What was your budget?
Our budget was about $18K.
- Photography: $2,000
- Dress: $1,200
- Catering (provided by the venue): $5,350
- Cake: Did cupcakes, $200
- Favors: $150
- Venue: $1,000
- Flowers: $400
- Decor: $500
- Groom’s attire: $200
- Music: $600
- Limo: $550
- Midnight charter bus: $350
- Alcohol: $4,100 including a cocktail hour
- Justice of the piece: $300
- Invitations: $600
- Videographer: $400
How many guests did you have?
We had 115 including the wedding party.
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
My brother played live acoustic music during the cocktail hour. Mother-of-the-bride made all bridesmaids dresses, table runners, table cloths and chair bows.
Did you do any DIY projects or create any handmade items for your weddings?
We had several! We created our backdrop, centerpieces (painted wine bottles on wooden slabs with gold glitter mason jars), cupcake stands and wedding gifts for her bridesmaids.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
We did a lot of DIY decorations helped to avoid hiring a decorator. Knowing the DJ and hair/makeup provider, they gave us discount which helped decrease the cost. We also researched what’s available and shopped around for the best price.
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
Don’t stress over the little things. Don’t be afraid to shop around and barter. Don’t cheap out on your photographer; take time to search the market because photos are what you’ll look back on and cherish.
What was your biggest splurge?
The bride’s dress!
What was your favorite detail?
Groom: My brother playing live acoustic music during the cocktail hour.
Bride: All of the DIY details
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
Saying our vows to each other!
VENDORS
Photography: Terry Richard’s Photography • Venue + Catering: Pine Knot Golf & Country Club • Flowers: Harris Flower Farm (brides bouquet and flower crown) + Floral express Inc. (centerpieces and bridesmaids bouquets) • Videography: Brayden Wagenaar – NHB Productions • Bakery: Let’s Eat Cake (no website) • DJ: Double Dutch DJ Services • Lighting: Double Dutch DJ Services • Transportation: Dorchester Limousine of Robert Q • Hair Stylist and Makeup Artist: Teased Bridal • Wedding Gown Designer: Maggie Sottero • Bridal Shop: Nicholas & Elizabeth Bridal • Groom and Groomsmen Suit: Collins Formal Wear
