While planning, I have always taken the cheaper way out. I am paying $0 for my venue as my dad is a priest and is friends with the priest of the church we wanted to get married at. My sister is also in culinary school and will be doing our food for a hugely discounted price. I also refuse to buy anything that isn't on sale. My dress is originally $1000 but I got it for $584 because of sales and coupons I found. Because of how lucky we've gotten, our wedding will only be $4,000. What deals have you gotten and whats your budget?