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  White Hot -157227

  Charmeuse fit-and-flare gown with a plunging deep V halter neckline and wide, beaded waist, about $1,455, by Lillian West. Sunglasses by Urban Outfitters. Earrings by Berricle. Ring by Colin Cowie for Blue Nile. Bangle by Ben-Amun.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Sky's the Limit

  Chiffon A-line gown with a draped, crystal-trimmed bodice, high leg slit and sweep train, about $1,300, by Demetrios. Sunglasses by Converse Eyewear. Earrings by Lafonn. Opal bib necklace by Jewelry Storm. Engagement ring by Colin Cowie for Blue Nile.

  Photographed at Secrets Playa Mujeres Golf & Spa Resort in Playa Mujeres, Mexico. This all-inclusive resort is the ideal adults-only destination for weddings and honeymoons. Secrets Playa Mujeres promises romance and relaxation and its first-class service features a commitment to Unlimited-Luxury — gourmet dining, limitless top-shelf spirits, daily adventures, evening entertainment and more. For more information go to secretsresorts.com/playa-mujeres.

  Travel provided by Delta Vacations®. Custom create your next vacation at delta.com/vacations or call your travel agent.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Shadow Play

  Soft tulle and lace one-shoulder A-line gown with draped bodice, about $2,500, by the Villais Collection for Karelina Sposa. Floral birdcage veil by Cappellino Millinery. Earrings by Origami Owl. Engagement ring by Colin Cowie for Blue Nile.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Place in the Sun

  Satin fit-and-flare gown with lace inserts on the bodice and a bow-accented waist, about $1,600, by Mikaella Bridal. Earrings by Origami Owl. Sunglasses by Cynthia Rowley. Bangle by Swarovski. Engagement ring by Colin Cowie for Blue Nile.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Glow Getter

  Stretch crepe sheath with halter neckline, T-back and satin sash at the waist, $948 by White by Vera Wang. Sunglasses by Converse Eyewear. Earrings by Ti Adoro. Bangle by Lafonn. Ring by Colin Cowie for Blue Nile. Crystal platform pumps by Badgley Mischka.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Curve Appeal

  Stretch silk twill, fit-and-flare gown with a sweetheart bodice and princess seams, about $1,200, by Nicole Miller. Silk headband by Jennifer Behr. Earrings by Sequin. Clutch by Swarovski. Engagement ring by Colin Cowie for Blue Nile.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Blue Horizon

  Mesh jersey A-line gown with ruched bodice and high leg slit, about $225, by Alyce Paris. Ivory tulle detachable train accented with crepe flowers by Susan Spring. Earrings by Sorrelli.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  Back Story

  Chiffon fit-and-flare gown with bateau neckline, cowl back and crystal embroidery, about $2,150, by Ellis Bridals. Earrings and engagement ring by Blue Nile. Bangle by Lafonn.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

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  A Shore Thing

  Crepe A-line gown with a wide V-neckline, detachable beaded belt and back buttons, about $1,099, by Essense of Australia. Headband by Jennifer Behr. Earrings by Ti Adoro.

  Photo Credit: Jennifer Robbins

Gorgeous Dresses for a Tropical Destination Wedding

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  "Surrender" by Michele McLaughlin -159452

  Shabnam and Matthew took dance lessons to prepare for their grand debut as husband and wife. "We chose this song because it's unique and romantic. Our family and friends were all impressed by our dance!" Shabham shared.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Will Pursell Photography

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  “Save the Last Dance for Me” by Michael Bublé

  Melissa and Frank hosted their wedding in a historic theater and shared their first dance on the same stage Melissa performed on as a child. “It was so fun to return to the stage where I grew up dancing and end my time there with my new husband. Of course, you can see how the song fit!” Melissa said.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Ueda Photography

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  "Book of Love" by Peter Gabriel

  "We loved the simplicity of the lyrics, and it made us think of one another," Charlotte revealed.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Timmester Photography

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  “Give Into Me” from the Country Strong soundtrack

  The lyrics of this song reminded Jackie and Richard of their journey to becoming a couple.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Rose Street Studio

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  "You Make Me Smile" by Aloe Blacc

   "During the first year we started dating, we would play it on a remix in the car all the time, and ever since then, it's been 'our song.' I think we just relate to the lyrics because we both fell in love with the fact that we make each other laugh so much," Mélissa said.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Quetzal Photo

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  "You and I" by Michael Bublé

  "Michael Bublé has a way with romance in his music, and the lyrics are so beautiful," said Amber.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Kate Wenzel Photography

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  "Marry Me" by Train

  Around the time Robert proposed to Vicharin, "Marry Me" was a constant fixture on the radio. It became a song that reminded them of that special time, leading them to choose it as their first dance song.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Hollywood Pro Weddings

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  "XO" by Beyoncé

  "We wanted something non-traditional and unexpected, and the lyrics to the song are actually quite touching," explained Emily.

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  Photo Credit: EP Love

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  "Evergreen" by Ryan Adams

  "We were driving one day back when we first started dating, and I was bombarding him with Ryan Adams music. He really liked this song, and we decided that it would be 'our song' just for fun!" recalled Toby.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Douglas Benedict Photography

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  "Till There was You" by The Beatles

  While proposing to Katie, Todd chose to play "Till There Was You" by the Beatles in the background and remarked that it'd be a great first dance song. He later learned that it was actually Katie's parents' wedding song! "My parents joined in dancing with us," Katie shared.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Dana Lane Photography

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  "All of My Days" by Alexi Murdoch

  "We chose it while we were still in Scotland after getting engaged. We had always loved Alexi Murdoch and would listen to his music a lot while we were on the trip, so we picked our favorite out of all his songs," Margo said.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Dan and Melissa Photography

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  “Free” by Zac Brown Band

  “We used to listen to this song when we would take long road trips, and it has always made us feel happy and at peace. It’s a beautiful yet unconventional choice for a first dance, but we love the message behind it and the memories that it holds for us,” Brittan said.

  See more from this wedding ►

  Photo Credit: Browne Photography

Real Couples' First Dance Songs

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  Choose a Friday or Sunday date. -159395

   Saturday night weddings are prime time! To save money on venues and vendors, consider having your "I dos" on an off evening. Your big day will still be oh-so-fun, and with a Friday or Sunday wedding, you can host other celebratory activities that weekend.

  Photo Credit: Ueda Photography

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  Opt for a standing ceremony

  Electing to use no chairs (save for a few chairs for elderly or disabled guests) can save money on the rental furniture costs. Just make sure your ceremony is short and sweet if attendees will be standing.

  Photo Credit: Maxwell Monty Photography

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  Buy a pre-owned wedding dress

  To stay on budget, consider buying a used dress or a floor sample gown. These gently-used versions retail at a fraction of the price.

  Photo Credit: Vanessa Joy Photography

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  Stock up on coupons for crafting

  Craft stores like Michaels and AC Moore offer discounts each week. If you're planning to do a little shopping in their wedding sections or if you want to get your DIY on, stock up on coupons or download the app to get the best deals. Insider tips: Both stores honor each other's coupons, and on the Michaels app, you can use the same coupon every day until it expires.

  Photo courtesy of 100 Layer Cake

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  Be your own DJ

  Create a playlist on Spotify or iTunes and play music through the venue's sound system.

  More from Loverly:

  February 2016 Love and Relationship Horoscopes
  15 Things Every Couple is Thinking While Making Their Guest List

  Photo Credit: Turn Loose the Art

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  Serve up a spread of delightful sweets

  Creating a dessert bar can be a cheaper alternative to the wedding cake. You can purchase the treats from local establishments, set up a candy or cookie bar, or even ask friends and relatives to bake some tasty confections for an on-budget dessert display.

  Photo Credit: Abby Rose Photo

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  Have your baker create a faux cake

  Ask your baker to make the top tier of your cake real (for cutting). Then, create other tiers out of styrofoam and decorate it accordingly. Your presentation cake will still be gorgeous while saving a few dollars — and you can have sheet cakes in the back for serving.

  Photo Credit: Elegantly Iced

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  Use bouquet flowers as centerpieces

  After the ceremony, have your florist or coordinator place the bouquets in vases for your tables.

  Photo Credit: Sarah K. Chen Photography

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  Keep stemware simple

  Instead of going overboard with your glassware, go for minimal and classic. You'll keep more money in your pocket.

  Photo Credit: Rashon Carraway

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  Sometimes, buying is cheaper than renting

  When it comes to décor items, table settings, and linens, sometimes it's better to purchase outright. Once you get a quote from the rental company, determine whether it's more cost effective for you to purchase them. You may even be able to sell the items after to make a little money back.

  Photo Credit: Kevin Kelley Photography

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  Consider a buffet

  With guests serving themselves, it can considerably cut some of the waitstaff fees.

  Photo Credit: Dominique Bader Photography

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  Create wedding signage instead of printing hundreds of paper items

  Display the menu or program on a canvas or in a frame as opposed to printing one for each guest. Trust us, it'll be totally cost effective.

  Photo Credit: Candice Benjamin Photography

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  Serve a signature cocktail instead of having an open bar

  Get crafty with your mixed drinks to ensure that you don't over-spend on liquor. Serve guests beer and wine with one specialty drink, like a mint julep or a martini to wet their whistles.

  Photo Credit: AkaPertyfultings/Etsy

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  Provide your own alcohol

  If the caterer allows you to purchase alcohol for the reception, you could potentially save some big bucks. By eliminating the vendor's markup, your finances will stay in tact. However, you'll be putting in extra time to purchase and deliver the alcohol to your big day venue.

  Photo Credit: D. Park Photography

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  Purchase flowers wholesale online

  If you're planning to DIY your flowers, look into purchasing them online. A retailer like FiftyFlowers helps cut costs and increases the variety of blooms available to you.

  Photo Credit: The Natural Wedding Company

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  Get creative with the bouquet

  Ask your florist to use a few impactful flowers, and then fill-in with less expensive blooms, like Queen Anne's lace and baby's breath. This will help make each arrangement cost less.

  Photo Credit: Carley Rehberg Photography

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  Let your fave market be the big day caterer

  Some supermarkets, like Whole Foods, offer specialty floral and catering services. Check your local store to see if they provide any services you can incorporate into your reception.

  Photo courtesy of Publix

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  Have your ceremony and reception at the same place

  If you opt for one wedding site, you'll cut the costs associated with renting two venues and the transportation between spaces.

  Photo Credit: Aaron Delesie

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  Use credit cards to purchase services and get rewards

  You should invest in a card that offers cash rewards or airline miles. Then you can spend your perks on other "I do" items or put those bonuses toward your honeymoon.

  Photo Credit: iStockphoto

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  Follow vendors on social media for discounts

  Sometimes, businesses will give special promotions or discounts to their Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram fans! Follow along to see if they offer any deals.

  Photo courtesy of Written Word Calligraphy/Instagram

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  Find a venue that's flexible with vendors

  Look for a space that allows you to use caterers, florists, and bakers outside of their preferred list. If you choose a location that requires you to use their partners, you'll be locked into using vendors that might be out of your range.

  Photo Credit: Rhee Bevere

21 Hacks Every Budget-Conscious Couple Should Know

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  Do reflect on past experiences -159076

  Have you been a bridesmaid in the past? What did you like or dislike about your experience? Is there anything you wished the bride provided? Choose a gift that'll make their lives a little easier.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Don’t disclose to your bridesmaids what you got them

  Making it a surprise is so much more fun!

  Photo Credit: LaVie Photography

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  Do tie the bridesmaid gifts into the groomsmen gifts

  This can be a way to develop camaraderie among the groups. For example, if the bridesmaids receive earrings, the groomsmen may receive cufflinks. Or select tote bags for your bridesmaids and duffle bags for the groomsmen.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Don’t include your wedding date on the gift

  Include it on the thank-you card instead. This your big day, not theirs, so the date will carry lesser significance to them (parents are a different story, though!).

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Do include a thank-you card

  Sometimes it's the gifts that cost nothing at all that can be the most meaningful. Write each of your bridesmaids a personal note to thank her for her friendship and support through the years.

  Photo Credit: Shop Sandra Smith/Etsy

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  Don't make it your responsibility to find gifts for the groomsmen

  While you can certainly give him some suggestions, only he can decided on the most appropriate gifts for his nearest and dearest.

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Do include yourself

  Planning a wedding is extremely stressful; treat yourself to a gift as well! Matching gifts, like robes, can provide fun group photo opportunities.

  Photo Credit: LaVie Photography

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  Don’t wait to order the gifts till the last minute

  You don't want to be shopping for your bridesmaids' gifts the week of your wedding; the stress isn’t worth it.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Do keep it appropriate for all ages

  If your bridesmaids’ ages range considerably, keep this in mind when picking out gifts (maybe skip the monogrammed flask for your underage sister!). Varying generations may have different perceptions of the gifts.

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Don’t think about just your wedding when selecting bridesmaid gifts

  If some of your bridesmaids have been in enough weddings to rival 27 Dresses, do a little digging and see if you can find out what they've received from other weddings. You don't want to give her yet another monogrammed clutch.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Do be mindful of sensitive subjects

  Avoid uncomfortable situations by making sure your gifts do not conflict with any of your bridesmaids' beliefs, personal struggles, or health concerns. 

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Don’t give gag gifts

  If you have a more lighthearted friendship, it can be tempting to give your bridesmaid a silly gift that'll make her laugh — but we'd recommend reserving any gag gifts for the bachelorette party and giving something more sentimental for the wedding. 

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Do consider how long your bridesmaids will be in heels

  If you and your bridesmaids will be spending a significant amount of time in heels, provide each of your bridesmaids with a cute pair of flats for dancing. 

  Photo Credit: LaVie Photography

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  Don’t spend your time or money on superfluous purchases

  Focus on quality rather than quantity. Bridesmaids are some of the most valued people in your life; your gift should reflect this.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Do remember your flower girls

  Your flower girs most likely think the world of you and your bridesmaids. Engage them in the day by treating them with a kid-friendly gift. 

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Don’t require your bridesmaids to pay for additional services

  If you want everyone to be manicured and red carpet-ready, surprise them by covering the beauty-related costs yourself. Splurge on a makeup team for the wedding morning, or arrange a girls' day at the salon for manicures a few days before.

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Do make it personal

  This gift should be symbolic of your relationships between you and your bridesmaid. If you choose identical gifts for your girls, add a personal touch with monograms.

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Don’t ignore the environment

  If your wedding is in a cool climate, think about possible gifts to keep them warm — especially between taking wedding party pictures. 

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Do think about traveling bridesmaids

  Not only are plane tickets expensive, but travel can also take up a significant amount of time. Think about gifts that may ease the travel process for your bridesmaids.

  Photo Credit: The Sleepy Cottage/Etsy

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  Don’t assume traveling bridesmaids will have extra room in their suitcases for your gift

  Play it safe by giving them something compact, durable, and TSA approved! 

  Photo Credit: Hello Dreamer

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  Do consider the gift of time

  After the wedding, it sometimes becomes "work" to keep up your relationships with your best girlfriends. Give the gift of time together — a spa gift certificate for a girls' day or tickets for a play or concert to attend together. Time to share with those you love is a gift in and of itself.

  Photo Credit: Erin Johnson Photography

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  Don’t try to meet everyone’s greatest desire

  Save the over-the-top-gifting for her birthday. You'll drive yourself crazy if you try to hunt down the "perfect" gift for each bridesmaid — and likely blow your budget. Give yourself a reasonable price cap before you start searching.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Do send your bridesmaids photos from the wedding

  Whether you opt for an electronic copy or prints, photographs are always keepsakes. Give each of your bridesmaids a personalized frame to hold your favorite photo together.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

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  Don’t feel you have to stretch your budget for coveted bridesmaid gifts

  Go DIY! Consider making this pyramid wristlet purse, embroidering an old fashioned linen handkerchief, or sprucing up some bland hair accessories.

  Photo Credit: Pretty Prudent

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  Do include your mother and mother-in-law

  The wedding day would not exist without them. Additionally, they most likely will be heavily involved with your day, perhaps to an even greater degree than your bridesmaids. A higher quality piece of jewelry or an engraved picture frame to fill with a family shot from the wedding make perfect gifts for moms.

  Photo Credit: Nicholas Norbert Photography

The Dos and Don'ts of Bridesmaid Gifts