BUDGET Bride 101

Who says your dream wedding has to cost an arm and leg? Here are some tips to creating that fairytale night for less, so you can have a little extra left over for the honeymoon!

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Who says your dream wedding has to cost an arm and leg? Here are some tips to creating that fairytale night for less, so you can have a little extra left over for the honeymoon!

Rings
While it’s common to dream of a glittering wedding band, the truth is that bigger is not always better. The ring should go with your lifestyle, and some brides prefer the look of a ring without diamonds.
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If you simply cannot pass up owning a diamond-studded ring, look to Lovis Diamonds, where you’ll find beautiful craftsmanship and prices starting from $293.

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Since both the bride and groom will be wearing the bands for many years to come, a simple pair of rings can set worries of wear and scratches at ease. Eclarity’s range of wedding bands start from $1270.

Venues

With most hotel ballrooms and country clubs charging between $600 and $1000 per table, a high-end banquet can easily rack up a hefty bill. Instead, think outside the box and make use of unique, flexible spaces as lower-priced alternatives. They’re also sure to give your wedding an unforgettable twist.

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Make your intimate, gardenthemed fantasy a reality. Vineyard Hortpark’s wedding and solemnisation packages that start from $78++ per guest.
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Bet you never thought you could host your wedding banquet or cocktail in the almost-200 year old The Arts House at The Old Parliament! Its regal rooms will perfectly cater to art and culture enthusiasts and it can be rented from $100 per hour.

Dresses

There’s nothing worse than trying on countless dresses and finally finding the perfect one – only to realise it’s way out of your budget. With the popularity of clothing rental reaching new levels, getting your hands on a perfect gown (or three!) for your big day has never been so easy – or so affordable. 

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Dresses from The Gown Warehouse are perfect for brides who value having a wide array of designs to choose from.

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Hit up anidress.com if you’re a busy bride looking for a fuss-free shopping experience and low prices. 

Flowers

The secret to turning any location into a scene worthy of your Pinterest boards? The flowers. Whether you’ve got everything down to the exact flowers planned out or have absolutely no idea what a corsage is – look no further than these indie floral ateliers that will transform your venue into a wedding wonderland.

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Enchant the wedding party and guests with Floral Garage’s myriad of romantic bouquets and arrangements, which are sure to provide energetic pops of colour. Prices from $30 to $380. 

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You won’t have to give up quality for value at Runaway Flowers where exquisite bespoke blooms are available for affordable prices ranging from $18 to $80.

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS

If you have the luxury of time, put the purchases on hold until the annual bridal sales or fairs, where you’ll be able to negotiate for lower prices and even try your luck in lucky draws at events like the Blissful Outdoor Wedding Show or Mega Wedding and Lifestyle Expo. 

Images 123RF.com Text  Zoe Zeng