Did you know the average wedding in 2013 cost almost $30,000? It’s hard to believe weddings can be so expensive but all the little things add up fast! Sure you expect to pay for the dress, the tux, the food, the invitations and more wedding gear but how can it cost so much?

A cute centerpiece seems reasonable and then you realize, uh oh, we need 23 more of these. The same goes for favors – even at a few bucks per person, it gets pricey to pay for these thank you gestures for your guests.

With the cost of a wedding grows every year, paying for your big day gets more and more out of reach for lots of couples. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on your wedding dream. But it does mean you need to work hard to find great deals on the bridal things you value most. Snag a bargain when you can and negotiate as much as possible with your vendors.

Are you and your groom foodies? If so, you’ll likely make your appetizers, entrée and dessert your priority. Want a party atmosphere? You might decide having a live band is the most important element of your reception. Do you value tangible moments? You’ll probably invest in a professional photographer who can capture every detail in high quality images.

Figure out what matters most to you as a couple, then set a budget and stick to it! This Snippet is all about helping you plan a budget-friendly wedding without sacrificing all the things that matter to you.

Who wants to go into debt for one party, anyway? After all, a wedding lasts one day while your marriage lasts a lifetime.