BOSTON -- Weddings are supposed to be a recession-proof business -- the theory that eternal love outweighs eternal debt.

But these days, many local brides are saying, "How Much?" before they say, "I do." The nuptial reality check is making wedding retailers feel like they're getting left at the financial altar.

VIDEO: Wedding Retailers Feel Economic Pinch

Brides are still dreaming of their big day, but when it comes to planning a wedding in a downward economy, some brides are dreaming smaller. Those smaller dreams are hitting wedding retailers hard.

Alicia Williams, of Cordele Photography, has a stunning portfolio of weddings she has shot. She said that her business is off about 60 percent.

"I think it's the recession. I think the fact that cameras are so cheap and now friends and family are shooting the weddings," she said.

For those brides who still want the quality of a professional photographer, Williams said that she is seeing a more frugal approach.

"Two years ago spending roughly $3,500 and $4,600, and now I'm finding spending anywhere from $1,500 to $3,200," Williams said.

This bridal frugality is echoing all over the industry. At Feeney's Florist in Chelmsford, brides are selecting fewer, less expensive flowers. The wedding word now is downscale.

"It would be easier in the $900 range for even a moderate wedding, and now we're seeing more in the $500 to $600 range, so people are definitely cutting back," said Ann Pelley, of Fenney The Florist.

Brides still want to look like a million dollars when they walk down the aisle. But even here the head now seems to lead the heart.

"They're looking at the economics. They're looking at the tags. The mothers come in, and they look at the sale gowns first, while the daughters are still hunting through the full-price gowns," said Kelley Jenkins, of Confetti and Lace Bridal.

One way brides are cutting back is by having fewer bridesmaids.

Williams said that she started shooting weddings in Miami to make up for the shortfall in Massachusetts.