Tying the knot requires only a few essential components: a willing bride and groom, two witnesses and someone to perform the ceremony. Unfortunately, modern traditions and materialism have gotten in the way of what can be a very simple and elegant event.
Certainly, declaring your commitment before the community and a higher force is an important part of the ritual, but you should not pay the bills for the rest of your life.
Although weddings to which the entire community is invited are the norm in some eastern societies, weddings on this side of the world need not be such large or expensive affairs. In fact, many "traditional" nuptials are beyond the means of most young Irish couples as saving for a home has become a more urgent priority.
The average wedding costs between £10,000 (€12,697) and £15,000, according to wedding expert Ms Kim McGuire. This total does not include the honeymoon which may set a couple back £1,800 she said.
Spiralling costs mean creativity and planning should be the key elements to organising a lovely but cost-effective wedding.
There are many ways to reduce the ceremony and reception bills without spoiling your visions of the perfect day.
The ceremony
Formal invitations are only required for weddings of more than 50 people. For small weddings, send handwritten invites on the paper of your choice.
Involving friends and family in the event is an ideal way to personalise your wedding while reducing costs. Invite talented, and willing, individuals to sing, play an instrument or lend you an antique car for the day as a wedding present.
Invitations, mass leaflets and photography may be created by those with design and computer talents.
Local schools of music are great sources of extremely talented, inexpensive and enthusiastic musicians.
Flowers are one of the larger nuptials-related expenses so, use the varieties in season or include more greenery to reduce costs. In fact, many religious institutions now suggest couples split the cost of flowers with those who are marrying immediately before or after them on the day.
Consider a civil ceremony in the registry office. This removes the need for altar and pew flowers, mass leaflets, hired cars, etc.
The reception
The reception usually accounts for more than 50 per cent of the cost of a wedding. The main ways to save money are to cut the guest list and to take the plunge mid-week or in the off-season. Other options include:
Choosing a different time for the wedding is perfectly acceptable. Anything goes these days so morning and early afternoon weddings are possible depending on the person performing the ceremony. Guests usually drink less at this time of the day so these costs are reduced. It is also possible to have a very stylish brunch or lunch for up to 50 per cent less than a standard wedding dinner.
The location of the reception has a great deal to do with the price. City-centre locations are the most expensive while country hotels off the beaten track may be more picturesque and cost considerably less. However, do not book it too far from home as guests will be forced to reserve overnight accommodation. An exquisite location such as a country home, garden or beach also means decorations may be kept to a minimum.
Marrying abroad combines the cost of the ceremony, reception and honeymoon. Many travel agencies specialise in destination packages that include special reception/ honeymoon prices. Often the ceremony element is free.
Couples planning to take their vows abroad should ensure their nuptials will be valid in the State. Taking along your own priest is one way to ensure the ceremony's legal position.
Events held in private homes or gardens using a caterer are less expensive and more personal than venue-based weddings. Catering is a growing business throughout the State and competition means a menu is available to suit every budget.
Alcohol may be supplied by the company or by the couple. If you buy the booze yourself you may have to rent the drinking glasses. Remember that sparkling wine is a good alternative for champagne.
Some couples are drastically reducing their lists and holding the dinner in a top-class restaurant. Others opt for small, intimate weddings followed a few weeks later by a large, casual party for all their friends and acquaintances.
Do not be afraid to use newcomers to the wedding services industry as they will probably offer discounts.
Purchase a wedding cake that doubles as dessert. Use a small, decorated cake to cut for the photos and a single tier cake of the same flavour to pass around to guests. Ensure the venue will not charge you for an additional dessert.
Ask the photographer to only take photographs of the ceremony. Place disposable cameras on tables and ask guests to take photos of one another and the reception.
If you have time and enjoy arranging flowers consider buying them a few days before at one of the early morning markets.
Some couples are opting for artistically arranged fruit or candles instead of flowers.
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