What was your budget?
Our budget was $10,000
- Photography: $2500
- Dress: $1000
- Catering: $1000
- Cake: Groom’s mother made
- Favors: $50
- Venue: $2500
- Flowers: $350
- Decor: $100
- Groom’s attire: $275
- Music: $200.00
How many guests did you have?
We had about 100 guests at our wedding.
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
Our theme was “I Choose You”, since we had a long-distance relationship. We kept the attire semi-formal because the bride is from the city. We decorated with sheet music from our favorite songs, and pictures of our relationship. We used a Polaroid camera for the guest book.
Did you do any DIY projects or create any handmade items for your weddings?
The groom made the centerpieces for the tables. His mother made our country-style wedding cake. We made our own wedding favors by printing stickers with our names and affixing them to Hershey’s Kisses. We did our own invitations with Michael’s Invitation Kits, and our own Save-the-Dates through Sam’s Club.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
We utilized the help of family and friends, as well as discounts from the venue, because we were married on a Friday. We chose a morning wedding to save on the cost of food. We kept our guest list under 200 people.
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
Start early. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. And do not be too picky. Everything will come together beautifully.
What was your biggest splurge?
Our biggest splurge was the venue and photos. We really wanted to have great pictures of our wedding. Despite splurging on the venue, it was one of the most inexpensive places we found.
What was your favorite detail?
The groom’s favorite detail was the Polaroid guest book. The bride’s favorite detail was the centerpieces.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
The grooms’ most memorable moment was being introduced as Mr. and Mrs. David Ryan.
The bride’s most memorable moment was seeing the groom for the first time at the church.
VENDORS
Photography: Capture Create Studios • Ceremony Venue: St. Peter & St. Paul Catholic Church • Reception Venue: Hidden Oaks Retreat Center • Flowers: Orange County Wholesale Flowers • Stationery: Michael’s Invitation Kits • Catering: Family • Bakery: DIY • DJ: Giovanna Bellocci (no website) • Hair Stylist: Kellee Schlim • Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie • Bridal Shop: Deborah’s Bridal • Jewelry: Divine Jewel • Veil: Bella Tiara LLC • Shoes: Nina • Groom and Groomsmen Suit: Ferrecci • Ties: Wedding Tux
