Weddings: Cut The Costs But Not The Class

By: Elizabeth Corridan

BELCHERTOWN, Mass (abc40)-- It's supposed to be the most beautiful day in a couple's life, but a wedding can easily be the most expensive. The quickest way to get in over your head when it comes to planning a your big day is to start planning without a budget.

Wedding planner Lisa Watts says while the economy is not keeping people from getting married, it is changing how they do it. Watts says, " The size of the wedding is going down, people are having fewer guests, and making it more intimate as they look to save money."

Watts recommends creating a wedding budget spreadsheet or finding one online. Then it's time to start allocating your funds. Keep in mind, it's all about what's important to you. If you want your wedding to be the party of the century, then spend a little more on a fabulous DJ or a band. Then cut back somewhere else.

When it comes to cutting back, think about doing it yourself. You can easily print professional quality invitations on your home computer. Also, think about

hosting your wedding at a non-traditional time, either during the winter or on a Friday night or Sunday afternoon. Keep in mind, lunch or brunch will likely cost less than dinner.

One of the biggest wedding busters is flowers. Centerpieces can easily eat up a huge portion of your funds. Opt instead for arrangements that do not use flowers. Low bowls with candles and mirrors can create an inexpensive yet elegant table accent.