Keeping me awake at night

[crossroads1]

hi I know its crude to talk about salary but lets talk numbers.

Im early 30s and earn £37k before tax. I have a mortgage of £900 and am looking to get married this year. However since going to look at venues and realising the price of everything I am starting to panic. Up to the point where I am budgeting every penny and trying to make extra money through surveys etc. were not looking to have a grand affair but I still want to be able to afford holidays and to do nice things.

I don't want to constantly be thinking of how much money I need to save/spend. Anyone have any tips for making extra money or been in a similar situation or same-ish salary? everything just seems ridiculously expensive.. I hadnt realised the price it costs to get married!!

Fish and chips and a party in the park? Sounds great fun to me!

We eloped

Get married on a weekday and not in season. No free bar. Ask for money instead of gifts (I didn't do this and don't like when other people do, but it seems everyone does it now so it's acceptable) - you'll make the expense back of the wedding in cash.

My advice is to keep things simple and small. It's about the marriage not the wedding.

We went to Vegas, not everyone's cup of tea but we enjoyed it.

Decide who, if anyone, you want there, don't fall into the trap of thinking you have to invite everyone you've ever known or are related to.

Be realistic about how much you can afford, then decide if you want to spend that much or you would rather use the money for something else.

Stick to the budget!