January is a long month following the excesses of Christmas when we all have to tighten our belts slightly. If you are planning a wedding you are probably looking for ways to reduce your budget without compromising on style.

There are lots of ways to knock thousands of a wedding budget with a few clever DIY tips and by using the talents of friends. Here's some top budget busting tips from How 2 I Do.

• Keep the day guest list down to close friends and family only
• Look at prices for mid week or Sunday weddings as they are often far cheaper
• Serve processo or sparkling wine instead of champagne
• Swap a 3 course meal for a hog roast, cream tea or fish and chips
• Use candles, lanterns and rose petals instead of large floral displays

                                

• Get ready at the venue instead of having expensive wedding cars
• If you have a friends who can sing, ask them to perform during the ceremony
• Buy cake tiers from M&S, stack them and add fresh flowers to decorate
• Make your own stationary on your PC and print onto good quality card
• Look in Ikea or The Range for reasonably priced venue decorations
• Keep floral displays small in tea cups, jam jars of bottles and display in clusters of 3

                                    

Areas where you should never scrimp are,

• Wedding insurance is crucial and could save you thousands if things go wrong
• Good photography is essential as you will be never have the chance to retake those key shots
• Don't scrimp on food quality but it's fine to make clever substitutions as above
• Make sure you have a good DJ or band in the evening as this will create a great atmosphere

Floral Image courtesy of Splendid Stems Floral Design and The Knot

Budget Tips courtesy of How 2 I Do Wedding Planning