The average cost of a wedding is at an all time high; with an average day costing around 25,000 dollars it accounts for why the industry is worth an astonishing 25 billion dollars. There is huge pressure on young people to spend vast sums of money on their wedding but it really isn't necessary; although you may not believe it now, a cheap wedding can be arranged which everyone will enjoy. However, sometimes all that is needed is some help with the planning to help lower that total; generally making savings on those aspects that are always expensive.

1. Low Cost Bridal Gown - The wedding dress is one area where huge amounts of money are spent; this is something that will only ever be worn once so a previously owned dress is worth consideration. The huge cost of a new wedding dress cannot always be justified these days; many bridal shops carry a large number of previously owned dresses that can be hired or bought for considerably less than new.

2. Wedding Reception Preparations - The wedding reception is normally the biggest expense and where costs can get out of hand; to reduce the financial outlay look at how many guests you plan to invite to your cheap wedding. Don't invite everyone you know, in particular relatives you haven't seen since you were a child; as far as the meal is concerned why not have a buffet instead of a full, waited on, three course meal.

The venue of the wedding reception can also be somewhere less expensive than the local golf club or hotel; using a small club for example will mean the drinks bill is less by only catering for wine, beer and soft drinks at the bar.

3. The Wedding Photographs - As far as the photographer is concerned, why not just hire one for the service; most guests take cameras and will be happy to take photos at the reception and of course you will have plenty to choose from. If you really want to be 'avant guard', why pay for a photographer at all; these days most people know someone who is a keen, capable amateur photographer, and there is nothing wrong with asking them to take photos throughout the whole day.

4. Home Computer Original Stationary - When looking at other areas where money can be saved, do not overlook wedding stationery; invitations for example, do not have to be taken to a printer when they can be produced by anyone reasonably competent with a home computer. With the correct programs, all the work can be checked fully before it is printed out; this means that often costly errors and adjustments that are often required in the early stages of the work are not made.

5. Wedding Flowers - Florists and flower arranging can be very expensive, especially for special occasions; why not buy them direct and arrange them yourself or enroll a friend to do this for you. Wedding cakes are another costly item but this can easily be made by a friend; these days' people often experiment with different fillings that do not rely on fruit - which has been used in cakes for generations.

6. Wedding Transportation - Savings can also be made by not hiring that expensive limousine and using a friend's vehicle; given a good clean and polish it can make an acceptable substitute.

Savings can be made everywhere if you just know where to look but this doesn't mean it has to look like a cheap wedding; who will care providing everyone enjoys the occasion!