Here you are the happy couple; you've made the decision to get married, you've set the date and then suddenly comes that splash of cold, hard reality -- you need money! Your first impulse is to try the bank of Mom and Dad. But with the cost of living today, they may not be able to offer too much in the way of financial assistance. What should you do?

The first thing you shouldn't do according to Mountain View, California-based CPA Lisa Drake, is look to your credit cards, Lisa says, "Don't go into debt for your wedding. Newlyweds need the added pressures of money problems like they need that third crock-pot." She added that couples get caught up in the moment and get carried away. It's better to keep your feet on the ground and plan a wedding that fits your lifestyle. Use your creativity and find unique ways to put together your big day. Lisa used an example of a potluck wedding she was invited to. "Everyone was asked to bring a dish to the reception. People made beautiful dishes. Having a potluck reception didn't take away one bit from the beauty and elegance of the event. You have to think outside the box."

However, if you don't have that creative spark, how about using the old fashioned concept of saving for your wedding? Of course, with modern savings vehicles, that can take more than one form. You can open a traditional savings account, but you don't have to go to a bricks and mortar establishment to do it. Online banks like ING Direct let you open an account online with no minimums, no fees and 3.30% annual percentage yield.

Certificates of Deposit (CDs) can offer another savings alternative. You can find both long and short-term CDs that offer good rates for as little as a $500.00 deposit. If you received cash as gifts at your engagement party or bridal shower, you might want to consider investing it in a CD. A good place to comparison shop for rates is on the Bankrate.com web site http://www.bankrate.com

Lisa suggested that if you own a home, consider taking out a home equity loan to finance your wedding because you can write off the interest on your income taxes. The only caveat she had about this option is that be sure you don't look at it as a license for an extravaganza. You still have to realize that you are going into debt, so borrow with care.

If you need some creative financing strategies, Lisa recommends that you find a good financial planner because their business is all about making money grow. Ask friends and co-workers for recommendations. Another place to look is online. Every state has its own professional association for CPAs and many CPAs are also certified financial planners. Make a list of a few, call for appointments and interview them to be sure that there's a personality fit. Lisa sums it up this way, "Talking to a CPA is like letting somebody go through your lingerie draw. Money is a very personal matter. You have to be sure that you are comfortable entrusting this person with your money."