On the other hand, you could have a tiny and inexpensive wedding at home, or choose some huge London ballroom and have the works. It's all in what you choose to spend your money on, really. I personally think a wedding abroad can save a lot of money and sometimes heartache in the long run. There is the question of whether you want to pay for them to come, or if you're leaving it up to them. You can see how there are a million factors that affect how much a wedding away can cost. Pinpoint exactly what you'd like to do and try to draw up a realistic budget. That's the best way to find out whether it's cost-effective.

I have made a list of some of the most common pro’s and con’s to planning a wedding abroad.

Pro’s

You can get married on a tropical Island if you want, be guaranteed the idyllic setting and most importantly idyllic weather!

Going away to get married can be less expensive. Obviously you will splash out on the hotel, flights and other luxuries, but you're unlikely to be paying for a large number of guests to join you, so catering, venue and drinks costs may well be less than the Irish average.

There are so many wedding companies now that focus entirely on weddings abroad. If you choose Cyprus, Italy, the Maldives, France or anywhere else, you can be sure there is a company that can take the hassle factor away from you!

If you're looking for an intimate wedding celebration, this is it. You can tie the knot abroad on a small scale, then celebrate with family and friends when you get home. If you ‘want to be alone', this is the perfect option. It can also minimise guest list dilemmas - you don't risk offending friends and relatives if you're not inviting anyone!

You get your wedding and honeymoon all in one. Get married overseas and as soon as you become husband and wife, you're on honeymoon. No packing, taxis or waiting around at airports.

Not all of your friends and family will be able to see you get married on your special day.

You need to swot up on legalities. In some countries it's very easy to marry, in others it's very difficult with lengthy residency rules. So, you need to do your homework thoroughly.

Getting married a