You only get one chance to make a first impression, so make it count. Being your guest’s first glimpse into your wedding day, your choice of invitations shouldn’t be taken lightly. They relay all the important details (like date, location, and your wedding website link), they give a theme sneak peak, and they’ll also be displayed on your loved ones refrigerators until the big day arrives. But, no pressure, we’ve got you covered. If you’re searching for the right stationery to announce your nuptial to friends and family, look no further than these fall wedding invitations from Etsy.
Now that your wedding invitations have been sent, it’s time to break out your mood board and start finalizing those wedding details that make fall celebrations oh-so-special. Not sure where to start? We’ve got your covered. To create an unforgettably warm and fuzzy autumnal celebration, start by checking out these delightfully cozy fall wedding ideas that will ensure you feel the magic of the season.
Keep reading to uncover unexpected expenses and ensure you’re fully prepared! Image by Josie Brooks.
When setting your wedding budget, there are so many details to juggle that it’s easy for unexpected wedding expenses to slip through the cracks. Even with the best wedding budget tool, it’s hard to account for every little thing, especially things that don’t go as planned or that you assume someone else will pay for. So, before finalizing your budget, be sure to review these 17 unexpected expenses to make sure you’ve got everything covered.
Unexpected Wedding Expenses
1. Postage Wedding Budget
When planningyour invitation budget, don’t forget to account for the stamps you’ll need to mail them all. That includes the stamp for the actual invitation, the stamp on the RSVP envelope–if you’re not doing RSVPs through your wedding website–and your thank you notes.
If you’re using thick or uniquely shaped paper, wraps, or other add-ons that will add weight or bulk to your invitations, be sure to check with the post office to find out if you need extra postage.
2. Day-Of Stationery
You’ve likely already accounted for your invitations, save the dates, and thank you cards, but have you thought about the paper good you’ll need for the actual wedding day? Ceremony programs, menus, table numbers,framed signs, and escort cards should all be built into your stationery budget.
3. Marriage License
This is the most important item on the do-not-forget list, but many couples tend to forget they need to pay for their marriage license. The price ranges from $25 – $100, depending on your state, so be sure to check your state’s website for the exact fee.
4. Alterations
One of thebiggest mistakes brides make is spending their entire fashion budget on the dress. Since it’s one of the most important items of clothing you’ll ever wear, you want to make sure that it fits you perfectly. Build enough money into your budget for alterations, which can run anywhere from $100 to $800, depending on how much customization you are doing.
5. Undergarments And Accessories
As with alterations, undergarments and accessories are an important part of rounding out your bridal look and should be built into your fashion budget. Thinklingerie, garter,veil,jewelry, clutch,shoes,hairpieces, and agetting-ready robe.
6. Bachelor Or Bachelorette Parties
Although most people assume that the wedding party pays for thebachelorette/bachelor parties, the truth is that many couples do end up pitching in to alleviate the burden–especially for weekend-long festivities. If you plan to pitch in for your party, don’t feel like you need to pay most of your way. These parties are meant to celebrate you, so your wedding party should spoil you just a bit.
Taxes and service fees take us by surprise every time and, when making such large purchases, they add up quicker than you can imagine. Vendors will charge different fees for different services, so be sure to read your contract carefully before committing.
Also, keep in mind that service fees and tips are different! The service fee is the cost of executing a particular service, and most vendors expect a tip on top of that fee. The general tipping guideline for wedding vendors is between 15-20%, so make sure to build that into each vendors’ total cost. You can read more about gratuities in ourguide to tipping your wedding vendors!
8. Overtime
Despite all your best attempts to make sure everything is wrapped up and cleaned up before your allotted time ends, you should have a small reserve of money set aside just in case. Look over your contract to see how much yourvenue andvendors will charge should you go over. If you absolutely can’t afford any extra time, plan your hard cut-off time to start clean-up even earlier.
9. Sound And Lighting
These might be the last two things on your list of ceremony and reception costs, but they’re also the two of the most important. Whenhiring a DJ, be sure to ask if sound setup and additional lighting is needed/included in the total price.
If you’re havinglive music at your ceremony, you’ll definitely need to amplify them so all your guests can hear. Whether you’re having an indoor oroutdoor wedding, you’ll also need to be sure everyone can hear the music, the vows, and the readings, so you’ll need to invest in some sound equipment regardless.
As for lighting, be sure to check outour ultimate guide to wedding lighting, which lays out everything you need to know to make sure your event is lit properly.
10. Welcome Bag Delivery
This is one even we were surprised to find out. Some hotels will charge you to deliver those cute little welcome bags to your guests’ rooms. The average fee is $7, which can quickly add up if you have lots of out-of-town wedding guests. To avoid this fee, simply ask your hotel to give each guest a bag when they check-in instead of delivering it to their room.
11. Insurance
While not always necessary, having insurance for your wedding can save you from a headache down the road. Wedding insurance can help protect you if things go wrong, like vendor cancellations or unexpected weather. Additionally, ring insurance is a good idea to cover the cost of lost, stolen, or damaged wedding rings.
12. Vendor Trials
Want to make sure your hairstylist or makeup artist is a perfect fit? Trials are a great way to test things out before the big day, but they usually come with a price tag. Be sure to budget for them so you’re not caught off guard.
If you’re hiring vendors from out of town, there could be additional charges for travel, delivery, and setup. Whether it’s a photographer or your florist, make sure to clarify these costs upfront to avoid surprises later.
14. Wedding Transportation
From limos to shuttle buses for your guests, wedding transportation can add up quickly. These costs are often overlooked, so be sure to factor them in to keep your wedding day running smoothly.
15. Vendor Meals
Your vendors will be working hard all day, and many will require meals during the event. Some venues include this in their packages, but others don’t, so check ahead to avoid unexpected charges.
16. Thank You Gifts
Thank you gifts are a small but thoughtful way to show appreciation to your bridal party and family members. While they don’t have to be extravagant, this extra expense can add up, especially if you give gifts to a large group.
17. Post-Wedding Expenses
The wedding might be over, but there are still a few lingering costs. From changing your name on legal documents to cleaning your wedding dress, post-wedding expenses often pop up when you least expect them. Make sure you set aside a little extra to cover these final tasks!
Now that you know the unexpected wedding expenses that can pop up, be sure to add the ones that apply to your budget. If you’re worried about the costs adding up, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to save as you plan your big day. Keep these in mind, and you’ll be able to stay on top of your spending while planning the wedding of your dreams!
Alisha and Haley chose a destination wedding because most of their friends and family live out of state. Mexico was the first international place they visited together, so it felt special to go back. They wanted their guests to have an unforgettable time. Inspired by the stunning tropical scenery, their Hotel Xcaret wedding allowed everyone to enjoy a lovely vacation while celebrating their big day.
On a sandy spot by the inlet, the couple exchanged vows beneath an altar framed by bold floral pillars. The magic continued at their beach cave reception, where they dined on tables filled with lush arrangements and candles and danced the night away, surrounded by striking rock formations and under a canopy of stars. Oh, and did we mention that all of this took place on the same day as a solar eclipse? If that’s not good luck, we don’t know what is!
Their special day was truly a wedding like no other. Just take a look at these stunning images captured by Junebug vendor Arte Visual MF, and you’ll see why we guarantee you’ll agree.
The Value of Professional Help in Destination Wedding Planning
If you also have a scenario where many of your guests live scattered across the country, a destination wedding is a great solution. When guests have to travel to attend your wedding, picking a fun location makes it more enjoyable for everyone. Plus, choosing a destination wedding means you typically get to spend multiple days with your guests. For anyone having a destination wedding, we advise working with a travel agent who specializes in wedding groups. Our travel agent was beneficial in securing our wedding contract and hotel room block and working with all our guests to plan their travel. You have so much to think about when planning a destination wedding, and having a great travel agent alleviates so much stress. One regret we have from the wedding is not hiring a wedding planner or at least a day-of coordinator. We had the help of our friends and designated support staff from the resort. We love hosting events as a couple, but even if you are “Type A” and think you can handle it all to save money as we did, we’d still say, “Hire someone!” Our day would have been more seamless and stress-free had we had an extra person to oversee all the details.
Crafting a Unique Hotel Xcaret Wedding by Combining Deep Jewel Tones and Tropical Touches
We first chose our wedding venue, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, and built our wedding style around it. We wanted the design to draw inspiration from the beautiful tropical landscape while reflecting our desire for a romantic, chic, and moody atmosphere representing us as a couple. We aimed for the day to feel stylish and special, unlike any other. We settled on deep jewel tones for our décor and floral arrangements, incorporating tropical touches like palm leaves and seashells. Additionally, a solar eclipse occurred on our wedding day, adding a unique and exciting energy to the celebration.
Creating a Cohesive and Complementary Look By Going Wedding Dress Shopping Together
As a two-woman couple, we had to ensure that our wedding day looks were cohesive and complementary. In an unconventional twist, we went wedding dress shopping together. At our very first bridal shop, Haley found a slim-fitting dress adorned with feminine lace and beading, while I discovered a minimal and chic dress that perfectly matched her style. Our accessories completed our looks: Haley handcrafted tropical-inspired earrings, and I chose a unique floral cape, custom-made from an Etsy shop, instead of a veil. Additional special touches included a vintage robe from a local Tucson flea market, which Alisha wore while getting ready, and Haley’s perfume named “Tucson” by Astier de Villatte, adding a touch of home.
Honoring African American Traditions and Family During Their Ceremony
One of our favorite ways to personalize our ceremony was by involving our family members in special roles. Haley’s grandmother served as our flower girl, while her 13-year-old brother acted as our ring bearer and “bubble boy,” delighting the crowd with a bubble gun during the recessional. From our hiding spot before walking down the aisle, we could hear the cheers and laughter as Nana tossed rose petals. We also had each of our siblings perform a reading during the ceremony, including Maya Angelou’s poem “Touched by an Angel.” To make the ceremony even more personal, we flew our pastor from Tucson to officiate, featured a live harpist on the beach, had our photographers capture a group photo with all our guests immediately after the ceremony, and honored the African American tradition of jumping the broom.
Making Their Hotel Xcaret Wedding Truly Authentic with a Choreographed First Dance and Heartfelt Toasts
Our wedding felt like an authentic expression of us as a couple. The small details made all the difference. We are proud of how we pulled off our choreographed first dance. When Beyonce’s new album, Cowboy Carter, was released just a week before our wedding, we decided to change our first dance song to “II Most Wanted” because it resonated with us deeply as a same-sex couple. Three days before our wedding, we started choreographing a dance to the song and pulled off theperformance on our wedding day. All of our siblings in attendance gave toasts during dinner—Haley’s three brothers and Alisha’s sister and brother. There was laughter at inside jokes, tears at heartfelt words, and so much love in the room.
Managing Stress and Distractions by Staying Focused on What Matters Most
As a same-sex couple, we faced challenges throughout our relationship, and we wanted our wedding to celebrate the joy and beauty of our love. From the supportive guests we invited to the meaningful readings in our ceremony, we carefully designed a genuinely celebratory day. We focused on keeping the main thing: our marriage and being present with each other. This required intentional choices and preparation, especially since a destination wedding can bring many distractions. By centering on the day’s purpose, we made planning decisions that helped us manage stress and stay focused on what mattered. We were determined not to let anything pull us away from the essence of why we were there.
Staying Under Budget by Making Smart Financial Choices
Our budget was $40,000, which included travel and a resort stay for us and our officiant. We splurged on our photography and videography. The wedding day goes by so fast. We wanted to capture all the memories to look back on and to see parts of the day we might have missed. We initially didn’t have videography in our budget but decided to add it a couple of months before the wedding because we heard it’s a top regret of many couples. We are so glad we did. One trick that helped us stay under budget was opening a travel credit card before we started wedding planning. We put all of our big purchases on the card and were able to use travel points to purchase our flights to Mexico, as well as the flight for our officiant. We also saved by making digital invitations, designing our signage and paper goods, having family and friends do our hair and makeup, and not having an official bridal party.
Enhancing the Experience with Resort Activities and Excursions for Guests at Their Hotel Xcaret Wedding
We are proud of creating a fantastic travel experience for our guests. We picked a beautiful all-inclusive resort, designed a complete travel guide that was sent to guests before arrival, passed out welcome bags with travel necessities, and planned fun events for everyone to enjoy (like a group excursion to Xplor Park for ziplining, a welcome cocktail party the night before the wedding, and a “Newlywed Fiesta” at Xoximilco the night after the wedding). Our guests enjoyed a wonderful vacation while attending our wedding and creating lasting memories with us. Many even joked that we should plan a trip to all return to the resort together in a year for our first anniversary.
Easy-to-Transport Handcrafted Favors and Accessories
We DIYed wedding elements that were easy to take with us on the airplane. Haley designed all of our paper goods on Canva, including our dinner menu, bar and guest book signage, wedding weekend itinerary, and a wedding day newspaper. We also had a friend calligraph our guests’ names on natural capiz shells for our seating chart and name tags, adding a tropical touch to our decor. Haley, who loves making jewelry as a hobby, spent the weeks leading up to the wedding handcrafting bracelets as gifts for each guest’s welcome bag. She also created her wedding earrings.
Congratulations to Alisha and Haley on their Hotel Xcaret wedding that was as chic as it was romantic. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Arte Visual MF for expertly capturing every breathtaking detail and cherished moment of our enchanting celebration. Be sure to check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.
Are you considering a destination wedding? It’s the perfect opportunity for a close-knit celebration with your favorite people and to create lasting memories. For an exceptional experience, partner with experienced vendors who can elevate your special day.
When the wedding day has come and gone, the festivities don’t have to end. You still have exciting things to look forward to: the honeymoon and receiving your wedding photos from your photographer—one of the most eagerly anticipated parts of the post-wedding process. While this is an exciting moment, many couples wonder what to do with their wedding photos after the big day.
If you’re in this situation, here are a few creative ideas to help you cherish and share the beautiful memories from your wedding day for years to come.
1. Download and Backup your Gallery
With the overwhelming excitement of receiving your wedding gallery, you’ll be eager to share your photos with everyone right away. However, there’s one crucial task you need to complete first: backing up your photos. Many couples forget this step and leave their photos in their online gallery. To ensure the safety of your images for years to come, take the time to download them. This will protect your precious memories from potential data loss.
2. Share them on Social Media
The wedding day has come and gone. While you’ve inevitably shared some candid iPhone photos taken by guests, it’s officially time to receive that curated gallery from your hired photographer. After scrolling through the gallery with your partner, amidst all the excitement, it’s time to share them on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest. This is a great way to share your joy with friends and family who couldn’t attend the event.
3. Make Thank You Cards
Now that the celebration is over, it’s time to think about sending out thank you cards. You’ll likely draft up a design online, and when you do, consider incorporating your wedding photos into your cards. Personalized cards featuring a beautiful picture from your wedding will add a special touch to your gratitude.
While thanking your loved ones for their presence (and presents) should be simple, we understand how overwhelming it can feel. If you need help crafting the perfect sweet and sentimental message for your guests, check out our guide for what to write in wedding thank you cards.
4. Share the Gallery With Loved Ones (if you want)
When you share your professional wedding photos on social media, your loved ones are bound to get excited. They’ll likely want to see and download some of those special photos, too. When it comes to sharing your wedding photographs, you have a few options. While you can send the full gallery to loved ones, you don’t have to. There are so many special moments that make up a wedding day—some being incredibly personal.
So, if you don’t want to mass-send out the official gallery, that’s okay. Instead, you can create a custom link with just the photos you feel comfortable sharing. Set up a digital gallery of your own for friends and family so they can view and download their favorite images.
5. Create Your Wedding Album
Your wedding goes by in the blink of an eye, and you’ll want to relive those moments over and over. Luckily, you can do just that by flipping through a stunning album filled with your beautiful wedding photos. Wedding albums are one of the greatest keepsakes from your big day. So, after receiving your photos from your photographer, design a gorgeous wedding album to showcase your favorite photos. This timeless keepsake will let you revisit your special day whenever you like and makes for a beautiful coffee table book.
6. Order Physical Prints
While digital copies are convenient to share, there’s nothing quite like having physical copies of your cherished memories. Choose some of your favorite photos from your gallery and have them printed. These prints are perfect for framing around your home, providing a sweet reminder of the day you said ‘I do’ while adding a personal touch to your living space.
7. Get Creative With Your Photos
The fun doesn’t need to stop after sharing your photos online and creating an album. Now that all the must-dos are out of the way, it’s time to get creative with your wedding photos. Incorporate them into home décor with unique items like custom-made pillows, mugs, and calendars.
Your wedding photos serve as cherished keepsakes you’ll look back on for years to come. That’s why choosing the right photographer is so important. You need someone who makes you comfortable in front of the camera and whom you can trust to capture those sweet, once-in-a-lifetime moments.
With seemingly endless options, it can be tough to find professionals whose style you love and who fit within your budget. To help you get started, check out our vendor directory packed with the best photographers from around the world, making it easier for you to find the perfect match.
Paris and David love visiting museums together, making it a special part of every trip they take. So, it only made sense for them to get married in one. Initially, their vision changed quite a bit, but over time, it transformed into an elegant and timeless affair inspired by Old Hollywood. The bride’s dress and David’s choice to wear a tux played key roles in this vision. With a refined color palette, tasteful decor, and chic fashion, their Baltimore Museum of Art wedding was everything they dreamed of.
The beautiful museum influenced their design choices, so they kept things simple to let its charm shine through. For their ceremony at the Fox Court–an exquisite neoclassical room with a soaring coffered ceiling and elegant Ionic columns–they only needed dark Tiffany chairs and aisle florals. The same room was transformed for the reception, with tables filled with lush low centerpieces and candles, creating a cozy atmosphere for intimate conversations and a great time with their loved ones.
The couple carefully chose every element of their celebration, creating an unforgettable event. Keep scrolling to see how beautifully Rachel Stenger captured each curated detail and emotional moment, leaving us inspired by this stunning celebration.
I’m an outlier when I say I had no idea what wedding dress style I wanted when we got engaged. I didn’t have a Pinterest board or any photos of dresses I liked saved on my phone. This was because, genuinely, I’m not too fond of most wedding dresses on the market. But when I stumbled across Danielle Frankel, I knew immediately that I had found my designer. Her dresses were undeniably cool, elegant, and unique without being too avant-garde. The dress I chose, the Noa, felt like something out of a 1960s black and white film, which, unbeknownst to me then, was exactly what I was looking for. My second look was a no-brainer; I had my mother’s wedding dress from 1977 tailored into a modern mini. I also knew that I wanted to wear my shoes all night long, so I opted for the always-elegant Prada leather slingback pumps with a shorter heel height.
Twiggy-Inspired Eye Design for a Unique Bridal Look
I wanted my hair and makeup to reflect the style of the dresses, something a bit unusual without being distracting. I sent my artist, Eva Varfolomeeva, a few inspirational photos, and she came up with the perfect eye design, something reminiscent of Twiggy from the 1960s.
The Design Evolution of Their Baltimore Museum of Art Wedding
Our vision for our wedding changed quite a bit throughout the wedding planning process. When we first started planning, I envisioned a much darker, autumn-focused color palette. But as the months went on, my vision shifted to something a bit more elegant and timeless, in the style of Old Hollywood. My dress was one of the inspirations for that vision, as was David’s decision to wear a tux. The venue itself also influenced our design choices—the museum is so beautiful on its own that we didn’t feel the need to add much to it. We also wanted the design elements we chose to complement the venue’s color palette and style, so we opted for subtler and more refined colors and textures. For example, the large floral urns on either side of the altar were painted with beige stone to match the large Ionic columns that flank Fox Court.
A Memorable First Look and Private Walk Through the Galleries
There were a few “most memorable” moments for us. One was the first look on the front steps of the museum. As I was walking down the steps towards David, I could see that he was wiping away tears already, well before he turned around. David often talks about the sound of my heels on the steps behind him as something he’ll never forget. We also lucked out with beautiful weather for mid-April and sunny skies in the mid-60s, for which we were so grateful. Another memorable moment was when David and I snuck away towards the end of the night to walk through some of the museum galleries on our own. It was just us and the security guard, who was busy dancing by himself to the music from our live band playing in the other room. It was so nice to have a few minutes together and reflect on this huge moment in our lives.
Making Their Baltimore Museum of Art Wedding Planning Easier with a Professional
Our biggest piece of advice would be to hire a planner. Working with our planner, Julie Partridge, was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. She made the process so much more manageable for both of us, especially since we were planning our wedding from another state. We also suggest making date nights out of your more arduous decision-making sessions. If we had a long list of decisions, we’d grab a drink at our favorite local bar and check things off the list.
The Benefits of an Intimate Wedding Celebration
We were proud of so many aspects of our wedding, but one in particular was that we got to spend time with every single one of our guests. It was so important to us that our wedding be small enough for us to celebrate with our closest family and friends, and with only 75 guests, we could do that. Having a small wedding allowed us to focus on what matters most to us: excellent food, high-quality drinks, and beautiful flowers. For example, we found champagne at our local wine store in Brooklyn that we loved, Delamotte Blanc de Blancs, so we shipped in a case from France.
A Love for Museums Led to the Perfect Wedding Venue
One of our favorite things to do as a couple is visit museums. In every city and new country we visit, we always make time for a museum trip, so it felt fitting for us to get married in one. We also wanted our wedding to feel effortlessly elegant, and the Baltimore Museum of Art was just that. It didn’t require excessive decoration or adornment. It was beautiful, just as it was.
Personalized Wedding Gifts With a Touch of History at Their Baltimore Museum of Art Wedding
My gift to David was a pair of cufflinks to wear on the wedding day. I wanted something that reflected both our appreciation for antique jewelry and our venue. I was also looking for a set from the same era as my engagement ring (late 19th century). I chose a pair of late 19th-century gold cufflinks with gray hematite intaglios of Trojan knights, which came from an estate sale linked to the royal family; they felt like pieces we might see wandering around a museum exhibit. David spent much time looking for his perfect wedding watch in the months leading up to the wedding. He ultimately landed on a vintage Cartier Tank from the 1970s. On the day of our rehearsal dinner, David surprised me with my own Cartier Tank from 1991, David’s birth year.
Congratulations to Paris and David on their unbelievably elegant and intimate Baltimore Museum of Art wedding. A heartfelt thank you to Rachel Stenger for beautifully capturing every moment of their special day, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.
Choosing the right venue for your wedding sets the stage for an unforgettable day. It’s more than just a backdrop; it shapes the atmosphere and ambiance, reflecting your style and personality. Whether you envision a rustic barn, a serene beach, or a historic museum, the venue is pivotal in creating lasting memories. Take your time, explore your options, and let our guide help you find a place that resonates with your vision—a decision that will make your wedding day truly magical.
Rachel and Ben didn’t stick to just one style for their wedding. Instead, they chose different looks they loved and combined them all. The challenge was making everything fit together nicely. But with the help of their visionary team of vendors, they managed to successfully pull off a renaissance, glam, metal, medieval Carnegie Museum wedding!
The couple chose a truly unique venue for their big day. Their dreamy ceremony took place in the Hall of Sculpture, featuring gold chairs, an altar adorned with flowers, and a flowing drapery backdrop. Meanwhile, the scene was set for a lavish reception at the Music Hall Foyer. Inspired by the Red Wedding feast from Game of Thrones, they showcased lush tablescapes draped in sprawling florals and greenery, with candles and gold accents perfectly complementing the ornate interiors.
Their special day was truly “a wedding like no other.” Just one glance at the photos taken by Rachel Rowland, and you’ll see why. If you and your partner are searching for unique wedding ideas, look no further.
Successfully Pulling Off Their Carnegie Museum Wedding Through Multiple Inspirations
We drew inspiration from multiple aesthetics, which posed the challenge of blending them seamlessly. The venue itself evoked medieval and Renaissance vibes, setting the tone for our celebration. Inspired by the Game of Thrones Red Wedding feast, our head table captured a similar ambiance. Our goal was to create a wedding that reflected us, our style, and our journey together. To personalize the experience, we named each table after bars from our hometown, with our head table honoring where we first met. Ultimately, the best advice I received was to choose what I love rather than stick to one style. This approach led us to our unique blend of Renaissance, glam, metal, and medieval elements for our wedding day.
Wedding Attire Style Inspirations and Personal Touches
I had many style inspirations: Bridget Bardot for my hair and Vivienne Westwood for my overall look. Buying the boots was a bit impulsive, but as a boot lover, I couldn’t resist. I left Ben to choose his outfit entirely on his own—I wanted him to feel confident and in control. It helped that all the groomsmen wore black; his only rule was no navy blue. I’m not a fan of bow ties or neckties. If I were a man, I’d never wear one. They look uncomfortable. So, I found chains and button covers on Etsy as alternatives, which perfectly matched our vibe, and the groomsmen loved them. I faced a challenge in making the bridesmaids stand out from the guests since they were also in black. My Maid of Honor suggested they wear black gloves to match mine, which was a perfect solution. As a bridesmaid gift, I got each of them Vivienne Westwood earrings to match mine, which they wore on the day. It was just perfect.
Personalizing Their Ceremony by Having Brothers as Officiants, Curated Music, and Heartfelt Vows
Having my brothers officiate the wedding was a bit nerve-wracking since I wasn’t sure what they would say—I am their little sister, after all. But it turned out to be incredibly sweet and perfect. We also curated the music for the string quartet, which was amazing. I highly recommend writing and reading your own vows for the ceremony; it made everything so much more personal and allowed our guests to learn more about us and our journey together. Despite our nerves, exchanging our vows was a highlight. Every guest we spoke to afterward told us how special it was.
Breaking the Mold by Embracing Personal Style Over Pinterest Trends
Here’s some advice for other couples: Don’t limit yourselves to a Pinterest board aesthetic! Embrace the things you love that don’t fit into a specific “box.” Everything came together perfectly because it was about what we genuinely liked and resonated with. Also, don’t hesitate to give your guests a dress code. We opted for all-black attire, which looked amazing and made it simpler for everyone to choose what to wear. Plus, let’s face it—everyone looks fabulous in black! I’m incredibly proud of how everything turned out. Planning from a distance, away from our home in Pittsburgh, required a lot of imagination to envision the final look, but it all came together beautifully in the end.
The Perfect Wedding Venue that Ticked All the Right Boxes
Our most important elements were the venue, attire, and food. We were set on having everything indoors, leading us to choose a venue in a city we had never visited. When we discovered the Carnegie Museum Music Hall Foyer through photos, we initially thought it was in Europe—it had that charm. To our surprise, it was just three hours away in Pittsburgh! When we visited in person, we were overwhelmed and even shed a few tears seeing its stunning beauty firsthand. It was perfect for our wedding.
Simple and Meaningful Thank-You Gifts at Their Carnegie Museum Wedding
We opted not to give gifts with our names on them or something guests might not use. Instead, we gave everyone a thank-you card and a $1 scratcher. It was a simple gesture that we hoped would bring some fun and appreciation to our guests.
Personalizing Carnegie Museum Wedding Decor with Professional Flair
I designed our thank-you cards, save-the-dates, and custom cocktail signage myself—I’m a designer by profession, so this was a joyful task. I advise anyone considering DIY projects to choose something you genuinely enjoy doing. For our cocktail sign, I hand-drew our pets on my iPad and then created the sign using Canva. I found frames on Amazon to display them beautifully. I also used Canva for the rest of our designs, which I disliked, but I’ve come to appreciate its affordability, ease of use, and versatility. It’s an excellent software for creative projects.
Congratulations to Rachel and Ben on their Carnegie Museum wedding, which truly was a medieval dream come to life. Thank you to Rachel Rowland for capturing all the unique details that unconventional couples can use as inspiration.
Planning an unforgettable celebration begins with a clear vision and a stellar team. Start by exploring our comprehensive planning and budget guides to kickstart your journey. Then, assemble your dream team of expert vendors from our trusted selection. Together, you can create an event that exceeds all expectations and leaves a lasting impression.
Win and Zaw’s wedding planning focused on ensuring their special day reflected their unique interests and style. They wanted to blend Myanmar traditions with a modern and inclusive vibe that everyone could enjoy. With the bride’s love for the beach and the expertise of Junebug vendor ME Events Phuket, their vision came to life beautifully at their Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa wedding.
Their beachfront ceremony, set against the stunning backdrop of the sea, was truly mesmerizing. A white aisle lined with blue and white flowers led to a lush arch that framed the breathtaking ocean views. The heartfelt exchange of vows marked the beginning of their journey together. The reception that followed was nothing short of magical. Guests were welcomed to tables adorned with cascading blooms and glowing candles, all illuminated by a canopy of fairy lights.
The stunning beach setting and thoughtful touches made their celebration unforgettable for their 100 guests. For a closer look at this romantic celebration, check out the gorgeous details captured by Ammata.
Embracing Less Than Ideal Weather at Their Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa Wedding
We are a couple of Myanmar descent, and ours was the first wedding of its kind that was organized. We began with a traditional Myanmar ceremony followed by a Western ceremony. Unfortunately, heavy rain during the Myanmar ceremony meant we couldn’t take many photos. We quickly moved on to the Western ceremony as soon as the rain stopped. Despite the initial setback, we hoped for clear skies, and thankfully, the weather was perfect for the rest of the night. We feel incredibly fortunate because it allowed us to capture many beautiful photos of our special day.
Expressing Their Love and Commitment Through Heartfelt Vows
We wrote our own vows, expressing our love, promises, and commitments in our own heartfelt words. A close friend officiated the ceremony, adding an intimate touch. This personalized approach made our wedding feel deeply meaningful and truly reflective of our journey together.
Celebrating Their Mayanmar Heritage and Unity With Western Traditions
We take great pride in successfully blending our Myanmar heritage with Western traditions at our wedding. This allowed us to celebrate our cultural background while embracing modern elements. Despite challenges like unexpected rain during the Myanmar ceremony, we adapted and continued with a memorable event that truly reflected who we are as a couple. Overall, we are proud of how we honored our roots while creating a beautiful and meaningful celebration with our loved ones. Additionally, creating a warm and welcoming environment for our families and friends to celebrate together was our top priority. We focused on details that made their wedding day memorable, not just for us but for everyone who attended, emphasizing meaningful experiences and connections throughout the event.
Budgeting for their Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa Wedding Wisely and Preparing for the Unexpected
When planning your wedding, prioritize the aspects that mean the most to both of you, whether it’s the venue, food, attire, or photography. Discuss and agree on a realistic budget for each element, allowing flexibility for unexpected costs. Always have contingency plans for potential disruptions, such as bad weather or vendor issues, to ensure a smooth and stress-free celebration. By focusing on what’s important to you as a couple, planning within your means, and preparing for contingencies, you can create a memorable wedding day that reflects your values and priorities.
Why Marriott Merlin Beach Was Their Ideal Choice
My love for the beach was a significant factor in choosing Marriott Merlin Beach for our destination wedding. It is situated near Patong, a vibrant area renowned for its shopping, nightlife, local cuisine, and accommodations. This venue ensures that all our guests, many foreigners unfamiliar with Phuket, can effortlessly explore and savor the island’s offerings during their stay.
Enhancing the Guest Experience with Thoughtful and Useful Keepsakes
At our wedding, we curated thoughtful gifts for our guests to enhance their experience and serve as cherished keepsakes. Among these were program hand fans featuring a beach design, ideal for guests to use during the ceremony in anticipation of warm weather. Additionally, we provided magnets and bottle openers in fabric pouches adorned with a screen-printed logo, ensuring guests had memorable tokens to take home. A standout feature was the sea coral place card holder, which served a practical purpose and doubled as a lasting memento from our beach-themed celebration, adding an elegant touch to the occasion.
Elevating Their First Dance with Fountain Fireworks at Their Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa Wedding
During our first dance, we delighted our guests with a breathtaking display of fountain fireworks. This unexpected addition added a magical and unforgettable moment to our wedding celebration, creating a joyful atmosphere and enhancing the overall experience for everyone present.
A destination wedding is a perfect chance to celebrate with your closest friends and family while making unforgettable memories. To ensure an exceptional experience, partner with skilled vendors who can bring your vision to life. Ready to begin your journey? Check out our carefully selected top-tier wedding professionals from around the world!
Valeria and Erik wanted their wedding to defy tradition. They desired a celebration that was anything but ordinary, and with the help of their vendors, they pulled it off. With a passion for art and architecture, they wanted their big day to reflect that passion. They always imagined their wedding space to look like an art gallery: simple, clean, and elegant. With a historic steel mill turned wedding venue adorned with sculptural arrangements and pared-back decor, their Nave Lewis wedding was an art installation that came to life exactly as they envisioned.
The modernist church provided a stunning backdrop for their ceremony. They adorned the aisle and altar with lush greenery and lavender florals, creating a serene atmosphere. The reception was equally breathtaking, with tables adorned with abundant blooms, greenery, and candles. The highlight of the evening was the backdrop wall adorned with suspended flowers and a glass tube ceiling installation that played with the light, creating a magical dance of illumination throughout the celebration.
If your dream aesthetic leans towards understated sophistication and elevated style, find inspiration in these stunning photos captured by Junebug vendor EFEGE.
Celebrating Their Love Through Art and Architecture
Our wedding was inspired by our desire to break away from tradition, blending our love for art, architecture, and intricate details. I envisioned the venue as an art gallery—minimalistic yet elegant—and our choice of a historic steel mill warehouse in our hometown perfectly complemented Erik’s work in the steel industry. We aimed to maintain an industrial vibe by keeping the floor and ceiling visible. For the tables, we couldn’t settle on one design, so we opted for three: an arrangement with anemone flowers, candles, and apples adorned with pearls; an art installation featuring 100 custom ceramic bases and anthurium flowers with pearls for dynamic movement; and a standout light box table engraved with the lyrics of “Arrullo de Estrellas” by Zoe, a cherished song that holds special meaning for us. The venue was adorned with artistic displays of these lyrics, and above us hung a breathtaking installation of 32,000 glass tubes with flowers, casting a mesmerizing glow that completed our vision for an unforgettable celebration.
Heartwarming Moments at Their Nave Lewis Wedding
The most memorable part of the day was sharing every moment with our loved ones. We are both very family-oriented, so the party was an ode to that. After our first dance, we shared a dance with both of our families, but the highlight was sharing it with our nieces and nephews. It was just something that I wanted to experience with them, especially since they are our goddaughters and my favorite people ever.
Achieving Stress-Free Wedding Planning by Staying Organized and Trusting Wedding Planner
My advice would be to get organized and make checklists. Lists were my best friends, as I am very organized and didn’t want to procrastinate and go crazy three weeks before. Also, trust your wedding planner. They are your guide, and with great communication, all you ever dreamed of will be exactly the same. I can’t imagine my wedding without the entire team.
Personal Touches That Elevated the Wedding Experience
I am proud of every detail that tells a story and reflects our personal styles and love for one another. We made thank you cards for every guest to be delivered to their table during dinner. We carefully curated the music with two playlists for the cocktail and dinner to showcase our love for oldies music. Also, not being afraid of breaking the stereotype and doing things differently without caring what people think was very comforting.
Making Every Guest Feel Special with Personalized Tokens
During dinner, we gave thank you cards to everyone. During the party, we gave out neon cowboy hats and glasses, which lit up in different colors. The food never stopped coming, both during the party and after hours. For our guests who were celebrating their birthdays, we put a candle and little wooden balloons on their plates; for our engaged guests, we did the same, but with a wooden ring. For our expecting couples, we put a wooden stork delivering a baby.
Congratulations to Valeria and Erik on their Nave Lewis wedding, which was an art installation that came to life. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Junebug vendor EFEGE for beautifully capturing every detail that made their special day unique and unforgettable. For more stunning celebrations, explore their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.
A minimalist wedding like this proves that simplicity can be stunning. Its sleek, clean appearance minimizes distractions, allowing the focus to remain on what truly matters—the beautiful union of two people. For more helpful advice on curating a celebration that reflects your style and values, explore our planning and budget guides.
When it comes to planning your big day, every detail counts, especially when it comes to crafting the ideal ambiance for you and your significant other. The sweetheart table isn’t just a place to sit–it’s a focal point where you can steal small moments together amidst the celebrations.
From elegant floral arrangements to personalized table settings, the choices for sweetheart table decor are limitless. Whether you envision a table overflowing with floral arrangements or a sleek modern aesthetic with minimalist accents, there’s a style that perfectly complements your wedding theme. Keep scrolling to see ten easy-to-recreate sweetheart table decor ideas that are perfect for your wedding day.
Wedding Sweetheart Table Decor Ideas
1. Sit Like Royalty on a Platform
Your wedding day is all about you and your partner. To help keep the attention on you (although it won’t be hard), sit on a raised platform, so your guests can easily spot you all night.
If your venue is not set up with a platform–or you just don’t like the idea of being seated away from everyone in that sense–you can still set yourself apart from your guests with special seating. Whether you choose oversized peacock chairs, a loveseat, or another unique kind of seating, this is a simple yet effective way to add some visual interest to your sweetheart table.
To help your chairs stand out without having to rent different furniture, consider chair hangings. You can find countless different options in a variety of different styles, so you’ll always be able to find one for your wedding theme.
Depending on how your venue is set up–if hanging lighting is available–consider placing your sweetheart table underneath it. This is an extremely natural way to draw the eye toward the table, while also giving you the opportunity to dress the lighting up with extra touches like florals.
One of the easiest ways to dress up your table is to surround it with florals. Opt to make special arrangements for the table or consider reusing the florals from your ceremony to save a little extra money.
If you’re hosting a tropical wedding or you’re keeping the florals simple, you can still add a touch of nature to your table with greenery. Eucalyptus, Ruscus, lemon leaf, ferns, monstera leaves, etc., all make for beautiful arrangements.
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7. Add Disco Balls
To add a little bit of disco flair to your sweetheart’s table, surround it with disco balls. Whether you include florals, a neon sign, and a backdrop like Tania and Tom did is entirely up to you, but we love the party the disco balls bring to the overall look!
As we mentioned earlier, we’re big fans of reusing decor when possible. If you chose a ceremony backdrop that you can’t get enough of, who says you can’t use it elsewhere? Put it behind your table to help make it pop, and it will help stretch your budget further. Just remember, you need to have enough time during the cocktail hour to make this decor shift possible.
Neon signs are a wedding trend that we don’t foresee going anywhere any time soon. With so many different phrases and sayings out there, choosing the right one for your special day has never been easier thanks to the ability to customize signs on sites like Etsy.
Candles are a simple yet ethereal way to dress up your reception space–especially once the sun sets and the night begins. Include candles on your sweetheart table along with your reception tables to help the space feel utterly romantic.
Your sweetheart table is just a small part of your reception decor. From the tables your guests will be enjoying for the evening to the bar where drinks will be poured, there are many different aspects to consider when it comes to decor. That’s why we have inspiration guides to bring to your wedding planner for every little detail!
One thing your guests are guaranteed to notice on your wedding day is your signage. From the welcome sign to the seating charts, these must-have details help direct guests and play a key role in the overall flow of your celebration. While wedding signage ultimately serves a functional purpose, it doesn’t have to be boring. Getting creative with your designs can turn the mundane into standout decor pieces.
After finalizing your seating arrangements, create a seating chart that seamlessly complements your theme and color palette, making it easy for guests to find as soon as they enter the reception space. Whether you’re looking for a timeless design to match an elegant wedding or retro ideas for an eccentric celebration, here’s a round-up of wedding seating charts perfect for every style.
Wedding Seating Chart FAQs
Is it necessary to have a seating chart necessary?
Although seating charts aren’t necessary, they are extremely helpful–especially if you are having a larger wedding. They make it much easier for your guests to navigate your venue and help you stay on schedule if you’re doing toasts, plated dinners, etc. Lastly, they’re a great way for your guests to be comfortable socially since you can place everyone with familiar faces.
What’s the difference between a seating chart and escort cards?
Escort cards are specifically designed for your individual guests, with their names and table numbers, which they can take with them as they move around. Often, you’ll find that they also include their food preference if having a seated dinner. Seating charts, on the other hand, are one large display that guests can glance at before finding their tables.
How do I create a seating chart?
Some couples opt for a Do-It-Yourself approach, but DIY projects can be quite demanding. You have to design, build, and handle the transportation, which adds stress leading up to and on your wedding day. Hiring a professional for your wedding signage is always a smart move. Their experience and assistance will be well worth the investment.
Do I need to assign seats at each table?
When it comes to finalizing your seating charts, you can choose to assign guests to tables or designate specific seats for each person. Either way, your seating chart display will only direct guests to their assigned table. If you’ve opted for assigned seating, place cards on each table will indicate who sits where.
Do the newlywed’s parents sit together?
This one is entirely up to personal preference. If your parents and in-laws get along, they’ll most likely love sitting together and sharing your special day with one another. If there’s a possibility of tension, don’t be afraid to sit them with other family members.
These mini disco balls are bringing the sparkle! Perfect for turning any moment into an instant dance party — because who doesn’t need a little extra shine? Image by Mo Speer Photography. Signage by The Crafty Peach
This vintage frame seating chart is a timeless touch! Elegant and nostalgic, it’s like guiding guests to their seats through a gallery of charm. Image by Wade Muir. Planning by Mad Bash Group
This buri hand fan seating chart is as cool as it gets! A stylish, breezy way for guests to find their seats and stay refreshed. Image by Perry Vaile. Planning & design by A Fox Event
Whether you’re looking for something themed for your special day or a seating chart that’s elegant, these wedding seating charts are the perfect inspiration. If you’re still stuck trying to figure out how to seat your guests, our wedding reception seating chart guide may help!
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