Cohabiting couples are the second largest family type in the UK as 3.4 million couples are choosing to live together first before or without getting married. After having children, some pairs may consider tying the knot since it’s a symbolic celebration of a life-long commitment. However, inflation and rising housing costs make couples hesitant about having a wedding celebration, thinking that the money can be spent on monthly expenses, such as bills, tuition fees, and the like.
Thankfully, there are many ways to have a memorable wedding without breaking the bank. Moreover, couples with children can make their kids feel more included in the celebrations and have a fantastic wedding that won’t take a massive chunk of their savings. Here are some budget-savvy wedding tips for couples with kids.
Know Your Priorities
Identify your wedding priorities from the start and spend money on the things that matter to you. For instance, perhaps you’d like to spend more on your wedding rings since they’re an enduring symbol of your love and are made to last a lifetime. Choose from a wide array of wedding ring styles and designs to find ones that suit your taste as a couple. Once you’ve secured your rings, plan on saving on other big-ticket items, such as the venue for your wedding ceremony and reception.
If you’re getting married in the UK, check out some budget wedding venues, such as Forrester Park in Essex, where prices start from just £300. There’s also Ness Gardens in Liverpool, a venue you can rent for £300 per hour. For a fun festival vibe, there are Cornish Tipi Weddings in Cornwall, where prices start at £550. These places are picturesque and ideal for a wedding; best of all, they’re child-friendly too.
Let Your Kids Participate in the Wedding
Couples with children usually include their kids in their wedding entourage. However, there are other ways to let your kids participate in your special day. Older, tech-savvy teens or young adults can create videos or PowerPoint presentations featuring your life as a couple and as a family. They can also be tasked to create playlists for the reception, or they can make DIY souvenirs. Meanwhile, younger children can greet guests and ask them to sign the guest list or scrapbook. Letting your kids take over some of the wedding duties not only makes them feel included, but you’ll also save money since you won’t have to outsource these tasks to others.
Consider Fun, Child-Friendly Activities for the Reception
Perhaps having an open bar is out of the question, or you can’t afford to have a string quartet perform at your reception. If this is the case, consider having a few child-friendly activities– not only are they lots of fun, but they’re also quite affordable. Instead of an open bar, why not set up a s’mores station and let your older children supervise it? You can also set up a projector and screen and show animated or Disney movies that kids and adults will enjoy. Make it more inviting by placing comfy chairs or sleeping bags on the ground and a few pillows and blankets so everyone can be comfortable while watching the movie.
With a bit of planning and some savvy budgeting moves, you can have a fun wedding that you and your guests will remember for years to come. Try these tips for a family-centred wedding, and have fun on your special day!
