1. Get married in the morning, on a Friday or Sunday and/or in the winter months.

2. Keep the guest list small.

3. Make your own veil. Most craft stores sell how-to books and supplies. You can save hundreds of dollars by making your own.

4. Purchase your wedding gown at a place other than a bridal salon, perhaps check on eBay!

5. Enlist the help of a friend or relative (someone you trust) to help with the details instead of hiring a wedding coordinator.

6. Consider not having a dinner reception. Opt instead for a brunch, afternoon tea, cocktail or dessert party.

7. Use silk flowers. They are always less than fresh flowers, plus they can be rented! Or fresh flowers from your garden or that of a friend or relative.

8. Decorate with more greenery and baby's breath, and less flower blooms.

9. Make your own invitations using wedding software

10. Check out local universities for qualified and inexpensive musicians, photographers, and videographers. Professors will be able to point you to the best students in the program. Also, check with friends or family.

11. For a second or successive weddings, considering purchasing your rings at a Second Hand or Loan Shop. Same great quality, lower prices, and gives diamonds a second chance in life.. sort of like you :) Also, check with family for stones or rings that are in your family as heirlooms, and create your own perfect ring.