Your Outdoor Wedding Can Help the Environment—and Your Wallet!

Figuring out how to pay for your special day can sometimes be frustrating, and many brides and grooms find themselves recalling the old saying: "Money doesn't grow on trees." Well, who says it can't? Pete and Andrea, a couple from Spokane, Washington, came up with a unique way to finance their July 31 celebration that is sure to provide cherished memories for them on many different levels, plus, their wedding will be about as green as they come!

The Washington bride and groom are raising funds to pay for their entire celebration by recycling cans. To contain expenses, Pete and Andrea will hold their wedding and reception in their backyard with "DIY decorations." Their idea has garnered attention and a few very sizeable can donations—more than enough to fully cover their wedding expenses—so, they'll donate some of the proceeds to non-profit organizations. Pete and Andrea have even started putting money away for their honeymoon!

So, instead of letting the stress of financing a wedding get you down, consider alternative resources for your outdoor wedding that will help others and, in doing so, boost your morale when you need it most! Pete and Andrea said it best: "Saving the environment and throwing a killer party. What could be better?"

~Kasey Brooks

Designer Wedding Gowns... Cheap

As you know, I advise outdoor brides not to overspend on wedding gowns. What's a girl to do, though, if she really wants a designer dress? Buy one cheap! Mark your calendar for the upcoming spring wedding dress sales at Filene's Basement stores: February 19 in Boston (actually at the Hynes Convention Center, since the flagship store is currently closed) and March 19 in Atlanta, Georgia. Before you participate in the "running of the brides," read my 10 tips for finding a bargain bridal gown at a Filene's Basement wedding dress sale.

10 Tips for Planning an Outdoor Wedding in a Recession

Your wedding budget may be tighter than you'd hoped in this economy, but that doesn't mean you can't have a spectacular outdoor wedding day. In my new article, 10 Tips for Planning an Outdoor Wedding in a Recession, you'll find simple ways to save money by selecting cheaper alternatives or eliminating unnecessary expenses.

Have a recession-busting tip to share? Post it in the comments, and help other couples faced with wedding financial worries.