If you’re like us, you’ve probably been dreaming of your wedding day for as long as you can remember. But from the lavish florals and over-the-top hors-d’oeuvres to a princess gown and the perfect venue, unfortunately, the big day comes with a hefty price tag.

Before you cancel the five-tier cake and three-course meal, here are five tips that will save you some major bucks, so you can enjoy your special day without totally breaking the bank.

Be flexible with your date
While getting married on a Saturday would be ideal, it’s definitely more expensive. If you opt for a Friday or Sunday wedding, venues are more likely to lower their asking price simply due to the lower demand.

Cut down the guest list
It’s no secret that as your guest list grows, so do your catering costs. By inviting only those who are currently a part of your life, you keep the event more meaningful while also saving a few hundred bucks.

Go paperless
Paper invites can certainly be elegant, but they can also seem outdated. Cut down the dollar signs by opting for online e-vites — after all, it is the digital age.

Get crafty
Flex your DIY muscles by creating your own centerpieces. Whether you’re into candles, flowers, or gemstones, they’re all super easy to create with the right materials.

Fake your flowers
Longing for a pretty floral aesthetic, but don’t want to shell out thousands of dollars to make it happen? Fake flowers are your best bet. They look just as beautiful as the real thing — trust us, no one will be able to tell the difference.

xx, The FabFitFun Team