What is a wedding? For some it is a celebration, a lavish party. For others, it is simply the start to their life together, the beginning moment of their marriage. And, because most people go into their marriage hoping that it will last forever, it would seem reasonable that they would try to save a few dollars on the first day of their marriage to make every other day of it a little less stressful and a little more pleasant.

The problem with weddings is not that they get too expensive, it is not the major things that cost the most, it is the little things, the little details that build up and then add up- over and over and over again. Minimizing some of the little things will go a far way to keeping wedding costs down, but what else can be done to keep yours on a tight budget without making it look cheap?

Consider these ideas:

1. Instead of having the wedding in one place, then climbing into rented limos and heading to a second for the reception, have both in one place. Many churches will allow receptions in their basement and many ceremonies can just as easily be performed at a rented hall. Compromise is the key to tight budgetary control.

2. Reduce the amount of members in the bridal party or ask that they pay for their own dresses. (This goes with the groomsmen too, although in many places the groom gets his tux rental free for so many others.)

3. Instead of serving a full meal and an open bar at the reception, have a tasting menu and serve limited beverages. If you live near a cooking school, ask about the students performing the catering duties. (This is a great concept, you get low cost servers and food, the students get real life practice and experience.)

4. Buy your gown from a thrift store or a consignment shop. You can rent a bridal gown for a nominal fee and if you are willing to be a little less picky and demanding, you can rent your bridal party’s dresses there as well.

5. Skip the printed napkins, matchbook covers and other mementos. If you really want to have something printed, research the web for really low priced printing companies. In some cases they will have buy one, get one free offers or other incentives to get you to use their company.

A wedding that stays within the budget will not only make for a smoother marriage, it might also leave enough for a slightly longer honeymoon!