Choosing a cheap wedding venue

© MICHEL TOURAINE (RF) / Jupiterimages

Banquet halls, chateaux, manors and stately homes are likely to set you back a fair few bob before you've even thought about the catering. 

The budget version
- The cheapest option for the reception is to hold it at a friend or relative's house, preferably somewhere you could put a marquee or gazebos up in the garden.
- Hotels or function venues can work out pretty good value because (practically) everything is provided.
- Saturday is the most expensive day, so get married on a weekday if you can. And bear in mind that autumn and winter are less popular seasons for weddings so you might get a better deal then.
- If you're having a civil ceremony, check out the local Registrar's office, which will be considerably cheaper than most licensed venues.
- Beware of licensed venues that charge a premium for holding the ceremony and reception at the same place.
- Be sure you know what's included in the hire price. In addition to the charge for hiring the room, there might be extra charges for tables and chairs, for example.