With the average American wedding costing a whopping $29,334, according to a 2008 survey by www.weddingchannel.com, getting hitched can be financially crippling during tough economic times. Naturally, many engaged couples are looking for places to cut costs, experts say.

However, potentially compromising a dream wedding can be quite disappointing for the brides and their mothers."Ever since we were little, we've had this outlook of the way we think a wedding should be, based on what's on TV," Brides says. "I think they have a look they want for that day. If they're not going to get it, they're really upset about it."

Charli Penn, managing editor of www.weddingchannel.com, says that happy couples absolutely can put on a great wedding on a more limited budget, with careful research and planning."First and foremost, it's your wedding day," Penn says. "I think, overall, you want to take your time, weigh options and prioritize. ... Make sure that you are properly executing the wedding of your dreams at the least cost for you -- something you can be excited about."

Money may be tight during the recession, or any time, but experts say you still can have a decent wedding. Consider these tips.

• Trim your guest list by eliminating people in your outer circle, or eliminating the "and guest" invitation for uncoupled people.

• Consider serving only two signature cocktails rather than a wide drink menu, and two nicely prepared dishes instead of a broad    

   Food menu.

• Consider having your wedding any day other than Saturday, or during an off-season month like January, in order to save about 20 percent.

• Morning weddings are cheaper than evening weddings, not only because the venues are more likely to be open, but alcohol and food is probably minimal.

• Buy a large wedding cake with a few fake layers, or buy a small wedding cake, and back it up with a standard sheet cake.

• Look for ways to recycle flowers, which can cost $2,000 on average. Maybe you can take flowers from the ceremony and turn them into centerpieces.

• Consider using cheaper flowers like carnations and baby's breath, rather than roses.

• Look for a venue with built-in decor, like a garden, to save on decorating costs.

• Don't cut corners on the Pittsburgh Wedding Photography. Don't skimp on your wedding dress and its alterations.

Source: Charli Penn, managing editor of www.weddingchannel.com