Top 5 affordable-yet-elegant ideas for the budget-savvy bride

It's no secret that weddings can be expensive, and the bride on a budget might feel overwhelmed quickly. The good news is, today there are more options than ever for creating a one-of-a-kind wedding that is both affordable and elegant. Here are five fantastically frugal ideas that pair style and class with a price that any bargainista can brag about.

1. Find inexpensive wedding invitations
Having an elegant wedding invitation doesn't need to come with an expensive price tag, thanks to online resources that allow you to design the invite and place your order yourself. Ann's Bridal Bargains offers a variety of unique invitations at a reasonable rate. Simply visit www.annsbridalbargains.com and look through a variety of discount wedding invitations with a starting price of $40 for 100. Many brides today are choosing simple, inexpensive invitations and adding pops of color with a ribbon or a splash of sparkle with rhinestones.

2. Set up an RSVP site
Traditionally, invites are sent out and a couple provides a small RSVP card with prepaid postage. While this process is still common, many brides are choosing to set up a personalized wedding website where guests can respond. This eliminates the cost of postage and allows the couple to share other important information - such as hotel options and directions - as well as some fun personal tidbits, like how they met, their engagement story, and where they are going for their honeymoon.

3. Add a special touch with personalized wedding napkins
When you're planning the cocktail hour or reception dinner, you want to create a beautiful atmosphere with personal touches your guests will remember. Personalized napkins are on-trend and are more affordable than you might think when you order at www.annsbridalbargains.com. Napkins are available in a variety of sizes, colors and printing styles. The ooh la color(TM) photo napkins really add the "wow factor" to your event. This patent-pending design option allows you to print your favorite photo of you and your fiance, along with script such as your names and wedding date. Unlike some companies, Ann's Bridal Bargains allows you to order ooh la napkins in small batches with minimum orders of only 50.

4. Consider used wedding supplies
Buying new supplies, such as decorations, often doesn't make sense because it's for a one-time use. Smart brides on a budget know that buying used often gives the same quality as new at a highly discounted rate. Websites such as craigslist.org or ebay.com allow you to go on the hunt for bargains on gently used wedding supplies. Does it really matter that your chocolate fountain or flower vases were used if they are still in perfect condition? No. Plus you'll save a ton of cash.

5. Don't forget about clearance options
Shopping sales and clearances should always be top of mind for the budget bride. When you're dress shopping or meeting with potential venders, always tell them your budget goals and ask for any discount options. Your photographer might give you a low rate if you allow him to use your photo in marketing materials and your dress might be half off if you shop the clearance section. Wedding supply websites also typically feature a sale/clearance section. For example, Ann's Clearance has jaw-dropping deals you and your wallet will love.