Big day doesn’t have to mean blowout budget.

That’s the message from department store Debenhams this week, who say thata new breed of cost conscious, recessionista brides is fast turning the occasion of wedding shopping into a style and DIY competition, with 64% of brides-to-be admitting to boasting about bagging bridal bargains.

Long gone are the days of big budgets and wedding planners, with 87% of brides revealing that they will be getting ‘crafty’ when it comes the big day, purchasing bespoke décor accessories such as tea light holders, throws, cushions and even glass ware.

’DIY weddings are definitely a major trend for 2013 as TV shows like Don’t Tell the Bride’ and ‘Brides of Franc’ inspire brides, and grooms, to do it themselves,’’ commented Karen Nason, spokesperson for Debenhams Ireland.

“Sales of homeware items are forecast to rise by 42% in the run up to this wedding season as ‘DIY brides’ stock up on décor items. The DIY trend allows brides to really personalise their wedding as well as being a perfect solution to recession budget blues.” 

Debenhams also revealed that bridal budgeting is now extending to the previously sacred wedding dress, with sales in white occasion wear dresses increasing by 33% in recent weeks after a spate of Christmas & Valentine’s Day engagements.

Many brides are choosing occasion wear for their big day, like this Phase Eight design

Continues Karen Nason: ‘’A lot of brides are now shunning the traditional elaborate gown for their wedding day, and are opting for something that will give them better value and that they can wear again. While we have always had high sales in Debenhams Occasion Wear for bridesmaids, mothers-of-the-bride and guests, this year there has been a noticeable increase in brides sourcing their wedding dresses here as well.’’