How Much Does a Wedding Cost in Ireland? How to Plan an Affordable Wedding

With the average Irish wedding now costing a staggering €36,000, many couples will be wondering if there are any areas they can save on for their big day. Luckily, the answer is yes! Here’s how you can get the most bang for your buck when celebrating your nuptials…

Consider a Micro Wedding

With the rise of the small wedding taking place in recent years due to the Covid 19 pandemic, many couples are bucking the trend of a bigger wedding. A micro wedding typically sees approximately 30 guests or under, otherwise known as an intimate wedding. As a venue’s price per head typically makes up the largest portion of costs for the big day, it’s worth considering just how many guests you really want to attend your wedding as the less attendees, the less it will cost.

Utilise Your Talents

Are you a stellar baker? Why not consider making your own wedding cake? It’ll taste that little bit sweeter knowing that you’ve put the effort in yourself! Have a friend who’s into photography and would love nothing more than to gift you their time and expertise on the day? Your snaps will be all the more sentimental knowing they were captured by a loved one. Is your sister a pro at makeup? You know where we’re going with this! If you’re open to this suggestion, you may be able to reduce your budget and allocate these funds elsewhere.

DIY It

From favours to invitations, if it’s at all possible to DIY some of these elements, it’s usually cheaper. There are plenty of things that can be made at home, including table numbers, signage, ceremony programmes, a guest book and so much more!

Choose your Wedding Date Prudently:

If you’re not set on having your wedding on any particular date or month, it’s worth considering the off-season months, which generally include January-April and October-November, when less weddings occur. You may also be able to cut some costs by opting for a weekday as opposed to the ever-popular Saturday wedding

Opt for Local, In Season Florals or Even Fake Flowers

For example, if you’re getting married in December, it’s recommended that you make use of what’s readily available and therefore more affordable to source, such as holly, camellias and carnations. Also keep in mind that fresh flowers are typically more expensive than fake flowers, so choosing the latter is an ideal way to make a saving. What’s more, you’ll be able to keep your bouquet thereafter as a sweet memento.

Use a Wedding Website

No need to send out extra cards detailing your after party or accommodation recommendations, simply add them to your wedding website to save on cardstock and postage. Guests can return to your dedicated website for up-to-date information, and many wedding websites will even allow your guests to RSVP online.

Consider a Garden Wedding

Thinking of a summer wedding? What better place than your home to celebrate your special day? Here at Caterhire.ie, we stock everything you’ll need for the perfect backyard Wedding, including Catering Equipment, Outdoor Furniture and even Games & Props Hire to entertain guests of all ages!

And there you have it! Our top tips on how to throw an elegant yet affordable wedding in Ireland are sure to help you make some savings on your big day. Check out our full range here at Caterhire.ie, we’re Ireland’s Leading Event & Party Hire Specialists!