What was your budget?
Budget: $20,000
- Venue, Food & Bar: $12,000
- Photographer: $1,500
- DJ: $2,100
- Gifts, Décor, Favors: $500
- Flowers: $350
- Attire: $2,250
- Cake: $350
- Day-of grooming: $250
- Transportation: $700
How many guests did you have?
We had 111 guests (104 adults, 7 kids/babies)
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
We had homemade edible wedding favors. We authored our vows and the groom’s grandmother officiated the wedding. Also, we had all local vendors to Jersey City or New York City.
Did you do any DIY projects or create any handmade items for your weddings?
We baked and packaged wedding favors. We also designed candle-lit ceremony backdrop.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
We hosted the wedding on a Sunday evening
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
Work together on decisions and split tasks between bride/groom-to-be.
What was your biggest splurge?
The biggest splurge was our attire.
What was your favorite detail?
Bride: I loved having all of our out-of-town guests (at least 90% out of state) to our current hometown.
Groom: Having my grandmother perform the ceremony was my favorite detail.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
Groom: The first look
Bride: Putting his ring on the right hand, then fixing and the joy and laughter that resulted
VENDORS
Photography: Lush Life Photography •All-inclusive Venue: TALDE Jersey City • Flowers: Brennan’s Florist • Stationery: Vistaprint • Bakery: Torico Ice Cream • DJ: Car Stereo Wars (Chris Rose) • Transportation: Classic 1 Limo • Hair and Makeup: InStyle Hair Salon • Groom’s Grooming: Virile Barber Shop • Groom’s Tailor: Decarlos Bespoke • Welcoming Event Location (Saturday): Taphaus Beirgarten • Bridesmaids Dresses: Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s • Bridal Shop: Saja • Jewelry: Nordstroms • Groom’s Suit/Tux: Bonobos • Ties: Macy’s • Men’s Shoes: Johnston & Murphy