You know I'm a big fan of not spending money you don't have to (or want to) spend, on your wedding and you'll have read my ideas for saving money on real flowers by considering hiring silk ones or foregoing flowers altogether in favour of candles and greenery. But, I don't want you to think that I don't love real flowers.

I'm very lucky to have godparents who are incredibly experienced florists and I spent a lovely afternoon with them this week literally 'smelling the roses' and talking through some ideas! The sheer hard work that goes into creating floral displays never ceases to amaze me and a good florist certainly earns their money.

But, there are a few ways in which you can ensure you don't pay more than you have to. Always go for flowers that are in season unless you want to pay over the odds - and add unnecessary air miles to your carbon footprint. You might love peonies (I'll let you into a secret, they're my favourite!) but if you're getting married in December, forget it.

Think about visiting the flower markets for inspiration and to see the actual cost of cut flowers so that you have an idea of what you're paying for when you get quotes from florists. New Covent Garden Market in London is open to the public - which comes as a surprise to lots of people - so, if the early start doesn't faze you, embrace the experience and marvel at the stunning flowers you'll see.

The latest issue of Magic Dust's email 'Tips & Advice' newsletter will be sent out in the next couple of days and one of the topics covered this time is the questions that I always ask of potential suppliers - and what you can do if you don't get the answers you want, or indeed any answers at all!

You'd be amazed at some of the slap-dash attitude to customer service we encounter... So, if you'd like Magic Dust's advice please click here to subscribe to our wedding planning Tips & Advice newsletter and we'll get it straight out to you.

Finally, our gift vouchers are still proving incredibly popular. Available for everything from a single Power Hour or a 'Girls Night In' planning session to On The Day wedding co-ordination they're the perfect gift for a busy engaged friend.Or why not treat yourself - there's nothing quite like a 'To Me, Love Me' present, is there?!

Beautifully presented on our magicdust cards with contrasting envelopes and always hand-written, they're designed to be flexible just like all Magic Dust services. Do get in touch and we'll help you choose the perfect gift.

Until next week,