Robinscakes, unfortunately, it's not a sign of the times - I've been doing this for a long time, and nine times out of ten, brides come in and the first thing out of their mouths is "on a budget" or "want to keep it simple." Then, the second thing they do is pull out a clipping from a trendy magazine of the designer cake they want - definitely NOT simple or budget conscious! 
Every bride I've had a consultation with this year has said that she's "on a budget" or "wants to keep it simple."
And yes, I really have had this conversation with more than one bride.....
Bride: I'm on a budget.
Debi: That makes you a normal bride. Funny, but I've never had a bride come in and tell me, "Price is no issue! The sky's the limit!" I'm still waiting for her ... but I doubt she'll walk in any time soon!"
Then we all laugh and start talking cake.
I tell them how much it costs, they have to decide if they can afford it or not. If they can't then they are free to go elsewhere. Sorry if it sounds snarky but that's just how it is. I was on a budget when we bought our house too. Just meant I had to look in my price range.
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