There are more than 2 million weddings every year across America, with June being the most popular month. But many brides are on even tighter budgets this year because of the economy.

It's the time of year when thousands of brides say "I do," but this year many are saying “I don't” to extravagant weddings.

Wedding planner Lisa Chappelear Milko gives advice in magazines and on television.

"One of the biggest mistakes that couples make when planning a wedding is not setting a realistic budget for their weekend,” she said.

Joya Helmuth, owner of Spark Stationery in South Bend, says some brides are cutting costs by doing some of the pieces themselves.

"They might do their own program, and skip a menu, but then they’re going to put that money into a really nice invitation,” she explained.

Helmuth says the more time you have to plan the more money you will save.

"Whether it's shipping, or whether you rush the order, it can add a significant amount of money,” she added.

When it comes to weddings, many say it's about the location. If you are flexible when choosing the day and time, experts say you can save as much as 25 percent off the venue just by choosing a day other than Saturday night.

Milko says narrow down what wedding details are really important to you.

"Pick the top three areas of importance — like food, music, flowers — so that they can focus on those pieces of the planning and really hone in on what’s important to them, let their personalities shine through in those pieces.”

Experts say one final tip — begin bargaining on just about everything.

Click here for more money-saving ideas and advice.