serve your favorite barbecued treats. You can do anything from hamburgers to filet Mignon on the grill, depending how (in)formal you want the meal to be. Or, have a cocktail-style reception with a spread of homemade appetizers contributed by family and friends. Serve individualized cupcakes for dessert, says Jessica Bianchi, founder of Thrifty Bride To Be : they are delicious, cost-efficient and can also act as your favor. 5. Consider Consignment: Ursin estimates that brides working within this budget should expect to spend $500 to $1,000 on their dress. Consignment and pre-owned gowns are an option and keep an eye out for trunk sales where you can find styles from previous seasons for a fraction of the price. 6. Ask A Friend To Snap Pics: Suggest that a friend with an artistic eye and a DSLR camera take photos of you and your hubby before, during and after the ceremony in lieu of a wedding gift. Bianchi suggests putting disposable cameras on tables at the reception so guests can take photos throughout the night. It's not expensive to develop the film and the pics are bound to be far more hilarious than what a professional photographer would have captured. 7. Forgo The Favours: There are many ways to thank your guests that don't include spending money on favours that could go to waste. Thank guests for coming individually as you mingle throughout the evening and acknowledge how much it means to have everyone included in your special occasion. Sometimes that