You can have a gorgeous wedding without spending thousands of dollars! Consider these money saving tips while planning your big day and you’ll save tons of money and still have the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.

1. D.I.Y.

You can save a bundle when you create your own wedding invitations, favors and other wedding necessities. Even if you don’t have a crafty side, enlist the help of members of your bridal party to create memorable wedding favors, address the invites, or do your hair and makeup. These simple things can add up, so get into the do-it-yourself mindset to help save some cash without skimping on your must-have’s!

2. Think Small

Did you originally plan for 250 guests? Cutting back on the guest list – even by a few people – can save you a lot of money when it comes to feeding them! Re-examine your guest list closely; does your friend’s brother’s second cousin really need to come?

3. Ditch the “Pro” Photographer

Professional wedding photographers are not cheap, and the cost can quickly add up depending on how long you need him around and what types of packages he has available. Consider hiring a photography student to take your wedding photos instead; not only will this save you a boatload of cash, but you can have photos that are just as beautiful as if a “pro” took them!

4. Trim the Bridal Party

Do you really need 15 bridesmaids? Chances are, you only need two or three of your closest friends to stand with you during your big day, so consider cutting back on your bridal party. This can save you money on bridesmaid gifts and dresses, if you’re the one paying for their gowns.

While there are certainly hundreds of money-saving tips to help you cut back on your wedding expenses, these are some of the easiest and most often overlooked. With these tips, you won’t need to sacrifice the wedding of your dreams; you can still have a gorgeous celebration and stick to your budget!