We’re going internationl with today’s budget-savvy wedding, and it is an absolute treat! Ariel and Adrian wed in Norway in a small ceremony with their family and friends. I love how they wanted to incorporate the Norwegian concept of “koselig” into their wedding through the intimate, candlelit setting. They had potluck style wedding reception, which is not only budget-savvy but also creates a casual, comfortable environment for the guests. xoxo, Jessica

getting ready first look family wedding photos Norway wedding lace wedding dress white and silver broach bouquet front porch wedding photos bridal make up Candlelit Norwegian Wedding_0016 wedding processional wedding ceremony first kiss hugging guests after wedding groom details red barn wedding photos candlelit wedding reception wedding reception place setting intimate wedding reception pitch in wedding reception wedding cake wedding reception music wedding reception toasts wedding reception fun candlelit reception

Ariel + Adrian

March 5, 2015

Grimstad, Norway | Molland Forsamlingshus

What was your wedding budget?

Wedding Budget: $8,000

Venue: $500

Alcohol: $1,500

Rings/Clothes: $4,000

Photos: $1,000

Misc/Decorations: $1,000

How many guests did you have?

Wedding Party: 13

Reception: 60

Coffee & Cake: 75

What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?

I really wanted a simple wedding, and in Norway there is a word “Koselig” its kind of cozy, but so much more than that, That’s the vibe we went for. Very intimate dinner party decor, with candlelight.

What was the biggest thing you did to save money?

Potluck! Our dinner guests brought a dish and a dessert!

What was the biggest sacrifice you made to stay on budget?

I really wanted a Photo Booth but that is not a big thing here in Norway so the price was ridiculous. My husband and his best man ended up getting things together and making ones themselves.

What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?

Start early! Time flies and it is a lot to prepare. Simple and person items are what you’ll remember most. Don’t stress over silly things like plates and napkins.

What was your biggest splurge?

Alcohol, it’s quite expensive here and we wanted an open bar for the last half of the evening. Everyone worked hard to put our wedding together. It was important to give them a treat to unwind.

What was your favorite detail?

I’m not sure if this qualifies as a detail….I would say the table setting. I showed a friend one picture and left her in charge when I showed up I was blown away! I especially loved how much effort they put into it.

What is the most memorable moment of your day?

Besides getting married to my best friend, the video my sister made of my family and friends back home in Hawaii who were not able to make the wedding. It was a surprise that had me in tears.