How to handle overseas wedding invites when you’re on a budget

Peak wedding season has arrived - and that can bring a lot of financial pressure for guests.

From buying an outfit to paying for wedding presents, the cost of celebrating a friend’s nuptials can quickly add up.

And that’s particularly true if a couple is getting married overseas.

According to Experian, the average cost of going to a wedding abroad is nearly £2,000, thanks to the added costs of travel and accommodation.

So what can you do if you’re strapped for cash and simply can’t afford it?

And if you’re genuinely worried about the cost, how do you decline without feeling guilty?

It’s okay to say no

Figures from Experian show that in the last three years, nearly one in three (29%) Brits have turned down an invite to a wedding abroad.

So you’re not alone if you feel you can’t afford to travel abroad for a wedding.

If you’re uncomfortable simply saying no, you can still say that although you’d love to celebrate with them, the cost makes it difficult for you right now.

“If you’re worried about the financial side of attending, don’t be afraid to talk to the couple,” said John Webb, a consumer expert at Experian. 

“They’ll want you there but not at the expense of your financial wellbeing - so it’s always worth having an honest conversation.”

Let the couple know you’re thinking of them

If you can’t make it but still want to be part of their special day, send them a gift, a handwritten note, video message or a bunch of flowers.

It’s an inexpensive and personal way to let them know they’re in your thoughts.

Don’t spend more than you can afford

Many of us will earn far less than some of our closest friends. 

So while they might be able to go all-out for their wedding, that doesn’t mean you can too.

Set boundaries and stick to a budget, rather than spend more than you can afford.

Your real friends will understand.

“Attending a wedding abroad can be a magical experience and a great opportunity to explore somewhere new,” Mr Webb added.

“But it’s important to be mindful - costs can add up quickly.”

Explore cost-saving options

If you’re determined to go but need to keep costs down, then there might be ways to spend less.

Perhaps you could share accommodation with other guests, or club together to get a joint gift.

Or maybe you could cover your travel costs by cashing in any loyalty points you’ve built up, and book early for cheaper flights and hotels.

And remember that it’s not compulsory to buy a new outfit.

You can rent, borrow or rewear something that’s already in your wardrobe and you’ll still look fabulous.