I was going to organise a DIY wedding at my local village hall but saved us £3,000

A BRIDE has revealed how she organised her own wedding by holding it in a village hall.

Laura admitted she “freaked out a few times” when people criticized her and her fiancé’s decision not to go to a “traditional” venue.

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But in the end, they saved thousands of dollars and had a “magical” day.

Laura went to TikTok to give a glimpse into her intimate wedding, while writing at the top to reveal some of the comments she had received about the choice of the village hall venue.

“It’s nice, but a village hall isn’t really the place I’d want my wedding. I can’t see it,” someone had said.

But Laura hit back, writing, “Trust me, when you surround yourself with the right people, who trust your vision and only want the best for you, magic happens!”

The video showed her and her friends setting up the hall, with long trestle-height tables covered in chiffon and flowers in vases.

At one end of the hall was a huge floral arch, with a neon sign underneath that read ‘Mr and Mrs’.

“TRUST. YOUR. GUT,” Laura added in the caption.

“I panicked a few times after some comments about planning a DIY wedding in a village hall, but it was more magical than I could ever have wished for.

“Surround yourself with the most genuine people and you will thank yourself!!!”

Laura told Fabulous Online that they spent around £10,000 on the entire wedding day.

While a venue they fell in love with was asking £3,500 for the basic rent (so without catering or drinks), they got the village hall for £500.

“Other ‘real’ wedding venues we looked at cost £1,500 or more, plus at least £75 per person for food,” says Laura.

“We couldn’t justify that amount for food that always leaves the wedding guests hungry after an hour.”

Instead, they spent £1,000 on a hot Caribbean buffet and had a bar serving alcohol, both things the venue gave them the “freedom to do”.

For the total hire of the hall, including decoration with flowers, tables, chairs and other decorations, they spent £3,500.

And in the comments, people were wildly enthusiastic in complimenting Laura on arranging such a unique wedding.

Budget-friendly wedding tips

PLANNING a wedding on a budget doesn’t mean you have to give up on your dream day. Here are a few tips to keep costs down and still create a memorable celebration:

Set a budget and stick to it

• Determine your total budget early and distribute the funds across the different aspects of the wedding.
• Keep track of all your expenses to avoid overspending.

Limit the guest list

• Keep your guest list private to reduce catering, venue, and other per-person expenses.

Choose an affordable location

• Consider non-traditional locations such as parks, community centers, or a family member’s backyard.
• Look for locations that allow you to bring your own suppliers.

DIY decorations

• Create your own centerpieces, bouquets and other decorative items.
• Use seasonal flowers and simple, elegant designs.

Choose a weekday or off-season wedding

• Venues and vendors often offer discounts for weekday or off-season weddings.

Simplify the menu

• Opt for a buffet or family-style meal instead of dinner.
• Limit the number of courses and opt for affordable, yet delicious options.

Borrow or rent clothes

• Borrow wedding dresses from friends or family, or rent dresses and suits.
• Look for sales or buy second-hand wedding dresses.

Digital invitations

• Send digital invitations instead of printed copies to save on printing and postage costs.

Hire a DJ or make a playlist

• Hire a DJ instead of a live band, or create your own playlist for the reception.

Make the cake easier

• Choose a small, simple cake for the ceremonial cutting and serve your guests a sheet cake.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and memorable wedding without breaking the bank. Remember, the focus should be on celebrating your love and commitment, not on how much you spend.

“Oh this is beautiful!!,” someone wrote.

“More intimate and cozy, I love it!”

“Years ago, many wedding receptions were held in village halls and they were just as much fun as a reception at an expensive, fancy venue,” noted another.

“We went to a wedding in a village hall this summer and it was absolutely beautiful,” said a third.

“I work in hospitality and it was one of the most beautiful receptions I have ever seen. And yours is just as beautiful!”

“I had to see this today!” someone else praised.

“In two days it will be time: our do-it-yourself wedding ceremony in a village hall.

“Tomorrow is the day of preparations. With that, all the fears that arose will be silenced.”

“You’re going to have an amazing time!!” Laura replied.

“I highly recommend pausing the lineup for an hour so everyone can pick up.

“Please post pictures and enjoy the most amazing weekend!!!!”

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