Since I just talked about ways for wedding party attendants to budget, I thought it would be prudent to speak to all those brides- and grooms-to-be out there as well.
Now, I'm just a novice in the wedding planning arena, but I'm getting plenty of exposure from my sister, who's planning an October wedding. It seems like every time we're in the same room there is something new to look at. From centerpieces to cake, "save the date" cards to invitations...I've seen many options.
My sister is staying true to the "bride on a budget" mentality. She and many of the other brides in my life these days are looking for ways to lower their wedding's bottom line. Not everyone has the means to celebrate with a Platinum Wedding 
, and in my opinion, no couple should start their marriage with a mound of wedding debt in order to have one.
Through online sources like The Knot , brides can get great tips on everything from negotiating with vendors to little ways to save. Just cutting back on a few things or choosing to do something yourself can make a huge difference.
So far in my tenure as bridesmaid I've seen homemade cakes, bouquets made by the bridal party, and wedding dance music courtesy of the bride's iPod. I even designed one of my friend's invitations so she could save on costs.
For all you young married ones out there, did you pull off a budget wedding? If anyone has some good tips, please pass 'em on — my sister will be eternally grateful!
We have a $4,000 budget for our September wedding, including the honeymoon, rings, church and reception hall costs.
I already have my dress, veils and tiara, got a bundle deal when bought together. A friend of mine is doing my hair trials for free and will only go to her salon for the final hairdo. My mom is doing my make-up.
My friend and I made the invitations. I will hand most out and only mail out invitations to guests out of town. We will make the programs as well and they will be favors at the same time. Same friend and I are learning to decorate cakes so we can make mine.
Flower girls' grandmas are making their dresses, I bought the patterns for them, then I am making the flower girl crowns myself.
I'll arrange my flower bouquet with grocery store flowers.
Another friend is making arrangements for some tables like the gift and cake table and groom and I will make centerpieces for all other tables.
Reception is in the church annex and is "international potluck", some guests will bring their best dish to share, groom's dad can provide ham and pork roast.
We'll use my ipod for music and a friend's sound system and microphone set up.
My brother (professional photographer) is taking our pictures.
Only have two bridesmaids and no groomsmen. They pick out their own dress and shoes.
Only "extra" is the singer during mass.