What's Trending Now: Burlap! (And has been for quite a while!)

Burlap is first off the rank for our ‘Themes’ series of blogs (might I add, glad to be back!). Over the coming weeks Way to Wed will show you different ways to incorporate elements into your day so not to overwhelm, or underwhelm you or your guests. The most important thing to remember with themes is that they should reflect you, not what’s on trend.

Burlap can fall under many theme categories and can be used in a variety of ways in all of them. Call it country chic, vintage charm, rustic romance, old world or even western themed weddings. Yes, you read right, western themed! Burlap is a versatile material that can be trimmed to the thinnest of ribbons, made into gift bags for bonbonniere, used as reception chair decoration or even an aisle runner for the diehard burlap fanatics.

In this particular blog we’ve showcased Way to Wed’s 5 favourite ways to use burlap.

There are warnings that come with using burlap too. Don’t think of it as an easy option, because with the wrong piece or embellishments it can come off cheap and nasty rather than a relaxed charming addition to your day.

At the conclusion of the inspiration thread we’ll go through ways to help you avoid the cheap imitation burlap and using the great quality in the wrong ways.

1. Flowers! Endless Opportunities.
One of my favourite aspects of burlap is you can use it with almost any flower and it just works.
Personally I would recommend avoiding frangipanis and roses, unless you are opting for softer full bloom roses such as the lilac ones in below right. Whatever flowers or burlap pieces you use in your bridal party, ensure you use similar colours in your decoration to tie your day together from the start to finish.

2. Table Centrepieces & Buffets.
The thing I love most about any theme with a burlap aspect is it usually means a dessert or sweet buffet of some sort. These are divine and completely cost effective! (Think: Skip the dessert meal!) Not to mention it adds another decoration piece to the venue besides your table centres and accents and can be used as an offset and continuation of your cake display.

Table centres are the same as flowers; there are endless opportunities which are only limited by your own imagination. My favourite display of creativity is the centre top row image using burlap string to turn an ordinary beer bottle into a centrepiece worth talking about. It’s minimalist, cost effective but fits with the rustic theme and complimented by the wood stump.

My second favourite is simple but well thought out – the centre bottom row image of the candle holder created into a table number. It caters for two things; lighting and practicality. The candle would have been there nine times out of ten, so why not cut costs further and make it your table number too.  For further budget cuts, use recycled mason jars instead of new candle holders. (It’ll fit with your theme, TRUST me.)

4. Table & Aisle Runners
Runners are an absolute favourite of mine because creativity is limitless and it can really add that extra something to your ceremony and reception. Though be careful with using burlap as a table runner because you need to ensure you have perfectly frayed and starched the edge of your pieces or sealed the edges to avoid damage. A popular way to do this is with lace, just as the aisle runner below shows.

For the bridal table dress it up some more by draping chiffon elegantly over the table as per the below picture sourced from pinterest. Don’t overdo the burlap; compliment it with other elements to create an overall feel. The best way to compliment it on the bridal table is with something of the same colour as your dress or suits (white/ivory/champagne, etc) to bring it all together.  

5. The bonbonniere and the signs.

I just LOVE it. All of it. The simplicity and the charm creates a lasting memory not only for the guests but for the couple and all the vendors involved too. The bride on the top right (a personal friend) was the DIY Queen of Brides-to-be and did all of her work herself, including bagging the coffee beans for their bonbonniere.  It all came out picture perfect (as you can see for yourself). 

While signs aren’t anything new in the wedding industry, hundreds of thousands are used purposely for the thank you cards, there is something absolutely divine about the simplicity of the burlap inspired sign. Whether it’s the laid back, country feel it gives you or the warm smile you get everytime you glance at the card from the couple in question you can’t help but remember the theme of the day. The sign really does tie it all together.   

What NOT to do with Burlap.

The below images are representations of what not to do with burlap. Some are simply overbearing and take away the purpose (ie: hiding a table – practical, hiding it under too many layers (the ruffles) – takes away from the cake.) others are representations of what can happen if you don’t prepare or cut your burlap properly. (Remember sealing the edges off?)  

Over bearing! This could be corrected with one overlay of burlap (or runner), with an undercloth in desired colour and if further embellishment is required go with chiffon or flowers in gathered burlap creases.

Thin and worn, not ideal for people to be seated in front of.

Without proper sealing the frays of these burlap flowers make it look messy and unfinished. 

Stay inspired!

WtW 

Reader Response!

A week or so ago, we asked our facebook 'likers' to share POSITIVE stories of how their bridesmaids (or groomsmen) have stepped up to the occasion. Our first story featured was our favourite and pick of the list - Louise* has received a 25% discount on any of Way to Wed's hire products for any function in the next 18 months. Our other responses have received 10% discounts for the same.

(The stories below have not been edited for spelling or punctuation. We have posted them exactly as they were sent in.)

Louise*, 32, VIC.
Everything up to the week of our wedding was so perfect! There hadnt been any problems with anything and everything fell into our laps so perfect. Except for my brother in law to be - who flew home, without his suit that had been measured, made and bought and sent to him to check the fitting! He lives in bondi so he had to fly to Melbourne from Sydney then drive up to us in Kyabram before we went to Echuca. All the DAY before the wedding.
My matron of honour was coming from Mount gravatt that night, so instead of flying direct from brisbane to Melbourne like planned - she cancelled her flight on the spot (losing her fare!!) and bought one to Sydney to pick up the BILs suit from his best mate at the airport then one to Melbourne from Sydney. She didn't get in until after 2am instead of 11pm!
I completely reimbursed her for all the trouble - and my BIL reimbursed us, but I thought it was the sweetest thing to do to give up all that money.


Emily, 26, VIC
I was a bridesmaid in my sister's wedding recently but it wasn't any of us who stepped up! It was one of the groomsmen. My sister's husband has some really questionable relatives who love any excuse for a bit of a flirt. Toms' cousin was hitting on my sister THE BRIDE at the reception and spilt his beer all down her dress. James kicked him out (not too politely though haha) and went and bought some bicarb soda from the store up the road and poured it onto my sister's dress and lifted most of the beer out! We were all dumbfounded but my sister was a bit happier after that

Natalie, VIC
Before my wedding I got a spray tan like most brides do, my beautician did it perfect in the trial like always so i wasnt stressed at all when I went in two days before the big day to get it done. we always use a gray base tan because my tan goes a little bit orange but she had her assistant load the tan into the machine for her while she finished off her other appointment. In hindsight i really should have double checked and so should my beauticain but i guess we assumed she would read the card. To get to it quickly - my beautician did it all as normal and I went home and lounged around til shower time. had a good long sleep because i didnt have to work - woke up ORANGE. My three bridesmaids got panicked phoen calls and they all called in sick and came around and worked on my tan with some removal products from my beautician. my beautician came around to my house at the end of the day so sorry and fixed me up, but it woudl have been irreparable if it wasnt for my girls sponging and scrubbing! My photos ended up beautiful and i looked lovely and bronze instead


* Name changed as requested.

We had a number of others mail in as well but didn't provide specific examples of what we were looking for. We hope to feature some of those stories when the right topic comes to light.

If you have a positive bridesmaid experience (maybe you're not even married yet and you have!) Post below, or email us. We'd love to hear it.

Stay inspired!
WtW

Inspiration Boards

This is just an example of the things you can find on pinterest - if you need creative inspiration, create an account! Pinterest is filled with brides to be, wedding planners and girls simply planning their dream day! Take advantage of the resources available. Above you will find classic black and white, black and gold (with a black wedding dress, divine!), a beach wedding for those who live seaside, accents of colours that shouldn't work - but do!, a rich, culture filled indian wedding and a lovely on trend mint retro celebration.

Some other favourites of mine to search on pinterest are tropical weddings, english weddings and hollywood weddings. You're sure to get some ideas - and some laughs - from the hollywood list.

Stay inspired!
WtW

Here come's the fun stuff!

When newly engaged ladies, and sometimes men, think décor and theming their minds often run away with outlandish, expensive ideas. This is part of the TBM (temporary bridezilla mode, for those who missed our first post.) Cinderella-esque balls pop into our minds, with ribbons trailing behind that horse drawn carriage with the elegant sign announcing your marriage but then swoops in the bird of reality – you don’t even LIKE carriages, or horses for that matter. WHAT are you going to do?! 

With décor, theming and colours the easiest way to approach the matter is really consider what suits you and your partner. What’s your wardrobe like or your home décor? Soft pastels or bold reds and yellows; warm earth undertones with hints of green? Or are you the sky blue type with soft, fluffy clouds sponged along your horizon? Use the pieces that surround you to inspire the direction you take. Use a ‘happy’ place as inspiration. Open meadows, beaches, the ocean. Include your lifestyle into your day.

In one of Rebecca’s assessments her ‘client’ was very eco-focused and against the industrial age. This opened up different avenues and opportunities to step right outside the square. Natural elements, to reflect the couple’s lifestyle choices, were pulled not only into their colour scheme (earthy warm tones, soft golden sunset lighting and features of emerald green) but into the theming and decoration of their event.

The chandelier centrepiece falling from the marquee’s ivory ceiling drapery was the main attraction at the reception. Hickory branches were used to create an elegant, timeless nature inspired chandelier which was draped with lush green ivy and fairy lights which were fuelled by the garden venue’s solar power. Candles made from organic recycled materials lit the scene on the tables in frosted recycled mason jars. White, green and lavender wildflowers and spring blossoms poured over the edge of rustic wooden pails placed on each table, accentuated by the grass floor of the marquee and the rustic wooden chairs at each table. 

The decoration inspiration was drawn from the most obvious choices of their lifestyle and spread into the decoration of the cake, the colours for the invites and finally the choices for the bridesmaid dress and inspiration for hair and makeup – minimalist and natural. 

So if you’re puzzled what direction to head, really sit down and examine your surroundings and look at the things you find. Do you love clean lines and deep, romantic colours? Are you a traditional roses type of person or are you dazzled by hot purple vanda orchids?  Focus on what makes both of you who you are, and bring that into your day so your guests truly remember who they are there celebrating.

We can’t tell you what to do when it comes to your décor, but we can certainly help and give a few suggestions. If you’re struggling for a direction to take, feel free to email or even call and we’ll help you narrow down some clearer options at no charge.  

Our first word of advice – make a pinterest account! Search through the wedding inspiration boards. You will find ideas you had never even dreamt of (unless you’ve hired a planner, of course ;])

On our next post later this evening we’ll feature some unusual ideas with theming and decorating to start your inspiration train taken right from pinterest, to show you the wealth of information waiting to be found.

Stay inspired!

Way to Wed.

P.S. Amazing decoration doesn't always need a theme. This is another place a planner is helpful.

Reader Question

Q. Hi, I have an issue that I need some advice on. My fiancee and I chose to have a children free reception for many different reasons, most relatives including his father who has a 3 year old were understanding and even appreciative of this. however, one family member is shocked and outraged and is stating that "if his children aren't good enough to be at the reception then they aren't going to be in our wedding party" any advice on how to deal with this?

A.: It is very common for family and friends to attempt to dictate the way you run your day but the thing is - it's your day. If your partner's father can accept not having children as part of your day then the other guests should easily be able to as well.

As calmly as possible explain to the particular guest that you appreciate their honesty and accept that they feel that way though you can not make an exception for their child because you would then have to permit everyone else to bring theirs. Explain that you and your partner really do want to share your day with them, as adults, but understand if they feel that they truly can not attend. If you want to add something more, ask them what they think their children will get out of attending a reception? Speeches, waiting between meals and surrounded by grown ups isn't typically fun for a child.

In putting the ultimatum back on the guest it shows you are appreciating them enough to let them make the decision, but you have still laid out your guidelines. Ultimately most guests will feel guilty for trying to push you into a decision that was against your judgement, though some will stick to their guns and not attend at all. If this happens ask yourself - if they couldn't respect the wishes for your day and your decisions as a couple do you think they truly deserve a place in your wedding party? Your party should have only your best wishes at heart and respect every decision you make about YOUR celebration. A wedding is designed to represent the love of the couple and NOT provide a free feed and entertainment for families.

Stay inspired!
WtW

Reader question.

Conveniently Ana's question ties into our next blog post (still in the draft stage.)

Q: My husband to be and me want to use our favourite colours in our wedding but his is ORANGE and mine is pink. How do I work with this?

A: There are a number of things you can do with colours in your decor and theming. For example why not have pink flowers with a soft orange ribbon around the base of a bouquet if you're wanting it in your bridal party or you can use a soft pink table runner (or napkins) with a mix of coral and orange flowers to create a centrepiece that 'pops' and still represents your colour choice. Alternatively you can negate the clashing by introducing a third middle-ground colour like a soft lemon, or a golden champagne. An accent of a navy or deep purple would also work well if you're looking to negate a decor explosion of bright colour. Though for some people a bright overload works with their personalities.

The most important thing to remember with decor and colour choices is to have it representing you as a couple. Don't go with sleek lines of black and white if your wardrobe represents the rainbow and your other half loves Hawaiian shirts - it will have your guests wondering who's wedding they really came to... so if orange and pink is your jive, you will find a way to make it work for you.

Stay inspired!

WtW

Important Decision #2. The Professionals. Part 2.

continued...

4. Venues

Venues can be difficult, that is to say the least. Before approaching venues write a list of questions you need to know from each relating to your costs. Do they provide tables, chairs, lighting? Do they give you a cake stand? Do they have their own bar to serve your alcohol? What about coolers and a kitchen for caterers? Look carefully at the atmosphere you want to create before considering your venues.

If you need to hire your equipment for your venue (such as tables, chairs, etc) add an extra $500.00 per 50 guests.  If you need a marquee with lining for a garden venue, add a minimum of $1,500. Lighting and a dance floor, add another $200.00, how about the electricity connection for the band and the lights? Do you have a cable or generator? Is there a power source to connect to?

Garden weddings while seeming the cheaper option can work out much more expensive than utilising an already existing venue and their kitchens, onsite bathrooms, lighting and power facilities.

Venues vary too much in price to really examine how they fit into your budget, all we can insist is examine closely what you need and quote, quote, quote before committing to anything. Most venues will allow a tentative hold until another inquiry comes along, at that stage they may request a deposit.

Partial wedding planning services are available for anyone needing help with the nitty gritty details of Professionals.

5. Caterers

Caterers are the easiest Professional to fall into a money spending trap with. There are so many costs that add up to your day that aren’t entirely essential – ever considered serving the cake instead of dessert, garnished with cream and berries? How about canapés on arrival in place of your entrée? Do you really need that champagne for toasts, when the men and women are already holding onto beer and wine that they’d rather raise in your honour?

Have an in depth look at your menu and don’t accept things as they’re written. If the venue wants your service they will cater to you and your budget. If they don’t budge in their costs I recommend you consider elsewhere because you want someone who is willing to help you make your day what you want it to be, without breaking your budget.

You can look even further into the dishes too, changing ingredients to change costs. Chicken breast stuffed with camembert is always going to be more expensive than chicken breast stuffed with Philadelphia cheese and chives – but both are still delicious. Talk to the chef, not just the events coordinator and don’t be afraid to step into the nitty gritty details.

Watch for hidden costs such as corkage fee in places where you are allowed to bring your own alcohol. Sometimes caterers can work this to replace the costs they’d be missing from providing the alcohol and you’d be more beneficial by simply letting them.

When receiving quotes ask them to include all equipment they provide, if you’re having a garden wedding this is essential as they will charge extra to bring their own mobile kitchen.

Cutting labour/staff costs for the caterer can lower the price of your reception too. Ask for a buffet style – where plates are served onto tables for guests to serve themselves. This style often suits the more ethnic of weddings where food is a large  part of any celebratory custom.

For caterers expect anywhere between $80.00 -  $120.00 per person for three courses. For canapés, mains and cake as dessert you can cut costs to $50.00-$60.00 per person if you negotiate well enough.

6. Entertainment

What is the feel you want for your wedding? Are you inspired by the classical or do you radiate amongst jazz? Before factoring the costs of your entertainment you need to consider what fits with you and your celebration. Of course a classical set is going to cost you more than a four piece brass band – this is where a planner could come in helpful, sourcing the lowest costs for you.

A band can cost anywhere between $250.00 for a new on the scene duo for four hours, up to $800.00 for a relatively well known duo or four piece for five hours. Some bands depending on members and the equipment they bring can charge in excess of $1,500.00. Before you go gig-hunting, check the bands prices fit into your budget before you fall in love with someone you can’t afford. It’s happened to plenty of brides. First, price and gig guide. Second, attend gigs. Third, book and pay deposit. Stick to this, you’ll find someone you can afford and will keep you and your guests happy.

If you’re going for the classical style consult music teachers at your local schools and they will be able to point you in the direction of local instrumentalists who most times are more than affordable. If you end up sourcing your instrumentalists from companies be prepared for a much higher fee.

Budget aside; the musicians are part of what creates your atmosphere. Don’t forget if you have slow, soft music your guests are less inclined to let loose or be loud. If you’re the loud party type – this isn’t the direction to go. Really consider who you are as people and if you would enjoy the atmosphere you’re having your entertainment create. Also consider, are you the band type? Maybe you’re the eclectic type who loves fire twirlers and native drummers? Your imagination is your limit here and Way to Wed aren’t going to tell you where to stop.

Now that the basic Professionals are out of the way, we’ll be looking at décor and themes next. There’ll be a number of inspiration boards coming your way readers.

Stay inspired!

Way to Wed

Reader Question.

Q. Hi Way to Wed I don't know if you answer questions but I was wondering if you could offer some advice to me. My mother in law is absolute hell since my other half proposed and she keeps planning every part of our wedding without consulting me I just want to scream. What can I do to tell her to stop without putting a wedge between me and hubby!

A. This is a common situation where the two (generally) most important women in a man's life clash because one of them has known him his whole life, while the other still represents a very special part of his life. Unfortunately MIL (mother in laws) often overlook the fact that the bride is the entire reason for the wedding in the first place and can often step over the invisible boundary. The easiest way for everyone involved is to softly explain, on her next suggestion, that you really want your celebration to represent BOTH of you as a couple. Or perhaps try a subtle hint in a compliment like 'that's a great idea, though it doesn't really work with my vision of mine and insert-groomtobe-name-here wedding day.' You are best to approach as many smooth options as possible to deter the MILs suggestions before turning bridezilla and threatening to destroy the very reasons your man proposed in the first place (or you to him if you're a modern day woman.) The saying a happy wife is a happy life is really meant for the MILs.

Keep the MIL -reasonably- happy and you'll have smooth sailing with her son - but don't sacrifice yourselves in the process!!

Important Decision #2 The Professionals. Part 1.

Choosing who you have to look after certain aspects of your day is no easy choice. You are putting your full trust in these people and relinquishing that inner bridezilla's control. There are many factors to take into consideration but the major one really is how will they fit with you and your style? Although time consuming you are better off taking your time to select these people who are going to record what will be one of the most memorable days of your life. The expenses of these professionals shouldn’t be the highest priority but unfortunately it is something we need to balance out. Though keep in mind just because a professional is reasonably priced – doesn’t mean the quality of their work is poorer and vice versa.

1. Celebrants.
The cost of any celebrant is dependent on what you want them to bring to your day. The ceremony you have should be discussed with only you, your partner and the celebrant to decide what reflects your relationship the most. For some people this may be a sand ceremony, where sand is poured together to reflect ‘combining’ lives or ‘becoming one person; a butterfly ceremony with the symbolic release of butterflies or a candle ceremony. A simple civil ceremony can still set you back $600.00 or a more tailored, detailed ceremony can set you back up to $1,300.00. 

The most important thing to ask your celebrant when setting budget aside is the matter of legal documentation and how much they do for you. Paying $1,300.00 for a ceremony but having to complete and lodge the paperwork yourself is not a professional service and we strong advise you select somehow who will take care of that for you.

 

2. Photographers.
The first thing you should do with a photographer, much like a wedding planner, is shop around for somebody who can cater to your taste and blend with the atmosphere of your big day to capture the shots you want the most. Ask to see portfolios, unedited and edited pieces and testimonials. Try to avoid those who ‘photoshop’ their clients as this can detract from the natural beauty of your day. Ask if there are any of their clients who would be happy to be contacted in regards to their experiences with the photographer (the worst they can say is no.) Take into consideration the styles they prefer to shoot and if they will work with your style. For example if you prefer natural shots make sure the photographer’s speciality isn’t posed shots. Once you have seen all of these things and if you’re happy, sit down and discuss what sort of package they can cater to suit your day and your way. Discuss your budget with them and be firm on what you can afford. From here a quote should be delivered. Don’t get just one quote, have several options and keep some of their work for comparison. 

  With photographers keepsakes are often the highest cost such as bound wedding albums and framed pieces, you can often cut back on these by getting a digital disc of your images and selecting this yourself (if you’re the arty sort or have a friend who is.) It isn’t necessarily the products put into these pieces but the time and the labour. If you are short on budget this is one area you can cut out on and buy a pre-prepared album from your local Target or Kmart. For a package covering most of your wedding, usually around five hours labour, and a piece of artwork or two you’re looking at an average of $3,500.00. The more ‘popular’ a photographer is (not always more talented) the higher their price goes.

 

3. Videographers.
The first question to ask yourself with a videographer is do you really need it? If you are adamant that you want a professional video record of your day prepare for a dollar value shock. Videographers can cost anywhere from $3000.00 upward depending how much of your celebration you want them to film. If you are on a budget consider this expense carefully. Pose questions between yourself and your partner such as, do we have a relative with a camera that could do this for us? Could we rely on our guests to capture the special moments from different angles? What about our day do we need videoed? Most married couples I have spoken with have never watched their wedding video, with the exception of the day after. This is a personal choice, but if you are looking to cut down somewhere on expenses this should be one of the first places to look over.

Remember with professionals to be confident and assertive with what you want. This is your day, you are to guide them. That is not to say be rude, demanding and a bridezilla in waiting but be strong in your vision for your day. If you are planning these with a wedding planner ensure they understand what your vision is – draw it for them and pin it to the very front of their folder if you have to!!

 

Next time we will focus on part 2 of this blog featuring venues, caterers and entertainment. Following our professionals blogs we will look at decorating and themes.

Stay inspired!

Way to Wed.

#1.5 - Let's be realistic for a minute.

So assuming you’ve heeded the advice we gave in the last blog – which I bet 90% of you haven’t and have followed something along the lines of ‘My wedding isn’t going to be expensive I know how to do things cheaply AND look good’ still in your 'TBM' - we’re going to look at hiring professional services and how they fit into our budgets. If you are one of those cash savvy brides (or grooms) who have said you know how to keep things inexpensive, read on for an eye opener. If you’re already aware of how expensive things can get, skip to the next blog.

We all love to imagine things are going to happen much cheaper than they realistically will.

Weddings need five things:
1. A couple to be married.
2. A celebrant or priest to marry the couple.
3. Food and beverages (whether it’s cocktail or sit down your guests need to be satiated).
4. Special clothing (unless you’re the t-shirt and jeans kind of bride, then by all means raid your wardrobe).
5. Rings. (Or some other symbolic evidence of your marriage.)

It can be argued that number five isn’t necessary, but in today’s society, no wedding band generally means that particular person is available.

The five things we have listed are for the simplest wedding imaginable. No professional photographer, no make-up service and no hairdresser, it’s purely DIY. Picture a close-knit ceremony of only 25; you’re supplying beverages on ice yourself at a relative’s lush private gardens. A small events catering company is treating your guests to canapés.  You’re playing music from the surround sound and your relatives provided the marquee they already had for shade. 

Now prepare for a longwinded explanation on the details of each.  

1. You and your partner are the two most important pieces of your day. Budget aside this must be remembered, because you are celebrating you and the commitment you are making to one another. Your love comes at no cost – until you add the material things.

2. Celebrants vary in prices depending on the services you want them to provide. For a low key garden wedding they will charge fuel costs, the costs of all your paperwork (confirm this with them first) and their professional services fee. Budget $1,000.00 for your celebrant.

 3. For a small function catering prices tend to go up as caterers need to cover both the costs of food, staff labour, preparation time and make a profit for the business. For a cocktail, small key wedding, you are still looking at around $70pp. On ice you will need beer, wine, soft drink and water. A slab of 24 beers is on average $36.00, an inexpensive (but still delicious) bottle of wine can range up to $25 with four glasses from each. If your wedding celebrations are going to go for five hours that’s generally three drinks per person every hour. Realistically I don’t know anyone who holds onto a glass of wine for more than twenty minutes and Australians tend to get better at drinking when the cost is on someone else so we’ll account for four drinks for the hour.

Depending on your male to female ratio and who prefers what your quantities of each will change but for this exercise we’ll split it down the middle. Twelve slabs of beer will give you 288 beers. Between 13 people that is 22 drinks each or 4.4 drinks per hour.  50 bottles of wine will give you 200 glasses, between 12 people that is 16 glasses each or 3.3 per hour. Confused yet? If your wedding party are not big drinkers you can cut this down considerably – this is where a wedding planner would assist greatly; it is always better to over cater slightly than to under cater at all. Leftover beverages will always be used – or arrange with your supplier to return unused slabs with a receipt. 

On top of the twelve slabs of beer and fifty bottles of wine, you have soft drink and water. For a low-budget wedding tap water and ice with slices of lemon or lime is recommended. You can generally pick up bottles of 2L soft drink on special of $10 for four with about six glasses in each. The amount of soft drink depends entirely on your guests. Most will only drink the alcoholic beverages, but if you have children or non-drinkers, your soft drink quantities will rise. Serving jugs for water and soft drink can be picked up in two dollar shops anywhere. You will need at least four to avoid constant refilling.

You will need ice to keep your beverages cold and accessible and tubs to place them in. Aim for four again. For five hours, depending on the weather, you are looking at approximately two bags per tub per hour. So eight bags per hour or forty bags in total.

Totals of your minimalistic catering budget are this:
25 persons at $70.00ea for catering = $1,750.00
12 slabs of beer at $36.00 = $432.00
50 bottles of wine at $25.00 = $1,250.00
8 bottles of soft drink on special = $20.00
Water jugs at $2 ea (four for water, four for soft drink) = $16.00
40 bags of ice at $3.50 per bag = $140.00
Four plastic tubs at $7.00ea = $28.00

Your low-key food and beverage service totals $3,616.00. Remember on top of that you will need glass hire for wine glasses, or purchase them for $10.00 in sets of four from somewhere like K-Mart.

4. Clothing is often the most extravagant piece of any bridal party but it doesn’t have to be – quality seamstresses don’t always charge large amounts. To buy a dress that’s too big and have it altered will be considerably cheaper than having one made as there is no need to source fabric or cut out patterns. Hiring suits will be more cost effective than buying.

If your maid of honour and groomsman are buying their own suit and dress then the cost is minimalized. Suit hire for a groom with shirt, vest, tie or bow tie, pants and jacket will usually cost $500.00. If your groom is wearing his own suit you will save again. Budget $1,000.00 for your dress and $150.00 for your veil if you are having one. In total, budget $1,650.00 here and be prepared to shop around. Online sites, such as http://www.stillwhite.com.au are amazing for inexpensive, beautiful second-hand dresses.

5. The ring you and your partner choose for one another is entirely your decision. Budget at least $800.00 for each, totaling $1,600.00. Anything below that won’t be the quality you need to last the lifetime you look forward to spending together.

So in total your inexpensive wedding still comes to $7,866.00. That price is assuming you do not send out paper invites or RSVP cards and contact everyone in person or via telephone. Going back to our budget, if you’re putting $140.00 away a week that’s still just over 12 months of saving for your big day.

Next blog:  Important Decision #2: the Professionals.

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Way to Wed.

Important Decision #1: Budget & Date.

Most often when girlfriends become fiancés they tend to fall straight into a phase we like to call 'temporary bridezilla mode'. It lasts for around two weeks, where all decisions must be made immediately no matter the time frame until your wedding. These decisions, 99% of the time, will later be changed because the thought and planning processes were too rushed to really identify the important factors: the cost and the accessibility.

Unfortunately with weddings, money is a large part - the celebrant alone you are looking anywhere between $600 and $1000. So let's get down to the budget.

Before you start setting your date in a haze of excitement take a step back and look at your financials. Do you have a mortgage? Do you want a house before you're married? Have you been saving for your wedding? Was the proposal a surprise and you're starting with a zero balance? Evaluating your wants and needs are important. Draw up your income and outgoing expenses (as they are right at this minute) and evaluate what's left over. Set aside what you would usually put into savings, or if you're looking at buying a house set aside your mortgage costs (remember some of this can be taken from your rent). What are you left with? Is this your 'spending' money for a Saturday night out? Do you have a reasonable amount to put away for your wedding?

You and your partner should commit to setting aside the same amount every week. Let's assume, with entertainment costs and socialising (because nobody is going to give these up before a wedding) you have $70 each leftover a week, that's after committing some money to general savings. That's $140.00 a week put toward your wedding. One year -or 52 weeks- would give you $7,280.00. If you are starting from scratch and don't earn a high wage, you will need to consider a long engagement, or a smaller close-knit wedding. Depending on the size of your wedding, decide how much you need to save (and can save) then set your budget followed by your date.

We recommend setting up a bank account to put direct debits into. Call the account 'Wedding' so whenever you look at your account summaries you will be less inclined to touch the dollars building up. Trust us, you will need every dollar you can get if you're planning a big affair.

Average costs in the Goulburn Valley and Moira regions of Victoria for reception catering is from $90pp-$120pp, therefore, for a wedding of 150 people you are looking at around $15,000.00 - $18,000.00 alone. These costs generally include beer, wine and soft-drink only. Remember, your day is about you - so your budget should be too. Cut out where necessary - or hire someone who can do it for you.

At Way to Wed we source everything for you at a minimal cost designed to suit you and your partners tastes and lifestyle. We will work within your budget, design a saving plan, create themes, source DIY materials and even DIY for you! Way to Wed also have a Graphic Artist on our team to design personalised save the dates, invitations and place cards, for your day. Inquiries and quotes are entirely free and we will even answer a limited number of questions to help you set up the planning of your big day yourself.

In summary, from today's blog you should have taken the important information of: budget, budget, budget. Then select your date based on your savings plan and what you realistically can afford.

Next time:
Way to Wed will take a look into the cost of hiring the Professionals - Celebrants, Photographers, Videographers, Caterers, Bands and Venues.

Stay inspired!
Way to Wed

The Business is Born.

Way to Wed is born. What a fabulous day, with a lot of hard work ahead of us.

In our upcoming blogs we will be featuring some processes brides to be should really take note of in the early stages - all keys to planning the wedding of your and your partners dreams. Dates and budgets will feature in blog number one.

In the coming weeks we will be looking at affiliating with local businesses in the Goulburn Valley to assist you in compiling your options.

Here at Way to Wed we look forward to sharing all we can to help you before and on your special day. Please like us on Facebook and Instagram for daily updates.

- WtW