Call it the 'bridezilla syndrome'- it's what happens to good, normal brides-to-be when suddenly all their rational thinking goes out the window and they need to have exactly what they want- no matter what the cost. I am fairly certain that 'bridezilla syndrome' is why we rarely hear people gloat about having their dream wedding and coming under budget. 

However, you would be surprised at the different ways (you may not have even considered) there are to save money when planning your wedding. With the upcoming holiday season, there are even more fun, seasonable and simple ways to stay on budget. 


1) Food: Nothing says 'holiday' like a plate full of comfort food! Ditch the standard wedding feast for a home cooked style meal- pot pies, roasts, soups are great options. By having a pot luck or buffet and asking for a home made cake baked by a friend or family member as a wedding gift, you will cut down on costs and have a homey, intimate feel. Instead of alcoholic drinks, why not have a cash bar and serve yummy holiday drinks like eggnog, cider or hot chocolate? 
(images via thepioneerwoman.com, abeautifulmess.typepad.com) 


2) Décor: One of the great benefits of having a wedding at this time is the fact that there are inexpensive decorations everywhere- you'd be surprised what what your local dollar or discount store will carry. Ornaments, twinkle lights, candles, jars and red and white candies, even gingerbread houses are a cute and whimsy addition for your theme. If you are getting married in a hall, as Cara Davis of cheapwaysto.com points out, many of them will already be decorated for the holidays and you can simply borrow their ambience. 
(images via didntitellyouthat.com, weheartit.com, pinterest.com) 


(from left) J Crew Taryn Gown (C$638.00), J Crew Cecilia Gown (C$ 574.00), Tadashi Shoji One-Shoulder Lace Gown (C$458.87), Aqua Long Chiffon One-Shoulder Dress (C$293.30)

3) The Dress: You'd be surprised at how many cute, affordable dresses there are in department stores these days. These dresses come from Bloomingdales and J Crew- very cute, modern styles that don't cost as much as a used car! If you're all about looking unique, as we mentioned in our rustic weddings article, vintage gowns are a fabulous option. If you're willing, try buying a used gown online- sites like preownedweddingdresses.com can offer a great deal for a bargain seeker. 


4) Flowers: Take advantage of the pointsettias, holly or evergreen needles in season for decorating your space- not only do they add colour and are right on theme but you can get them on the cheap during the holidays. An alternative to what can be costly flowers, is a non-floral bouquet. Not only are the materials less expensive but for a DIY diva bride-to-be (or for the bride-to-be's very nice, very crafty friend) this shouldn't be a problem to create (the bottom two photos are made of paper [left] and fabric [right]). If you want to remain with traditional flowers but aren't a fan of the cost- it may be time to fake it! Fake flowers are so good these days- they'll be virtually indistinguishable! 
(images via realsimple.com, marthastewartweddings.com, marthastewartweddings.com)

5) Online Tools: The possibilities of the internet these days! Replace your wedding planner with inexpensive apps on your phone- iWedding, Bridal Binder and My Wedding all act as organizers for your perfect day. Sites like Pinterest, Evernote or Stumbleupon are all book marking tools that will help you find and make note of your online inspirations. Use online invite websites to keep track of your RSVPs and for an overwhelmed couple that doesn't have time to register at a store- Card Avenue is a site that lets you register for giftcards.

Did you have a wedding budget? Did you stick to it? 

If you liked that, check out: 

5 Wedding Budget Tips
Budgeting For Your Big Day 
Wedding Ideas: The Rustic and Vintage Wedding