Weddings are my deep down hidden obsession, please don't tell anyone. My secret wedding board on Pinterest is filled with beautiful dresses, sparkly diamonds and obviously all my decorations. I hope I'm not alone in my wedding planning obsession. Whether you are a bride-to-be or are hoping to one day marry Ryan Gosling, it's never too early to start thinking about some tips and tricks to save some money on your big day!

When planning a wedding the first place to start would be to obviously have someone super cute and lovable to marry, but also to do your research! This is possibly the most important and fabulous day and it is all yours so know what you want. (Start a secret pinterest wedding board. Now!) Next you'll have to set a budget, which you will try your hardest to not go over. Also, be sure to set a date and venue at least two years in advance. From what I hear these are the easy steps, but don't worry Bridal Chicks we've got you covered. Here are some tips and tricks from Oliver and Bonacini Events on how to plan the wedding of your dreams on a budget! Cue squeels of excitement because I want to get married...... like now (just don't tell the BF)!

#1. Trust an expert: Having a wedding planner is not the worst idea in the world, it takes major stress off of you and they can offer you deals using their experience and connections that you may have not been able to get without them. 

#2. Embrace the off-season: To save some money on venue, pick a date between January – April (wedding off-season) and you won't have any competition when picking wedding photo spots.

#3. Venue Value: Pick a venue that offers you more than just a room. Some venues offer linens and in house djs. Also picking venues that are part of resorts can allow you to hold a weekend-long wedding with Bachelor/Bachelorette parties for extra savings.

#4. Bar-Bargain: Finding out that there is an open bar at a wedding is like winning a lottery, but it can also cost you a fortune. Give your guests what they want by ordering beer, wine, and one signiture cocktail for the night. It's the perfect compromise.
 
#5. Intimate Affair: You don't need to invite that great great great aunt who you only call once a year. I'm giving you permission, you don't need to invite her. Be sure to limit your guest list to family and friends who are closest to you. This will help avoid unnecessary costs.

#6. Wiggle Room: Make a list of your top ten must have's for your wedding and cut it in half, anything not on that list should not make an appearance in your budget to slash costs of over spending.

#7. Family Fare: Save on servers from the venue and go buffet style or serve food family style by passing food around the table just like at home. 

These tips and tricks are bound to make your wedding day cheap and beautiful! Another way to gain some expert advice on planning your dream wedding is by heading to a wedding show. 

What are some of your wedding tips and tricks? Did you have a budget when planning your wedding and how hard was it to stay on top of it?