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Adventurous Lakeside Micro Wedding

June 7, 2022 | justine

Courtney and Ahren’s lakeside micro wedding gives getting married in nature a whole new meaning. With a shared love for travel, the great outdoors, and each other, they couldn’t think of a better way to tie the knot than a two-day camping adventure with their closest loved ones on Sucia Island off the coast of Washington. On their big day, the pair set sail to their island destination and even took turns rowing their small boat—talk about an actual labor of love! 

Rather than starting the day with the ceremony, they chose to begin the celebration with a cozy cabin reception. Their tablescape featured an eclectic mix of boho decor and celestial-inspired accents for a beautifully laid-back vibe. The group enjoyed a delicious pescatarian feast before heading out for a short hike to the lakeside ceremony location

Overlooking the water and the mountains, Courtney and Ahren shared an emotional and private first look. It was followed by a magical sunset ceremony, where the pair exchanged handwritten vows. Their small group then headed back to the campsite and spent the rest of the evening sharing memories around the campfire. An epic location makes for spectacular portraits, and this micro wedding is no exception. Get ready to be blown away by these stunning images captured by Junebug member Adventure and Vow.

The Couple:

Courtney and Ahren

The Wedding:

Sucia Island Marine State Park

Every Aspect Of Their Lakeside Wedding Was Intentional And Well-Thought-Out

It was most important that every aspect of our wedding reflected our values, our relationship, and to be surrounded in comfort and love as we embarked on our new adventure. Every decision felt true to us and to the partnership we were inaugurating. Something we’re so grateful for is–because of the intimate scale and the intention behind each moment–we can remember almost every detail. We hope our experience encourages others to see past tradition and expectations to create a truly authentic ritual focused on love and partnership.

A Boat DIY Project and Thrifted Wedding Decor

The biggest DIY project was our boat, the Madrona Moon, which we built with the great help of the folks at Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend. We also hand-thrifted all of the depression glass, wooden plates, centerpieces, and ornate linens from local antique shops to further our celestial, art deco-inspired vibe.

Wedding Planning Advice From The Newlyweds

Our advice is to keep things small, simple, and focused on the “why.” Keep the ceremony true to your relationship, but don’t try to plan every single detail. Instead, cultivate an atmosphere that ensures you’ll be comfortable and able to be yourself and bring the people around you to that common purpose. And then don’t be afraid to ask for help and hand out assignments. Your loved ones will be more than willing.

All Of The Wedding Food Was Prepared By Their Small Group

We picked up a few dozen fresh oysters from Buck Bay Shellfish Farm on Orcas Island the day before the ceremony, which we shucked and served together once we made it to our campsite. Paired with a salad, olives, dolmas, and other crudités prepared by the rest of our wedding party, we had a light, local, and delicious pescatarian feast before our sunset ceremony. We ended the night with a delicious olive oil cake beautifully prepared and decorated with a moon made of flowers by our dear friend Rey.

Why They Decided To Have A Lakeside Micro Wedding

Sucia Island is a beautiful state park in the San Juan Islands archipelago, only accessible by boat. We visited on our first multi-day sailing trip and fell in love with sailing and the beautiful places the wind and sea can carry you. Sucia Island, with the convergence of nature—from the ocean, Madrona groves, and vistas to snow-capped volcanoes— all in one place, captured our hearts.

Junebug Member Adventure and Vow Was The Perfect Fit For Them

Traci of Adventure and Vow was absolutely incredible, and hiring her was the best decision we made in planning our wedding. She made us feel comfortable from the moment we met her, and she truly shares our values. Having her document the day felt natural and thrilling to have someone equally as excited for an adventure. She captured the natural beauty of the island and all the tender moments that will last a lifetime. We are so happy to have made a lifelong friend in capturing such a special day.

Seeing The Moon Rise Made For A Memorable Moment

One of the most striking parts occurred on our walk back to the campsite after our sunset ceremony. As we emerged from the forest back out onto the path along the shore, we saw the moon rise—giant and deep red—over the water. It left us all speechless.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Adventure & Vow
Ceremony Venue – Sucia Island State Park
Floral Design – Nest
Catering – Buck Bay Shellfish FarmBoathouse CiderWorks
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Joey’s Doing Your Makeup
Rings – Point No Point Studio + Honest Hands Rings Co.
Transportation – Northwest Maritime Center
Favors – Good & Well Supply Co + Merch Jam 

 

Congratulations to Courtney and Ahren on their adventurous lakeside micro wedding. And big thanks to Junebug member Adventure and Vow for expertly capturing each loving moment and breathtaking detail that made their big day unforgettable and special. To see more of their work, check out their profile in our directory of photographers from around the world.

As the world changes, so do customs–and wedding traditions are no exception. If you and your partner are an unconventional couple like Courtney and Ahren, then a unique celebration like this one might be right for you. Your wedding is an incredibly personal event—this is your day, so make it your own.

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Absolutely Dreamy Romantic Garden Elopement

June 7, 2022 | riley

Set in a historical estate with lush gardens, rolling hills, and sweeping lake views using a dusty color palette, ethereal florals, and whimsical decor—this romantic garden elopement inspiration was just what elopement dreams are made of. Inspired by the warm tones and natural landscape of Glynwood, Wildflower Events + Design partnered with Cassandra Daye Photography along with a talented team of vendors to showcase another perfect way of eloping in nature.

For a swoon-worthy cottage ceremony, wild boho-inspired florals created by Olive & June Floral Co. were wrapped around the front porch columns and framed the couple’s private vows. The team took it one step further by setting up an intimate boathouse reception overlooking the lake for one of the most epic sunset views we’ve ever seen. The flickering candlelight in hanging glass orbs made the moment more magical, along with the gorgeous tablescape of repurposed florals in glass domes and luxurious velvety chairs.

Every detail, including the couple’s attire—a sharp pink suit for the groom and a glam strapless crepe gown with removable statement sleeves for the bride—was beautifully thought out, and we are obsessed! These breathtaking photos by Cassandra Daye Photography will surely blow you away. If you and your partner haven’t considered eloping yet, you will after scrolling through these beautiful images.

Recommended Reading: 23 Bridal Crowns Fit For A Queen

Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Elopement Planning Checklist

Recommended Reading: The Dreamy Unconventional Suit Roundup

The Talented Team:

Photography + Planning – Cassandra Daye Photography
Event Design – Wildflower Events + Design
Venue – Glynwood
Floral Design + Bridal Accessories – Olive & June Floral Co.
Couple – Amanda Clarke and Jean Lemeau
Videography – Gabrielle Fordham Films
Hair Styling + Makeup Artist – Osman Salam
Wedding Dress – Emmy Mae Bridal via Everthine Bridal
Calligraphy – T.S. Calligraphy
Napkins – Snassycrafter

 

Big thanks to Cassandra Daye Photography for capturing and sharing this absolutely dreamy romantic garden elopement inspiration with us. Many couples are now looking for epic places to elope—from picture-perfect lake views and exotic beaches to colossal canyons and rocky mountain cliffs. Not only does it make for an unforgettable experience, but you’re also all set for a grand adventure following your “I dos.” If you love the idea of an intimate celebration with just the two of you, check out our elopement planning guide to get you started.

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Chic, Modern, and Minimalist San Diego Wedding

June 5, 2022 | justine

Despite the pandemic affecting their wedding plans, Justinne and Gerie decided to keep their original wedding date and tied the knot in a private ceremony followed by an intimate backyard reception. The silver lining, however, was having the opportunity to have a bigger second celebration with their family and friends. And with the help of their planner Jessica Russell Black, boy did they deliver! An impressive venue featuring views of the bay, a classic monochromatic color palette, delicate florals, and understated decor—their minimalist San Diego wedding celebration was the epitome of timeless modern elegance, where less was definitely more.

The ceremony was set on the terrace of The Lane overlooking the San Diego Harbor. The asymmetrical backdrop adorned with airy florals by Arturo Ramirez served as a dreamy focal point and was then repurposed for their sweetheart table. Meanwhile, the interconnected indoor space was the perfect blank canvas for the chic aesthetic of their reception. The sleek theme carried over into their tablescapes, which featured floral clusters with a mix of glass-enclosed black taper candles and votives. 

From the DIY seating chart to the bride’s pearl beaded hairstyle, every detail was intentionally and beautifully executed. This celebration proves that it only takes a little to elevate your minimalistic wedding style. Scroll through these photos captured by Junebug member Carmen Lopez Photography for all the inspiration you need. 

The Couple:

Justinne and Gerie

The Wedding:

The Lane, San Diego, California, United States

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Junebug Member Carmen Lopez Photography’s Thoughts On This Minimalist San Diego Wedding

This event was the chic, modern, and minimalist wedding of the year, in my opinion. From the baby’s breath ceremony arch repurposed at the reception to the DIY seating chart and the pearls individually glued in Justinne’s hair—there were so many trends from this wedding day that I think will inspire a lot of what we see in future weddings. This couple absolutely nailed the modern and clean aesthetic. 

They Booked Another Venue But Switched To The Right One

We originally booked another amazing venue with Moniker pre-pandemic. While scrolling through Instagram, I came across The Lane and realized it was part of Moniker. Something about that place was calling out to us, but we had already booked Bldg 177. We shifted our plans due to the pandemic, so we visited The Lane before it was even ready and again once it was complete. The choice to go with it felt so right. Ally of Moniker was beyond gracious to let us move venues.

Personalizing Their Ceremony By Writing Their Own Vows And Having Their Cousins Officiate

Since we already had our official ceremony back in October, we had our cousins be the officiants for the second ceremony. They came up with their own script, which had our guests laughing. We also had the opportunity to write our own vows–a bonus since we had a traditional ceremony before.

They Had A Great Experience Working With Junebug Member Carmen Lopez Photography

We’ve been on this journey with Carmen since 2019. And to have her as our photographer was such a gift. When we first met her in Joshua Tree for our engagement photos, she was nothing but the best hype woman. She has been with us through the re-scheduling, and on the day, it felt really like just hanging with your friend.

Advice From The Couple: Create A Celebration That Feels Right For You And Your Partner

Enjoy the process and do what feels right with you and your partner. We’re most proud that we had a wedding that reflected us and our personalities. As cliche as it sounds, the entire day was memorable. It was the best day–from having the opportunity to have our dream wedding after so many postponements and cancellations to finally celebrating with all our family and friends. Time flies so fast, so enjoy every moment.

DIY Seating Chart And Invitations To Cut Costs

We created retro motel keychains for our seating chart for all our guests. Gerie and his dad built a wood panel that served as our backdrop and a place to hang the keys. It’s similar to what you’d find if you were checking into a motel. Then we customized each keychain with our guests’ names and printed them on vinyl. We also DIY’d our invitations with the help of some amazing Etsy vendors. I purchased the templates through Sincerely By Nicole, and I got to customize the paper goods. We also DIY’d the wedding invite pocket with the help of Cricut to save some money. 

They Treated Their Guests To Locally Sourced Food 

We had truffle sliders, mini avocado toasts, tacos, and a charcuterie table for appetizers. For dinner, we all enjoyed tri-tip with bbq sauce, salmon with pesto aioli, roasted veggies and potatoes, salad, and dinner rolls that were all locally sourced. Our guests loved the truffle sliders that we had picked out as one of our appetizers. We wish we got to eat more of that ourselves. We also ordered pizza from Pizzeria Luigi and had it delivered to our venue as a late-night bite after all the dancing. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Carmen Lopez
Event Planning – Jessica Russell Black of Plan Prep Party
Venue – The Lane
Floral Design – Arturo Ramirez
Catering – Toast Catering
Cake – Frost Me Cafe & BakeryLive Music – The Lucky Devil Band
Videography – Good Times Media
Makeup Artist – Victoria Yvette of Refined Beauty
Hair Styling – Pamela Santos of Refined Beauty
Wedding Dresses – Lovely Bride LA & BHLDN
Bridal Shoes – Loeflerr Randal
Groom’s Apparel – Menswarehouse
Groom’s Accessories – Nordstrom
Rentals – Bright Rentals & Wonder Event Rentals
Ceremony Music / Photobooth / Event Lighting – Ansom Production
Etsy Vendor: Sincerely By Nicole

 

Congratulations to Justinne and Gerie on their chic, modern, and minimalist San Diego wedding. And big thanks to Junebug member Carmen Lopez Photography for capturing all the moments and details that made this celebration unforgettable. To see more of her talent, check out her profile in our directory of expert photographers from around the world.

Whether you’re drawn to a classic palette or prefer a more festive one, the color palette you choose is critical to ensuring that your big day looks on-theme and cohesive. But sometimes, choosing your colors may not be as straightforward. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Check out our guide on selecting your color palette, along with a list of trends you can use for inspiration to find a combo that’ll bring your own celebration to life.

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A $50K Classically Boho Oregon Ranch Wedding

June 4, 2022 | riley

Sweeping canyon views, a rustic villa, a festive color palette, boho-chic accents, and lush eye-catching florals—McKenna and Ryan’s Oregon Ranch wedding was as breathtaking as it was memorable. The pair filled their big day with funky personal details for a personalized and unforgettable celebration. And with the help of Junebug member Ponderosa Planning, they pulled off the wedding of their dreams within a $50k budget!

The pair started the day in the sweetest way by exchanging private lakeside vows, followed by a beautiful ceremony surrounded by their closest loved ones—including their furbaby Nama. With the views of the iconic Smith Rock and Crooked River, the couple said their “I dos” just as the sun was setting.  The celebration continued at their romantic and rustic outdoor reception featuring gorgeous florals by The Posie Shoppe, candlelit tablescapes, and bistro-style string lights. At the same time, the taco and gelato trucks made for a deliciously fun addition.

The couple hit the right fashion notes with their stylish attire. Ryan looked dashing in his classic suit, and McKenna stunned in her bohemian deep-V lace dress with a long unique train. She later changed into a short beaded dress with butterfly sleeves paired with white booties for the after-party. This is one classically boho wedding you don’t want to miss. Thankfully, Andie Avery Photography captured every detail of this celebration. So keep scrolling to see more because this is the romantic wedding inspiration you’ve been looking for.

The Couple:

McKenna and Ryan

The Wedding:

Ranch at the Canyons, Terrebone, Oregon

Why The Couple Choose An Oregon Ranch Wedding

When I was younger, my mom and sister and I went horseback riding at my venue, and I fell in love. The Tuscan buildings went with the color scheme and classy boho decor perfectly.

How The Couple Stuck To Their Budget For Their Oregon Ranch Wedding

I laid out a rough budget of everything I needed in a Google spreadsheet. I started by booking all the “no brainer” expenses–things I couldn’t see our wedding happening without. I booked our venue, photographer, coordinator, and florist within a few months of getting engaged. Then the smaller details started to fill in from there. I probably adjusted my rentals about 30 times. I felt like I was super annoying to all my vendors with the amount I bugged them, but when I talked to my coordinator, I realized that even wedding planners do this.

A DIY Ceremony Backdrop And Shot Seating Chart Sign

With the help of our contractor, my dad made our wedding arch and our shot sign. The arch was unique and personal, which made it so special. Our shot seating chart sign with the Michael Scott quote, “You miss 100 percent of the shots you don’t take.” was a huge hit.

Advice From The Newlyweds On How To Stay Within Your Budget

My advice would be to prioritize the details that matter the most. Once you have those, the rest will fall into place. Pay attention to what is and isn’t included with your venue. Our venue was beautiful but included zero staff or clean-up services. Those costs added up in comparison to a venue where staffing was included. Also, if your venue doesn’t have toilets, don’t forget to rent those

A Well-Thought-Out Wedding Playlist By The Bride

The silliest thing that I spent a lot of time on and was super proud of was my wedding playlist. I probably spent hours picking out every song that would play, but it was cool hearing all my favorite songs on my favorite day. It was like when you plug in your phone in the car, and you don’t realize that it’s your music playing, and you keep thinking, “whoever made this playlist has really good taste.” 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Andie Avery Photography
Event Planning – Ponderosa Planning
Venue – Ranch at the Canyons
Floral Design – The Posie Shoppe
Catering – El Sancho
DJ – Flip Flop Sounds
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling – Jess Dempsey
Wedding Dress – Made with Love
Groom’s Apparel – Jim’s Formal Wear
Rentals – Curated Events

 

Congratulations to McKenna and Ryan on their classically boho Oregan ranch wedding. And big thanks to Andie Avery Photography for capturing and sharing their special day with us. Of course, we also have to thank Junebug member Ponderosa Planning for making their dream day come to life. To see more of the incredible weddings they have planned, be sure to check out their profile in our directory of wedding planners from around the globe!

Whether you’ve set your heart on a low-key celebration or a lavish affair, setting your wedding budget is a critical first step to planning. Check out our planning and budget guides to get you started!

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Dazzling DIY Disco Themed Orchid Farm Wedding

June 1, 2022 | riley

Emulating California’s golden hour through a color palette of caramel, coral, and peach, Patrick and Connor’s Orchid Farm wedding was filled with unique DIY details all done within three months! Due to the pandemic, the pair had to push their wedding date a year. But, with the help of their planner Anthology Studios, they pulled off a whimsical disco party with their closest loved ones.

Using eye-catching arrangements by Desert Rose Florals to frame the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Barbara coastline, the dashing grooms exchanged heartfelt vows in a breathtaking clifftop ceremony. After tying the knot, their dazzling greenhouse reception featured a floating installation of mixed dried foliage, fresh blooms, and glittery disco balls. 

From the handcrafted earthy and retro accents down to the epic fashion, the love, effort, and creativity the couple poured into their big day will blow you away. Scroll through these captivating images by Morgan McCanne and be prepared to see some serious oceanside meets greenhouse wedding inspiration.

The Couple:

Connor and Patrick

The Wedding:

Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm, Santa Barbara, CA

Why They Chose To Have An Orchid Farm Wedding

We saw our venue on a few wedding blogs in late 2018. After some digging, we found the name and contact on Yelp and set up a walkthrough. We visited and instantly fell in love. The California coastline ceremony site and greenhouses for cocktails and reception were everything we were looking for. We knew we wanted to get married in the Santa Barbara area, so we researched other venues but always came back to Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm.

Personalizing Their Ceremony By Writing Their Own Vows And Including Their Loved Ones

At the beginning of the ceremony, we had our wedding bands passed throughout our guests for them to impart good vibes and best wishes before our vows and placement of the rings. Our dog was our flower girl, too! She loved greeting the guests and being the center of attention. I also loved our vows. We wrote them separately, but the similarities showed just how aligned our brains are. We laughed and cried and it was such a loving moment.

How The Couple Added All Of The DIY Touches To Their Orchid Farm Wedding

We didn’t go into wedding planning thinking we would DIY as much as we did, but we had such a specific vision that it was easier for us to create these goods rather than compromise the look we were going for. When we didn’t see premade elements online, we took it into our own hands and made them ourselves. Thanks to Photoshop and a Cricut, we made all the paper goods and signs. We also designed and made our escort card installation, hand-sewed table overlays, made bracelets for our wedding party, and constructed custom signage stands.

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Recommended Reading: 5 Tips For Pulling Off Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses

A DIY Wedding Was A Lot Of Hard Work But A Rewarding Experience

We’re proud of everything we handcrafted to make our pretty specific vision come to life. It was a lot of work and time, but we love how everything came together. I know everyone says to let go of everything at the start of your day so you can fully enjoy it, but to be honest, since we were so heavily involved with the gritty details, it didn’t happen so easily for us. I remember heading down to the ceremony site and seeing all of our friends and family having a good time, waiting for us, and remembering feeling all of the stress melt away. It was like a button clicked off, and we could finally let go. 

Working With Photographer Morgan McCanne Felt Natural And Easy

Morgan is the photographer of our dreams. We worked with her on our engagement shoot and immediately felt so comfortable with her. Since our wedding was pushed a year, it was a little longer until we could see her again, but it felt like we had one of our good friends with us the entire day. She was up for any locations and poses and made us feel completely comfortable. Not to mention that the final edited photos are just beyond anything we could have imagined. They are the perfect representation and reminder of our special day. We honestly still get overwhelmed—in the best possible way—every time we look at the photos.

Charitable Donations Honoring Their Grandmothers

We personalized wooden fans for the guests during the ceremony but didn’t give out traditional wedding favors. Instead, we donated to Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s foundations. We each had grandmothers who suffered from these diseases, so we wanted to give back to them in this way.

They Treated Their Guests To An Unexpected And Fun Wedding Menu

Before the ceremony, we had alcoholic and non-alcoholic popsicle pour-overs provided by Mom and Pop Shop Popsicles. We had a full open bar and three signature drinks named after us and our dog, Cali, during the cocktail hour, complete with custom drink stirrers. We also had Mexican-inspired appetizers and a delicious full-service taco bar for dinner by Nana’s Catering. For dessert, we had churros and McConnell’s Ice Cream—a Santa Barbara staple. Patrick’s best friend from high school also made a small tres leches cutting cake for us. These elements helped make our day special, and our guests loved a more unique wedding reception dinner.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Morgan McCanne Photo
Event Planning – Anthology Studios
Venue – Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm
Floral Design – Desert Rose Florals
Catering – Nana’s Catering
Dessert – The Churro Cart CA
DJ – Vox DJs
Hair Styling – Ciao Bella
Groom’s Apparel – Moss Bros
Bridal Party’s Apparel – The Black Tux & Lulu’s
Rings – Tiffany & Co.
Rentals – Party Pleasers
Photobooth – Selfie Booth Co.
Lighting & Disco Balls – Ambient Event Design
Transportation – Jump on the Schoolbus
Popsicle/Pourover Welcome Station – Mom & Pop Shop
Bartenders & Staffing – National Bar Staffing

 

Congratulations to Patrick and Connor on their dazzling DIY disco-themed Orchid Farm wedding. We’re so glad that Morgan McCanne was there to capture every stunning detail and swoon-worthy moment of the day. 

Thinking of going full-scale DIY for your wedding like this couple? Do-it-yourself projects are a great way to personalize your ceremony and reception, but they can be overwhelming if you’re not careful. Check out our DIY planning guide for helpful tips to stay on track and on budget.

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Stunning and Luxe San Miguel Destination Wedding

May 28, 2022 | riley

Spectacular colonial views of the towns, the best highland sunset, lavish decor, and opulent florals—Caroline and Philip’s picture-perfect San Miguel destination wedding will sweep you away. Captivated by the bride’s hometown, the couple wanted to return with all their loved ones to experience the magic on their big day together. And with the help of their planner Lucero Alvarez, they pulled off the luxurious wedding theme like a dream!

The couple exchanged vows at their beautiful traditional ceremony in Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel before heading to their grand marquee reception at Rosewood San Miguel De Allende. There they danced the night away underneath a decadent ceiling filled with lush florals and fairy lights

To top it all off, they tied the show-stopping elements together with their stunning wedding fashion. The groom looked perfectly dapper in a classic tux, while the bride made a statement with her floral wedding gown and matching embroidered veil. One look at these breathtaking images by Junebug member Ana Hinojosa, and we guarantee you’ll be inspired to start planning your own luxe faraway fete.

The Couple:

Caroline and Philip

The Wedding:

Rosewood San Miguel, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

Why They Chose A San Miguel Destination Wedding 

I grew up going to San Miguel as a little girl, and my family is of Mexican heritage, so it just made sense that we get married in my hometown. We’ve always described San Miguel as magical, and that’s how I feel every time I see the cobblestone streets and colorful doors.

The First Look And First Dance Are The Bride’s Most Cherished Wedding Memories

The first look and first dance are a tie for my favorite moment of the day. All I wanted to do was be with Phil that day, so seeing him for the first time brought me the greatest sense of peace. I knew the rest of the day would be okay no matter what. Our first dance was to “Young and Beautiful” by Lana del Ray and was a truly magical moment for me. It felt like time was suspended at that moment for us.

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Recommended Reading: Ultimate Guide to Planning A Destination Wedding

Working With Photographer And Junebug Member Ana Hinojosa

Ana is an amazing human and photographer. She is so fun to be with that you forget she’s taking pictures. She was able to capture all the raw emotions throughout the day.

Recommended Reading: How to Decorate a Church Wedding

Thoughtful Welcome Bags That Tied In The Mexican Culture

We had amazing welcome bags that my mom put together. The bag was from Oaxaca and filled with Mexican candies, a wedding map, and a Mexican keychain.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Ana Hinojosa
Event Planning – Lucero Alvarez
Ceremony Venue – Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel
Reception Venue – Rosewood San Miguel
Live Music – Liquid Blue Band
Invitation Design – Momental Designs

 

Congratulations to Caroline and Philip on their stunning and luxe San Miguel destination wedding. And big thanks to Junebug member Ana Hinojosa for capturing every meaningful moment and thoughtfully crafted detail. To see more of her work, check out Ana’s profile in our directory of talented photographers from around the world.

There are so many moving parts involved when planning a successful destination wedding. Like Caroline and Philip’s wedding, it’s all about the team behind it. From curating the perfect group of vendors to tips on communicating your vision—check out our destination wedding planning guide for everything you need to know about pulling off the getaway wedding of your dreams.

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The Ultimate Wedding Planning Guide

May 27, 2022 | kailey

Image by Jamie Y Photography. Keep scrolling for our ultimate wedding planning guide.

No two weddings are alike, but there are many similarities when it comes to the planning process. Regardless of your wedding size, budget, or destination we’ve rounded up the best practices you’ll want to follow when planning your big day. From hiring your dream vendors down to the last minute details, we’ve got you covered every step of the way. Whether you’re planning your wedding in two months or twelve months, we’ve created this step-by-step wedding planning guide to help you organize your thoughts. Use our guide to make sure you don’t miss any details or steps. 

1. Determine What’s Most Important

You’re engaged, you just followed a bunch of wedding vendors on Instagram, and…now what? After shouting your engagement from the rooftops and celebrating with those that matter most, take a deep breath. You have a long wedding planning road ahead of you. 

We’ve seen many couples rush into making decisions that haunt them later on. To ensure this doesn’t happen to you, kickstart your planning process by compiling a list of things that are most important to you and your significant other. These priorities will have a large influence on the rest of your pre-wedding decisions. Then, create a mood board that’ll help communicate your dreams and vision to potential wedding vendors. Next, get started on your wedding website with Lovebird, an innovative platform streamlining wedding guest communication from save the dates, to digital wedding invitations, to RSVPs and more.

Must-read blog posts for determining what’s most important:

Image by Paola Lattarini. See more of this real wedding here.

2. Evaluate Your Budget 

You might be wondering why we didn’t start with money talk. That’s because we want to ensure that all of your large wedding choices aren’t solely based on your budget. Dream your wildest dreams, then figure out how to make it happen or where to scale back around the elements you’ve already prioritized.

We often hear that couples don’t know how to get started creating a wedding budget. If this sounds like you, check out our guide for creating your perfect wedding budget.

Must-read blog posts for budgeting:

3. Assemble A Rockstar Vendor Team

Now we’re getting to the fun part—assembling your dream team of vendors. Again, we know it’s exciting to follow all the vendors your heart desires, but you should start with a wedding planner first. They play an important role in every stage of the planning process, including helping you find your vendors. They’ll even help your budget stay on track.

After choosing a planner, a wedding date, and destination then you can hunt down your dream photographer and videographer. 

Must-read blog posts for assembling your vendor team:

Image by Tahnee Jade Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

4. Figure Out The Logistics

Logistics are what make your day run smoothly. These aren’t as fun but you don’t want these details overlooked when your big day arrives. We’re talking about  your wedding day timeline, guest list, and seating chart. But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Your vendor team will be able to help with many of these stressful elements

Must-real blog posts for nailing down the logistical details:

5. Purchase Your Wedding Day Attire

A wedding dress, a colorful suit, or even a wedding jumpsuit—no matter what you decide to rock on your big day, shopping is sure to be a good time. Or a little daunting. Because you’ve already determined your vision and budget you already have a starting point. Grab your vision board and head to your local bridal boutique or tailor to get started. 

Must-read blog posts for choosing your wedding attire:

Image by Epic Love Story. See more of this real wedding here.

6. Enjoy Along The Way

No one said wedding planning would be easy, but it can be fun with all of the right resources like this wedding planning guide, your loved ones, and trusted vendors. With all of these tools you’ll limit your wedding planning stress and give yourself the freedom to enjoy the process. Shopping for the dress, taking engagement photos, assembling your registry. Soak it all in! 

Must-read blog posts for enjoying along the way:

7. Plan Wedding Party Festivities

If you and your significant other have decided you want your crew by your side, it’s time to plan the pre-wedding festivities. You’ve probably already asked the gang to be a part of your day, but now’s the fun part—your bachelor and bachelorette party

From the destination to gear, make sure you’re sticking to everyone’s budgets when it comes to these festivities. We know you want to pamper your crew, but this is an easy area to overspend. 

Must-read blog posts for planning your wedding party festivities:

Image by Tews Visual. See more of this real wedding here.

8. Personalize Your Wedding Ceremony

Once your timeline is set and all the larger logistical details are figured out, you’ll be able to focus on personalizing your ceremony. Your officiant, hand-written vows, and music are all opportunities to add personalized touches to your ceremony. 

These special touches end up being some of the most memorable moments from your wedding. Moments that’ll bring tears to your eyes and that you’ll hold close forever. 

Must-read blogs about personalizing your wedding ceremony:

9. Coordinate All The Pretty Details

Have your Pinterest boards handy, it’s time to plan the wow decor for your ceremony, reception, and everything in between. This is where your inspiration photos and mood board play an important role. Your color palette, floral installations, and lighting are just a few of the little details that’ll transform an ordinary space into the wedding venue of your dreams. 

Must-read blog posts for planning your decor and entertainment details:

Image by Jennifer Blalock. See more of this styled shoot here.

9. Create Your Food And Drink Menu

Catering options, reception bar, and wedding cake—our mouths are watering just thinking about it all. Sure food and drinks may seem simple. But don’t underestimate the amount of choices you truly have for each. When it comes to catering you have to hire a caterer, pick your meal style, and decide on what food to serve up. 

Your reception bar is another element that may seem easy but requires a lot of prepping. From stocking to staffing and even decorating, there’s a lot that goes into bringing your cocktail bar to life. To add an extra personalized touch, work closely with your hired bartenders to create a signature cocktail that represents you. Whether it’s one cocktail with your wedding hashtag, two that are named after you both, or even extra options named after your pets, the options are endless.

Lastly, it’s time to talk about dessert. Yes, we saved the best and tastiest for last. If you’ve decided to stick with a traditional wedding cake, you’re in for a real treat. Finding a trusted bakery, scheduling tastings, and designing the cake—the wedding cake process is sweet all around. These details may seem small and insignificant, but are sure to make a lasting impact come wedding day. 

Must read blog posts for ironing out your food and drink details:

Image by Igor Demba.

11. Orchestrate Your Reception Entertainment

Celebrate good times, c’mon! It’s time to celebrate, and for many of you that means dancing. all. night. long. If there’s one thing we can’t stress enough, it’s the importance of a DJ or band to help keep the party going. Music is the soundtrack for memorable moments—like the first dance, mother-son dance, and the father-daughter dance—so entertainment choices shouldn’t be taken lightly. 

Must-read blog posts for orchestrating your reception entertainment:

12. Remember The Last-Minute Wedding Planning Details

If wedding week is getting close, we’re doing a happy dance for you. The day you’ve been preparing for is almost here! But, before your big day there’s sure to be last minute, mini emergencies to take care of. From packing your honeymoon bag to sending those last vendor checks, make sure you have everything crossed off your list so you focus on soaking up those soon to be memories. 

Must-read blog posts for your last-minute details:

13. Check Off Your Post-Wedding To-Do List

You did it! First thing’s first, take some time to enjoy being married. But before jet-setting off for your much needed honeymoon, use this time to clear up any last minute details. From vendor tips to thank you cards, post-wedding tasks are a great way to distract yourself while anxiously awaiting your photo gallery and video sneak peek.

Must-read blog posts for your post-wedding to-do list:

The wedding planning process looks similar across the board. But, lucky for us, every wedding doesn’t. If you’re looking for ways to create a personalized, never-before-seen celebration that authentically celebrates your love, check out our guide for creating a unique wedding

Then, hire a team of talented vendors that can bring it all together.

Image by Lora Photography.

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Intimate Retro and Boho Micro Wedding

With a retro color palette, whimsical florals, flashy disco ball details, and a down-to-earth vibe, Jacqui and Stanford’s boho micro wedding was romantic, hippy, and disco fab. To couples out there who want to take a more unconventional route, this celebration will inspire you to bend the rules and have the most fun and gorgeous wedding ever! 

Known for its menu, century-old oak trees, beautiful front lawn, and vintage farmhouse interior, Mattie’s was the perfect venue for their nuptials. With eclectic rugs leading up to the stunning lush floral pillars by Mountain Laurel Floral, the outdoor ceremony setting was the epitome of dreamy. The reception that followed featured a charming tablescape of antique candle holders, patterned plates, caramel-colored glassware, and mismatched floral arrangements

The cherry on top of this wedding is the unique fashion. The groom kept it stylish in a dark teal suit, while the bride looked incredible in a lace wedding dress with peekaboo midriff detail. She later changed into a sparkly disco jumpsuit for the after-party. From the styled campervan photobooth to the retro lounge area and DIY accents scroll through to see the unique details, all captured by Junebug member Aurelia Baca.

The Couple:

Jacqui and Stanford

The Wedding:

Mattie’s, Austin, Texas

Why Mattie’s Was The Right Choice For Their Boho Micro Wedding

We had eaten dinner before at Mattie’s with my parents and fell in love with it. It’s in the heart of Austin and only a few miles away from where we stay. It’s almost like a hidden gem, and I knew it was the perfect venue for our wedding.

Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Planning A Micro Wedding

An Intimate And Unplugged Ceremony Officiated By The Bride’s Brother

The ceremony was the most memorable part because it was very intimate and officiated by my brother, Ricky. I’m very close to him and wanted him to be the one to make it official.  We only invited our closest friends and family, and we kept the ceremony unplugged so that we could all live in the moment together.

Wedding Planning Advice From The Bride

The entire point of wedding planning is to celebrate your big day. So if you’re not having a good time and living in the moment, you’ve missed the point. I also definitely recommend getting a day-of-coordinator if you’re planning the wedding yourself. I was grateful to have Blue Events & Co. step in 60 days prior to the event to help pull everything together and take some of the stress off my shoulders.

Recommended Reading: 9 Velvet Wedding Details To Include In Your Wedding

Creative DIY Wedding Details Brought In From Home

We DIY’d pretty much everything from the signage and table settings to the party favors. We had eight hanging plants in macrame plant holders hanging from the ceiling inside that I had been growing for months at my place.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Aurelia Baca Photography
Venue – Mattie’s
Floral Design – Mountain Laurel Floral
Cake – Feathers & Frosting
Desserts – Cake Llama
Invitation Design – Paper Doll Caligraphy
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling – LUX Beauty and Bridal
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Bella Bridesmaids
Groom & Groomsmen’s Apparel – The Black Tux
Napkin Rentals – Premiere Events
Rings – Identity Diamonds
Rentals – Moontower Rentals & Grand Rentals
Streamers – Pop & Drop Texas
Photobooth – Gypc Wagon

 

Congratulations to Jacqui and Stanford on their intimate retro and boho micro wedding. And special thanks to Junebug member Aurelia Baca for capturing and sharing this unique wedding. To see more of her talent, check out her portfolio in our directory of top-notch photographers from around the world.

Your wedding color palette sets the tone of your celebration and reflects your style and personality as a couple. This wedding is proof that having an awesome theme and color palette is a great way to play up the details and tie all the design elements together. 

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This Dazzling and Luxe Brunch Wedding Cost $50k

May 17, 2022 | riley

You’re probably familiar with the traditional wedding timeline. It starts with a ceremony followed by a cocktail hour, complete with a reception. While there’s nothing wrong with following a traditional timeline, there are no set rules that say that’s how weddings have to be. Just look at Katelyn and Markell for inspiration! Rather than opting for a plated dinner, the two ended up with a luxe brunch wedding that is making our breakfast-loving hearts swoon.

With the help of Junebug member and wedding planner Coda’s Events, the industrial loft space of Wild Carrot was transformed into the perfect backdrop for their simple yet glamorous “I do’s.” With hanging greenery arranged by Clementine in Cape, a muted sage green and ivory color palette, minimalist tapered candle centerpieces, and a naked wedding cake, the two proved that less can be so much more.

If you’re in the midst of wedding planning and putting together your wedding budget, you’re going to want to see these beautiful photos captured by Tammi Camp. They’re the perfect example of how, no matter how much you’re spending on your special day, every wedding can look entirely different based on what matters most to you and your significant other.

The Couple:

Katelyn and Markell

The Wedding:

Wild Carrot, St. Louis, Missouri, United States

Shop similar hangers: Custom Wedding Hanger ($21.99); Custom Wedding Hanger With Pearl ($22.99); Wedding Hanger Engraved With Date ($19.78)

Recommended Reading: Adorable Getting Ready Robes For Your Bridesmaids

How The Newlyweds Came Up With Their $50k Budget

Going into planning our wedding, we quickly became shocked at many of the prices! We definitely wanted a wedding but knew it would need to be cost-effective and follow a strict budget. We mapped out our non-negotiables and our nice-to-haves with an associated price we did not want to exceed. After hiring our planner, she helped us stay on budget. Major surprises were floral costs, food costs, and just the little details you don’t factor in upfront like linens, transportation, and hotel costs.

How Their Luxe Brunch Wedding Played Out

I was really set on having a brunch reception but wasn’t sure how that would come across or if it would be as fun since it was during the day. The seamlessness of the day was just so rewarding. I felt like everything tied in together and it felt truly like a Sunday brunch with close family and friends. I’m so grateful for that. It came out better than I would’ve imagined. We still get compliments on our wedding to this day about how fun it was, how intimate it felt, and how delicious the food and drinks were!

Recommended Reading: 20 Stunning Floral Ceiling Installations

Their Number One Priority Was A Photographer

​​Our number one priority was choosing a photographer we loved. These are photos we’ll have for a lifetime, so we didn’t want to sacrifice choosing someone we didn’t feel would be able to capture the love we have for one another—especially on our special day. This was the most flexible part of our budget to ensure we got who we wanted. We absolutely loved our photos!

Cutting Wedding Costs Means Compromising

We had very open conversations and really had to compromise on certain things to ensure we both got what we wanted. We also continued to tie it back to the vibe and vision for the day to ensure our budget and vendors aligned with our vision for the day. For example, florals were not built-in as a large part of our budget, but we knew we wanted them to be beautiful. So I did extensive research on local florists that I was confident could create our vision within a reasonable price range. While we didn’t have every single floral we would’ve wanted due to budget, we were able to quickly cut costs here because we knew spending more wasn’t 100% in line with our vision for the day.

Recommended Reading: How to Create the Best Wedding Budget for You and Your Partner

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Tammi Camp
Event Planning – Coda’s Events
Venue – Wild Carrot
Floral Design – Clementine in Cape
Catering – The Social Affair
Cake – Celebrations of Life
DJ – PhatMixx
Makeup Artist – Nicole Beauty Wellness
Wedding Dress – The Ultimate Bride
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Mia Grace
Groom’s Apparel – Houndstooth
Rings – Vincent’s Jewelers
Transportation – All About You Limos
Favors – Courtney Brickner

 

Congratulations again to Katelyn and Markell on their luxe brunch wedding! We’re so thankful that Junebug member Coda’s Events was there to help them bring their vision to life. And of course, thank you to Tammi Camp for capturing it all. To see more of the amazing weddings that Charley of Coda’s Events has planned, be sure to check out her profile in our directory of wedding planners from around the globe!

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Romantic Pastel Peach Micro Wedding Inspiration

May 14, 2022 | riley

Although the wedding industry is booming once again, micro weddings are here to stay as couples shift their focus from large celebrations to small nuptials with their closest loved ones. Florist Bloominati Florals partnered up with planner Luna And The Lane and dreamt up this pastel peach micro wedding inspiration that further proves that minimonies are far from boring.

The Ravenswood–a 15th West Essex century estate–was the perfect backdrop for the styled shoot. The brides exchanged vows amongst elegant drapery, columns made of soft apricot and blush roses, and the glow of candlelight. But the charming aesthetic didn’t stop there–carrying into the reception decor

The floral backdrop that framed the couple during the ceremony was repurposed around the dinner table, making the intimate affair both whimsical and eco-friendly. Paired with the tapered candles and wedding cake covered in realistic sugar flowers, the post-ceremony celebration was straight out of a fairytale.  If you’re looking for opulent garden wedding inspiration, then you’re going to love these photos beautifully captured by Lauren Knuckey Photography.

The Epic Wedding Fashion At This Peach Micro Wedding Inspiration Shoot

Real couple Arita and Clare rocked a satin three-piece suit and a ruffled-sleeved embroidered A-line gown from Crazy In Love Bridal–think modern-day Bridgerton.

Recommended Reading: Perfect Bridal Jumpsuits and Pantsuits

Recommended Reading: Read This If You’re Planning An LGBTQ+ Wedding

Recommended Reading: 6 LGBTQ+ Wedding Fashion Tips

Recommended Reading: 5 Clever Ways to Repurpose Your Wedding Decor From Ceremony To Reception

Recommended Reading: 30 Showstopping Reception Dresses

The Talented Team:

Photography – Lauren Knuckey Photography
Concept & Floral Design – Bloominati
Ceremony Venue – The Ravenswood
Styling – Luna And The Lane
Floral Assistant – Studio by Stown
Cake – Cakes In Bloom
Invitation Design – Abbie Worton Design
Makeup Artist & Hair Styling – Jane RosemaryBelle Denbury
Wedding Dress & Suit – Crazy In Love Bridal
Bridal Accessories – Di by Diane Hassall & Saint Beth Accessories
Tableware – Place Settings
Fabric Installations, Table Runners, Napkins, & Ribbons – Mia Sylvia
Models – Clare & Aurita

 

Thanks again to Lauren Knuckey Photography for capturing this elegant pastel peach micro wedding inspiration. And a big thank you to Bloominati Florals for organizing the whole thing! To get started planning your own minimony, check out our guide to planning a micro wedding.

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