Thanks to www.bridalguide.com for the great advice on how to save money on your wedding.

EXTRA CEREMONY DECOR: Skip altar flowers, pew decorations, swags of fabric and a
custom-designed aisle runner. The site is probably lovely as is.

VANITY RECEPTION DECOR: Do you really need to splurge on having your names spelled
out in roses on the lawn? Do you need silk table runners, imprinted with your names and
wedding date? No. Some couples have their custom-designed monogram projected on
the sides of the tent and on the dance floor. If you don’t want to allot the money for lighting
equipment, then don’t. Instead, create a glowing ambiance with clusters of candles and
votives on your tables.

AN ORNATELY DESIGNED CAKE: Don’t spend hundreds of dollars on sugarpaste flowers,
butterflies, piped-on pearls or a replica of the lace pattern on your dress. The amount of
labor the cake requires will determine its cost, so keep the design simple and sweet.

FANCY-SHMANCY INVITATIONS: Check out a discount site like invitations4sale.com for
40% off, or use software and paper from mountaincow.com to make your own printed items
for much less.

HIGH-END TRANSPORTATION: It’s expensive to rent limousines—especially white limos—
classic cars and party buses, and overtime charges can pile up. Instead, decorate your own
or your friends’ cars, convertibles or even minivans, for fun rides to the ceremony and
reception. Or just hire one limo for the two of you and one for your parents.

SPECTACULAR ENTERTAINMENT: Do you need the most expensive chamber group in town?
Of course not. DJs are less expensive than bands, but if you do want a live band, look for one
with three musicians who can play different instruments. Or program your iPod with your
favorites—just make sure the venue is equipped with good speakers.

FRIVOLOUS FAVORS: Treat your guests to edibles, like cookies or chocolates, with DIY labels.
Or try $2 packets of flower seeds from Home Depot or Lowes. Making charitable donations in
guests’ names is a tasteful and cost-effective solution to what to give.

This is not to discourage those with larger budgets, but rather encourage those watching
their spending so you know where you can cut corners without sacrificing the beauty of the
day.  Regardless of your budget, it's going to be a dream event. 

Enjoy, 
Barbara
www.barbarasbrides.com