You've always dreamt of a fairy tale wedding, but what do you do without that fairy tale bank account? The following tips will help you learn how to plan your perfect day in the real world. (Don't worry, you can still wear the princess dress.)

DO: Start with the list
The list should be your first order of business when it comes to mapping out your wedding budget. Since the bulk of your funds will go towards food and drinks, it’s crucial to keep this number in check.

DON’T: Invite people and assume they won’t come.
Convinced those old college friends live too far? Well, you might be surprised and end up with more guests than your event space can hold, and you risk going way over budget. Keep the final number realistic.

DON’T: Pay full price for a designer gown
If you’ve always envisioned a sample sale to be like running with the bulls in Spain, you’re not alone. Many brides would rather sew their own dress than venture into that danger zone. But, taking a chance could leave you pleasantly surprised (and not nearly as broke!). These aren’t just old wives tales ladies … it’s absolutely possible to walk out of a sample sale with a beautiful (intact) designer gown at (gasp!) 75 percent off the retail price.  

DO: Research options for the bar
A stress-free way to handle drinking is to pay a flat fee per person for an open bar. This way you know what to expect when you get the bill. Or inquire if you can bring in your own liquor. This can be very cost effective because you can choose what to serve and buy it wholesale.

DON’T: Waste money on unnecessary drinks
Pass on the champagne toasts and additional wine pours at dinner. Most of your guests will sit down after cocktail hour with a drink and won’t even pick up the wine glass in front of them. When it’s time to toast, they’ll happily use what they have. Plus mixing alcohol only leads to bad hangovers. Consider it a favor.

DO: Have your wedding on a Sunday  
Hosting a lovely and elegant Sunday Champagne Brunch or afternoon affair can cut food and alcohol costs in half. Choose a limited bar since people won’t drink as much during the day. Many vendors, like photographers and bands, will give you discounted rates. And get creative! Who wouldn’t love a cocktail hour with peach Bellinis and mini French toast squares? Yum…  

DO: Think outside the vase  
Matthew David Hopkins of 360 Design Events in NYC says, “Centerpieces often cost more when they all have to look exactly the same. Finding new ways to re-purpose or re-use containers is a great way to keep your wedding eco chic.”

Hopkins also suggests buying vintage milk glass containers from e-bay and selling them back afterwards. “Fill some containers with flowers and float candles in others. This will give you fresh flowers in a romantic way, without spending for gobs of blossoms. Mix in some bud vases as well, further extending the look.”

DO: Negotiate
Our shaky economy can actually work in your favor. Vendors are just as stressed as you and are more willing to work with you on price in order to get you to sign on the dotted line. It can’t hurt to ask!

DO: Consider hiring a wedding planner
No this tip is not a typo. Hiring a wedding planner can oftentimes save you money in the end. Seasoned consultants have long standing relationships with vendors and can get you insider discounts. Plus, they’re skilled at staying on budget. Valarie Kirkbride, owner of Kirkbrides Wedding Planning & Design explains, “We plan to your style and budget and avoid spending unnecessary funds just ‘trying to make the room pretty’. This extra layer of creativity is something a lot of people miss when trying to plan their entire wedding on their own.”

DON’T: Let your budget get the best of you
Don’t focus on money, but rather the moments that matter. Hopkins hopes brides remember, “The wedding itself is an open yet very private moment in your lives. The reception is your gift to your family and friends. And the best gifts come from the heart … not the wallet. Keep it intimate and personal and you will find ways to keep the budget reasonable.”

From the list to the dress to the drinks, these simple tips will help you create your magical big day without going overboard. At least you already found Prince Charming ... that’s half the battle.