What was your budget?
We spent about $10K on our wedding.
- Venue: $650
- Catering: $5000
- Photography: $1500
- Flowers: $400
- Décor: $200
- Wedding Dress: $250
- Hair and Makeup: $250
- Groom’s Suit: $700
- Stationary Paper and Thank You’s: $300
- Rings: $450
How many guests did you have?
We had about 60 guests.
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
The most personal aspect for us was the location. We got married at the place where we first met.
The cake toper was two matching pinecones we found on a hike together near where we got married.
Did you do any DIY projects or create any handmade items for your weddings?
We made a lot of things ourselves for our wedding. It started with the invitations which we designed and printed on our own. My husband cut rounds of a log for our centerpieces and table numbers, and I hand painted wooden signs.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
The biggest thing we did to save money was buy a dress not labeled as a wedding dress. Before alterations the dress was under $100, and it seemed so much more appropriate for my personality as well as for our rustic location.
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
Think of what your family and friends can do (without stressing them out) to help you before or during the wedding. We had family putting together the favors as well as my aunt and bridesmaids arranging the floral centerpieces. My dad was in charge of the sound system while my brothers and the groomsmen strung up lights for the reception. And one of the bridesmaids even made the wedding cake! Not only did this help save a lot of money, but it was really special to have everyone come together to pitch in.
What was your biggest splurge?
Our biggest splurge was the caterer. We went with a trusted one who had experience working in the reception space. Not only did they provide delicious food but they played as a coordinator during the reception, helping the order of events proceed.
The other thing we splurged on was photography. It was so worth it in the end because now we have so many beautiful photos that bring back wonderful memories.
What was your favorite detail?
There is no way to just pick one! My favorite part was we were able to DIY so many pieces of our wedding and it all came together beautifully. My then fiancé was a skeptic and couldn’t see how it would all intertwine but he stuck with me and we were able to have a lot of quality time together building the pieces for our wedding.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
The most memorable part of the day was the speeches. It was so wonderful to be surrounded by everyone we love and care about laughing and crying together as our friends and family shared stories of our love.
VENDORS
Photography: Myke and Teri Photography • Ceremony Venue: St. Francis of the Mountains Chapel • Reception Venue: Fallen Leaf Lake Community Center • Flowers: Thran’s (bouquets) and Costco (centerpieces) • Catering and Rentals: The Cork and More • Hair Stylist/Makeup Artist: Salon Be (Katie White) • Bridesmaids Dresses: J Crew • Wedding Gown: Lulu’s • Shoes: B.A.I.T. • Groom’s Suit: Hugo Boss • Groomsmen Suits: Jim’s Formal Wear via Sidestreet Boutique • Men’s Shoes: Vans
