… and how to help guests save cash on your big day

WITH guests forking out an average of €800 to attend a wedding in Ireland, couples are being urged to think of people’s budgets when planning their big day.

OneFabDay.com deputy editor Celina Murphy, said ‘a little consideration goes a long way’ – and could make your wedding an even bigger hit with guests.

‘You’re probably raiding your savings for your own wedding and your guests will be honoured and excited to be invited,’ she said. ‘That said, it’s important to remember that, for them, yours could be their fourth, fifth or sixth wedding of the summer. Drinks, an overnight stay and a gift for each can really stack up and it can be really stressful for a guest who doesn’t want to turn your invitation down.’

She has a number of tips on how to make your wedding day as cost-effective as possible for guests:

Consider a more informal and relaxed dress code. Not only will people save on costly outfits, they will feel more comfortable and can reuse the clothes.

Think about off-peak seasons when setting the date. That way, guests travelling from abroad can avoid huge plane ticket costs – particularly over a bank holiday weekend.

Tell guests travelling from afar that they don’t have to buy an expensive gift.

Suggest cheaper accommodation alternatives, particularly if your hotel is expensive, and source hotels with apartments, so families can share.

Provide a bus service for large groups travelling in the same direction.

Regarding the after-party, invite children to cut childminding costs and have an open bar if your budget can stretch to it.

Also… be mindful of cash-strapped guests when planning your stag or hen party by limiting it to one day and holding it closer to home to reduce travel costs.