In every country around the world, young couples spend thousands and thousands of dollars to host glamorous and decadent weddings. Some are finding it more and more difficult to achieve their wedding dream, without having to declare bankruptcy in the process.

These days, the average wedding for 100 guests can cost upwards of $10,000. The bridal dress alone can cost between $1000 and $5,000, add to this the cost of the catering, flowers and photography and you can blow your budget before leaving one store. Thankfully, there are many ways to save money when planning your wedding.

The first thing any bride should do is book the wedding date as far in advance as possible. Caterers and banquet facilities can change their prices many times during a year and if you sign a contract now, for a wedding next year, you are assured there will be no price increases.

Next is to be flexible with the date. Most weddings are held on Saturdays. Consequently, if you book your wedding on a Friday or a Sunday you will most likely receive a discount. Most facilities offer a 10 20% discount functions being held on days other than Saturday.

Save money on wedding favors by making and assembling them yourself. Some brides wrap chocolates, candles and other assorted gifts in decorative papers or cloths. Another popular option is to forgo these trinkets in favor of donations to local charities.

Selecting a simple menu and wine list can go a long way to reducing a weddings overall expense. A simple three or four course meal with some hors doeuvres will see all guests full by the time dessert is being cleared.

Wine does not to need to be expensive to be good. Select a good-tasting wine and set a limit on the number of bottles to be served. Wine should never be left on the table for guests to serve themselves. Not only is this an irresponsible approach to your guests safety, but it could also increase your wine bill by 20 40 bottles.

Some brides have even found a way to save money when purchasing their flowers. By purchasing the flowers from a large flower distributor and assembling the bouquets themselves, brides are realizing 20 30% discounts on the costs of their flowers.

Photography should only be done by professionals. The only way to save money on a photographer is to set a budget and stick to it. Search around for different prices and always ask for their most recent references. If you book your wedding on a day other than Saturday, the photographer may also offer a discounted rate.

No matter what features you want in your wedding, there is probably a way to get it for a little less. It is highly unlikely that a supplier will ever volunteer their discount policy to their clients. Ask if there are any discounts available for certain days of the week or months of the year.

The last piece of advice is decide what you will and wont compromise on. If the flowers are the most important aspect of the wedding then spend a little more money on them. If the food and beverage is more important than fancy flowers, spend more money on a five course meal and a nicer bottle of wine.

Regardless of what you serve, wear or give away or even how much it cost, the guests at your wedding are there to celebrate your happiness and future.