HOUSTON – With careful planning and budget savvy tricks, anyone can have a stylish wedding that doesn't break the bank.
On average, families and couples shell out $30,000 for weddings, not including the rings and honeymoon. So when it comes to planning, having a clear idea of the budget is essential.
"Don't have a wedding that you can't afford," said David Caruso, spokesperson for the National Association for Catering and Events.
Instead, couples should pick the items that are the most important to them—whether it's food, décor, entertainment, flowers or photography.
"Make those signature statement pieces shine at your wedding," Caruso explained.
One way to save big is to downsize alcohol expenses, by going with one or two designer drinks as opposed to an open bar.
"Guests will love it," Caruso said. "You are giving them some neat and exciting beverages at your wedding."
And let flowers do double duty. Use arrangements at both the church and reception. Also look for arrangements that are in season, with succulents or other plantable flowers.
Of course, the cake is the showstopper of the reception. Caruso suggests getting the look of a grand-scale, multi-tiered confection at a fraction of the cost by faking a few layers with decorated Styrofoam and supplementing guests with sheet cakes.
Caruso also recommends brides-to-be to shop for their gowns at trunk shows, or purchase a simple gown and dress it up with bold accessories.