Are you looking for some cheap wedding ideas that will allow you to plan the perfect day without all the financial stress?

Weddings are expensive, so many couples are forced to make a priority list to decide what they are willing to pay for and what they can live without. But, contrary to the old adage, it is possible to have your cake and eat it too! There are ways to create your ideal wedding while still respecting a budget. After all, you want your special day to be memorable, but you don't want to spend years paying for it.

Invitations:

E-vites are becoming much more acceptable, and if you know someone with a little skill and creativity, you can design a classy and unique invitation that reflects your personality while also saving on printing and mailing costs. You can even build a wedding website that includes registry information, updates, wedding details, pictures and maps, and convenient RSVP. Many couples even have a comment page or online guest book so friends and family can leave a personal message.

If you still desire something more traditional, try making your own invitations. Hand-made cards are becoming a more popular option and will add that personal touch to your invitations.

Reception:

If the ballroom of your dreams is outrageously expensive, ask them what they would charge if you booked your reception during the week rather than on the weekend. You can often get lower rates and better packages if you choose a less popular day since banquet halls would rather offer appealing deals than have no bookings at all. Also, find out when the peak wedding seasons are in your area. Many venues offer amazing deals during less demanding months.

Rather than an evening meal, consider a wedding brunch or even a lunch reception. Since wedding venues are typically booked for the evening, you may be able to save money by having your reception earlier in the day.

Consider a restaurant rather than a more expensive banquet hall. Restaurants that are usually closed during the day are often willing to accommodate early receptions because they get the extra business and are still able to open during their usual dinner hours. And, you can often negotiate a group rate on meals rather than paying the exorborant prices required by other venues.

You can also save money by having an outdoor wedding or a marquee, providing you live where the weather is co-operative and you know someone with adequate property.

Having a buffet, using your wedding cake as dessert, or serving wine rather than the more expensive champagne are also ways to save on food costs while still providing a sumptuous menu.

Flowers:

Using seasonal flowers or building bouquets with fewer blooms and more fillers will help keep flower costs within a reasonable budget. Making your own centerpieces or incorporating silk flowers are also ways to reduce costs without compromising beauty.

Dress:

Of course, the true focal point of any wedding is the bride's gown. Unfortunately, it is also one of the more expensive purchases. To save money, why not consider buying used? After all, the dress is only worn for a few hours, so it is easy to find one that is still in great condition. Of course, if you know how to sew, you can always make your own, or find someone who charges reasonable rates to sew it for you. Also, many bridal salons will have end of season sales, so if your wedding is booked enough in advance, you may be able to take advantage of these deals.

There are so many cheap wedding ideas available. So, by making a few phone calls and applying a little persistence, you can stick to a budget and still have the wedding of your dreams.