There’s no avoiding it — weddings cost money. You can scrounge through your closet for your go-to little black dress and those shoes that kill your feet after 10 minutes, but the one thing you can’t get around is spending money on a gift. When the recession is causing the average wedding costs to drop $6,000 last year, and probably even more in 2009, brides know money’s tight. With that logic, it’s perfectly acceptable for guests to spend less when the couple is cutting back too. So after my third wedding invitation this year, I knew I had to dig up a gift that was classy, yet affordable, for my recession-friendly friends.

Are wedding bells ringing for any of you ladies (and gents) our there? Staying true to lousy economy, a group of seven New York City vendors are getting together to help you brides-to-be organize and put together a low cost wedding and reception. They’ve got the planning covered on all fronts, including catering, stationary, jewelry, photography, floral arrangements and of course, bridal couture.

The event is being held at Sweet Revenge, a tasty little bakery in the West Village (if you head down, we seriously recommend trying the cupcakes).