Did you do any DIY Projects or create any handmade items for your wedding?
We did! We DIY’ed the invitation suite and printed through Canva, and addressed envelopes using my printer at home. I also designed all signage myself on Canva and printed either at my in-home printer or printed larger posters at Walgreens (always wait for a coupon!). If signage is going into a frame, the paper doesn’t matter.
I made notes for each person’s seat and those I printed on a thicker stock paper that I got at Staples. We had a wedding weekend – our wedding was on a Friday, and Saturday we paid for everyone’s admission to the Saratoga Race Track. I made koozies with my Cricut as favors for that day.
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
Handwritten notes to the bridal parties and parents for them to read the night before.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
Finally marrying my best friend! Once the music started we never left the dance floor, and it’s our favorite thing to do together – dance!
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
Our rehearsal dinner wasn’t fancy; it was at a small local brewery where we gave them a bar tab quota, and the food was catered from a local BBQ restaurant. I don’t understand the hype around spending thousands on the rehearsal – whoever remembers the rehearsal? Just feed people and enjoy each other’s company!
What was your biggest splurge?
The videographer was our biggest splurge! It was worth it; I can’t wait to watch our wedding video with our kids one day!
Wedding dress alterations as well – the alterations cost almost as much as the dress!
What was your favorite detail?
I didn’t show anyone besides my mom and sister my wedding dress, so I was able to do a first look with my bridesmaids and it was so special!
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
No one cares more about your wedding than you, if you don’t care about it don’t feel pressured to do it from outside recommendations. Favors are a waste of money, don’t upgrade to more desserts or extra late-night food – it’s hardly ever eaten!
