Planning: Budget
Of Marriage and Money
For better or worse, money is always an issue when two lives come together. Here are some common problems that may arise and how to tactfully manage them
Tiers of Joy
Customizing the wedding cake isn't always for the faint of heart. Follow these expert guidelines to find the sweet of your dreams
Getting Organized
Suggestions for finding the best book to help you plan your ideal wedding
Simple Tips for Stunning Events
From the day-of venue to the day-after brunch, experts share their secrets for chic, stress-free celebrations
Fashionable, Affordable Maids Dresses
Money’s on everyone’s mind, which is why designers are creating chic bridesmaid dresses fit for any budget
Stationery with a Designer Touch
Take your invites from everyday to extraordinary with the latest designer styles
The Budget-Friendly Bar
Here’s how to make the alcohol you serve at your wedding more affordable
Once, Twice, Three Times a Wedding Dress
Thousands for a one-and-done gown? Not for budget-savvy brides, who are turning toward pre-owned dresses
Blooms Fit for Any Budget
Tips for gorgeous greenery that won’t break the bank
Worthwhile – and Economical – Wedding Favors
Give your guests the gift of something they will really use
Weekend Wedding Coordination
If you’re not feeling a full-on commitment to a wedding planner, considering hiring a hand for just the big day
Keep Quality in Mind
Put down the calculator and slowly walk away! You want to keep expenses down, sure, but certain costs are necessary evils. Here's what you should think twice about cutting
Debt Adviser: Know fiance's finances before saying 'I do'
Am I responsible for his medical bills as well or only if he doesn't pay them? Will the creditors go after me to pay his bills even if I'm laid off at the moment?
Ask Carley: Travel, lodging could reduce number of wedding guests
Q: My fiance and I want to get married where we live, but that would mean most of our family and friends would have to travel and book hotels. Should we feel guilty about this given the economy?
Bad money habits can cause a marriage to fail
While love conquers all in romance novels and movies, when money problems rear their ugly heads in marriage, Cupid doesn't always stand a fighting chance.
Internet Invitations
Paper's still the go-to medium for the big event, but for pre-wedding events, the Web seems to work
Bridal Fashions on a Budget
Faviana rolls out a new line of gowns perfectly tailored for the recessionista bride
Be Careful With Credit Tips for keeping charges under control
Racking up credit-card debt is not the way to start your marriage.
Ask Carley: Alternatives to a groom's cake
Q. My groom wants a groom's cake, but I don't think we can fit it in our budget. What other ways can we compromise?
Travel the World Close To Home
A “shadow” honeymoon destination offers a reasonable facsimile of a more exotic locale, at far less cost
Fashion Police
Brides can get dresses anywhere, so it pays to keep an eye out for knockoff gowns
Fresh Summer-Food Ideas
For the tastiest warm-weather nosh, think local
This Old Dress
Wearing mom’s or grandma’s old gown? Here’s what you need to know about caring for it or crafting it into something new
The Waiting Game
With tighter budgets, couples are taking their time committing to big-day needs
What to Do When Your Venue is !%$&^#
If disaster strikes your location, what options do you have?
Up & Down Spending
Wedding costs aren’t diminishing in every category
From 'Fair' to Fabulous
Celeb party planner David Tutera shows how to easily and affordably up the wow-factor of your wedding
Tips on creating your floral fantasy on a budget
It's easy to get caught up in pre-wedding daydreams: hundreds of flowers draped over chairs and pews, sprouting from napkin rings, cascading off buffet tables, and filling the arms of the bride and bridesmaids.
High and Low of the Food Chain
You want exotic fare for your wedding, but your budget is more plain-jane. Here's how to get the effect you want for a fraction of the cost
What's Love Got to Do with It?
In these financially precarious times, could some people actually be sprinting to the altar in order in hopes of hitching themselves to their partner's insurance plan?
How to throw a shower on any budget
When you hear the words "bridal shower," do you immediately hide under the bed? Feel a sudden cold coming on? Cling to your shrinking wallet?
Stick with Your Budget - and Your Dreams
So you can't afford the horse-drawn carriage you dreamed of since age five. Keep your chin up, kiss the groom and call the finest cab in town.
To the 'Moon on a Budget
Author Suze Oreman says a great honeymoon isn't about how much you spend, it's about how much fun you have.
Budget guidelines for $25,000 wedding
Ready to dig into planning? One of the first tasks you'll want to tackle is your budget.
Local Resources
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