We all know that planning a Melbourne or Yarra Valley wedding can be an expensive experience so here are a few pointers on how to make it more affordable:

Try to use a wedding cake supplier close to your venue to avoid a large delivery fee.

To save money, keep the design simple and choose square or round cakes; the more unusual the shape, the higher the price is likely to be.

Get married on a weekday. Most wedding photographers work Saturdays and Sundays so ask one to give you a great deal for a Wednesday or Thursday wedding and he or she will jump at the chance.  After all, they’re only going to be drinking coffee and playing Angry Birds otherwise!

Make your Melbourne or Yarra Valley wedding photography affordable by selecting a CD or DVD of high resolution photos for you to print at your leisure. It may cost a little more up front, but you’ll save a fortune in print costs!

This way, you can also design a wedding album once you have saved up some more money – there are plenty of online retailers who will help you do this.

Email your ‘Save the Dates’ instead of posting (to save on printing and postage).

Use your own/borrow a friend’s nice car instead of hiring a car for transport.

Have a buffet meal instead of a served three course dinner.

Ask the videographer to record only the ceremony – not both the ceremony and reception.

The photographer doesn’t have to stay through the reception either  – family can take the fun snaps for you.

Ensure the photographer takes a ‘mock cut’ of the cake photo then send him home!

As always, we’re happy to hear your suggestions for ways to save money when planning your wedding in Melbourne, Dandenong Ranges or the Yarra Valley.