Wedding Mechanic

We’ve all heard the famous line, “I don’t want your money honey, I want your love”! Whilst we all look forward to our honeymoon, we are also well aware of the potential costs involved. Weddings are an expensive event on their own; however honeymoons can also contribute significantly to the old bank account drying up.

Many of us today view the honeymoon as an event that not only allows us some quality time with our new husband or wife, but also as an opportunity to have that holiday we always wanted. Overseas trips and activity filled discoveries of the world are becoming extremely common. Whilst having an exciting and adventure filled honeymoon can be enticing, some of us may prefer to experience ‘the love’ whilst keeping the bank balance in check. Here are some tips to ensure that you can spend some quality time with your loved one without blowing your budget.

1. Home sweet home – We all know home is where the heart is, and for some, it’s where the love is. Rather than paying for accommodation, why not stay at home and put your money towards daily activities such as going out to a fancy restaurant or going away for day trips. You may find that you will have the opportunity to engage in more activities by saving on accommodation costs.
2. Bed and Breakfast – Fancy resorts and hotels are a thing of the past. There are an abundance of bed and breakfasts that are situated in secluded and romantic locations, and best of all, you get breakfast!
3. Camping – Why not bring out the tent and enjoy the sunshine! There are a great amount of sites with pristine views. If your not the type to erect a tent, then go for cabin, either way they are an extremely cost effective way to experience the beauty of nature!
4. Houseboat – Whilst certain houseboats can put a dint in the budget, there are cheaper options available. You can experience the magic of a cruise whilst having complete control of where you want to go. Whilst you’re out on the water, why not bring out the fishing line and catch dinner!
5. Caravan tour – Forget touring Europe! Why not experience the beauty of your own country and hire a caravan! Tour Australia and see the wonders of our country without having to convert your money!!
6. Housesit – Know someone who may be going away! Why not house sit and experience being somewhere else. Tour the nearby locations and see what other areas have to offer.
7. Pack the Backpack – Backpack around Australia and see the sights! Why not jump on your bike and get fit whilst you travel around the country. There are plenty of lodges around the country for backpackers. It’s definitely a fun and cheap and alternative way to see the country.
8. Email alert – Send an email to all your friends and family and see if anyone has a holiday guest house they can allow you to use. You may find that your old great aunt may have a holiday house in the woods that you didn’t know about. Perhaps you can make a deal and tell them that they can lend their holiday home as a wedding gift!
9. Time is of the essence – Postpone your honeymoon to a low peak time of the year. If you decide to marry in high peak season (eg December to February), you will find that prices will double as a result of the holiday season. Perhaps you can postpone your honeymoon to the winter months to get those special deals. There is nothing better than being wrapped up in your partner’s arms by a log fire!
10. Team Effort – if you are really set on having that action packed adventure honeymoon overseas, why not ask your wedding guest to put forward a contribution towards your holiday rather than purchasing a present. Sometimes team effort can go a long way!

It’s natural for us to want to experience a honeymoon that is special and memorable, however sometimes our financial situation may not allow it. Some couples opt for a honeymoon years after they have been married, and others simply have something small followed by a proper holiday down the track. You often hear of couples saying “we’re on our second honeymoon”, often meaning that they didn’t get to experience a ‘real’ honeymoon the first time. Whatever you chose, it’s also important to note that having a honeymoon is about having some ‘time out’ with your new wife or husband. Where and how that time is spent is up to the individual and the couple as a whole.

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