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Having a Wedding on a Very Tight Budget

With good planning, the bride and groom can have a beautiful wedding without spending a fortune.

With good planning, the bride and groom can have a beautiful wedding without spending a fortune. It may be more time consuming and require the expertise of family and friends. Here are some helpful suggestions that will get you started:

· Limit the number of guests. Some people prefer to invite adults only. You may have a lot of children in the family, and you want them to share your special day. Invite the children, and cut down on the number of acquaintances.
· Borrow your gown, crinoline, headpiece, veil, and shoes. Vintage gowns are very popular now, and your great aunt may have a gorgeous gown that fits you perfectly. Ask your relatives for these items and you may have a choice of two or three!
· Before you go shopping at specialty stores, check your local Wal Mart for the following items: fabric (including tulle), shoes, rhinestone and pearl jewelry, party favors, guest book, ring bearer pillow, napkins, tablecloths, silverware, candles, candle holders, and silk flowers.
· Invite your best friends over for an evening. Have each friend style your hair. Make sure you have your tiara or headpiece and veil handy. Let the group decide which style is most flattering and have a friend style it that way on your wedding day.
· Have your reception at the home of your parents or a friend. Platters of vegetables, cheese, crackers, meatballs, fruit, and party sandwiches can be made ahead of time at a fraction of the price of a catered reception.
· Borrow a trusted friend to be the wedding planner, disc jockey, photographer, videographer, and florist. Ask your friends what hobbies and skills they have. You might even get one of them to make your wedding cake!
· Check E-bay to find inexpensive bridal attire, bridesmaid gowns, flower girl and ring bearer outfits, unused party favors and decorations. Weddings that have been cancelled may offer large groupings of these items at a very low price.
· Everywhere you go, ask for a discount. If you and your three attendants are having your nails done, ask for a group discount. When booking a honeymoon hotel, ask for a package that includes meals, champagne or other extras with your lodging. Also ask for discounts and coupons to area attractions.

Kathleen Terrana is the owner of Beautiful Bridal specializing in discount tiaras, veils and bridal jewelry.