From will you to i do... It's one of the most important events in a couple's life, but tying the knot can also be one of the most expensive.If looking for budget-friendly wedding ideas it's important for love birds to figure out what's important to them and only them- as a couple. From the rehersal dinner to the reception, flowers to food, we've found ways to save big on your big day.

"It doesn't cost a lot of money to have memorable moments at your wedding. You can always do it within a budget and stick to it," said Consumer Counselor Brenda Kemp.The CCCS offers free wedding planning seminars. For more information call 6-9-6-22-27.

Which is the first and most important step in wedding planning. Next is selecting a ceremony and rehersal venue. But before signing a contract, read the fine print. Each detail is often an additional cost.
"Some places have charges after the wedding is over that charges you for security guards and other things. You never know how much it will be until final bills comes," said wedding planner Pam Lowe.

Kemp says having your wedding on a Friday or Sunday could also help save on rental fees. The time of day could even save on food costs. For instance, catering is cheaper if you avoid a dinner-time reception.
"If you do a mid-afternoon light is very acceptable," Lowe said.
You can also save on cake by ordering a small tier and serving back-up sheet cakes. But if you do want that big extravegant show-piece but just can't afford it...
"What we suggest is dummy layers. Build with a base of real cake and then insert dummy layers so enough to feed everyone but big and pretty for everyone to see," Lowe said.
There are also several options when trying to choose that dream dress. Yyou can find dozens of dresses many of which have never been worn at local thrift and consignment shops. These here at First Step these are only 50 dollars. A fraction of what you'd pay at a bridal boutique.
If you're not so traditional, check out specialty dresses at department stores. But one of the easiest ways to cut costs, is to cut numbers.
"Try to keep your numbers down. Costs will come down and that's all the way around, bridal party, guests, those type of things," Lowe said.
Another good tip is to take advantage of the digital age. Ask friends and family to take photographs and video throughout the wedding and upload the files to digital sharing sites. You can also place disposable cameras on all reception tables. You could also check at local colleges, advanced photography students might be interested and cheaper than a professional.