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So here it is, June - the busiest wedding season of the year! Are you prepared? Or, like so many about to wed, are you sinking into a financial hole the size of a small country? If the words "cash or credit" cause a lump to form in the back of your throat, chances are, you've probably overextended! Why do that to yourself? Why start off your life together owing thousands? Pulling off the perfect day takes a lot of planning and money, but you can have the wedding of your dreams without starting your life together in debt up to your eyeballs!

Let's break this down. First of all, don't go overboard! Unless you and that special someone are pulling in a six-figure salary, you need to keep your head on your shoulders as you begin to plan. Keep things on a reasonable scale. While you're running around town meeting with consultants, florists, musicians, photographers and the like, you need to decide where the priorities lie with your special day. Obviously, there are places where you should and should not cut your budget, and we will address these first and foremost.

1. The Guest List
Now, I know you're ten different kinds of excited about having the whole world witness this holy occasion, but it's really not necessary to have a 250-person guest list. By cutting the number of people you will be hosting, you immediately save a considerable sum. Try to limit your list to your 100 most favorite people in the world. Consider sending wedding announcements rather than invitations to all those second and third cousins and old friends from high school. That's why the wedding announcement was invented - to announce! By doing so, you won't have to shell out more dough to feed, shelter and entertain a huge crowd. The smaller the guest list, the more elaborate you can get with your other details. Couples with a list of fifty or less usually have the most enjoyable ceremonies because they are much more personal, allowing the bride and groom time to greet each and every person attending.

2. Location! Location! Location!
Yes, you could go out and spend as much as $5000 to land the perfect chapel, but why? Look to some of the smaller churches in your area if a religious ceremony is your cup of tea - they charge much less, require much smaller deposits, and are less likely to be all booked up! For those in a more non-traditional state of mind, bringing your ceremony to a hotel banquet facility, a gorgeous rental home, or even a state park can save thousands! Outdoor weddings are always

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