My fiance and I are trying to pull off the most beautiful wedding we can have without anyone taking out a loan. Between his parents, my parents, and ourselves we should be able to do it. Everything will be local and in-season, and most of it will be done by ourselves, friends and family.

- My dress was  $200, with the "bra," jewelry and shoes my attire might come to $300. We're hoping to get him a decent suit that he can wear anywhere, and keep forever. 

- I'm growing our flowers - seeds cost $10 and we might have to buy some fertilizer. A local flower farm might be able to supplement for $150 if I'm not successful. My bridesmaid is going to make the bouquets and centerpieces.

-  Self-catering; self serve. We'll buy the food, and we'll prep it ourselves. His uncles will do a lobsterbake, and he has fishing connections, so we should be able to get boat price. I'm hoping for $11/head, at the most. We cut the guest list to 100 for the space, but will have a potluck party the next week for neighbors, co-workers, and other friends.

- Our location was expensive, but it is gorgeous and won't need decorating. I did buy christmas lights for 75% off after christmas, just in case - total of about $30. We'll have flowers on the tables. The ceremony is on the ocean at a lighthouse, so no decorating needed there either.

- We'll make our favors, print the invitations, do our own make-up and hair, cake will be made by a baker-friend, professional photography supplemented by family photographers, rehearsal dinner BBQ at home. Our max budget among the families is still high at $10,000 but hopefully we won't come near it.