to date on their sales and specials.
Using discount codes online can help save money on some of the most expensive aspects of a wedding.
Hometown chickens
Let’s face it, no one has been out for long enough that a night in the area would feel like a distant treat. Take advantage of friends and family who are no longer on the road and plan the perfect hen or bachelorette party in your hometown. Hit everyone’s old favorites and the newest, chicest bar around.
Go retro
In the early 1970s, it was common for weddings to have a humble guest list, borrowed dresses, and receptions in church halls or in the back room of a pub, with buffets at a distant aunt’s best dishes.
Many couples are currently opting for smaller affairs as well, sharing their “Cere-Mini” day with 15 close guests and planning a “Cere-Many” party in the future if the restrictions are relaxed.
Save money and don’t get involved in expensive catering
(Image: Getty Images)
Save paper
Paper and printing costs for stationary weddings can be very costly. It is always worth ordering all the items you need at once, e.g. B. Invitations, envelopes, service orders, and seating maps to reduce delivery and payments for multiple orders.
Also, consider which couples a day can share a menu or song sheet to save costs. Partners with pretty penmanship may even consider writing invitations and self-addressing envelopes.
Make a day out of it and invite friends or family for company and support.
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A spokesperson for NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said, “You may be the type of person who cries at weddings, but we are the type of people who cry at their expense.
“Coronavirus has affected almost every area of our lives, but major events were particularly hard hit. The couples who spent the pandemic changing their plans will be fed up with the postponements and cancellation costs and want to know how to save some money.
“Newly engaged couples will worry about the potential waiting for a wedding, but they can make good use of that time and see where costs can be cut without compromising on their big day.”
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