Not everyone can afford a $28,000 wedding. These days with the economic crisis we are all saving were we can. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have an absolutely fabulous wedding day. You just have to cut back on the things that…well …don’t matter that much to you and try bargain shopping wherever you can.

Here are a few saving tips:

1. Have a weekday or night wedding. It is so much easier to negotiate prices on a weekday. Weekends are harder to book. Your florist, caterer and photographer will be more willing to negotiate weekday prices.

2. Don’t have an open bar. Instead offer wine, beer, and a signature cocktail. Most people are flexible and will go with whatever is there. Some venues allow you to bring  your own bar. Start shopping for drinks at liquor store sales months before the wedding.When the big day comes around, you will have everything you need and have saved a bunch!

3. DJ or Band…Get a DJ they are usually less expensive. Just be sure that he also has background music and off course the song you want for your first dance.

4. Limit your guests..your parents probably have a list of there own and you and your fiance have people you would like to have at your wedding, but having a large wedding can get very expensive. So invite close family and friends and keep it simple. Others will understand.

5. Have your wedding and reception at the same venue. That way you don’t have to pay for two venues and it eliminates the transportation cost from one place to the other.

6. Centerpieces can get expensive. Ask your florist what flowers are in season. Remember people look at them for a couple of hours and then they have served there purpose. Be innovative and maybe create your own fun centerpieces using flowers, plants and/or  other decorating materials on sale at you local craft store.

7. Get married in “off” season. Most vendors are more likely to give you a break then. Ask them what times of day are cheaper. A Sunday morning wedding with a brunch might be a cheaper way of going.

8. Your bridal dress does not have to be designer. Who will ever know? Choose an elegant dress that fits well and suits you without a designer tag. These days there are many beautiful dresses you can buy for a steal.  Do your research and check out online and outlet wedding stores.

9. You do not need a five course menu. Your guests will be perfectly happy getting a three course meal with chicken instead of filet mignon. You may also want to opt for a buffet that will save the cost of servers as  everyone can help themselves.

10. Last but not least if you are having a small wedding in Florida and live close to the beach consider having a beach wedding. Most areas have complete wedding packages for beach weddings that are affordable, romantic and intimate. Lets face it; others travel from far and wide to have a beach wedding and we have it on our doorstep.

Its your wedding so sit down and think about what is important to you. Try to make a list of the things that you absolutely need for your wedding and try to calculate your final cost. And remember it is usually always higher than you think.