5 ways to save money on your wedding.

The average wedding costs about $30,000. So take advantage of any chance you have at saving a buck or two, because these days it'll go a long way. Here are 5 ways you can save cash:

1. Size Matters: Shaving off your guest list is the BEST way to save money. After you've made your preliminary list, go back and select the people most important to you and your fiance. Remove the people you don't know and never heard of. Just by cutting back on the guest list you can save a lot. Think about it, if it costs $50 a person and you cut just 10 people, you save $500. Another option would be to have an "Adult Only" reception; the kids probably won't enjoy it anyway. And lastly, pare your party. Gifts, hair, makeup and flowers cost less for 3 attendants than 10.
   


2. Right Place, Right Time: Consider looking into your local area parks. A lot of the time these places are free! If you don't want to give up that pricey mansion you rented out, then ask the vendor if they have special dates that are discounted. Most vendors give great deals on weekdays and daytime and off season weddings. Remember the vendor wants you to have a positive experience with their service, so see if they can work with your budget.


3. Food Facts: Food for a wedding is often the most expensive part of any wedding. Instead of having a 5-course meal, opt for a buffet. Buffets are considerably cheaper and you can still satisfy your guests. However, if you really prefer a seated meal, chose a less expensive meat like chicken over the fillet mignon.


4. Flower Power: Every wedding should include flowers, it's just the right thing to do. However, every wedding does not have to include 150 orchids to place on each guest's dinner napkin. Chose flowers that are in season on your wedding day. If you buy flowers out of season the florist will need to pay to have them shipped, which means they will cost more, which means more money out of YOUR pocket.
   


5. DIY: Do it yourself. You can save if you just use some elbow grease. Make your own favors - Every guest loves something edible! Make your own invitations - Martha Stewart makes really cute DIY wedding invitations and you can get them at Wal-Mart! Skip on the calligrapher and address your own envelopes. Finally, do your own hair and makeup - If you can't see passed getting your hair and makeup done professionally for your big day, have the bridesmaids do their own and you'll still save a good chunk.
   

What are some of the ways your saving money on your wedding and what are your ideas for staying on budget?