How to Have a Dream Wedding on a Budget

ATLANTA (MyFOX ATLANTA) - Planning a dream wedding can be very expensive. The average cost of a wedding can run as much as $20,000. There are ways to save without sacrificing the magic of the big day.

For many brides, their wedding day is the one day they don't want to skimp on.

With tough economic times, couples are looking for ways to save and a little homework can make all the difference.

Couples can get the sound of a big band, without the big price tag.

"If you can offer something that looks grand, that sounds grand, but in actually the overhead of the product is kept low, that's your magic right there," said Adam Weitz.

Weitz has entertained brides for over 20 years. Instead of a big band, he mixes a DJ with one or two instruments to cut costs. The price tag is just over $2,000.

As for the wedding dress, they can be bought off the rack now from J. Crew or Ann Taylor. Prices start at $300 instead of $3,000. Coco Myles allows brides to custom design their dress online. Brides-to-be can choose the fabric, the neckline and the silhouette. The bride-to-be can then add a sash or a bow. Every dress costs $150 or less and can be delivered in just six weeks.

Couples can save on the videographer as well by having a relative or a friend shoot the wedding on their own digital camera and then handing the footage over to a company like Well Spun Weddings. The company will then edit the footage and add a song of the couple's choosing for just $700.

In the flower department, single flower bouquets such as roses aren't as pricey because the florist only has to order one variety.

For the reception, you couples can consider less expensive hotels, many of which still have wedding-ready ballrooms.

The Courtyard by Marriott is offering what they call a wedding stimulus package with prices starting at just $75 a person.

One thing couples should consider is the wedding date. It is wise to avoid major holidays such as Valentine's Day and Mother's Day when the price of flowers skyrockets.