With the average cost of a wedding about £16,000, the honeymoon £3,000 and reception £6,000, it is never too soon to work out how you will pay for it.

More couples expect to cover the costs themselves and fund their big day with a combination of savings and borrowing.

Over 15 years, £65 put away every month could grow to almost £18,000 - assuming an optimistic growth rate of seven per cent. To ensure couples have the kind of day they want, it is important that those involved in paying for wedding costs plan and invest over the long term.

Building society and bank accounts are a good place for short term savings. Looking at internet rates on notice accounts might be a good idea and, if you decide to get one, it will ensure that you don't spend your savings.

If you haven't got the time to save all the money you need for your dream wedding

, a loan could be the answer. This will allow you to spread the costs of your big day over a period of time.

For extra protection in the event of cancellations and unavoidable events many couples have now started using wedding insurance.

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