DIY Weddings

We all know how outrageous prices are for wedding day perfection.  There are some areas that should be splurged on to guarantee great results, and others that should not.  I recommend spending the big bucks on those that will make or break the wedding such as the DJ, photographer, hall, and videographer.  Getting exactly what you want (even if it means spending more than you hoped to) will bring satisfaction before, during and after the wedding.  When it comes to indulging on those areas, there are other areas that are definitely overrated and over-priced. 

After viewing options and pricing online, I've determined that invitations, programs, flowers, and even attire are marked up way more than needed.  I refuse to spend $400 on invitations that will eventually end up in the trash, so I'm making my own!  I found some invites online that I liked, and decided to try to mimic that style.  The result?  I was able to assemble my own for less than $.75 per invite!  And they still look awesome!  This is how I assembled them:  I have one 12x12 piece of zebra scrapbooking paper and cut it in half.  Using white card stock, I can print two invites on one sheet (Office Max or an equivalent store will print them) and then paste them to the zebra paper, in which the zebra print becomes the border.  I purchased a roll of organza ribbon and tied it around the invitation & viola! the simple & cute invitation.  The RSVP cards will be a simple postcard (because it saves an envelope & postage is cheaper!).  All of these designs can be created on Microsoft Word, and Avery has many templates and perforated paper that can be purchased.

I am also creating my own programs and escort cards (both designed on word, again using Avery templates).  The programs will be two sheets (cut down to size) of cardstock, with a popsicle stick inserted in between the papers so that it doubles as a fan (wedding in July in un-air conditioned church= HOT!).  I have also decided to make my own card box for the reception, rather than spending $40+ for it.  Instead of flowers at the ceremony (other than around the unity candle), I will purchase a roll of tulle and create my own bows to hang on the pews.  Super easy and super cheap!

Last but not least, the attire.  For the men, we are looking to purchase suits after we find a store that is running a buy one get one free sale.  This will save the boys a lot of money, and then they get to keep their suits!  For the females, since everyone paid up front for their dresses, they got a 15% discount.  I am not picky, so they can wear whatever jewelry they choose, and I found shoes that come in an array of styles for under $25.  For my own accessories, I found a bridal outlet store that sells used items.  I got both my veil and head piece for $130 total.  I received my bracelet for free for hosting a Lia Sophia jewelry party (thanks Abby!), and am waiting for the earrings I want to go on sale.  The best deal of all?  I went to Atlas bridal in the summer while they were running a $99 sale.  That's right, I purchased my wedding gown as a sample for $99!  The original price?  $1300!  Talk about the deal of the century!  I am living proof that shopping around and having patience definitely pay off, and will keep preaching it!  Not a creative person?  Check out YouTube and google for ideas- they have tons!