Merry Christmas from the Budget Savvy Bride! We hope you enjoy this sweet outdoor wedding! I love how the intimate ambience focuses the event on the couple and their love for another. Enjoy this beautiful wedding. xoxo, Jessica

Araebia + Stephen

Concord, NC | Private Garden

 June 19, 2015

What was your wedding budget? 

Our budget was less than $1k.

Dress: $200

Decorations: $200

Venue: FREE

Hair:  Free, done as a gift by a friend. {{Studio Glam – Natasha James}}

Makeup: Free, done as a gift by a friend. {{My MUA that I work with for senior photography gifted me}}

Shoes: I received my shoes as a gift. 

Accessories: Belt {{Sister  and I made it – supplies were $30}}

Earrings & Necklace: Mall Kiosk – got them on sale for 1/2 off!

Cake: Daughter made it, ingredients were less than $20. 

Bouquet: Daughter made it {{$30 Flowers from Walmart}}

How many guests did you have?

We had fewer than 25 guests.

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

My daughter and her friend made our signs, toasting glasses, bouquet, etc.  This was a 100% DIY wedding.

What was the biggest thing you did to save money?

Our photography choice kept our budget lean.  Most photographers for weddings start out at $2500 and up, but since I am a photographer along with my daughter, she took the wedding pictures and I did some of the detail shots.  

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

My dress.  I almost had to purchase a new dress because my old dress became too small, but I took it to alterations and she added a corset so that if would fit.  

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

DELEGATE!!!!  You shouldn't try to do everything on your own.  People who love you really want to help.  So, LET THEM!

What was your biggest splurge?

Our rings were our biggest splurge.

What was your favorite detail?

The photos of both deceased dads on my bouquet.

What is the most memorable moment of your day?

When my husband looked at me with those amazing eyes during our first look.  I still can't get that memory of his love out my mind. 

VENDORS

Photographer: Emmaleigh Nikole Photography • Rings: Helzberg Jewelry • Shoes: Kate Spade