I have been planning and co ordinating weddings for the past twenty years so as you would expect I always try to get the bride and groom what they want for their money. I would like to share some of my tips for planning your event on a budget.

Shop, shop and shop for your dress. My daughter and I found her dress a Jessica McClintock for under three hundred at a local boutique. Check those, bridal store clearances and of course ebay.

Make your own invitations. You can purchase blank invitations online or at paper specialty stores for a third of the price and print them on your pc. Then add your own personal touches, ribbon, sheer paper or scrap booking items.

Look around locally at hotel banquet halls, B&B's or parks often they will allow you to use their facilities for a minimal price. Consider your own back yard with a few ferns, a rented fountain, some lights and imagination it can be quite a romantic setting.

Look locally for some one who makes wedding cakes instead of using a bakery they are usually cheaper. Take a cake decorationg class and learn the basics. Decorate with real flowers this requires less experience with using icing techniques.

Do your own florals. You can order fresh flowers online they arrive packed fresh and in good condition. All you need are your bouqet holders and accessories. Mix fresh and silks. If ordering lilies, roses etc that you want bloomed out order a day or two early. Have an empty fridge handy for storage or as I do check with local convenience stores. The one I use allows me the use of their cooler for my patronage.

The key to success is searching and shopping. Start early and really look. You can find dj's or friends and family who are whizzes with photography or sound. Dance floors can be rented or built inexpensively. Only purchase your proofs you can always enlarge the ones you love later. Make your own favors, get your bridesmaids involved and have fun. You can simply do fridge magnets or elaborate favors on your own.

I hope I have given some one some help with planning their big day. It doesn't matter the size or detail of the event you can always save money and have the wedding of your dreams and have enough left for that wonderful honeymoon. Please feel free to contact me for other ideas.