Secrets From A Bride-To-Be on a Budget

According to the U.S. CensusBureau, the average couple gets married in their late 20s, which is not unusual to see, but there's another number that says those ready for marital bliss need to be aware of certain things before they say 'I do': like the budget. The average wedding costs about $30,000 and can put a damper on any bride-to-be's dream. Thanks to Pinterest, Facebook, and Etsy, we know what we want and we will do anything to get it. Today, compromising on the budget doesn't always have to mean compromising on taste.

The Venue
I Do: Local parks are a perfect location to have your wedding. Most permits and location fees are nominally priced, and you get the gorgeous surrounding of the natural element. Another great way to score a terrific venue is to ask family members and friends if they own property or an estate that could hold a wedding. You will be surprised by how easy it is to find out uncle Jim's best friend has the perfect waterfront property just waiting for your event.

I Don't: Private venues can be very expensive and come with a lot of stipulations. Don't let the beauty of the venue blind you from the real binding agreement: your contract. Try cutting costs by having a Friday or Sunday wedding, if any upscale venue is what you really want.

The Food
I Do: If you chose a park or a rental property, that gives you the freedom to choose any caterer in your area, including grandma. Otherwise, a buffet setting allows your guests to mingle and get to know each other, and you don't have to hire extra staff.

I Don't: Quality trumps quantity every time. If you can't afford dinner, and don't want to cut down on the guest list, another options is to have a brunch wedding, where the cost is significantly less than an evening reception. You can serve hor'derves and mimosas, and still have a great time. When it comes to your cake, opt for a one tier for you and your fiancee, and order a cupcake tower or cake pops for your guests.

Flowers & Decor
I Do: If you are having a wedding outside, let nature take care of it for you. If not, choose flowers that are in season, stick to just one or two kinds of flowers, or skip them all together and invest in other decor like lanterns and candles. Check discount online retailers. Oriental Trading Company has a large selection of wedding-themed merchandise.

I Don't: Don't spend n entire month on DIY projects if you plan on having a larger wedding. Sometimes it's worth budgeting for a florist that can give you the flowers you want in your budget,and also a peace of mind. Also, watch out for too many Etsy purchases. They can add up, and the next thing you know, you will blow your budget on something you can live without.

The Dress
I Do: Trunk shows offer great discounts on favorite designer gowns. Websites like bridepower.com and Oncewed.com carry pre-owned bridal gowns for a quarter of the price. You can find a Vera Wang or a Monique Lhuillier for up to 80 percent off. Now that's a steal!

I Don't: Don't let the day overwhelm you. A lot of bridal shops work on commission, and will try to upsell you. Try as many dresses as you need, but stick to your budget.

The Entertainment
I Do: A DJ will most likely be less expensive than a band. Ask your DJ if you can pay in advance, many offer discounts for paying your entire fee upfront. By booking your wedding off-season, most companies charge up to 40 percent less than their regular price. Here's a tip: Many DJ's offer a lighting package that will cost less than a lighting company, so take advantage.

I Don't: Don't skip the band or the DJ. Besides celebrating the Bride and Groom, your guests are there to have fun. Many couples splurge on fancy invitations and decor, and forget about 4 hours of reception filled with static noise.

Every budget bride should always remember that the power of negotiating will go a long way in the wedding business.