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Picture Perfect Colorful California Elopement

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Eric and Amy had a gorgeous intimate elopement. As a photographer herself, Amy was most passionate about getting photos she would love. From their custom attire choices to their photo props and the stunning natural backdrop they pulled of a picture perfect elopement.

Eric + Amy

Mendocino, California
- 09/27/2019
Total wedding budget $12,000

Budget Breakdown

Below is an estimated wedding budget breakdown provided by the couple.

  • Catering
    8%
    $1000
  • Cake/Dessert
    2%
    $250
  • Flowers
    2%
    $250
  • Photography
    29%
    $3500
  • Partner 1 Attire
    42%
    $5000
  • Partner 2 Attire
    8%
    $1000
  • Venue
    8%
    $998
  • Total wedding budget
    $12000

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

I custom-designed my own wedding gown. We brought props for our photography. We designed our wedding cake & chose our own color theme & flowers. I wore boots instead of traditional wedding shoes. I also wore a bridal cape veil & I had a Victorian bustle sewn into my champagne-colored lace gown. These simple choices made my bridal look more unique. Last but not least, we wrote our own wedding vows.

Did you do any DIY projects or create any handmade items for your weddings?

We had a handmade sign made for us by a friend & we also bought a “We Eloped” banner off of Etsy.

Also, I worked out an agreement with my photographer (because I’m also a photographer) to edit my own photos. For this reason, my images have a different editing style than how my photographer typically edits her images. Therefore my wedding photos are a collaboration between her & I!

What was the biggest thing you did to save money?

We eloped! 🙂

What was most important to you two? Was there anything you chose to splurge on or skip?

My custom wedding gown.

What was your favorite detail?

My cape veil really complimented my wedding dress & completed my look.

What is the most memorable moment of your day?

When we exchanged our vows!

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

Give yourself at least a year to plan and don’t sweat the small stuff. Enjoy the planning process. Also, keep a planner with all of your information in one place. Try to be “in the moment” once your big day arrives because it will be over before you know it & you’ll wish you could do it all over again!<3


Vendor Credits