Even though eloping may be the cheapest way to get married, most people wouldn't dream of getting married without their close friends and family members. If you plan to have a traditional ceremony, you'll likely have to pay a fee in order to have your wedding ceremony in church. This can be expensive, but fortunately there are a number of ways you can reduce costs in this area.

Getting Married Off-Season

As with many other aspects of your wedding, everything will be cheaper at a time of year when fewer couples are exchanging their vows. Therefore, you may want to consider a winter or fall wedding to avoid peak wedding season. You may even be able to save by selecting the month before or after the busiest times - typically April through October. This will help you save some money, but if you're set on a June wedding, there are some other options.

Choose a Small Church

For the most part, the smaller the church you choose, the less you'll pay in rental fees. If you're on a budget, you've probably already pared down your guest list, but take the time to review the list of people you're inviting with care. If you can fit everyone into a smaller church, you'll save on rental fees, food and beverage costs and more. You may also find that you enjoy the charm of a smaller building or the more intimate atmosphere it provides.

Getting Married Outdoors

Getting married outdoors has become much more popular in recent years. As a result, it should be fairly easy to find a clergyman that will perform a service in this setting. In some cases, you may find that this will also be a cost-effective option for your reception. That said, you'll have to make sure you have alternative arrangements should the weather choose to not cooperate with you.

Group Weddings

Even though it's relatively unheard of in the US, group weddings are becoming very popular in some foreign countries. Depending on the number of people you plan to invite to your wedding, it might make sense to set up a group wedding. If you have any close friends that are planning weddings at the same time, see if you can split a facility for your ceremonies. This is a great way to reduce your costs by spreading them out among more parties, and you may find that celebrating with a larger group makes the occasion even more special.

Aside from your wedding dress, your most important concern is likely to be the place where you'll exchange your vows. However, if you're on a tight budget, it's important to think about all of the different options that are available. Try to visit a number of different churches with your fiance to get a feel for the type of setting you prefer. Don't be swayed by any tempting facility sales pitches - be sure to stick with your budget before making your final decision.