Brides cut back up to 75% on wedding costs. How would you cut back?

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Does someone hear just one wedding bell? That’s right, even brides-to-be are reevaluating their budgets in this recession. According to a survey released by retailer David’s Bridal (via WSGN.com), about 25% of couples plan to slice their wedding budgets in half; 1 in 10 intended to cut back by 75% in costs. Does that mean open bar for 20 minutes?

The ‘What’s on Brides’ Minds’ survey also revealed that 53% do not plan to spend more than $25,000 -- the average wedding costs about $21,000 to $24,000, per the Association for Wedding Professionals. And 34% of brides-to-be said that they did not plan to spend more than $10,000 on a wedding.

The wedding industry has always had the brides by the veils when it comes to costs, but maybe the cake tables are turning? Clearly, the planners, DJs, caterers and florists will have to adjust their prices to meet the needs of couples on a budget.

I spent a mere $175 on my vintage Mexican wedding dress, which I found downtown at Shareen Vintage. (My splurge was on Valentino platform peacock sandals instead. You don’t even want to know how much they cost, but I still wear them to special events.)

How would you cut back on wedding costs? Beer and wine versus a full bar? A more modest cake? Charge admission at the door? (Just kidding.)

-- Monica Corcoran