Consumer Corner: How to save money when it comes to Communions and Confirmations

Celebration expenses can add up very quickly if you factor in entertainment, caterers and decorators — savvy budgeters will save early and often and will check out off-season and second hand bargains

Pic: Stockbyte

Back in the day, making your Communion and Confirmation for many people involved the church ceremony, followed by a drive around to your relatives' houses where you showed off your dress or suit, had a bite to eat, and collected your card. By the time you reached house number 11 there was no way you could fit another ham and cheese sandwich and Club Milk but at least you were fed. Off home to count your money.

These days it's different and for most there is the trend of the Communion and Confirmation party at your house, where you have to feed people. This involves bouncy castles, caterers, decorators — and even professional photographers. In the run-up to the event there’s dress shopping, and on the day there could be hairdressing and make-up costs.