Hmmm....We have somewhat of a budget, but it's not written in stone. We both agreed that we want it to be exactly how we want it, within reason of course. I guess everyone has their things about the wedding that they will NOT "cut corners on" and other things that they will. Honestly, every single thing from my dress at David's Bridal to the OOT bags at Micheals, to the centerpieces at Kohls have been exactly what I want and have been on sale. I chose to make my own BF sandals for about $15.00 then spend the $65.00+shipping for the ones I loved online.I LOVE the ones I made even more. The photography package however, we are spending an arm and a leg on because it was one of those "we're not cutting corners" things. It's like the 4 c's in diamond shopping. You chose which one is most important, and sacrafice just a bit on the things that are less important.