Yikes! The average UK wedding costs between £16,000 and £20,000. CHANGE presents some clever ideas to help control the costs - to your wallet and the planet.

  • Find a unique RING an antique shop or student art show. If buying new, check the diamond is conflict-free at www.kimberleyprocess.com
  • Pick your own wildflowers for a unique BOUQUET or BUTTONHOLE.
  • Ask friends to capture your big day on their digital cameras, then share PHOTOS on a wedding-day website, such as www.whitestudio.co.uk
  • If you have all the toasters you need, add a charity to your GIFT LIST. Contact your favourite charity directly or try www.weddinglistgiving.com
  • Style-conscious brides can update a relative's WEDDING DRESS with a few alterations, or go designer chic at www.oxfam.org.uk/bridal which sells discounted new, unworn dresses and accessories.
  • Pamper your feet with made-to-order, eco-friendly bridal SHOES from www.beyondskin.co.uk or www.hettyrose.co.uk
  • Have your CAKE made from organic, natural and Fairtrade ingredients. Decorate with flowers from your garden
  • Serve a BUFFET (cheaper than a sit-down) that includes seasonal produce. Try to use local suppliers, who may be able to offer free or low-cost delivery on the day
  • Use birdseed or home-grown flower petals for CONFETTI
  • Cut down on hassle and pollution by arranging for a coach to TRANSPORT guests from the ceremony to the reception. For the happy couple, roll up in a hybrid or electric car from www.electriccarhire.com or www.hertz.com
  • Splash out on the HONEYMOON! Luxuriate at a romantic country house hotel in the UK, saving airfare and carbon emissions

from CHANGE, the co-operative bank’s customer magazine
With Thanks