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Everything You Need To Know About Wedding Websites

July 18, 2022 | kailey

Image by Rolling Portraits. Keep reading on for everything you need to know about wedding websites

The wedding world is constantly evolving. And wedding websites are a new-to-the-scene tool that can make your planning process a breeze. Imagine having an online platform that stores all your event information in one place that your guests can revisit, even if they’ve lost the physical invitations (we’ve all been there!). Creating a wedding website makes that possible. 

You can use it as a space to share your wedding day itinerary, link to your registry, or even just show off your epic engagement photos taken by your top-notch photographer. No matter what your reasoning for creating it might be, it’s a Junebug-approved tool you’ll want to consider. But where do you even begin? From what host to use to what information you should include, here’s everything you need to know about creating a wedding website. 

Image by Dani Purington.

Benefits Of Having A Wedding Website

Although physical wedding invitations will always hold a special place in our hearts, some couples might find wedding websites an easier and cheaper alternative. Instead of investing money in sending out physical save-the-dates, your wedding website can act as your invitation—and then some. But that’s not the only benefit. 

After the pandemic, we quickly realized that big changes can happen overnight. This is true when it comes to your wedding day plans as well. And when planning your big day, it’s important to expect the unexpected. That’s where having a wedding website becomes a helpful wedding planning tool. It allows you to quickly communicate any changes or important information to all your guests. 

What To Include On Your Wedding Website

1. Your Love Story

Your wedding day is all about celebrating your love. That’s why the first thing you should add to your wedding website is your love story. Where did you meet? When did you meet? Your guests will undoubtedly enjoy reading all the monumental moments that led to this big moment. Remember, there is no limit to what you can include, so divulge as much as you’d like about your love story. Extra points if you add pictures. 

2. Event Itinerary 

After sharing your love story, it’s time to get to business—your wedding day itinerary. You’ll want to be as detailed as possible, leaving no room for confusion or follow-up questions. Include addresses for each location and start times for your ceremony, reception, and any other events (like a cocktail hour) that you’ve fit into your timeline. 

The best part? Your guests can revisit this information electronically on your wedding day. This will make for smoother transitions and leave no room for confusion. 

Image by Elle Studios.

3. An Online RSVP Option

Gone are the days guests have to formally mail in their RSVP cards. It’s now as easy as hitting a button. Sure, this process is easier for your guests, but for you as well. It’s just another thing you can cross off your “to-do” list. Plus, spending less time worrying about keeping track of RSVPs means more time spent on fun details like planning your wedding decor. 

4. Include Your Registry Details

The beauty of creating a wedding planning website is that all of your information is in one place—your wedding registry included. It allows your guests choosing to bring a gift to shop on their own time, without having to ask for the link. 

Need help creating a unique registry to include on your wedding website? Check out these top registry ideas that you probably haven’t heard of yet. 

5. Introduce Wedding Party 

Your website is the perfect spot to give your guests a little introduction to the wedding party. That is if you’ve chosen to include a wedding party. Include pictures and a little biography for the bridesmaids, groomsmen, and any others that’ll play a vital role on your big day. In their bio, include fun facts about them, how you met, and of course, some photos so guests can place a name to the face.

6. Dress Code Details

Whether you’re hosting a black-tie affair or a casual backyard celebration, it’s important to prep your guests. While there is a small space to include dress code information on paper wedding invitations, wedding websites allow you to go more in-depth. Finding the perfect wedding guest outfit can be difficult. So trust us when we say, the more information you can give your guests, the better. 

7. Transportation and Lodging

This section is especially critical if you’re planning a destination wedding or have guests coming in from out of town. If your guests are unfamiliar with the area, consider including travel recommendations like which airports are closest, as well as transportation options. It’s also helpful to include hotel recommendations near your wedding venue. 

If you’ve arranged a hotel block for your wedding party and guests, this is a great place to include the booking information and pricing logistics. 

Image by Staci Brucks.

The Top Wedding Websites To Use

With endless wedding website options, it can be difficult to differentiate them all. Here are a few of our favorites to kickstart your search: 

Need some more ideas? Check out the eight best wedding websites that every couple should know. 

How To Share Your Wedding Website 

Your wedding website is officially complete—congrats! Now it’s time to send it out to your loved ones. If you’ve chosen to send out physical invitations, add your link to your paper invite. But the easiest and cheapest (aka free) way to share your website is to share the link on social media. 

If you and your significant other will be sharing this link on your social platforms, consider adding a password to your website. This will make it accessible to only those invited to your celebration. 

For couples wanting both formal invitations and a wedding website, you can have the best of both worlds. After you complete your registry and website, it’s time to start crafting your save the dates. Get started by checking out these unique save the dates worthy of announcing your upcoming celebration.  

Image by Jordan Voth.

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Dazzling Boho Death Valley Elopement Inspiration

July 13, 2022 | justine

A jaw-dropping desert valley landscape, warm sunset-inspired florals, combined with a whimsical and carefree vibe—this Death Valley elopement will have modern couples feeling inspired. Dreamt up by Hotzel Photography and a creative team of vendors, this styled shoot showcases the beauty of having an intimate, authentic, and intentional celebration with only Mother Nature as witness.

With the iconic sand dunes as a backdrop, it was the perfect setting for a private vow exchange and a romantic sweetheart table for two. And it wasn’t just the views that were gorgeous that day. Channeling a laid-back style, the groom rocked a fleece-lined jacket and bolo tie. While the bride embodied the picture-perfect boho look in her lace dress with butterfly sleeves, boots, and a fedora.

The sandy mountain peaks, dramatic canyons, and colorful rock formations—everything about this Death Valley elopement inspiration was nothing short of incredible. If you and your partner are on the fence about planning an adventure elopement in a beautiful secluded location, let this be your sign. These dreamy photos are guaranteed to inspire you.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Hotzel Photography
Ceremony Venue – Death Valley
Floral Design – Wild Fleur Design & Co
Invitation Design – MeghanKatie Co. + SunLoveCo
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Tracy Shelor Artistry
Wedding Dress – Rue De Seine Wedding Dresses
Wedding Dress + Veil Rental Shop – JJP Dress Rentals
Boots – Medel Boots & Co
Jewelry – Motoqua Road
Rentals – “I Do” Rentals
Models – Banks + Kevin Lee

 

Big thanks to the talented team of vendors for putting together this dazzling boho Death Valley elopement. And, of course, shoutout to Hotzel Photography for capturing all the details that’ll have adventurous wedding planning couples dreaming of an elopement. 

Elopements have continued to grow in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. The sense of intimacy, romance, and sharing a once-in-a-lifetime experience with your soulmate are unmatched. From remote desert cliffs to snow-capped mountains, let our list of prettiest national parks inspire you to showcase your love through a unique adventure!

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7 Celestial Wedding Ideas to Leave Your Guests Starry-Eyed

July 10, 2022 | riley

Image by Love to the Core Photo. Keep scrolling to see our favorite celestial wedding ideas

If your love is written in the stars, then boy, do we have a theme for you. Think of a dark, moody color palette, decor that will have you starry-eyed, and otherworldly accessories. If you’re loving the celestial wedding theme but you’re unsure how to pull it off, you’re in luck because you don’t need a telescope to see these ideas. We’ve rounded up our most out-of-this-world celestial wedding ideas to help you bring one of the most popular wedding trends to life. From face glitter to cosmic seating charts, keep scrolling to see how you can pull off the astronomical aesthetic for your special day.

Celestial Wedding Ideas

1. Invitations

Let your star-themed nuptials shine from the very get-go with these space-inspired invitations. You can incorporate your and your future spouse’s zodiac signs and birth charts or go with a more realistic approach and opt for galaxy patterns.

Shop celestial invitations: Bohemian Full Moon Wedding Invite; Under Starry Night Sky Wedding Invitation Suite; Constellation Stars Wedding Invitation; Moon & Stars Wedding Invitation; Till Death Do Us Part Tarot Sun And Moon Wedding Invite

2. Wooden Moons

From ceremony backdrops to seating charts to chair decor, there are multiple different ways you can incorporate wooden moons into your decor. Like more than one? Incorporate them all. It’s your big day, after all.

3. Accessories

Your wedding fashion doesn’t stop at clothing. Once you have your dream attire picked out, it’s important to accessorize. From earrings to hair accessories to customized jackets that will keep you warm on cooler nights, these will have you looking wedding-ready while also being on theme.

Earrings

Shop similar earrings:

Hair Accessories

Image by Rubi Z Photo

Shop hair accessories:

Jackets

Shop celestial bridal jackets: To The Moon & Back Celestial Biker Jacket; Celestial Zodiac Star Constellation Biker Jacket; Aurora Bespoke Bridal Denim Jacket; My Sun, My Moon, And All My Stars Bridal Jacket; Personalized Black Denim Bridal Jacket

Headbands

Shop celestial headbands: Celestial Star Headband; Crystal Star Headband; Starburst Halo Crown; Gold Star Crystal Headpiece; Bridal Goddess Halo Crown; Silver Star Halo Crown Tiara

4. Cake

The best part about hosting a celestial wedding is the freedom that it gives you with your wedding cake. Opt for a black cake to fit in with the space vibes, add constellations with gold paint, or keep it simple and incorporate a celestial-inspired cake topper.

Shop celestial cake toppers: Moon and Stars Cake Topper; I Love You to the Moon and Back Cake Topper; Gold/Silver Leaf Moon Wedding Cake Topper; Written In The Stars Cake Topper; Moon of My Life, My Sun, and My Stars Cake Topper

5. Makeup

For those who aren’t afraid to stand out and break the traditional mold one might expect to find at a wedding, consider tying the theme in with your makeup. Think of a lot of silver or gold glitter and stars.

Shop face glitter:

6. Hanging Decor

There’s something about hanging stars above a reception dinner that makes you feel as if you’ve been transported into another world. Not to mention the fact that the lanterns double as beautiful decor and lighting. Bonus: you can repurpose the glass lanterns in your own home or backyard once the wedding is over.

Shop hanging decor: Handmade Glass Moroccan Glass Star Lantern; Solid White Stars Cut-Out Paper Star Chinese Lantern; Moravian Star Folding Paper Lantern; Nine Point Origami Lantern

7. Signage

There is so much signage that goes into a wedding–welcome signs, bar menus, programs, seating charts, and more. Because this is pretty much everywhere you look, it’s by far the easiest way to incorporate the celestial theme into your special day.

Welcome Sign

Image by Gretchen Gause

Shop celestial welcome signs: Minimal Celestial Welcome Sign; Watercolor Zodiac Constellation Welcome Sign; Tarot Celestial Welcome Sign; Starry Night Wedding Welcome Sign

Seating Charts

Shop celestial seating charts: Moon and Stars Wedding Table Plan; Minimal Celestial Seating Chart; Celestial Zodiac Seating Plan; Modern Arched Celestial Seating Plan; Celeste Arched Boho Seating Chart

Table Numbers

Shop celestial table numbers: Navy & Gold Celestial Table Numbers; Art Deco Foiled Astrology Table Numbers; Starry Night Table Numbers; Moon and Stars Table Numbers

Place cards

Shop celestial place cards: Acrylic Moon Place Card; Moon Shaped Gold Foil Place Card; Starry Night Celestial Place Card; Minimalist Celestial Place Card; Gold/Silver Leaf Moon and Star Wedding Place Cards

If you’re having a hard time envisioning how you can tie these celestial wedding ideas into your special day, check out these five steps for making a wedding mood board. Creating a visual guide can help you visually explain what you’re hoping for so your talented vendor team can bring the vision to life!

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Incredibly Vibrant Botanical Garden Wedding

June 26, 2022 | justine

Anabelle and Alexander’s love story was 12 years in the making. Because life had other plans, the couple tied the knot in an intimate ceremony in the middle of the pandemic. So having a sequel wedding–this time with their loved ones–was something they looked forward to. And with the help of the Events by Denise, the pair was able to bring to life a celebration full of personality that perfectly complemented the natural beauty of their botanical garden wedding venue. 

A 19th-century estate with hacienda-inspired architecture and lush gardens, a vibrant color palette, and spectacular floral displays—everything about their big day at Rancho Las Lomas was beyond romantic and magical. Nestled under ancient oak and sycamore trees, the couple said their “I dos” under the marble theater. The same space was flipped for the reception, and the repurposed floral arch drew the attention to the show-stopping pressed flower cake by Grace & Honey. 

You may think the dreamy aesthetic can’t be topped, but the couple still managed to surprise their guests with their stunning attire. The groom rocked a teal suit paired with a pink tie for the ceremony while the bride glowed in her deep-V wedding dress. The pair then changed into gold Cambodian ensembles fit for royalty. Scroll through to see every incredible detail beautifully captured by Junebug member Julie Pepin. This gorgeous botanical garden wedding is full of inspiration you’re going to want to share with your talented team of vendors.

The Couple:

Anabelle and Alexander

The Wedding:

Rancho Las Lomas, Silverado, California, United States

Why A Botanical Garden Wedding

We loved how diverse Rancho Las Lomas was. It was spacious with beautiful architecture and luscious greenery. When we first visited the venue in person, it felt like an adventure going through the space and discovering wonderful pockets throughout the venue.

Personalizing The Ceremony By Having The Groom’s Brother Officiate And Writing Their Own Vows

We had Alex’s younger brother Eli as the officiant as we found him to be the most fitting to lead such a special ceremony. He has a calming and compassionate presence and, of course, has seen our relationship grow for over a decade of being together. During the pandemic, we also did a civil ceremony a year prior, so we decided to save our vows for our wedding celebration when all of our family and friends would surround us.

They Picked Their Wedding Date Based On Junebug Member Julie Pepin’s Availability

It was tough to postpone our wedding, but the main upsides were to have it at a safer time with an abundance of loved ones and to book Julie for our new date. We are huge fans of Julie’s work and were super excited to have her capture our day in what we knew would be a very special way.

Setting Expectations With Vendors And Letting Go Of The Little Things That Don’t Go According To Planned

Although the month before the wedding feels particularly hectic, I think going the extra mile to ensure everything is communicated correctly to vendors helps. We recommend dropping an email with concise reminders of your requests for a specific vendor. Conversations with vendors about your vision are made well in advance, so a refresh would be helpful on their end. Naturally, a few slip-ups happened that possibly could’ve been avoided, but that’s just how it is. At a certain point, you just have to go with the flow on the wedding day to be able to take in all that is wonderful.

They Were Proud Of How They Brought Their Dream Wedding To Life

We are proud of how everything came together visually–to have a wedding that felt thoughtful, personal, and tastefully colorful. The colors were extremely satisfying to see on the day of—whether it was attire, florals, table setting, or the cake. It was the best to see all the details come to life.

The Bride Made Custom Cookie Favors With The Help Of Her Entire Family 

Anabelle is very proud of the  decorated sugar cookies she made for the favors. She started a sugar cookie business during the pandemic, which she now operates full-time, so it only made sense to put in the love and care to make all the favors. It was of the crest shield that she designed. Alex, Anabelle, Alex’s brother, and Anabelle’s mom created an assembly line of gold boxes, thank you inserts, cookies, and ribbon to make these favors feel extra special. Anabelle wanted the favors to feel Wes Anderson-esque.

Heartfelt Speeches From Their Loved Ones

Following dinner, we had toasts from the parents and four bridal party members, which was truly memorable. It was beautiful to relax and be present yet reflective while hearing our nearest and dearest talk about their experiences with us. It was comforting and so emotional. It embedded how lucky we are to be surrounded by an abundance of loved ones.

Surprising Their Guests By Changing Into Traditional Cambodian Attire and A Special Mother Dance

We surprised our guests in a couple of ways. We changed into traditional Cambodian wedding attire decked out in ornate gold fabrics and accessories during our cocktail hour. It was great to pay homage to Anabelle’s background. Another surprise was that we did a mother dance together to celebrate the women who raised us. At one point, we turned to switch up partners so we could dance with our mother-in-law too.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Julie Pepin
Event Planning – Denise Holt
Venue – Rancho Las Lomas
Floral Design – The Bloom of Time
Catering – 24 Carrots
Cake – Grace & Honey
Officiant – Eli Brown
Videography – Ferris Media
Invitation Design –
Hair & Makeup Artist – Marie Tran
Wedding Dress – Madi Lane
Groom’s Apparel – Jimmy Au’s
Cambodian Attire Rentals – Vannary Bridal
Favors – Bananabelle Brown

 

Congratulations to Anabelle and Alexander on their incredibly vibrant botanical garden wedding. And a big thank you to photographer and Junebug member Julie Pepin for capturing and sharing their stunning day with us. For more swoon-worthy inspo like this wedding, check out her profile in our directory of photographers from around the world.

Whether you and your partner lean into personal preferences or draw inspiration from the venue or the season, the wedding colors you choose will ensure that everything looks on theme. After all, picking out the combo you’re happy with will make all the design decisions a lot easier. Struggling to decide on a color scheme for your big day? Let these combinations in our list of floral color palettes inspire your own. 

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Colorful Rainbow Micro Wedding Inspiration

June 24, 2022 | riley

With a bold color palette, show-stopping vibrant florals, and whimsical details, this micro wedding inspiration has the full rainbow experience, and the vibe is off the charts! Deeply moved by Kelly Ginn Photography’s positivity and love for rainbows, Southern Sparkle Weddings and a visionary team of professionals created this styled shoot to inspire couples and wedding professionals to look forward with hope even during uncertain times. 

Taking to heart the quote “there’s no rainbow without the rain,” the team used lots of color and texture, which tied into the eclectic design of Brooxie’s House perfectly. For the romantic porch ceremony, bold, lush florals created by Southern Sparkle Florals framed the couple, while a rainbow  “oh happy day” sign was the perfect accent decor. The backyard reception featured a towering floral installation, a unique tablescape of iridescent settings, colorful taper candles in glass cylinders, and chargers made of real flowers. Not to mention the outdoor lounge with repurposed florals and decor, which was another fun addition to the celebration.

From the colorful signature drinks and charcuterie board to the bride’s rainbow accessories and the groom’s jacket with hot pink lace appliques—every detail was well-thought-out and beautiful. If you want to use every color under the sun for your big day, this rainbow micro wedding is for you. Kelly Ginn Photography captured the energy of this intimate soiree so perfectly that we’re sure you’re going to want to save it for later.

The Planner’s Inspiration Behind This Colorful Styled Shoot

My inspiration behind the design for the photo shoot was the photographer, Kelly Ginn Photography. Her branding and who she is are personally my inspiration. She’s one of the most positive people you will ever meet. She has a love of bright colors and rainbows. She understands that there are hardships in life—and 2020 was one big hardship for everyone—but without the rain, there are no rainbows. So I took this as my inspiration. To inspire couples and wedding industry pros to tough out the rain and the storms of what we are going through and know that on the other side of this is beauty, happiness, and of course, rainbows. 

Shop rainbow earrings:

How They Chose The Perfect Location For This Rainbow Micro Wedding Inspiration

Picking the location for the micro wedding shoot was a no-brainer as we knew we wanted to create that intimate front porch feels for the ceremony. Pettigrew Adventures is a luxury short-term rental property company with nine unique properties. These properties were all curated and designed by owner Morgan Pettigrew. With over ten houses to choose from, the Brooxie’s House was the perfect fit.

Show-stopping Rainbow Details

Rainbow details were part of every element of the shoot design, from the custom invitations created by Lucky Letters–which even contained bright color confetti to truly set the tone–down to the silverware on the table. BBJ Linen’s Luster Mermaid Sequin linen truly sparkled and shined every time the light hit it. The rentals provided by Mahaffey Tent & Event Rentals accented the tables and ceremony. The florals from Southern Sparkle Florals took the shoot to the next level. They used hydrangeas, delphiniums, dyed baby’s breath, mums, and daisies to cover the front porch, which created a stunning backdrop for the couple. The same florals were repurposed to add height and even more color to the reception table design.

The Talented Team:

Photography – Kelly Ginn Photography
Event Planning + Floral Design – Southern Sparkle Wedding & Event Planning
Venue – Brooxie’s House via Pettigrew Adventures
Charcuterie – Cheese Please Company
Bartender – Candy Bar Bartender
Cake – The Flour Garden
Calligraphy + Paper Goods – Lucky 13 Letters
Makeup Artist – Kasey Acuff Makeup
Hair Styling – Emily Cohen Hair
Wedding Dress – Antonio Gual via Nicole Barré Bridal Boutique
Linens – BBJ Linens
Rentals – Mahaffet Tent & Event Rental
Transportation – Executive Coaches

 

Thanks to Southern Sparkle Weddings for sharing this colorful rainbow micro wedding inspiration with us. And, of course, a big thank you to Kelly Gin Photography for capturing every vibrant and romantic detail, making this one we just can’t get over!

To give your special day a unique vibe, splash it with color. Whether it’s a vibrant floral installation, neon lighting, or multi-toned attire for the wedding party, playing with colors can make your wedding stand out. To help spark inspiration, check out our guide to planning a unique celebration for tips on putting your own original spin on traditional wedding ideas. 

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Wedding Favor Ideas and Alternatives

June 23, 2022 | riley

Image by Meraki Weddings. See more of this real wedding here. Keep scrolling for wedding favor ideas

Wedding favors–although a small wedding detail–are an easy way to add a personal touch to your special day while also thanking your guests for celebrating your love with you. Because there’s no tradition for favors, you have complete creative freedom over what you gift your guests–whether it’s symbolic to you as a couple or something that ties in with your wedding aesthetic. So, if you’re struggling to figure out what to hand out, don’t fret because we’re rounding up wedding favor ideas and alternatives.

Wedding Favor FAQs

Do you have to have wedding favors?

As mentioned earlier, there’s no tradition when it comes to wedding favors. This means that you don’t have to have them if you don’t want to. If there’s no room in your budget or you just don’t want to deal with the stress of choosing one, don’t worry about it. After an epic celebration, your guests aren’t going to be upset if they don’t leave with a present.

How much do favors cost?

As of 2021, it was found that the average cost of wedding favors is $400-$450. This typically comes out to be about one to three dollars per person. Obviously, the smaller the wedding, the less expensive the favors will be, and vice versa for larger affairs. It’s also important to remember that this is an average and it’s very possible to spend more or less.

Should you personalize the favors?

Personalizing your favors is entirely up to you. But,  customizing your gifts and making them a little more personal isan easy way to ensure that your guests never forget about your wedding day.

When and how do you hand them out?

There are many different ways you can pass out your wedding favors. If you’re having a seated dinner, you can set them on their place settings—doubling as reception table decor. If you’re going for a more lowkey, casual environment, there’s nothing wrong with setting them up on a display. Your escort cards can even act as a wedding favor.

Wedding Favor Ideas

Image by Diana Ascarrunz. See more of this real wedding here

Can Koozies

For more informal celebrations, pass out customized can koozies. Add a logo, your initials, an illustration of the two of you, pictures of your dogs–whatever you want. Summer camp wedding, anyone?

Shop koozies: Cheers To The Couple Koozie; Custom State Wedding Can Cooler; Custom Pet Illustration Koozie; Venue Illustration Can Cooler

Image by Gina Brandt Photography. See more of this real wedding here

Mugs

Speaking of a camp-inspired wedding, tin mugs with you and your spouse’s names and wedding date also make for the perfect favor.

Shop mugs: Personalized Wedding Enamel Mug; Let The Adventure Begin Mug; Personalized Camp Mug

Candles

It’s no secret that pretty much everyone can appreciate a good candle, making it an easy favor idea. To personalize it, add a customized label or choose a scent that is special to you and your partner.

Shop candles: Handmade Soy Wax Wedding Candles; Bulk Wedding Candle Favor; Rustic Personalized Candles

Sunglasses

Tying the knot outdoors? If you know the weather is going to be bright and sunny, offer your guests some protection with sunglasses. Just be sure to pass them out before the ceremony.

Image by The Mclachlans. See more of this real wedding here

Succulents or plants

If you’re saying “I do” in the desert or you have a green thumb, offering your guests a plant is a cute nod to your special day or hobby. Plus, they can keep them alive for years to come, making them practical.

Shop succulents/plants: Let Love Grow Succulent Tags; 72-pack Assorted Succulents; Mini Seed Paper Plantable Cards

Olive oil

If your special day is inspired by the European countryside, this one is for you. Your guests will love cooking with it, and it’s a great nod to the culture–especially if you’re having a destination wedding.

Shop olive oil: Olive Oil Wedding Favor; Olive You Olive Oil Favors; Infused Olive Oil Wedding Favors

Cocktail kits

The party will never stop if you’re passing out mini cocktail kits. You can find all kinds of kits–from moscow mules to margaritas. All they need is alcohol! 

Honey

To sweeten up the day, offer small batches of honey in mini mason jars. This is a great favor option for a rustic or garden wedding.

Shop honey: Meant To Bee Honey Jar Favors; Found My Honey Jar Favors; Honey Jar Wedding Favors

Dessert

There’s no denying that everyone loves sweets. To satisfy the sweet tooth, consider some kind of dessert. This could be baked goods, a candy bar, macaroons, etc. To make it a more interactive experience, consider doing a dessert bar where they can pick and choose what they take home with them.

Image by David Bastianoni. See more of this real wedding here

Luggage tags

Whether you’re having a destination wedding or you and your significant other just have a love for travel, luggage tags are both adorable and functional.

Shop luggage tags: Bulk Wedding Luggage Tags; And So The Adventure Begins Luggage Tags; Personalized Leather Luggage Tag

Blankets

If your wedding is in the fall or winter, you can warm your guests up with blankets. They’ll be able to cozy up at the wedding and at home, too. 

Image by Joel and Justyna. See more of this real wedding here

Champagne 

Send your guests off with a mini bottle of bubbles to keep the party going even after everyone has left. It’s a favor everyone will enjoy, so you’ll know it went to good use. If champagne isn’t your style, you can also opt for mini bottles of wine, beer, coffee, juice, etc.

Wedding Favor Alternatives

Not a big fan of wedding favors altogether? These alternatives are great options for those that want to forgo the gift and opt for something a little more non-traditional.

Donate to charity

If there’s a charity that you and your partner believe in, consider making a small donation on behalf of your guests. Doing so means putting money into a good cause rather than on an item your guests may forget at the end of the night. 

Late-night snacks

We know we mentioned a dessert bar earlier, but why not take it a step further and offer your guests late-night snacks instead? This could be anything from your favorite ice cream truck to bringing in your favorite fast food. Your guests will appreciate the bites once the drinks are flowing.

Image by Morgan McCanne Photo. See more of this real wedding here

Photobooth

Photobooths have become increasingly popular at weddings these days, and we understand why. They’re a playful way to commemorate your special day while also acting as an instant souvenir. 

Welcome bags

If you’re having a destination wedding or a full-blown wedding weekend, a welcome bag is an easy way to say thank you while also helping your guests feel comfortable throughout the trip. Common welcome bag items include local snacks and drinks, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, pain relievers, and small souvenirs such as postcards, keychains, etc.

Loving these wedding favor ideas? We’ve got even more from Etsy here!

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Stunning Neutral-Toned Wedding With Amazing Energy

June 18, 2022 | riley

From the very start of their wedding planning journey, Sherilyn and Justin wanted to break away from the norm by incorporating personal and unexpected touches. Little did they know that a global pandemic would push their dream celebrations back three years. But their celebration was definitely well worth the wait. From their warehouse-type venue and chic fashion to the ultra-fun vibe—their neutral-toned wedding was anything but cookie-cutter. 

With its floor-to-ceiling windows, white walls, and vaulted ceilings—JULEP was the perfect blank canvas for their sleek aesthetic. Their ceremony featured acrylic chairs, a petal-lined aisle, and statement florals strategically placed on geometric gold stands against a white backdrop. The same set was repurposed for the sweetheart table as the space was flipped to a modern ethereal reception. They turned up the romance with tablescapes of pillar candles in glass cylinders and towering centerpieces created by AHR Florals.

Just when you think that the stunning aesthetic and the amazing energy are unmatched, the couple’s runway-level fashion stands out. The pair changed into a second look for an all-night dance party. The groom donned a gray ombre barong while the bride looked glam in an oversized beaded jacket and sparkly mesh pants. From the theatrical entrances to the fun dance routines—Junebug member Ash Gabes Photography beautifully captured the energy and excitement of their special day.

The Couple:

Sherilyn & Justin

The Wedding:

Julep Venue, San Diego, California

Junebug Member Ash Gabes Photography’s Thoughts On This Neutral-Toned Wedding

Sherilyn and Justin are some of the most fun and lively duo I’ve ever worked with—it’s the Bondoc energy for me! The couple and their friends literally would not stop dancing all day. The beautiful community of family and friends that cheered them on really made their hype train go. Their friend was the “Hype Man” for their wedding, which created a lot of funny moments for their grand entrance. The Maid of Honor came in on a unicycle. Again, a very high-energy group. They were great to work with, and not to include any dancing pictures would take away from the entire vibe of the day.

Recommended Reading: The Best Places to Buy Bridesmaid Dresses Online

A First Look Three Years In The Making

The most memorable part of the day was seeing each other for the first time at the aisle. After putting our wedding off for almost three years, there’s nothing we looked forward to more than our first look.

Advice From The Couple: Don’t Pressure On Yourself To Have The Perfect Wedding Day

Nobody talks about this enough, but don’t pressure yourself to make your wedding the “best day ever”. Your wedding is only one day out of the thousands you’ll spend together. As a couple, we aren’t super into extravagance or PDA, so our tiny moments outside of the wedding—like going to Target on Sundays and getting our favorite Thai food on a random weeknight—are much more valuable than a single day. We had a blast regardless, but when you’re the one who planned the wedding, it’s hard not to pay attention to the tiny details, like the itinerary being off by ten minutes. Set expectations with yourself, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself.

DIY Signage To Cut Costs

We DIY’d our signage. I used Canva to design the posters, and we used the online Staples Printing Center to get our posters printed. It saved us so much more money than buying something through Etsy. Plus it made things more personal.

Recommended Reading: Perfect Bridal Jumpsuits and Pantsuits

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Ash Gabes Photography
Event Planning – Modest Magnolia
Venue – Julep Venue
Floral Design – AHR Florals
Catering – Toast Catering
Boba + Shaved Ice Bar – Snoice SD
DJ – My DJs
Videography – Films by Madeleine
Makeup Artist – Drea
Hair Styling – Shea Styles
Rentals – Bright Event Rentals

Congratulations to Sherilyn and Justin on their stunning neutral-toned wedding radiating with amazing energy. And big thanks to Junebug member Ash Gabes Photography for capturing and sharing every moment and detail of this unforgettable celebration. To see more of her work, check out her profile in our directory of photographers from around the world.

Whether you want an over-the-top affair or you prefer to keep it low-key, it’s your day, and just like you and your partner, it should be one-of-a-kind. Looking for ways to make a big impact on your wedding day? Check out our list of unique wedding ideas for clever tips on how to make your big day stand out.

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Gorgeous Joshua Tree Sunset Micro Wedding

June 12, 2022 | justine

An otherworldly landscape with distinctly spiny trees and spectacular rock formations—there’s just something so magical about tying the knot in the heart of Joshua Tree. While the pandemic may have affected Rachel and Dean’s original destination wedding plans, the pair decided to have a special weekend celebration instead with just their immediate family. And with the help of planner and Junebug member The Walk Down The Aisle, the pair pulled off an epic sunset micro wedding that’s one for the books!

With the magical desert oasis and golden sunset as a backdrop, the couple bared their hearts to each other with heartfelt vows. Following their intimate ceremony, their small group made their way to Villa Carmelita for the courtyard reception. Candlelight in hanging glass orbs illuminated the entire villa while the tablescape of lush pastel florals created by Vaso Bello, blush accents, and gilded details made for a timeless and romantic setting under the stars. 

From their enchanting sunset desert ceremony to the gorgeous reception at an iconic luxury estate—this sunset micro wedding is serving up some major inspiration and will definitely take your breath away. Scroll through these beautiful photos captured by Mirelle Carmichael Photography to see exactly what we’re talking about.

The Couple:

Rachel and Dean

The Wedding:

Joshua Tree National Park, California, United States

How Their Sunset Micro Wedding Came To Be

Before getting into tactical wedding planning, I started designing the guest experience. When we pivoted to a micro wedding with our immediate family, we scrapped all the ideas we had for our larger wedding in Mexico. We thought about what our family would appreciate, and went from there. I’m proud of our positive outlook when facing less-than-ideal-wedding planning circumstances. We both like to see the silver lining, and saw this as a unique opportunity to have an incredibly memorable experience for our family. We made the weekend feel special by pulling in traditional wedding elements like florals and curated decor. But we got ample quality time with our family, and were present in every moment. To this day, our parents still say it was one of the most special days of their lives. 

Why They Chose To Get Married In Joshua Tree

We rented Villa Carmelita in Palm Springs—Sunny and Cher’s old home—where we got ready and had our first look. We then took a limo to Joshua Tree, where we had our ceremony. Since we were spending the entire weekend together, we wanted to stay in Palm Springs to access the town’s restaurants and attractions. However we wanted our ceremony to be somewhere special, someplace sacred. Joshua Tree was the perfect setting. When you have the joshua trees and the striking landscape as your background, you can’t help but feel grounded. It was an incredibly powerful place to make our commitments. 

Baring Their Hearts To Each Other With Personal And Meaningful Vows

My love language is words of affirmation, so naturally my favorite moment was when we shared vows. We wrote personal vows and since we had a limited audience, we really went for it and made our vows the centerpiece of the ceremony. My vows were exceptionally long—over ten minutes, but I loved the opportunity to express to Dean how much he means to me. Dean’s vows were incredibly thoughtful. He knows my favorite song is “All Too Well” by Taylor Swift, so he weaved in select lyrics from the song, “This thing is a masterpiece, I’ll never tear it all up”. It was so creative, thoughtful, and custom-tailored for me—it was such a wonderful surprise.

Planner And Junebug Member The Walk Down The Aisle Was Vital To The Success Of Their Joshua Tree Sunset Micro Wedding

Planning a wedding in Joshua Tree can be intimidating. With the wide, expansive grounds, and limited cell service—it can be hard picking the right spot and coordinating with vendors. Luckily, I found Trish at The Walk Down the Aisle. She’d planned so many weddings in the park, I had every confidence in her ability to coordinate our wedding day. She nailed every logistic, down to the tree that became our “altar”.

The Perfect Wedding Weekend Experience By Doing Themed Nights

We wanted to create an entire weekend experience for our family to celebrate, culminating with our wedding, so we created a theme each night. Friday was karaoke night. Saturday was trivia night. Sunday was the wedding. And Monday was a murder mystery. Our family had a blast throughout the entire weekend.

They Hosted A  Fun Trivia Night Using Materials They Made Themselves

The night before our wedding, we had a trivia night. We were inspired by the episode of Friends (“The One With the Embryos”), and made the trivia about our lives with categories like: Faves, People, Events, and Numbers. Dean and I DIY’d a trivia board using a black tri-fold board, neon-colored envelopes, and index cards. Dean and Rachel’s parents competed against Rachel and Dean’s mom and sister. We forget who won, but we all had a great time reminiscing on our past.

Meaningful Ways They Honored The Memory Of The Groom’s Father By Reserving Him A Seat At Their Celebration

We used every moment of the day to personalize the experience and honor those we love most. Dean’s father unexpectedly passed away a year and half before our wedding. We wanted to bring him into the weekend as much as possible. When we set the table, we created a place for him and added a placard on the back of his chair that read: “In loving memory of Mark Henley who is celebrating with us in heaven.” We gave the placard to Dean’s mother after the weekend as a keepsake.

They Included Their Family To Help Decide On Their Wedding Menu 

One benefit of a micro wedding was designing a custom menu with a private chef. We had four hors d’oeuvres and a four course menu catered by Fusion Flair. We also brought our family into the process for a collaborative menu design. We gave everyone Fusion Flair’s large catalog, and asked them to pick a few options for each course. We tallied up the votes, added our own preferences and customizations, and made sure we had a good balance for the entire meal. Everyone loved it!

Planning A Follow Up Celebration For Friends In Mexico

Next, we have a make-up destination celebration in Sayulita, Mexico. We’re calling it our one year wedding anniversary celebration, and we get to throw a three-day party for our friends. We never would’ve designed two different experiences without the pandemic, but we’re so glad it worked out this way. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Mirelle Carmichael Photography
Event Planning – The Walk Down The Aisle
Ceremony Venue – Joshua Tree National Park
Reception Venue – Villa Carmelita
Floral Design – Vaso Bello
Catering – Fusion Flare
Cake – Over The Rainbow
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling- Chelsea Nicole Hair + Makeup
Earrings & Hair Pin – Elibre Handmade
Bridal Shoes – Bella Belle
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Groom’s Shoes – Paul Smith
Hanger – GriffinsNestCo
Rings – DeVons
Ring Box – The Mrs. Box
Vow Books – Olive Paperie
Rentals – Signature Party Rentals
Linen – BBJ Linens
Signage – Wildhouse Ink
Transportation – Cardiff Transportation

 

Congratulations to Rachel and Dean on their gorgeous Joshua Tree sunset micro wedding. Big thanks to Mirelle Carmichael Photography for capturing every moment and detail that made this celebration so special. And of course, a special thank you to Junebug member The Walk Down The Aisle for sharing this beautiful wedding with us. To see more of their talent, check out their profile in our directory of expert planners from around the world.

Just like this wedding, the easiest way to make sure your big day is creative, personalized, memorable, and fun is by drawing inspiration from your own love story. Not sure where to start? Check out our guide to planning a unique wedding to help you and your partner come up with original ideas as you plan a special day that’s uniquely yours. 

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36 Cute Wedding Boots for Fall and Winter Brides

June 11, 2022 | riley

Image by Radu Benjamin. See more of this real wedding here.

Snakeskin, leather, and suede–oh my! We’re huge fans of fall and winter brides rocking booties with their wedding dresses, but we know that it can be intimidating. Which is why we’re here to help you nail the look. Whether you’re searching for western, glam, or adventurous weather-proof styles, our roundup of 36 cute wedding boots is the only resource you need to keep cold feet away on your big day.

Neutral Wedding Boots

Neutral boots are going to be the easiest out of all trends to wear with a traditional wedding gown or jumpsuit. Whether you’re looking for a rhinestone-studded pair that will have you feeling like a rockstar or an understated pair of white cowboy boots, these natural wedding boots will go with absolutely every bridal look.

1. Steve Madden Howler Bootie ($99.95); 2. RAID Wide Fit Kola Ankle Boots in White ($50); 3. Chinese Laundry Bonnie Crocodile-Embossed Ankle Boots ($99.95); 4. Vegan Ranch Boot ($78); 5. Steve Madden Aquarius Tan Suede ($139.95); 6. Dolce Vita Stormy H2O Waterproof Chelsea Boot ($75); 7. Ulani Heeled Bootie ($113.99); 8. Marc Fisher LTD Jarli ($188); 9. Pentlee Bootie ($89.99)

Black Wedding Boots

Feeling a little edgy? These black wedding boots will contrast perfectly with a white dress for a more non-traditional look. We think they’d look quite stylish with a pantsuit or make for stunning reception shoes to dress the night (comfortably) away in.

1. Steve Madden Howler Bootie ($99.95); 2. RAID Lexus chunky mid heel boots in black ($64); 3. Loeffler Randall Isla Pointy Toe Bootie ($450); 4. Lulus x Matisse Pointed Toe Ankle Booties ($54); 5. Jaye Ankle Bootie ($49.99); 6. Dr. Marten 1460 Combat Boot ($139.99); 7. Dr. Marten Jadon Black Leather 8-Eye Platform Boot ($180); 8. Caslon Miller Water Resistant Chelsea Boot ($99.95); 9. Unisa Marlie II Bootie ($59.99)

Colorful Wedding Boots

We love it when brides go against the grain and add a pop of color. What better way to add some brightness to your special day than a colorful pair of boots? Choose a color that’s special to you or match them to your bouquet for a more cohesive look.

1. Franco Sarto Tina 2 Block Heel Boot ($169); 2. Jaye Ankle Bootie ($49.99); 3. Betsy Johnson Cady Fuchsia ($149); 4. Sam Edelman Codie Suede Booties ($149.99); 5. Lane Boots Saratoga Western Boot ($249.95); 6. Chinese Laundry Erin Bootie ($89.95); 7. Propét Reese Chelsea Boot ($99.95); 8. Codie Ankle Bootie ($170); 9. Franco Sarto Stevie Bootie ($168.95)

Winter Wedding Boots

Last but not least, these winter wedding boots are perfect for the adventurous bride looking to scale the mountains. Whether you’re eloping on the top of the Alps or tying the knot in the middle of a snowstorm, these boots are not only cute, but they’ll keep you nice and warm.

  1. UGG Adirondack III Waterproof Boot ($249.95); 2. Timberland Kinsley Boot ($109); 3. Redrock Women’s Ankle Boots ($24); 4. Kamik Sienna 2 Boot ($119.95); 5. Sorel Caribou ($170); 6. Cliffs by White Mountain Hallett Snow Boot ($59.99); 7. Marc Fisher LTD Izzie Genuine Shearling Lace-Up Boot ($259); 8. Hunt Pac Deluxe Boot ($119); 9. Sorel Whitney™ II Short Lace ($120)

Now that you’ve got your dress and wedding boots picked out, it’s time to finish the look off with a jacket and accessories!

Image by Wild Connections Photographer. See more of this real wedding here.

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How to Incorporate Black As A Wedding Color

June 10, 2022 | kailey

Image by Naba Zabih Photography. Keep scrolling to see how to have the black wedding of your dreams

There’s a common misconception that weddings have to be bright, neutral, or packed with tradition. Newsflash, that’s not the case. We’re seeing more and more couples go against the grain, breaking those outdated wedding planning expectations–and it all starts with hiring your vendors, picking a color palette, and creating a mood board. 

While neutral weddings will always be a timeless aesthetic, it’s not for everyone. And if you’re looking for ways to make a statement, a bold color palette is the way to go. But remember, bold doesn’t always mean vibrant. Incorporating dark, moody shades—like black—is also a bold, unique way to set your wedding apart. Here are some creative ways to subtly and not-so-subtly incorporate black into your wedding. 

Invitation Suites 

Your wedding invitations set the tone of your big day. Being the first thing your wedding guests will see, your invitation suite is an important decision. You only have one chance to make a first impression, so make it a good one. And the key to doing that is incorporating black. Whether you go all black or just add hints of black, this moody color is sure to add that pop of elegance that’ll get your guests excited to RSVP. 

Signage 

Don’t underestimate the power of signage on your big day. This often last-minute detail welcomes guests, directs them to their seats, introduces your signature cocktails, and so much more. Signs can be used for almost everything, and making them a core part of your decor is a sure way to make your wedding stand out. 

Incorporating black into your signage is perfect for those couples looking to add subtle, moody details without going all-out. 

Floral arrangements, Bouquets, and Boutineers 

Wedding florals are a key component of both ceremony and reception decor. It’s also one of the easiest ways to incorporate black into your wedding design. Take your celebration to a whole new level by throwing black into your bouquet, boutonnieres, and even your ceremony backdrop—which can also be repurposed for your reception. 

Recommended reading: Floral Color Palettes to Show your Florist

Make A Statement With Black Wedding Day Fashion

When you picture traditional wedding day attire, you probably think of a long white gown or the classic black tux. And while these classics will always hold a special place in our heart, nontraditional fashion statements are taking over the wedding world. Fashion trends like short wedding dresses, colorful suits, and mix-and-match bridesmaid dresses are packing weddings with personality. 

If you’re really ready to make a statement, incorporate black into your wedding day attire. Go big with a black wedding dress, an all-black tux, or even a pantsuit. If you’re not ready to commit to an all-black wedding day look, have your wedding party rock black. This will make for some incredible contrasting photos. 

Subtle Accessories 

Shoes, jewelry, hair pieces, nails—there are various subtle ways to incorporate black into your wedding day fashion. This is perfect for those that still want to rock the traditional wedding day attire but want to spice it up. Tie your bridal look together with some of our favorite accessories. 

Reception Bar 

Let’s be honest, the reception bar is always one of the most popular elements of a wedding—for you and for your guests. And with incredible drink offerings and a stylish set-up, your bar can easily become a reception staple piece. Go with an all-black design or take a more understated approach by dressing your reception space with dark florals, glassware, and signage. 

Images by Seth & Co Photography. See more of this styled shoot here.

Spice Up Your Wedding Cake 

With dessert being one of the sweetest portions of any reception, adding black details will make it that much sweeter. You can add a small personal touch to your wedding cake design with a black cake topper. But, if you’re wanting your dessert to really steal the show, work with your cake bakery to come up with a sleek all-black design.  

Whether you go with an all-black monochromatic moment or incorporate black into a multi-color palette, choosing wedding colors isn’t always the easiest task. That’s where we come in. To help make choosing your wedding colors a fun and easy process, start by checking out these tips for choosing your wedding color palette.

Image by Madeline Barr Photo. See more of this real wedding here.

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