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Ever wish you knew the secret to getting gorgeous flowers without killing your budget? Or how to wow your guest with an AMAZING meal without the staggering price tag? Here is your chance. These tips are straight from the Pros.

1. Determine your budget and prioritize. A rule of thumb: Food, beverage, and venues should be about half your budget.

2. Book one location for your ceremony and reception. This way you won't have to pay multiple site fees, plus there's no need for transportation between venues.

3. Plan an intimate brunch. A morning ceremony, followed by an early-afternoon meal. This is much easier on the checkbook.

4. Time is of the essence. Schedule a three-hour event instead of a five hour event.

5. Trim your guest list. Since so many wedding elements are charged on a per-person basis. Fewer guest can lower your overall cost.

6. Avoid overage charges, by sticking to a prearranged schedule. No matter how tempting it may be to throw caution to the wind.

7. If there is a photographer whose work you just LOVE, but is out of your budget, ask if you can wait until after the wedding to purchase prints or perhaps you can just purchase a DVD with Hi-resolution images. This way you can save up, or use some of your gift money for the purchase.

8. See if a professional videographer will edit your amateur footage. A few local videographers will polish your footage for a fraction of the cost of them shooting the event.

9. Cut champagne out of your budget, let guest toast with whatever they're already drinking.

10. Fondant on cakes is expensive because it requires extra labor. Go with butter cream or cream cheese icing.

11. When it comes to fruit fillings, go seasonal. If your baker charges more for multiple cake or filling flavors, limit yourself to your absolute favorite.

12. Trim your bar bill by serving beer, wine, and a signature cocktail in your wedding colors.

13. There's no rule that says you must have a limo. Rent a luxury car, and ask a trusted friend to play chauffeur for you and your groom on the big day.

14. Study up on flowers. Once you know what's in season, make your selections from those and see how much further your floral budget goes.

15. Keep your eyes on the calendar. Flowers are in higher demand and generally more expensive around Easter, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, and during prom season.

16. Candles are inexpensive but when done in abundance they create a romantic ambiance.

17. Create your own artwork, monogram, or motif. Use it on elements throughout your wedding. Stationary, menus, programs or candle holders for chic cohesive look.

18. Hiring a professional calligrapher to address your invitation envelopes can get pricey. Instead, recruit a friend with pretty penmanship for the task. Or use a calligraphy font on your computer to address envelopes.

19. For a quartet to play during the cocktail hour, consider hiring a talented group from a well respected music school or program.

20. You can save hundreds of dollars by booking a DJ for dancing instead of a live band.

Hope these tips help.

Happy Wedding Planning!!!!!

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