Editor's note: The following is a guest post written by Colin Cowie, wedding planner and lifestyle guru. This week Colin teaches us how to cut back on the wedding budget. Every wedding has the same basic elements; it's how all the elements are utilized that can mean the difference in breaking the bank or staying within your means. Let's start with invitations and think out of the box. Check Read more

The number of "I must make this, stat!" moments I have while watching TV chefs is getting out of hand. First it was Lidia's Neapolitan mac and cheese. Then Giada's Asian chicken salad. On another weekend, I made this herbed focaccia. I've never really tried any of Sandra Lee's recipes, since I tend to associate them with ingredients like canned soups and prepackaged spice mixes that play a role Read more

We're thrilled to present this smart Business Insider story here on Savvy! Middle-income parents will spend nearly $227,000 in 17 years for children born in 2010, according to the United States Department of Agriculture. But don't let that scare you — saving for a family can actually be fun if you know what you're doing. "The most important thing to understand is that your priorities are Read more

Great ways to invest in yourself — Wise Bread 5 high-tech, low-stress, money-saving tools — Tecca 100 recipes under $1 — All You Save when you're entertaining your friends on a budget-friendly night in — Real Simple Sometimes, quitting a job is the best thing you can do for yourself — HuffPost Women What trips can teach you about money — Credit Karma Do people look down on career Read more

The five most difficult milestones for moms — The Stir Fifteen ideas for your baby's nursery — Houzz Do allowances do more harm than good? — LearnVest Jessica Simpson and Baby Buggy announce T-shirt initiative — Celebrity Baby Scoop Giggle launches all-in-one registry app for expectant moms — Celebrity Baby Blog Bath time is my new happy hour — FitPregnancy Get baby talking with Read more

We're thrilled to present this smart Business Insider story here on Savvy! Moving in together as a couple is more than deciding who gets the "good side" of the bed and finding the best spot to stash the PlayStation. Not only will you be sharing household bills and probably setting up a joint bank account, but you'll also get up close and personal with your partner's money demons for the first Read more

Save money and revamp your wardrobe all at once by hosting a clothing swap with your friends. Not only will you get a chance to clean out your closet, but you'll also be able to add new items for free. Make the event as small or as big as you'd like, and keep things fun by serving playful cocktails with simple appetizers. A few tips to make the swap run smoothly: Ask each friend to bring the Read more

After months of traveling, gift-giving, and pricey nights out, save money and score quality time with your pals by hosting a board game potluck party. Invite over a handful of friends and ask each person to bring his or her favorite board game plus a snack to share. Take care of the drinks yourself or ask guests to pitch in if things become costly. A few entertaining tips to try: Set up a table Read more