My partner and I are getting married in a couple of months and have managed to keep to a budget of $5000 and still have everything we want. My mother made all the womens dresses (including mine), we hired the mens suits, didnt mention to the florist that it was a wedding (got the flowers $300 cheaper), professional photos only for location and are placing a disposable camera on each table at reception (copy of photos to be sent with thank you cards as we can get them put onto disc for $5 and print them), wedding cake being made by local bakey (delicious and cheaper), rented a holiday home with a beautiful big yard for the week right next to the beach (ceremony on the beach, reception in the yard and honeymoon for the week), and our music is to be provided by a very trusty and long play list on the computer, with my soon to be hubbys best friend as acting mc, leaving more time to dance. What cost us the most was our rings as we have had custom made rings with both our birthstones in them (pearl and diamond), and also our catering. We’re having a spit roast with 3 meats, salads, desserts, and of course, the cake. I also used the hens night to have a girly sleepover and make the decorations, favours and invitations for $100. It all looks so beautiful.