| With good planning, the bride and groom can have a | | | | tiara or headpiece and veil handy. Let the group decide |
| beautiful wedding without spending a fortune. It may be | | | | which style is most flattering and have a friend style it |
| more time consuming and require the expertise of | | | | that way on your wedding day. |
| family and friends. | | | | - Have your reception at the home of your parents or |
| Here are some helpful suggestions that will get you | | | | a friend. Platters of vegetables, cheese, crackers, |
| started: | | | | meatballs, fruit, and party sandwiches can be made |
| - Limit the number of guests. Some people prefer to | | | | ahead of time at a fraction of the price of a catered |
| invite adults only. You may have a lot of children in the | | | | reception. |
| family, and you want them to share your special day. | | | | - Borrow a trusted friend to be the wedding planner, |
| Invite the children, and cut down on the number of | | | | disc jockey, photographer, videographer, and florist. |
| acquaintances. | | | | Ask your friends what hobbies and skills they have. |
| - Borrow your gown, crinoline, headpiece, veil, and | | | | You might even get one of them to make your |
| shoes. Vintage gowns are very popular now, and your | | | | wedding cake! |
| great aunt may have a gorgeous gown that fits you | | | | - Check E-bay to find inexpensive bridal attire, |
| perfectly. Ask your relatives for these items and you | | | | bridesmaid gowns, flower girl and ring bearer outfits, |
| may have a choice of two or three! | | | | unused party favors and decorations. Weddings that |
| - Before you go shopping at specialty stores, check | | | | have been cancelled may offer large groupings of |
| your local Wal Mart for the following items: fabric | | | | these items at a very low price. |
| (including tulle), shoes, rhinestone and pearl jewelry, | | | | - Everywhere you go, ask for a discount. If you and |
| party favors, guest book, ring bearer pillow, napkins, | | | | your three attendants are having your nails done, ask |
| tablecloths, silverware, candles, candle holders, and silk | | | | for a group discount. When booking a honeymoon |
| flowers. | | | | hotel, ask for a package that includes meals, |
| - Invite your best friends over for an evening. Have | | | | champagne or other extras with your lodging. Also ask |
| each friend style your hair. Make sure you have your | | | | for discounts and coupons to area attractions. |