~ keep the guest list small

~ cut the bridal party - as a UK bride,the attendants attire falls on you to pay for (unless they don't mind paying for their own - in which case,keep the cost of the outfits to 100 or less)

~ make your own wedding stationary.google wedding invites for inspiration.keep them simple,avoid bulk adding embellishments such as bows and do your RSVPs by phone/e-mail so you don't have to pay return postage

~ skip the photographer if it just isn't in the budget - don't go with a cheaper photographer,you will end up burned.instead,ask your friends to take pictures (most people have digital cameras these days)

~ buy some plain,white iced sponges/fruitcakes from a supermarket and decorate with fresh flowers/buckles and ribbons/a topper and save a couple of hundred on your cake

~ a buffet may be cheaper than a sit down meal

~ skip the favours - nobody will notice you don't have them

~ cut the alcohol or serve another sparkling wine instead of champagne (nobody will notice).add elderflower cordial to make it go a bit further.cash bar is fine in the UK

~ swap skills for gifts - know anyone with a nice car?see if they will drive you,or your grandmother could make your cake and your hairdresser friend can do your hair

~ buy flowers in season and wholesale and make your own bouts and bouquets - plenty of masterclasses on line

~ buy your cheap wedding dresses from a sample sale,from a former bride or a wedding fayre.check out the cheaper designers and hit the high street - stores like BHS,coast and debenhams have some beautiful dresses that wont cost the earth.same goes for future hubby - he can rent a suit or buy a decent one on sale.george and matalan have some great suits for under 50