With the average cost of an Australian wedding sitting at a whopping $36,700 according to industry market researcher IBISWorld, it’s easy to imagine your bank account being swept clean before your big day.

We have spoken to wedding planning experts to get the lowdown on the best cash-saving tips for weddings.

MAKE A BUDGET

Starting your wedding planning with a budget may not feel like the most romantic thing to do, but the experts say it is necessary.

“Sit down together and have a conversation about what you can actually afford to spend,” Jenn Veza, creative director of The Original Wedding Company, says.

Ms Veza says it is also important to speak to parents contributing to the wedding to make sure you know how much they’re donating or what they will be paying for.

KEEP A RECORD OF WHAT YOU'VE SPENT

“There shouldn’t be any surprises,” Ms Veza says. “Keep a record of all payments — this includes deposits and also the final payments due in the weeks before your wedding.”

GET ALL YOU CAN OUT OF YOUR VENUE

If you’re going to be paying for a venue, it makes sense to get as much out of it as you can.

“Go for a venue that has all the basics included — you’ll save yourself on hire and delivery costs,” Lara White, events director at White Events, says.

Ms Veza recommends choosing a venue that will let you to provide your own alcohol.

BOOK AN OFF-PEAK TIME

Whether it’s winter, midweek or even a Friday or Sunday, there are discounts to be had if you’re flexible about when you host your big day.

“Winter weddings are becoming popular — bridal fashion is reflecting that with the beautiful shawls and shrugs now available,” Ms White says.

BE SAVVY WITH LITTLE THINGS

Bomboniere, styling, decor . . . it all adds up. Ms White suggests skipping the bomboniere altogether, while Ms Veza says combing Gumtree to source styling and decor items is a good idea.

“Many brides sell their table decorations once their wedding is over,” she says.

Ms Veza also recommends website etsy.com for cost-effective stationery and unique styling items and visiting wedding expos for great deals.

USE THE RIGHT VENDORS

Ms White says comparing vendors is important to make sure that you’re getting value for money.

© The West Australian