Planning your wedding can be the most expensive and stressful time for both the bride and the groom. But with a little bit of time patience and hope you can have the wedding of your dreams for a fraction of the price.

Your Gown (Gowns on offer)



Many Local and International sellers are willing to part with the most beautiful brand new gowns for 70% below the retail price. Try to limit your search to exactly what you want, for example size 12 and white, so you don't have to browse through any unwanted items.

If you are prepared to go with a second hand gown, many local girls have listed their worn once and freshly drycleaned gowns. For these I highly recommend you try them on first and inspect before you bid to avoid any disappointment.

Watch out for your country's importing laws as sometimes you might have to pay a tax to customs.

Your Accessories (So many!)

A wide rande of tiaras, hoops, underwear, necklaces, bracelets, watches, shoes, garters, dilly bags and anything else you might need is right here on Ebay.

Buying many items from the one seller can certainly attract a discount if you ask for one. Do not be afraid to ask a seller exactly what you are thinking. The worst they can say is NO.

Your Bridesmaids/ Flowergirls (so many pretty colours)

There are plenty of sellers who have gowns which were used for in shop try ons and have really tiny flaws which are priced under half the retail price. This is great for one or two bridesmaids.

Many sellers discount for bulk purchases or list three or more of the same gown in certain sizes for a discounted price. Patience and hunting will allow you to get your desired colour and sizes.

Hens night items and games are available for a resonable price also. Hunt around for items you are too afraid to purchase in a shop, such as strangely shaped chocolates.

Think about the recent fashion of not having your bridesmaids all wear the same dress. The same colour will add a sense of unity to the bridesmaids and a different style of dress will cater to their different body shapes. Cocktail dresses are cheaper than ballgowns and make the wedding a fun, relaxed, casual theme.

Also, think about second hand gowns and shoes, this will save over  50% of your costs.

Your Cake



Many sellers have a pick up only service which saves so much money. Some are willing to deliver to your wedding reception venue for a small cost. Bidding on Ebay for your cake is much cheaper than going to a cake shop.

If you are making your own cake there is a vast array of magazines and books to guide you, also cake beads and toppers. Take the time to hunt around in the months before your big day.

Your Flowers (See the range available)

Think twice about fresh flowers, many sellers can make the most adorable silk arrangements for your boquet and for centrepieces. Remember, silk flowers do not wilt, droop or need preservation.

Makeup/ Hair

If you look around there is a wide range of reputable mobile artists. They are usually in your area and offer incredible savings if you pay in full months in advance. Emailing them first to ask for a portfolio of their work is advisable.

Reception Venue

From time to time, sellers list seasonal reception discounts. Keep an eye and search for "wedding catering" regularly in the lead up to your perfect day, and you might be lucky.

Photography and Cars

Many professionals list their services on Ebay as it saves them time and money. Sometimes they might list in a different category e.g "gowns" to grab your attention. Again, email them to ask for examples of their work.

Your Invitations/ Stationery (See the range available)

There is so much choice on Ebay, so it pays to watch and wait before you bid. Contacting sellers on prices for custom made packs is a great idea. So many sellers are willing to please you to get your business, so make sure you tell them exactly what you need.

A range of pre-printed inviations, DIY packs, place cards, invitations, envelopes is out there. Waiting around for out of season (winter moths where everything is quiet)  is a great tip to cut costs.

Guest Gifts (chocolate hearts are superb!)



A range of guest books, chocolate hearts, DIY kits, plants, pens, tulle, tulle bags, ribbon, lollies, cupids, doves,  personalised chocolate, noodle boxes, white almonds and anything else you could possibly imagine is out there. Again, emailing the seller to outline what you are looking for is the best start. If they cannot get it sometimes they can give you the name of a recommended seller they know.

Goodbye and Goodluck (last chance to look at items)

You really can save hunting around in your local area and you can source some really affordable, high quality products. You can get the best ideas you could adapt for your own needs from some of the photographs in their listings.