Weddingbee boards

I started out with a 10K budget for my beach wedding at nags head -  and even with doing so much our selves and having a freind do the catering we had to bump it up to 15k and f I did not do some of the things I listed here I would have gone over the 15K -- now I might even go under!!   I couldn't imagain doing one in Charlotte for 10K -- everything there is so EXPENSIVE from what I can remember; from living there. I can find better deals here in NYC belive it or not.  Here are some of the ways I am attempting to keep the cost down:  making my own bouquets,corsages, bouts,etc;  ipod dock- no DJ; skiping the video and having friends and family capture what they can and have it edited later on;  we chose a shoot and digital file only package for photography (that way we can get the album and prints done after we recoup at a discount photo shop);  Friends are doing most of the catering; I am having 3 cake tier made and mom and I will stack them and add flowers to decorate it;   No place cards; -- the ceremony flowers will double as the reception centerpieces.  Beer wine and a signature drink in stead of a full bar; Skiped the elaborate invites and did a single page invite with a link to our wedding website which had all of the wedding details on it an include a page to RSVP, suggest music, and contact us (WEDDINGWIRE.COM - AND ITS FREE - The messages came directly to an email address which we set up SPECIFICALLY for the wedding.)  If friends ask if they can help -- tell them yes and give them a job.