One of the most memorable days shared between two families coming together in the name of love could also end up being one of your most expensive days. Americans are averaging a cost of $35,329 on their wedding days, according to the Knot.

If you’re a budget-conscious bride planning her wedding day, don’t let these numbers scare you away. There are brilliant ways of saving hundreds, if not thousands, on your special day.

Rent your wedding gown

Brides in America spend an average of $1,564 for a wedding gown – five times the amount that grooms typically spend on their attire. One budget-friendly approach would be to rent your gown. After all, you’re only wearing it for one day. Renting out a luxurious dress would save you hundreds that you can put toward your honeymoon or a new house. Lending Luxury and Rent The Runway offer rental bridal gowns for 80-90% off retail price. Who knows? Maybe the dress you rent out was only worn once.

You could also decide to go to a vintage or secondhand shop, or search for a used dress online. The perfect dress could be just a few clicks away.

Create your own bouquet or buy from a local wholesale shop

On average, couples spend $2,141 on flowers. That can be a prohibitive price if floral arrangements aren’t at the top of your priority list. If you’re creative or know someone who is, design your own floral bouquets and decorations. Your decorations will have a more personable touch without the high cost.

Throw a buffet

With a buffet, your guests will have the luxury of choosing what they want to eat – plus, it’ll slash costs as compared to individual prepped meals. When it comes to drinks, consider opting out of an endless drink bar and hand out alcohol tickets instead.

Have a friend DJ, or make a playlist that goes with the flow

Plug in your playlist and press the play button and save on hiring a DJ or live band. Plus, you’re going to be dancing your night away, regardless if there’s a DJ or not – so dance away, darling!

Fake your wedding cake

A new trend picking up in the wedding industry is a faux cake made of decorated cardboard with a small cutting cake on top. Fondant and decorative tiered cakes are super expensive, so instead you can serve sheet cake pieces from the back and use the cardboard “cake” for decoration. And don’t feel obliged to follow the traditional trend of wedding cakes – loads of new brides are replacing cakes with smaller, cheaper alternatives like cupcakes or macaroons.