Accessories for the Day - spotting a bargain

Author Aisling Mackey

Often the details and accessories for a wedding aren't remembered until the last minute - we often get panicked brides ringing up to ask about rush delivery on guest books, ring cushions - you name it. Here's a quick checklist of items you may have otherwise missed:

þ      Ring Cushion - These are used when the priest or registrar calls for the rings.  They are usually presented by the best man, but often by a flower girl or boy.  They add a lovely touch to a very special moment, but it is just a moment!  Don't be tempted to spend a fortune on these - some sites charge up to €54.50 for these!!  They are only used for a moment.  Try a more reasonably priced option instead (Does €13 sound a bit better?).  If you're not a fan of the lace bells and whistles that come with them, they can often be picked off with a hem picker.

þ  Guest Book - This is another item you could consider dropping altogether, but it does provide a nice keepsake from the day.  If you feel  you'd like one, again, shop around.  These are usually open when guests see them, so consider using a hardback lined notebook instead. Some sites charge up to €60.00 for these!!  I kid you not.  Try one at a much more reasonable price instead.

þ   Gifts for Bridesmaids, Best Man.  Don't go crazy on these. A gift doesn't have to be expensive - cute, personal, handmade is so appreciated too. A pair of low-cost novelty wedding socks will always raise a giggle, and for your bridesmaids, it's ok to browse the Argos jewellery catalogues to find something you think would suit, or consider making a gift instead - a great photo of you both in a frame, a scrapbook or photo album), some cookies or some chocolates in a jar, some seedlings?  These kind of gifts mean even more than shop bought ones and bring a truly personal touch to your big day.

þ   Place Cards and Settings.  Instead of spending up to €3 on a silver place card holder, keep it simple and spend approx. €0.25 for a simple place card.  Ask someone who has neat handwriting to do the honours, use a gold or silver pen, and leave it at that.  Another saving of on average €200! For more information on table settings and decorations, see our Decorations section here.

How did you manage to shave down your accessories for the day?  Email us and tell us!!

Aisling Mackey is the owner of DIYWedding.ie, a website specialising in helping couples on a budget make the most of their money.  The site features over 100 customisable wedding stationery DIY kits and other DIY products like Car Ribbon, Pew Bows, Disposable Wedding Cameras, DIY Wedding Favours and more.  Aisling also owns Cara Craft Supplies - a site for card makers and scrapbookers, and a UK arm of the wedding business - WeddingDIY.co.uk.