There is no denying that getting married can be one of the most important times of your life. However, when it comes to planning the wedding, cost can become a huge factor.

As all brides and grooms can attest, weddings can be expensive. In 2012 alone, the average cost of a wedding was $26,989. If you have been thinking about getting married in the most cost-friendly way, here are a few tips to consider. 

1) Coupons, Coupons, Coupons! 

One of the best ways to save is through coupons. If you are having a wedding, coupons for certain items will help you to save a lot of money. 

In fact, if you can manage to be crafty on your own, you can make your own centerpieces for the wedding by using coupons for craft stores and receiving almost half off of expensive glass vases. You could also use coupons for stationary, which can become a bit pricey.

Also check out sites like Groupon and Living Social to score photographers, invitations, and other wedding vendors at a discount.

2) Consider a Used Engagement Rings

You would be surprised at how used engagement rings still hold exceptional quality and value for your future spouse. 

If a used engagement ring was good enough for Kate Middleton, then why not you?

Many people opt to purchase a pre-owned engagement ring and to have the diamond (the most expensive part of the ring) re-set into a new setting.  This allows you to have the perfect ring at a deep discount.   

3) Consider Buying a Used Wedding Dress

Buying a used wedding dress could save you thousands of dollars.

It is more than likely that the dress that you are looking at in the boutique is available online, pre-owned, but only worn once.

Get it cleaned, get it altered, and you have the fairytale wedding dress for a fraction of the price. You could even re-sell it after use and get all your money back.

There are a number of notable websites that offer this service, but the most popular and respected is Oncewed.com. Check out their great selection.

4) Create a Wedding Priority List

Do you create a shopping list when you go to the supermarket? Personally I don't, but my fridge regularly contains 12 red onions, 15 green peppers and a cucumber ( I don't even like cucumbers ). 

Creating a wedding priority list will help you think rationally about what is really important to you and your future spouse, and where the budget should be allocated.

If your mom really wants you to spend a fifth of the budget on flowers, then perhaps suggest a contribution. I know my guests definitely preferred food and drinks over elaborate table center pieces and flowers in the restroom.

What is actually important to you and your spouse? Creating a simple list can do wonders to your planning.

5) Utilize Your Resources 

Who can you trust to do a good job? Maybe one of your best friends is an incredible photographer and you can ask her to take pictures, or maybe your uncle can whip up a delicious cake. 

I can't emphasize enough how important it is to pick people that you can trust. Everybody has a friend who likes one too many drinks and has a history of going M.I.A. Yup, that guy. It maybe in your best interest to steer well clear of him. Ask for help, but choose your helpers wisely.

These are only five tips on how to save for your big wedding day. If you are getting married, these ideas will help you on your quest to budget your finances for the occasion.