I'm planning a wedding for Aug 2008, am a student, and have a full time job~ so I understand!
My best advise is to start now! The earlier you start, the more options you will have, and you will also have more time to find better deals. A wedding on a budget doesn't have to be bland. You can save money by looking for dresses on sale racks, only buying in season flowers and getting creative with center pieces!
If you get on
Weddings and wedding planning! Wedding dresses, engagement rings, wedding cakes and more., they are always sending out emails about sales, and even give you the option to save on invitations by sending them out electronically, allowing guests to RSVP that way,:) and even letting you set up your own web page. They also give you fun hints and more tips. The web is a great tool!
Finding a venue that lets you bring in your own food allowes you to get less expensive catering, and creative decorating can also cut down on cost (use your christmas tree lights instead of purchasing new).
Take your time, plan ahead, and you'll be just fine. And remember that when the day is done, the people aren't going to rember the center pieces, the music or the food- they are there to celebrate you!