Weddings can be expensive. Many people save most of their lives for their wedding, and can easily spend thousands alone on just the dress. However, planning your own wedding on a strict budget isn’t impossible. In fact, many find it gives them a chance to be more creative, and make a more personable wedding experience, for both you and your guests. With so few couples looking to save, a more competitive wedding vendor market has emerged. You’ll find that not only do you have more options to choose from, but that it is also easy to stick to the budget you’ve set, and not sacrifice your dream wedding.

There are a few tips that you can follow that will help you save money and cut spending, all while not sacrificing your wedding vision.

~ As little as choosing the right date for your big day can affect the overall cost. Wedding venues, such as reception halls, will ask near three times the cost for a summer or fall wedding, compared to on off-peak season date.

~ You can also choose a flower that is in bloom during your set date, which cuts down on the costs of expensive imports.

~ When it comes to the dress, avoid those expensive retail stores and check out your online resources. You can find designer dresses for a fraction of the price, sold by former brides.

~ For those brides and grooms who are particularly creative, consider the following options: baking and decorating your own wedding cake, sewing your own gown or bridesmaids dresses, creating gifts for the guests and more.

~ As for the venue, you can easily cut your wedding expenses in half by choosing an nontraditional location. For example, a friend’s back yard, farm, or property.

The best part about planning a wedding on a budget? It gives you a chance to think outside the box, and make your big day a truly memorable one.