What not to skrimp on when you get married

You can make savings on certain things, but not on everything! Here's what we reckon deserves a good budget: 

1- Champagne: Inexpensive, low-quality champers can give you the hangover from hell! It's a better idea to serve good quality bubbly at the toasts rather than ply your guests will bad bubbly all day and night long.

2- Catering: Instead of trying to feed a large number of guests on a tight budget, invite slightly fewer guests to the wedding breakfast/meal and put on a better spread. Always test the food, even if you have to pay for testing, before committing to a caterer.

3- Photographer: He/she will be responsible for photos you'll cherish for the rest of your life. Don't hire a cowboy! 

4- The bouquet: Unless you're allergic to pollen, give in to tradition and treat yourself to a floral centrepiece fit for you to hold (and throw!). 

5- Music: The success of your evening reception will depend on the music, so hire a decent DJ with a good collection of tunes (expect to pay £400 on average). If you haven't budgeted for a DJ, connect your iPod or MP3 up to a speaker system and play a personalised songlist.

6- Table staff: 2 waiters or waitresses won't be able to serve 100 guests in a reasonable amount of time! You'll need at least 1 person per 20 guests for a sit-down meal, 1 person per 30 guests for a served buffet and 1 per 40 guests for a self-service buffet. 

7- Hair: your hairdo has to stay in place all day and night, so it needs to be capable of withstanding bad weather, hugs, kisses and camera flashes! Use a hairdresser who is experienced in styling wedding or 'big event' hair so it will withstand the rigours of your big day. Oh, and invest in good quality make-up that will stay put and bring in a talented friend to apply it for you!