Use the home or garden of a friend or relative for your ceremony or reception. Buy pre-packaged cards or hand write each invitation on stationery. Do not use response cards for your reception. Buy a ready to wear wedding dress. An ankle or tea length dress is less expensive.
Wedding dresses are also available on sale.
Samples and discontinued lines will also save money. Wedding dresses can be purchased previously worn and are also available to rent. If your dress is being made, consider a less expensive fabric. It may look just as beautiful at a considerable saving. Buy a dress that can be restyled to be worn again.