In this episode of Yes to I Do, the team tackles one of the biggest challenges in wedding planning: deciding where your budget is actually worth spending. In a brutally honest game of Spend, Save or Skip, they work through everything from flowers and favours to hair and make-up, videographers, evening food, wedding cakes and entertainment. The message is simple: spending wisely isn't about being cheap, it's about being intentional and choosing the things that will genuinely make a difference to your day.
Spend on What Matters to You: Rather than adding something simply because it's fashionable or because you think your guests expect it, prioritise the things you'll genuinely enjoy. Whether that's a magician, amazing food, flowers or something completely different, your budget should reflect what's important to you as a couple.
Save on Styling Without Sacrificing the Look: Venue styling can be a mixture of spending and saving. Statement florals may be worth investing in, while items such as table runners, place settings and smaller decorative details can potentially be sourced inexpensively or created yourself. Sometimes less really is more.
Think Carefully About Wedding Favours: Traditional favours often get left behind at the end of the night, so consider something guests will actually use or consume. Sweets, biscuits, scratch cards or drinks tokens could offer better value than keepsakes that end up forgotten on the table.
Don't Underestimate Evening Food: Food gets a definite spend. Guests who've been celebrating and drinking throughout the day will appreciate something to eat later in the evening, and the team has seen how a lack of evening food can result in guests leaving earlier and affect the atmosphere of the party.
You Don't Necessarily Need a Huge Wedding Cake: Larger cakes can result in plenty of leftovers. A smaller cake supplemented with cupcakes, brownies or other easy-to-grab treats can work brilliantly – or you could swap the traditional option altogether for something like a wedding cake made from cheese.
Choose Entertainment That Adds to the Atmosphere: From sax players and live bands to photo booths and Polaroid guest books, entertainment can add another dimension to the celebration. The key is choosing something that works with the flow of your day rather than adding extras simply for the sake of having them.
"Spend, Save, Skip is not about being cheap, it's about being intentional with what you spend your money on."
"Don't be a people pleaser. Do what you want to do."
"Always spend on food. Always, always spend on food."
"If you don't cater evening food wise, people do leave early. It ruins the vibe of the evening."
"Every wedding we see is so different... whatever you feel comfortable spending on, skipping on, saving on – do whatever you want."
About Coton House Farm
Set in the stunning Staffordshire countryside, Coton House Farm is an exclusive, luxury wedding barn venue designed for couples seeking a magical and unforgettable celebration. With beautifully restored barns, scenic outdoor spaces, and flexible layouts, it offers a seamless experience from morning preparations in The Stables to a breathtaking ceremony and lively reception. Whether you choose an elegant indoor setting or a picturesque outdoor backdrop, Coton House Farm provides the perfect setting for your dream wedding, filled with romance and charm.
Connect with Coton House Farm
Website: https://www.cotonhousefarm.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cotonhousefarm/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cotonhousefarm
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cotonhousefarmweddingvenue/
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