text: Wedding season is fast upon us, but with the average cost of the big day hitting £25,000, thrifty brides are on the hunt for ways to budget. But how do you create a stunning wedding venue without breaking the bank, or wow your guests with a gourmet meal sans the staggering price tag? From scrimping on bar costs to avoiding hefty food bills, FEMAIL has compiled the best budgeting tips for brides-to-be. Scroll down for video . Wedding season is upon us and for brides on a budget, there's plenty of ways to save thousands of pounds on your special day . 1. GO BIG: Rather than having lots of smaller tables, seat your guests on larger tables. Not only will they get to know more people, you'll save money by having to purchases fewer centerpieces and tablecloths. 2. SAVVY SHOPPING: When seeking decor, shop out of season. Black vases will be on sale after Halloween, red and gold after Christmas and pink after Valentine's Day. Also, money saving sites such as Groupon actually offer entire wedding day packages occasionally. 3. CUT ON BAR COSTS: Not only will an open bar end up in a rather messy evening, it will also leave a dent in your bank account. Instead of letting guests order expensive shots and spirits, offer beer, wine and a signature cocktail - that way, there's something for everyone without unnecessary drinking and spending. 4. CALL ON YOUR FRIENDS: Rather than source expensive florists and stationery experts, reach out to your most talented friends. Among your and your groom's wider circle of friends, there is bound to be someone who has beautiful handwriting and someone who is green-fingered. When seeking decor, shop out of season. Black vases will be on sale after Halloween, red and gold after Christmas and pink after Valentine's Day and don't be afraid to search sites like Etsy and even eBay . 5. DO HIRE A PLANNER: Most people steer clear of wedding planners to save on extra costs but, whilst it may seem counter-intuitive to pay for help, wedding planners have a good network of suppliers, know how much they should be paying for something and aren't afraid of bargaining. 6. SHOP THE SUPERMARKET: You may have your heart set on those iconic Vera Wang bridesmaid dresses but George at Asda is hoping to help brides on a budget - by launching a wedding collection for bridesmaids and pageboys starting from just £7. Dubbed 'the most affordable range anywhere on the high street', the supermarket claim that it's half the price of rivals such as Debenhams and Next and is a 'saviour for cash-strapped brides-to-be'. The new range is designed for children aged 9 months up to 14 years, with girls' bridesmaid and flowergirl dresses start at £12, boys' formal shirts at £7 and suit trousers at £10. A complete outfit for a flowergirl will cost from £28, whilst pageboys can look sharp in a shirt, tie, waistcoat, suit and shoes for £51. Reach out to your most talented friends for help; among your  wider circle there is bound to be someone who has beautiful handwriting who can pen your invites and place cards . George at Asda is hoping to help brides on a budget - by launching a wedding collection for bridesmaids and pageboys starting from just £7 . 7. DO KARAOKE: Hiring a band can set you back around £2,000 but Lucky Voice’s Home Karaoke costs £4.99 for 50 songs. Sure to get your guests in the party spirit, all you need to get the party started is a computer, microphone and a projector with a screen. 8. GO ONLINE: If the costs of invitations and postage are something you aren't willing to splurge on, create your own website and share all the details of your big day online. Rather than hiring an expensive make-up artist, call on the students at your local college to do your bridal beauty . 9. GO TO THE GROWER: When sourcing beautiful flowers, cut out the middleman by calling on a grower. Farmers and the Soil Association may well be able to help you source your foliage for dirt cheap. 10. USE A TRAINEE: If you have your heart set on having your make-up done professionally, rather than hiring an artist, call on the students at your local college. 11. SAMPLE SIZE: If you're doing your make-up yourself, visit a make-up counter for tips and only buy only the items you'll definitely use again. For the things you'll only use on the day, scoop up the samples. 12. SOMETHING BORROWED: Rather than splashing the cash on expensive accessories and jewellery, borrow a few items from the women you love. Grandmother's bracelet, your mother's ring and your best friend's earrings will imbue the big day with even greater meaning. 13. GO SUPERSIZE: If you're not keen on the idea of a three-course meal, serve a family-style buffet on each table. Huge pasta dishes, massive salads and big rice bowls will not only cut costs but also serve as an icebreaker and act as a centerpiece. 14. ASK YOUR GUESTS TO STAND: Consider a standing ceremony if you're tying the knot outside to save on renting chairs. Plus, it will cut down the time of the wedding and thus cost. 15.  SKIP THE BREAD BASKET: What sounds like such a simple tip will actually bring the cost down a lot. No bread means less cutlery, butter and expenditure.
target: FEMAIL has compiled the best budgeting tips for brides-to-be .
  Seat guests on larger tables to save decor costs .
  Opt for family-sized meals on the table rather than three-course meals .
  Offer a signature cocktail menu rather than an open bar .