Planning your wedding is expensive, especially if you are doing it alone. Don’t turn away from what you always wanted because your think your budget wont allow it. Instead take into consideration these tips to cut the cost of your wedding!

• Plan early! by starting your planning early you are able to figure out what the best prices are and then you can negotiate.

• Make a budget. This will help you organize what you need and where you can put a little extra money or spend a little less. A road map to your perfect wedding!

• Stay in season. Using in season accessories, like flowers, is less expensive then the out of season ones. Since things are in season they are much easier to find as well.

• In contrast to your in season accessories, have a off season wedding. Plan for Spring and Summer for better deals.

• Mix up your date and time. Most weddings are on Saturdays, so try for a Friday or Sunday. Instead of a traditional afternoon wedding why not wed under the stars or in the dew frosted mornings.

• DIY-Invitations, name cards, favors, etc! DIY is fun and much cheaper then buying.

• Combine your ceremony and receptions venues. Not only is this easy for your guest to get from the ceremony to the reception it is also cost friendly for you, maybe you can even work out a deal with the venue since your will be using them for both!

• Cut your guest list- This can be hard with big families but it is a huge money saver when you are paying for 100 plates instead of 150.

• Have two wedding cakes. Instead of having a large wedding cake, have a small cake displayed at your reception and have a sheet cake in the back that is served to guests.

• Use something besides a wedding cake, like cheesecake, cupcakes or ever doughnuts! What ever you like.

• Buy a simple wedding veil and then decorate it yourself to your liking.

• When it comes to wedding music, create your own. A new big thing is making cds or play lists on your ipod.

These are just some things that will help you have the wedding of your dreams and cut the budget as well. They are so simple but really go a long way!