What do South African weddings cost?

Market research shows that the average wedding costs over R70 000. This includes the rings, wedding outfits and essential pampering in the run-up to the big day and the wedding itself. The reception is a further expense and then, of course, there’s the honeymoon and various other expenses that vary from couple to couple...

Keeping a record of all costs

In order to keep a track on your wedding budget, it's a good idea to open a designated wedding bank account and start paying in a regular sum each month, preferably by standing order or direct debit. All bills can be paid from this account. 

Camparing prices and service providers

The easiest way to save money is not to pay over the odds. Shop around for your venue, dress, photographer and so on. Ask for quotations in writing and make sure you know exactly what the price agreed covers. Remember you may need to add VAT to some prices, so always ask.

IDEAS TO KEEP YOUR BUDGET UNDER CONTROL

Have a breakfast wedding

Plan an early wedding with brunch and make a stylish exit for your honeymoon early to mid-afternoon. Depending on your choice of friends, hopefully guests won't drink so much alcohol at breakfast and your menu will be lighter and less expensive than a formal dinner.

Keep the guest list short

There's always a tendency to keep adding to the guest list with work colleagues from the past and even vague acquaintances, so all of a sudden you've created the need for an evening party with buffet -- a huge added expense. Instead, cut the list down, scrap the evening invites, and have an inexpensive party in a local pub or bar with all those guests after your honeymoon.

Wed out of season

Saturday weddings in summer will always be popular -- and more expensive. Be fashionably different. Think winter wedding, candlelight, red wine and evening dress. Even opt for a Friday or Sunday wedding if you think your guests won't mind taking a day off work. But avoid Christmas and special days, such as Valentine's Day or Mother's Day, when prices will be steep. 

Wedding cake for dessert

Three heavy courses followed by a slab of heavy cake is all too much. Why not cut your cake before you sit down to eat (as many couple do) and serve it as pudding? A chocolate cake is particularly successful here, especially if you put ice cream, fruit coulis and chocolate sauce in the centre of each table. 

Keep the menu simple

A beautifully cooked yet simple menu is significantly better than a poor quality attempt at something fancy. Spend your budget on delicious sausages and mash, even fish and chips or cottage pie instead of a poor cut of steak. Or, if you're looking to reduce the cost of waiting staff, opt for a buffet where guests can largely help themselves.

(this tips originally from Agape Weddings)