The cost of a wedding can put many couples off the occasion; the cost these days is between twenty to twenty-five thousand dollars on average, which can put couples off. It may feel as if you must have an expensive wedding or miss out, this is not the case as huge savings can be made without sacrificing that much; many people enjoy the challenge of arranging a cheap wedding whilst still ensuring that they have everything they want. However, sometimes all that is needed is some help with the planning to help lower that total; meaning your special day is possible but without the high price tag.

Second Hand Hand Made Dress

The wedding dress is one area where huge amounts of money are spent; this is something that will only ever be worn once so a previously owned dress is worth consideration. The huge cost of a new wedding dress cannot always be justified these days; many bridal shops carry a large number of previously owned dresses that can be hired or bought for considerably less than new.

The Reception

The bulk of the budget will be swallowed up by the wedding reception; statistics show that an average of 189 guests attend so when you are planning your cheap wedding, this is where most savings take place. Try and keep your guest list to a minimum: ask yourself if you really need to invite family members you haven't seen for years; instead, opt for a three course meal or a hot and cold buffet.

Other cost reductions can be made in where the wedding reception is held; it could take place in a friend's house or a local club where money could be saved on beverages if they are supplied directly.

Wedding Photographs and Photographers

The obvious choice is to shop around for the best rates, but look at hiring the photographer just for the service; ask family members and friends to take photos of the reception ?" most will be more than happy to do this. If you really want to be 'avant guard', why pay for a photographer at all; these days most people know someone who is a keen, capable amateur photographer, and there is nothing wrong with asking them to take photos throughout the whole day.

PC Produced Wedding Invites

It is also easy to save money on your wedding by designing and printing all your own stationery; with a good computer program and a home printer it is amazing how professional the results are these days. The quality of printers available combined with sophisticated programs means it is quite easy to do; in fact very professional looking results can be achieved on a home computer.

The Wedding Flower Arrangements

If you want to reduce the cost of flowers, then how about this for an option; why not visit the local flower wholesaler where huge savings are possible, then all that's needed is a little imagination when it comes to the display. If possible, try and get a friend to make your wedding cake for you; cakes do not have to be the traditional fruit so try a sponge cake with a chocolate flavor filling for example.

The Wedding Car

It is not uncommon for someone close who has a luxury car to offer a couple the use of it for the day; cleaned, polished and decorated with ribbons, it can look really impressive.

Cheap weddings are a real possibility especially when you have other plans for the savings you make; your guests will still enjoy the day and everyone will be happy!