"It was the most beautiful wedding I've ever been to - and it was mine! :)"
How I did it: I knew from the beginning that I had a very small budget to work with, and I also had a very clear idea of what I wanted. Having been to a number of weddings, I also knew what I DIDN'T want. I decided to plan everything the way my fiance and I wanted it, and not to worry about what other people would think.
I did a lot of online research to find vendors and ideas, made a lot of notes, bought an awesome wedding planning book (The Anti-Bride's Wedding Planner) which took away all the "stuffy" aspects and focused on making it "my" day, and went from there. I did everything myself, rather than having a wedding planner, mostly due to budget, and also my wacky individual tastes.
Lessons & tips: Don't let the stress ruin it for you. I had my location fall through a week before the wedding, but even so, we made it work and it was even better than it would have been otherwise. Go with the flow, don't worry about other people too much, and don't get tangled up in "bridesmaid drama" (it happens to everyone).
And don't EVER make your own bridesmaids' dresses!
Resources: The internet was immensely helpful for finding vendors and products, and even browsing ideas for cakes. Ebay is also your friend. I found my dream wedding dress (a designer gown by Pronovias) that I've wanted since I was 13 years old for a price so low I won't even say it here. And it was in great condition.
My favorite vendors were (I got married in Maryland):
Sterling Caterers of Baltimore (they were able to stay within my budget, provided fabulous food and great service, and even helped decorate tables)
K Florist (nicest people you'll ever meet, and their arrangements are amazing. And they even recommended that I not buy my cake flowers and table arrangements from them, since I could get roses cheaper at Safeway - you know they want the best when it's not all about profits).
Ricky Chung Photography (I can't say enough about this amazing brother-sister team. And everything is of the highest quality).
St. John's Jewelers (They did both my engagement ring and our wedding bands. They really take the time to help you find just what you're looking for, and they don't pressure you to spend more than you can afford.)
The American Wedding (I got my invitations, response cards, and envelopes here, and spent less than those "do it yourself" kits. And they were gorgeous. Also very good customer service.)
Keely's Hair Salon, and my cousin Megan (Megan did my gorgeous hair color at her salon, and then did all the styling and makeup for me and the wedding party the day of - all while also being a bridesmaid. Fantastic.)
Looks salon in Columbia (Kelly gives the best Brazilian wax, with a great bedside manner. I'll never use anyone else if I don't have to.)
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Nov 23, 01:37PM PST
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