We think everyone should save money whenever possible – even in weddings. If you or someone you know is planning a wedding, you should know that you can have a great day for a lot less. There are many ways in which you can reduce the cost of a wedding and still have a lovely, classy event that will impress your guests and create wonderful memories. Here are some tips to help you cut costs:

Tap Family and Friends

You are surrounded with family and friends. Get them to help out. You might be surprised at the amount of untapped talent among the people you already know. If you’ve got a great photographer and videographer in the family, enlist their services. If your cousin is a flower designer, get him on board. Let friends and family perform services such as singing, hosting, playing musical instruments, and even dancing.

Hold a Public Reception

One of the largest costs involved with your wedding will be the reception and caterer. If you really want to save, hold you reception at a public venue. If you want an outdoor wedding, consider a public park. Many beautiful ceremonies are held in backyards or public gardens, and even military bases often have nice celebration halls! If you have your eye on a hotel, consider renting a ballroom that will let you bring in your own food.

Remember, not every wedding reception needs to feature sit-down dinner. How about a beautiful brunch, or an outdoor cocktail reception? Luncheons or teas also are also good options. Buffets are less expensive, but if you really want the sit-down, stay away from the most expensive food. And finally, buy only a medium-sized, decorated wedding cake. You are not in any way obliged to serve your wedding cake to all your guests.

Also, if you can, say no to the extras. You don’t really need wedding bubbles, do you? Or a fireworks display? You don’t need embossed napkins or elaborate flower arrangements on every table. Keep it simple and you can save significant money on your wedding day.

Borrow and Rent the Wedding Dresses

Cut back on wedding dresses costs, especially your wedding gown! We understand you want to look your most beautiful on your big day, and you want your entourage to look their best as well. But in this case, it’s really all about choosing the right cuts, fabric and a decent, affordable designer. If it’s not too tacky for you, how about borrowing a dress? You or a friend can also make a headpiece instead of paying a couple of hundred dollars for one. Men can wear their own suits instead of tuxedos, saving rental costs.

Get Wholesale Flowers

Flowers in the church and the wedding reception make everything look lovely, but they can be very expensive depending on the kinds of flowers you choose. Consider getting your flowers from a wholesaler, if it is possible. Many wholesalers also do arrangements, so if you do not mind picking up your flowers, you can save much. If you know a relative or friend who does flower arrangements, the better!

Take your own Photos

A full day with a professional photographer can be very expensive. The trend nowadays is to have only one official sitting with a photographer, while simply asking guests to take candid photos at the reception. Have a family member take pictures of guests. When you do this, you will have both professional and candid photos to choose for your wedding album.