Flowers, entertainment, photos, food, dresses, rings, honeymoons. The list of wedding must-haves goes on and on. With everything costing more these days, including gas to travel, couples planning a grand event can expect grand expenses.

With that in mind, Phyllis James, owner of The Mitchell House and Gardens, has decided to offer one lucky couple a golden opportunity.

In December, the Lexington venue will host, free of charge, a wedding for 75 guests, including a catered reception, entertainment, a wedding cake, photography and much more.

The names of the lucky winners of the giveaway wedding will be drawn Thursday. To enter to win, couples must first tour The Mitchell House. Entries will be accepted until noon Wednesday.

During tough economic times, couples tying the knot increasingly tie themselves to debt.

The average wedding cost in 2008 is running about $28,704, according to weddingreport.com, an online wedding statistic database. That’s nearly a down payment on a $150,000 home. But who can put a price on love?

Still, weddings are expensive.

“Because of difficult economic times, we had a couple of brides who delayed their weddings,” James said.

The venue hosts an average of 150 nuptials a year, according to James, and has experienced a “slight” downturn in its business.

“People are going to get married, but people are looking at reducing other costs like flowers and invitations,” James said.

For more information or to arrange a tour, call (803) 359-5325.

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