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25 Simple Ways To Save Money When Planning A Wedding

February 13, 2023 | kailey

Image by Kim Captein. Keep reading to see how to save money wedding planning

You’ve kickstarted your wedding planning journey by creating your ideal budget. You’ve begun comparing vendors, venues, and catering options…and now you’re officially overwhelmed. These hefty price tags might take you by surprise, especially if this is your first rodeo. But we’re here to remind you: you can pull off your dream celebration without breaking the bank. 

Our goal is to help couples–no matter their vision or desired budget–plan the wedding of their dreams. So if you’re looking to save money, here are some simple ways you can cut costs and still get everything you’ve dreamed of. 

How To Save Money On A Wedding

1. Use a Free Wedding Budget Tool

Starting your planning process by using a free wedding budget tool will make it easy to see where your money is being spent. It’ll keep you organized and allow you to keep track of your wedding finances all in one place. 

2. Use A Credit Card To Score Rewards

We owe a big “thank you” to TikTok for this handy wedding planning tip. Before spending any money on your wedding day, consider getting a credit card specifically for wedding purchases. This allows you to keep track of your spending and  gives you the chance to score rewards and cash-back deals. These can be used to pay off your celebration or to book an epic honeymoon. 

3. Hire Local Wedding Vendors 

If you hire vendors outside your surrounding area, you’ll likely be responsible for covering their travel costs. This will be added on top of their quoted prices. That’s why we recommend searching for trusted local vendors first. This will save on any additional fees you might not have accounted for in your budget. Want to start the search but not sure how? Check out our directory of wedding vendors from around the world!

4. Start Shopping Early to Score Deals 

Don’t wait until the last minute to start your shopping, especially when it comes to wedding day attire. Not only will a head start eliminate any stress, it also gives you the opportunity to shop around. You’ll have time to look for the best price and hopefully score some money-saving deals. 

5. Rent Your Wedding Day Attire 

Rather than purchasing your wedding day attire, do some research on rental companies. There are an abundance of online and brick-and-mortar shops that help couples save money. They offer short-term rentals for wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, suits, and even accessories. 

6. Host a Weekday Wedding

Weekend weddings are typically the most popular, and venue prices will reflect that. That’s why it probably comes as no surprise that hosting a weekday wedding will save you a significant amount of money. 

7. Create a Wedding Website 

Don’t have room in your budget for paper invitations? No problem. Don’t want to have to worry about keeping track of mailed RSVP cards? We understand. Wedding websites are your money and time-saving solution. They are a handy resource that stores all your event information in one place—your wedding timeline, registry, and even an RSVP option. 

8. Trim Your Guest List 

Creating a wedding guest list is a difficult task—and unfortunately it’s one of the most important. But, for those looking to save money, we recommend taking one more look. Is there anyone you feel obligated to invite? If the answer is “yes,” trim your guest list a tad bit more. 

9. Limit Your Plus Ones 

If you’re unable to trim your guest list, consider limiting your plus one invitations. Extend the option to those married, in long-term relationships, and to those in your wedding party. There’s no need to give one to every guest. 

10. Host Your Ceremony and Reception at One Place 

When finding your dream venue, there’s a lot to consider. One important detail to think about is the venue size.Is it large enough to host your ceremony and reception? This is an important question to ask before signing any contracts. Hosting both of these events in the same location will save big bucks on transportation. 

11. Pick a Venue With Stunning Existing Features 

When venue shopping, it’s important to find a space that has existing features you can incorporate into your overall wedding design. With a stunning foundation, you’ll be able to cut down on the amount of decor you’ll need to purchase. 

12. Tie The Knot in your Backyard 

Backyard weddings have become increasingly popular, and it’s a trend we don’t see going away anytime soon. It adds a sentimental touch to your celebration and saves money that can be allocated to other wedding day elements. 

Image by Chelsea Abram Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

13. Repurpose Your Ceremony Decor

Bridesmaid bouquets can become centerpieces. Your ceremony backdrop can become the backdrop to your sweetheart table. Your ceremony seating can be pushed into your reception tables. There are a variety of ways to repurpose your ceremony decor to save money in your overall budget. 

Junebug Tip: Use BloomsyBox, a flower subscription company, for your wedding florals. You choose what flowers you want and get them hand-delivered to your door. They even offer dozens of pre-made bouquets. Junebug readers get 10% off with the code JUNEBUG

14. Go Thrifting For Decor 

Time is money during your wedding planning season. But if you have extra time to spend hunting down unique glassware, rugs, and even furniture, you’ll save big dollars on your decor. 

15. Your Jewelry Can Be Your Something Borrowed 

If you’re searching for your something borrowed, you just found it. Jewelry often costs a pretty penny. That’s why you should consider wearing a family heirloom or ask special loved ones to borrow their cherished pieces. 

16. Stick to Custom Cocktails 

Creating custom cocktails is just one way to add personality to your reception. Rather than having a fully stocked bar, limit your alcohol options. During your cocktail hour, you can serve up your signature cocktails. And when the reception begins, you can add more options like wine and beer. 

17. Purchase Your Own Alcohol 

Stocking your reception bar can be a bit pricey. This is especially the case if you’re having a third party take on this responsibility. If you have time and want to save a bit of money, consider purchasing your own alcohol before the big day. Wholesalers such as Costco and Sam’s Club are lifesavers for this.

18. Skip Hors D’oeuvres During the Cocktail Hour 

After the ceremony, it’s common for guests to be served drinks and hors d’oeuvres at the cocktail hour while the couple snaps photos with their photographer. During this time, focus on the drinks and skip the snacks. Being so close to dinner time, they aren’t necessary for those trying to cut costs. 

19. Ditch the Formal Meal for a Buffet

Newsflash–you don’t have to drain your bank account to serve up a memorable and delicious meal at your wedding. You can actually save money on your catering by choosing a less-formal, buffet-style menu.

20. Host a Brunch Wedding 

There’s a reason why everyone loves brunch. And we think bottomless mimosas and breakfast foods are underrated in the wedding world. Not only will a daytime rental save you money on your venue, but hosting a brunch celebration will also give your wedding a unique spin—much like this couple did with their cereal bar. 

Images by Apollo Fotografie. See more of this real wedding here.

21. Wedding Cake Alternative 

When you think of dessert at a wedding, odds are your mind immediately pictures a large tiered cake. And we understand this may be the dream for many couples out there. But, if you’re trying to save money and plan a truly unique celebration, you should consider a dessert alternative. We’re talking s’mores, donuts, an ice cream bar—the options are endless. 

Wanting a creative dessert option without having to skip that oh-so-sweet cake-cutting moment? Scale down your original cake design or use a styrofoam replica. You can use that for your photos, then serve up your alternative desserts to the guests. 

22. DIY Photo Booth 

Any DIY project is sure to save you money while planning your wedding. You can DIY anything from bouquets to signage. But one major decor and entertainment element we recommend trying to DIY is your photo booth. In need of some ideas? Check out our favorite photo booth ideas to spark some inspiration. 

23. Recruit Friends and Family 

I you find yourself wondering “how to save money on a wedding,” you might just have the answer on the guest list. Have a florist in the family? Maybe a baker? If you have some talented loved ones, ask them to get involved. Not only will it save you money, but it’ll make them feel important and will give you some quality time together. 

24. Skip Wedding Favors

Wedding favors are a great way to show your appreciation for your guests, but they’re not required. For couples looking to save on their wedding day budget, these might be the first to go. After your incredible celebration full of food, alcohol, and a whole lot of dancing, your guests aren’t going to be upset if there aren’t any favors. In fact, a lot of times they end up getting left behind.

25. Consider an Elopement 

If the wedding planning process becomes too stressful or expensive, eloping is always an option. You can go down to the local courthouse or plan a low-key destination wedding for just the two of you. These intimate weddings make you the priority while helping you cut costs. 

Talking about money isn’t always the most fun conversation to have, especially when wedding planning. It’s easy to get lost in the fun details like creating mood boards, dress shopping, and assembling your floral arrangements. That’s where we come in. 

Kickstart your planning process by reading our how-to guide for creating a wedding budget fit for you and your partner. Then download and use our free wedding budget tool throughout your journey to stay on track.

Image by Viviana Cardona. See more of this real wedding here.

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Black-Owned Wedding Brands to Shop for Your Day

January 9, 2023 | Junebug Weddings

Image by Light as Gold. Keep scrolling for our fave Black-owned wedding brands to shop for your day.

When it comes to shopping for your wedding day, we know you have lots of options. We love to scour the internet and, of course, the ‘gram to find the best brands that are sure to become your favorites. If you’re looking for some amazing businesses to support when shopping for your day, look no further! From bridal fashion to beauty, swoon-worthy stationary, unique jewelry, and more, we’ve rounded up a selection of incredible black-owned wedding brands to shop for your day.

Black-Owned Wedding Brands To Shop For Your Day

Bridal Fashion

Dreamers & Lovers

From the brand: Dreamers & Lovers is a brand where every dress made is an art form. A dress crafted from passion, crafted for that individual bride, and so the bride wearing it will feel the soul of the dress and realize like her story, her dress is extraordinary. She never designs common styles, but instead, her dresses evoke an emotion, spark a conversation and transport the bride to a place where she feels something, where she can be free to dream, free to look her best self. Each dress sold has some “extras” that Yanique and the team obsess over. Every dress is designed and handmade in our Torrance, California studio and showroom, and always made to the bride’s measurements.

Savannah Rustic Lace Wedding Dress via Dreamers & Lovers

Amsale

From the brand: A reflection of Amsale Aberra’s founding philosophy of elegant simplicity, each design is delicately handcrafted with couture dressmaking techniques in Amsale’s New York City Atelier. With an understated glamour, and unwavering attention to detail, each and every Amsale design exudes modern femininity, and becomes a true reflection of the wearer’s distinct, and unique, personal style. Our philosophy today honors Amsale’s lifelong pursuit of enduring style that evokes feeling and connection—an indelible legacy that is felt in every design.


Soleil via Amsale

Pantora Bridal

From the brand: At Pantora Bridal we understand the complexities of looking for the perfect wedding dress. It’s tied to a once in a life time experience. Our mission is to not just provide amazing fashion forward bridal options but to pair it with a feel good experience. It is our sincere belief  that luxury does not need to be delivered with a pinky up but can also be packaged in a friendly and inviting way. Each bride gets to shine,  we are inclusive in our mission to deliver the service and understanding that has traditionally been lacking within the bridal industry.

Charnel via Pantora Bridal

Rita Colson

From the brand: Rita Colson is a London based fashion designer in the heart of West London, specialising in Bridal Couture and Eveningwear. Her unique style uses vintage lace and silk to create contemporary and bespoke pieces with an ethical twist. All materials are sourced ethically and sustainably, creating pieces fit for a variety of occasions. Over the years, Rita has worked for a number of private clients and her freelance and consultancy work has seen her style and design bespoke pieces for a number of high profile clients. Through her work, she has developed a contemporary aesthetic that effortlessly reflects the elegance and style and grace of the fashion forward bride. Inspired by her love of art, music, dance and theatre her designs have a life of their own.

Carla Suit via Rita Colson

CARLY CUSHNIE

From the brand: Known for her masterful tailoring and artful draping, Carly Cushnie is a New York-based designer and creative director. With the eye of an artist and the technique of a Parsons grad, Carly approaches bridal design with the same ecelctic-yet-refined aesthetic that has earned her ready-to-wear collection a devoted, celebrity following.  Back with an unprecedented collaboration with BHLDN, Carly’s capsule collection features unforgettable gowns, fashion-forward-bridal-occasion-dresses, and modern bridesmaid looks.

Lynne Gown via BHLDN by Carly Cushnie

Felisiti Greis

From the brand: Felisiti Greis designs and creates exquisite bespoke garments and bridal wear with a luxury finish. We fuse creativity, style and modern aesthetics to give you an exquisite finish with a timeless look. We take on board your vision, along with your unique individuality and infuse it with our own design aesthetics to create a custom gown just for you. We design and create for discerning women and girls, who cherish individuality and prefer the luxurious exclusivity of a custom-made garment.

photo via Felisiti Greis

Curvaceous Couture

From the brand: Curvaceous Couture believes every woman deserves a joyful and fulfilling experience when shopping for her wedding dress, but the curvier bride too often faces disheartening challenges. Not Anymore! Located in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, just a short drive from BWI airport, Curvaceous Couture is the first designer bridal boutique to feature a complete collection of full-figured and one-of-a-kind wedding gowns from all over the world in sizes 16-32W. Our bridal stylists are committed to personalized service and attention to detail, giving our brides the very best experience. We treat everyone like family!

 

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Plus Size Bridal Salon – Columbia, MD (@curvaceouscouturebridal) • Instagram photos and videos

Jean-Ralph Thurin

From the brand: A graduate of the prestigious Parsons School of Design, Jean-Ralph Thurin became enthralled by the fashion history of top Haute Couture Houses of Dior, Givenchy and Oscar De La Renta. Growing up, Jean-Ralph learned to sew by watching his grandmother. He was fascinated by her ability to make clothes with little more than fabric remnants and thread. In high school, although he was not yet formally trained, Jean-Ralph followed in his grandmother’s footsteps as he fulfilled the multiple requests from classmates to make their prom dresses and so began his career in fashion.

photo via Jean-Ralph Thurin

Naomi Deru Bridal

From the brand: Naomi Deru Bridal was created for the contemporary and fashion forward bride. I am dedicated to providing an exception customer experience and every single piece bearing the Naomi Deru label is handcrafted from scratch using high quality laces and silks in my design atelier in Rochester, Kent. Each wedding gown is impeccably tailored, showcasing a flattering fit, perfectly executed hand embroideries, shimmering embellishments, and beautiful details.

 

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Naomi Deru Bridal | Kent (@naomiderubridal) • Instagram photos and videos

Julie Harris Designs

From the brand: Julie Harris Designs helps brides-to-be express their personal style with classic, romantic and whimsical bridal veils & accessories. I want your guests to ooh and aah as you glide down the aisle. The veil creates the magic!

Serengeti Princess via Julie Harris Designs​

Men’s Fashion

Kabiru Abu

From the brand: We tailor exquisite bespoke suits that are perfect for every need and occasion. From weddings suits and tuxedos to everyday casual blazers, shirts and work suits, we strive to work with you to make all of your Kabiru Abu masterpieces tailored to fit every occasion.

photo via Kabiru Abu

Kingsley Leather

From the brand: What inspired me to take up leatherworking in particular was that I have always admired leather goods and how they gain character as they age, think old leather suitcases and satchels etc. However the cheap mass-produced imports never seemed to last as long as I expected – I was changing my wallet every 6 months for example! I decided that I could kill 2 birds with 1 stone: create the quality leather goods that I desired for myself and pursue a new non-computer based hobby.

After a couple of months of practicing, my work began to get noticed by friends and family and this led to my first set of ‘commissions’. After creating a leather satchel for my girlfriend, a wallet for my brother, and plenty of belts, I soon decided to begin accepting orders from the wider (and paying!) public. I now run Kingsley Leather full-time and have never looked back – follow me as my journey continues.


Personalized Leather Cufflinks via Kingsley Leather

Jewelery

Valerie Madison

From the brand: Valerie is the sole designer who founded her company is 2014. As a Black Latina woman in the fine jewelry industry, she’s proud to be changing the scene. She earned her degree in Environmental Science & Resource Management from the University of Washington before discovering her love of jewelry design and has found ways of applying environmental responsibility on this new path.

Our vision is to create beautiful jewelry that quietly listens to modern trends but more importantly, feels classic and is well-made to become future heirlooms.

Diamond Nova Band via Valerie Madison

OMA The Label

From the brand: OMA the label is a brand focused on challenging homogenous industry standards, while creating quality and affordable pieces for the everyday woman.

The brand was created by Neumi Anekhe, a new york based fashion stylist that started the brand in 2018, because she saw a need for more brands representing people of color. She wanted to help diversify the markets, change the imagery and predominant representation that we see in fashion today.

OMA the label, creates pieces for the woman that is intentional about the choices she makes and wants to wear pieces that make her feel empowered and confident.


OBI HOOP via OMA The Label

Stationery + Signage

Amanda Reid Designs

From the brand: Amanda Reid Designs is a design studio offering calligraphy services for the modern bride, luxury brands, and businesses in Austin, Texas. ARD specializes in custom wedding/event signage and banners, and on-site calligraphy for businesses and brands. Amanda Reid Designs also hosts a variety of fun, interactive workshops to teach others the unique skill of lettering and modern calligraphy.

 

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Amanda Reid | Austin Calligrapher (@amandareiddesigns) • Instagram photos and videos

Chloe Ainsley Creative

From the brand: Chloe Ainsley Creative is a modern, design studio based in Kent. All artwork is designed and hand finished by me. The Studio was birthed out of my love of being experimental and desire to break out of the mould of working within the confines of a set of brand guidelines every now and again! My passion lies in abstract art and the narratives that can be created through the use of layers, colours, shapes, textures and patterns.


photo via Chloe Ainsley Creative 

Ivelisse Designs

From the brand: I am a calligrapher and artist locally based in Austin, TX but serving nationwide. I started calligraphy as a hobby and slowly became captivated by it. After 3 weeks of practicing every day, I decided to open a business. I created Ivelisse Designs as a way to allow myself to live more creatively. For many who know me, this art business came of no surprise.

photo by Ivelisse Designs

Lepenn Designs

From the brand: Lepenn Designs is an award winning, full service Invitation and stationery design studio that offers the creativity, knowledge and skills necessary to create the perfect invitation or design.  Based in Metro Detroit, Michigan we work with clients locally, throughout the United States and Internationally. We believe that catering your design to your individuality, vision and desires is key to a successful design experience and final product.  Our most important goal is to help you express your distinct style by providing you with our knowledge of the printing and paper industry and helpful planning advice for your stationery and design needs.

photo via Lepenn Designs

Robbin’s Nest Design Studio

From the brand: Robbin’s Nest Design Studio is a full-service stationery Atelier, specializing in the “All Things Paper.” Robbin Henley, founder and creative director is an Award-winning designer and innovator in both the Apparel & Graphic Design industries. “For us, it’s all about the detail & design elements. Whether choosing a traditional or contemporary invitation suite, this collection is sure to make a lasting first impression with your guests and set the tone for an unforgettable event.” says Henley.

photo via Robbin’s Nest Design Studio

Morning Joy Co

From the brand: The inspiration and heartbeat of our shop comes from a place of sorrow turned into joy. After learning that we couldn’t have birth children, we had a deep desire to make something beautiful, together. And so we started Morning Joy Co.! And we’ve been making signs and home decor together ever since!

Custom Bread Board via Morning Joy Co

Beauty

Mented Cosmetics

From the brand: We created Mented Cosmetics because we believe every woman should be able to find herself in the world of beauty, no matter her skin tone. We know you’ll love being put first – because when it comes to beauty, no one deserves to be an afterthought. From our original nude lipsticks to eyeshadow palettes to blushes, each of our makeup products is perfectly pigMented to match your skin tones. We want all women, from light to tan to dark skin tones, to feel like they have makeup that actually works for their complexions, so we’ve created the shades to help accomplish that.

Gloss for Grown Ups Collection via Mented

KNC Beauty

From the brand: Kristen Noel Crawley was strolling through Don Quijote in Tokyo, when….BAM, love at first sight. A wall of lip masks caught her eye, and she became OBSESSED with the idea of perfect, kissable lips. When she discovered there were no natural lip masks on the market, the solution was obvious: she had to create her own. Two years and countless trials later, Kristen created the first all-natural, collagen-infused lip mask.

All-Natural Collagen Infused Lip Mask via KNC Beauty

Beauty Bakerie

From the brand: A near-death experience taught me that nothing is more important in this life than the moments that are gone too fast. Having long-lasting, smudge-free makeup may seem like a simple novelty to one person, but to me, the 8-15 times I would have spent touching up my makeup today are now the 8-15 opportunities I have to be in the moment. There is no more conflict about kissing my loved one or protecting the 55 minutes of makeup I worked on. I don’t have to choose any longer between my looks and the precious moments that pass us by. I can have my cake and eat it too.

 

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Beauty Bakerie Cosmetics Brand (@beautybakeriemakeup) • Instagram photos and videos

The Lip Bar

From the brand: The Lip Bar is a vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand that exists to help change the way you think about beauty.  Every day people are being told how to be beautiful – so we’re here to remind you that you don’t have to change. You Are Enough!

Easy Ombré Trio via The Lip Bar

Juvia’s Place

From the brand: Africa is not only the birthplace of humanity, it’s the birthplace of all beauty. Juvia’s Place was created to celebrate the rebels, rulers and queens of the African kingdoms of long ago, who emulated and honored beauty through their soulful and innovative techniques that the top beauty gurus still use today. Inspired by the queens before us, Juvia’s Place offers the richest, most vibrantly-pigmented essentials for the eyes, face and lips to take you from the office, to the Caribbean islands, and everywhere inbetween!


Shade Sticks via Juvia’s Place

Know more black-owned wedding brands? We’d love to hear from you! Read about our commitment to inclusive representation and showcasing Black love.

Image by Light as Gold

 

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The Best 12-Month Wedding Planning Timeline

December 26, 2022 | justine

Image by Savanna Sturkie. Keep scrolling for our 12-month wedding planning timeline.

You’re now officially engaged. Congratulations! After you’ve shared the good news with your loved ones and given yourselves time to bask in newly-engaged glory, it’s time to start the wedding planning. This year-long journey involves many details—from finding your vendors to writing your vows—and it is no easy feat. But with the right systems in place, the time leading up to your wedding can be exciting, not stressful. And luckily for you, we broke down the 12-month process into an easy-to-navigate wedding planning timeline.

A wedding timeline is crucial to ensure everything goes according to plan. It also holds you accountable for completing all tasks on your to-do list at the right time. Depending on priority, availability, and requirements, some should be completed at the very beginning, while others can wait until closer to your wedding day. We’ll begin our timeline from the 12-month mark. But if you have a shorter engagement, write the tasks down in order of priority, and adjust the timeline to fit your schedule.

Image by Yana Benjamin

12-Month Wedding Planning Timeline

10 To 12 Months Before

You’ll lay the foundation for your wedding preparations during these initial months. We can’t stress enough how crucial it is to begin by setting your budget before considering anything else. Your budget will help narrow down the list of venues to consider, dictate how large your guest list can be, and help you prioritize what’s most important to you and your fiancé. Because talking about money has the potential to be stressful, we highly recommend making a date night of it with dinner at home, a bottle of wine, and a totally open mind.

Once you hammer out those all-important numbers, you can move on to more fun things, like creating your mood board, touring venues, and researching vendors. The key in this 10-12 month timeframe is to align your values and expectations and do your research so the rest of the planning process can be smooth sailing. Here are some of the big-picture items you should start getting checked off your list:

  • Set a wedding budget
  • Draft your wedding guest list
  • Nail down the date
  • Create a mood board
  • Tour and book your venue(s)
  • Figure out what type of wedding planner is best for you and hire a planner that will fit your needs
  • Browse our lists of the best wedding vendors around the world to research wedding photographers, wedding videographers, bands and/or DJs, caterers, florists, and rental companies
  • Choose your wedding party
  • Insure the engagement ring

Image by Andre Gouin

8 To 9 Months Before

You’ve spent the last four months setting your budget, creating a vision for your day, deciding who will stand beside you, and doing tons of vendor research. Now is the best time to hire your photographer and videographer as soon as possible since they book up quickly. Consider arranging an engagement session. It’s the perfect opportunity to get to know your photographer, practice being in front of the camera, and capture this unforgettable time in your relationship forever.

This 8-9 month window is also when you’ll focus on guest-specific tasks, such as creating a wedding website, registering for gifts, and reserving hotel rooms for out-of-town guests. Since guest lists are one of the most challenging elements of wedding preparation, continue to work on them to decide if you want to stagger invites to narrow down your list. Junebug Tip: Find the perfect design suite and elegantly communicate with your wedding guests every step of the way with Lovebird. Do this 8–9 months before the wedding:

  • Book your photographer and videographer
  • Take engagement photos
  • Order your wedding dress
  • Set up your wedding registry
  • Book a block of hotel rooms for your out-of-town guests
  • Create a wedding website
  • Meet with caterers
  • Hire your officiant
  • Buy your wedding invitations if you plan to stagger your invites between a Group A and Group B list

6 To 7 Months Before

Now that you’ve got many big decisions crossed off your list, you’ll be focusing on assembling your vendor team, choosing wedding day fashion, and announcing the wedding with save-the-dates in the next several months. You must finalize your guest list because everything from here on out depends on knowing how many guests to plan for.

If you get too overwhelmed with that decision, remember the end goal and start thinking about that honeymoon. This is the perfect time to research honeymoon destinations around the world and decide if you want your honeymoon to be full of adventure or straight-up relaxation. Here’s what to do 6-7 months before the wedding:

  • Finalize your wedding guest list and compile the list of addresses in a spreadsheet
  • Buy your wedding invitations (if not already bought last month)
  • Order the bridesmaid dresses
  • Reserve any rentals you might need (chairs, tents, linens, etc.)
  • Hire a florist and a caterer
  • Arrange wedding day transportation
  • Start planning your honeymoon
  • Send out save-the-dates

4 To 5 Months Before

You’re officially more than halfway through the wedding planning process—congratulations! Now is the time when most of your details will start to fall into place, so be prepared for a whirlwind of decision making. You’ll want to set everything up for the rehearsal dinner, including deciding who will be invited so you can prepare invitations. 

You’ll also want to focus on your bridal look by setting up your first dress fitting and getting your groom’s look squared away. As a reward for making so many decisions, now is also the time to eat all the cake so you can pick the perfect flavor and start thinking about your bridal shower and the bachelorette/bachelor parties. Decide who you want to invite to each event, and then start putting together inspiration to create your perfect party looks. 4-5 months before your wedding, you have to:

Image by Vivian Chen

3 Months Before

At three months out, it’s time to cross off some of those tiny details that can easily get overlooked, such as finalizing your food and printing menus and ordering favors. Trust us. You’ll be glad you got these little things out of the way so you can focus on bigger details in the coming months. Since there are fewer big-ticket items to book or buy, this is also the perfect time to plan your wedding ceremony. 

Schedule a night to choose your ceremony readings together. Find readings that speak to you as a couple and reflect your feelings about love and marriage. Then, when you meet with your officiant to plan the rest of the ceremony, discuss other ways you want to make your ceremony personal, and ask for advice if you’re feeling stuck. The ceremony is, after all, the most important moment of the wedding day, so take as much time as you need this month to make sure it will be exactly what you’ve envisioned. Here’s what to do three months before the wedding:

  • Work with your caterer to finalize the menu for your reception dinner
  • Order or print the menu cards
  • Use this checklist to finalize the floral design
  • Buy your wedding rings
  • Create a wedding day timeline
  • Print the ceremony programs
  • Order wedding favors
  • Meet with your officiant to plan the wedding ceremony, choose the readings, and discuss ways to personalize the ceremony

Image by The Godards

2 Months Before

The time has finally come to send all of your wedding invitations. Since this isn’t quite crunch time yet, use this month to meet with or get in touch with all of your vendors to ensure everyone is still on the same page and send as many final payments as possible. 

We recommend meeting with your photographer to discuss day-of planning and final questions.  You’ll also need to meet with your DJ or live band to finalize the playlist and provide them with songs you do and don’t want to play during the reception. Then it’s time to party! You’ve earned every bit of relaxation and fun your wedding party has in store, so live it up at the bach parties and let the stress of wedding planning melt away for the night (or the entire weekend). Next month is crunch time, so rest up now! Do this two months before the wedding:

  • Send out your wedding invitations (or a second round of wedding invitations, if staggering)
  • Meet with your photographer to discuss wedding day plans
  • Review the playlist with the DJ or band and give them your “don’t play” and “must play” lists
  • Let loose at your bachelorette/bachelor parties
  • Send out as many final payments as you can
  • Check in with all your vendors
  • Ensure the groomsmen have bought or rented their attire

1 Month Before

You’re officially one month away from the best day of your life, and this is the month that all of those details that are still on your to-do list will be checked off. Most importantly: get your marriage license. Laws vary from state to state and country to country on how far out you need to get your license, so make sure you know the ins and outs of making everything legal.

In addition, you’ll want to schedule your final dress fitting and buy all the accessories you need, decide if you’re going to change into a reception dress (and buy one if you do), create your wedding day timeline, create your seating chart, and buy gifts for everyone on your list. You should also have received lots of RSVPs by now, so update your spreadsheet, call anyone you have yet to hear from, and prepare a final list for the caterer. Here’s what to do one month before the wedding:

  • Get your marriage license
  • Have your last dress fitting and buy your accessories (veil, jewelry, lingerie, and shoes)
  • Buy your reception dress and reception shoes
  • Send out rehearsal dinner invitations
  • Buy alcohol or finalize your signature cocktails
  • Send your wedding day timeline to all your vendors
  • Create your reception seating chart
  • Buy gifts for your bridesmaids, groomsmen, and everyone else on your list
  • Write your vows
  • Update your guest list spreadsheet with all the RSVPs you’ve received
  • Call any guests who haven’t yet RSVP’d
  • Check the hotel blocks
  • Get your wedding party together to discuss roles and responsibilities for the wedding day

1 Week Before

As you get into the right mindset for your wedding day, there are just a few last-minute things to cross off your list or delegate to your loved ones. This week, spend your time circling back with vendors, the wedding party, and any other family or friends who need to be in the loop to ensure everyone is on the same page and knows exactly what to do on the wedding day. You’ll need to get the final guest count to the caterers and plan for day-of payments.  

We recommend filling out checks and putting them in marked envelopes that you can easily hand off to your coordinator. Then, finally, it’s time to indulge in some last-minute relaxation, packing for the honeymoon, and getting everything together, so you’re feeling your absolute best come your wedding morning. Here’s what to do one week before the wedding:

  • Check in with all your vendors one last time and ensure they have the wedding day timeline
  • Delegate any last-minute tasks to friends and family
  • Send your wedding day timeline to everyone in the wedding party
  • Send the final guest list to the caterer
  • Break in your wedding ceremony and reception shoes
  • Ensure you have checks ready for day-of payments and vendor tips in clearly labeled envelopes
  • Book a day at the spa
  • Pack for your honeymoon
  • Schedule a date night for you and your fiancé to de-stress before the wedding day
  • Review our tips for feeling your best on your wedding day

The Wedding Day

Your only responsibility on your wedding day is to be fully present and enjoy every minute of the day. All the details are planned, you’ve handed off your phone and email to a friend or family member, and your planner or coordinator has everything under control. You just need to bask in the glow of being pampered, spending the day with everyone you love, and marrying your best friend.

Image by David Lack

After The Wedding And The Honeymoon

Now that you’re home from the honeymoon, there are just a few loose ends to tie up before you settle into newlywed life. Don’t worry. There are few things left to do. The most important is circling back with all your vendors to ensure everyone has received their payment. If you have any outstanding balances, this would be the time to pay them all off. 

Then you can move on to more important things, like opening gifts you received on the wedding day and sending “thank you” notes. To ensure you remember everybody, we recommend using your guest list spreadsheet to note all the gifts you received. That way, all the information is in one place when you start writing notes. Here are the last few things to wrap up after the honeymoon:

  • Pay all remaining balances to vendors
  • Return your rentals
  • Write “Thank You” notes
  • Clean and preserve your wedding gown
  • Take advantage of registry discounts to buy any registry items you didn’t receive
  • Officially change your name (if you choose to do so)
  • Research life insurance plans and figure out the right coverage for your relationship

It can be tempting to begin planning your wedding as soon as you are engaged. How far in advance you start planning for your big day will determine how long it takes. Some couples decide to have a lengthy engagement, while others could be ready to tie the knot right away. There’s no need to rush into planning if your wedding is more than a year away.

Planning your wedding is a huge undertaking, so don’t try to do it all at once. You want to remember your wedding as an incredible and beautiful time in your life, not as a stressful one. And our 12-month wedding planning timeline will allow you to sit back and enjoy the process.

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Colorful Surprise Backyard Wedding

September 17, 2022 | justine

Meg and Vinee love to do things differently. And when it came to planning their wedding, ditching tradition and putting their own spin on things came naturally. To kick off their wedding day in a creative way, the pair invited their closest loved ones to a “surprise proposal party.” Only when their guests showed up, they found themselves at a surprise backyard wedding instead. It was an exciting and beautiful affair, and the couple pulled it off fabulously! Besides the surprise element, their big day featured a boho-chic aesthetic—from the stunning florals and decor in dreamy tones to the laid-back and ethereal wedding fashion. 

The lovebirds kicked off their day with private emotional vows, sitting on their front porch and crying their eyes out. They then shared the same heartfelt promises at their poolside sunset ceremony that followed. Their talented vendors transformed their beloved friends’ backyard with elegant wood furnishings, Moroccan-style rugs, and spectacular arrangements of fresh blooms and dried foliage. Balloon installations were a fun touch, while the string lights and star lanterns amped up the romance. 

On top of everything else, the couple kept the vibe carefree and chic with their wedding attire. The barefoot bride stunned in her bandeau top and skirt duo with statement sleeves.  Meanwhile, the groom was stylishly cool in his tan-colored suit. And true to form, they ended the day in an epic way by literally taking the plunge in their wedding garb. If Meg and Vinee’s surprise soiree sounds thrilling, scroll through these beautiful photographs captured by Junebug member J. Olson Weddings. This backyard wedding is packed with inspiration to pull off a memorable surprise celebration.

The Couple:

Meg + Vinee

The Wedding:

Bentonville, Arkansas

A Gifted Maple Tree To Grow With Their Marriage

I have an extreme propensity for trees, and spending time outdoors is a big way we connect. Vinee bought us a marriage maple tree to plant in our yard to grow and change in our continued seasons with us. I cried when he showed it to me. It felt so meaningful and perfect. We have big plans to plant a tree for each of our children, too. I had also gifted Vinee a travel journal to track our road trips in our first year of dating. I forgot about it, but Vinee kept it and continued to log every trip. He gave me this written history of our time together on our wedding day. I cried at that, too.

Getting Ready Together And Sharing Private Vows Were The Most Memorable Moments

We both make sense of things through words, and as I was writing my vows, it felt so inauthentic to read these to Vinee in front of everyone. So, we opted first to share our vows privately, sitting on our porch. This was my favorite part of the day. In true form, Vinee wrote the most beautiful and precise vows in a paragraph or two, and I went on for several pages. We both cried our eyes out. It’s exactly what we needed it to be, to first share those words with each other and then again later in the ceremony with the love and support of our people. 

Personalizing Their Wedding With A Unique Unity Ceremony And Meaningful Wedding Favors

I love creating and giving gifts, so this was a fun one for me. We called these the “Bird by Bird” boxes, pointing to our favorite phrase by Anne Lamott and our unity ceremony that included the threading together of origami birds. At each place setting, our guests had a box with their own disposable camera to document the night, a bottle of our favorite hot sauce, a cocktail kit to create a “Hummingbird,” and a Spotify playlist Vinee created of songs significant to our relationship.

Proud Of Having Pulled Off A Surprise Backyard Wedding

We knew that it would be fun and meaningful no matter what, but pulling off the surprise itself was pretty incredible. We’re proud of ourselves for keeping each other centered and doing things our way. We picked up every piece of a traditional wedding, examined it, and asked ourselves if it was what we needed. We kept what served us and omitted what didn’t, creating a truly authentic day meant for us and no one else

Advice From The Newlyweds: Remember It’s Your Special Day

If you’re planning a wedding, remember that it’s your day and no one else’s. Figure out what’s important to you, start there, and make all decisions accordingly. For us, the priorities were the ceremony, the photos, the songs, the poems, and the small guest list. Lastly, time flies by so fast, so savor each moment. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Josh Olson Weddings
Floral Design – Samantha’s Garden
Catering – Yeyo’s
Dessert – Burton’s Creamery + Arsagas
Bar + Signature Cocktail – Puritan Coffee and Beer
DJ – Uniq Productions
Videography – Pragma Production
Makeup Artist – Ashley Gregory Beauty
Wedding Dress – Bride KC
Bridal Accessories – Joon Bridal
Dried Flower Bouquet + Hat Crown – Remi and Gold
Groom’s Apparel – Sandro Paris
Groom’s Shoes – Sabah Shoes
Rings – Digby and Iona
Rentals – SB Events
Transportation – Pinnacle Transportation

 

Congratulations to Meg and Vinee on their colorful surprise backyard wedding. And big thanks to Junebug member J. Olson Weddings for capturing all the great moments and raw emotions that made their day special and unforgettable. To see more of his incredible work, check out his profile in our directory of wedding photographers from around the world!

Forget strict timelines and stuffy traditions! For couples who want something unique and unconventional, a surprise wedding can be an exciting alternative to a traditional bash. It may be nerve-racking to keep things under wraps, but you can successfully pull off the big reveal by having a great team of vendors by your side. 

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12 Romantic Love Poems to Read at Your Wedding Ceremony

August 28, 2022 | Junebug Weddings

Image by Rylee & Co. Keep scrolling for romantic love poems for your wedding ceremony

While we do love unexpected wedding ceremony readings, we have to admit that our hearts still skip a beat when we hear romantic love poems read during a ceremony. Where words fail, poetry says it all. These 12 romantic love poems would be perfect for any wedding ceremony. From modern poets to the classic greats, these poets found a way to express what everyone wants to say on the most special day of their lives.

12 Romantic Love Poems For Your Wedding Ceremony

Our Souls Are Mirrors by Rupi Kaur

god must have kneaded you and i
from the same dough
rolled us out as one on the baking sheet
must have suddenly realized
how unfair it was
to put that much magic in one person
and sadly split that dough in two
how else is it that
when i look in the mirror
i am looking at you
when you breathe
my own lungs fill with air
that we just met but we
have known each other our whole lives
if we were not made as one to begin with

To Love is Not to Possess by James Kavanaugh

To love is not to possess,
To own or imprison,
Nor to lose one’s self in another.
Love is to join and separate,
To walk alone and together,
To find a laughing freedom
That lonely isolation does not permit.
It is finally to be able
To be who we really are
No longer clinging in childish dependency
Nor docilely living separate lives in silence,
It is to be perfectly one’s self
And perfectly joined in permanent commitment
To another–and to one’s inner self.
Love only endures when it moves like waves,
Receding and returning gently or passionately,
Or moving lovingly like the tide
In the moon’s own predictable harmony,
Because finally, despite a child’s scars
Or an adult’s deepest wounds,
They are openly free to be
Who they really are–and always secretly were,
In the very core of their being
Where true and lasting love can alone abide.

The Earth Turned to Bring Us Closer by Eugenio Montejo

The earth turned to bring us closer,
it spun on itself and within us,
and finally joined us together in this dream
as written in the Symposium.
Nights passed by, snowfalls and solstices;
time passed in minutes and millennia.
An ox cart that was on its way to Nineveh
arrived in Nebraska.
A rooster was singing some distance from the world,
in one of the thousand pre-lives of our fathers.
The earth was spinning with its music carrying us on board;
it didn’t stop turning a single moment
as if so much love, so much that’s miraculous
was only an Adagio written long ago
in the Symposium’s score.

I’ll Be There For You by Louise Cuddon

I’ll be there my darling, through thick and through thin
When your mind’s in a mess and your head’s in a spin
When your plane’s been delayed, and you’ve missed the last train.
When life is just threatening to drive you insane
When your thrilling whodunit has lost its last page
When somebody tells you, you’re looking your age
When your coffee’s too cool, and your wine is too warm
When the forecast said “Fine”, but you’re out in a storm
When your quick break hotel, turns into a slum
And your holiday photos show only your thumb
When you park for five minutes in a resident’s bay
And return to discover you’ve been towed away
When the jeans that you bought in hope or in haste
Just stick on your hips and don’t reach round your waist
When the food you most like brings you out in red rashes
When as soon as you boot up the bloody thing crashes
So my darling, my sweetheart, my dear…
When you break a rule, when you act the fool
When you’ve got the flu, when you’re in a stew
When you’re last in the queue, don’t feel blue’cause
I’m telling you, I’ll be there.

Variations On The Word Love by Margaret Atwood

This is a word we use to plug
holes with. It’s the right size for those warm
blanks in speech, for those red heart-
shaped vacancies on the page that look nothing
like real hearts. Add lace
and you can sell
it. We insert it also in the one empty
space on the printed form
that comes with no instructions. There are whole
magazines with not much in them
but the word love, you can
rub it all over your body and you
can cook with it too. How do we know
it isn’t what goes on at the cool
debaucheries of slugs under damp
pieces of cardboard? As for the weed-
seedlings nosing their tough snouts up
among the lettuces, they shout it.
Love! Love! sing the soldiers, raising
their glittering knives in salute.

Then there’s the two
of us. This word
is far too short for us, it has only
four letters, too sparse
to fill those deep bare
vacuums between the stars
that press on us with their deafness.
It’s not love we don’t wish
to fall into, but that fear.
This word is not enough but it will
have to do. It’s a single
vowel in this metallic
silence, a mouth that says
O again and again in wonder
and pain, a breath, a finger
grip on a cliffside. You can
hold on or let go.

Roads Go Ever Ever On by J.R.R Tolkien

Roads go ever ever on,
Over rock and under tree,
By caves where never sun has shone,
By streams that never find the sea;
Over snow by winter sown,
And through the merry flowers of June,
Over grass and over stone,
And under mountains in the moon.
Roads go ever ever on
Under cloud and under star,
Yet feet that wandering have gone
Turn at last to home afar.
Eyes that fire and sword have seen
And horror in the halls of stone
Look at last on meadows green
And trees and hills they long have known.

Image by The Tinsley Co

Touched By an Angel by Maya Angelou

We, unaccustomed to courage
exiles from delight
live coiled in shells of loneliness
until love leaves its high holy temple
and comes into our sight
to liberate us into life.

Love arrives
and in its train come ecstasies
old memories of pleasure
ancient histories of pain.
Yet if we are bold,
love strikes away the chains of fear
from our souls.

We are weaned from our timidity
In the flush of love’s light
we dare be brave
And suddenly we see
that love costs all we are
and will ever be.
Yet it is only love
which sets us free.

Love Song by Henry Dumas

Beloved,
I have to adore the earth:

The wind must have heard
your voice once.
It echoes and sings like you.

The soil must have tasted
you once.
It is laden with your scent.

The trees honor you
in gold
and blush when you pass.

I know why the north country
is frozen.
It has been trying to preserve
your memory.

I know why the desert
burns with fever.
It was wept too long without you.

On hands and knees,
the ocean begs up the beach,
and falls at your feet.

I have to adore
the mirror of the earth.
You have taught her well
how to be beautiful.

Image by Loop Studios

The Passionate Shephard to His Love by Christopher Marlowe

Come live with me and be my love,
And we will all the pleasures prove,
That Valleys, groves, hills, and fields,
Woods, or steepy mountain yields.

And we will sit upon the Rocks,
Seeing the Shepherds feed their flocks,
By shallow Rivers to whose falls
Melodious birds sing Madrigals.

And I will make thee beds of Roses
And a thousand fragrant posies,
A cap of flowers, and a kirtle
Embroidered all with leaves of Myrtle;

A gown made of the finest wool
Which from our pretty Lambs we pull;
Fair lined slippers for the cold,
With buckles of the purest gold;

A belt of straw and Ivy buds,
With Coral clasps and Amber studs:
And if these pleasures may thee move,
Come live with me, and be my love.

The Shepherds’ Swains shall dance and sing
For thy delight each May-morning:
If these delights thy mind may move,
Then live with me, and be my love.

Unending Love by Rabindranath Tagore

I seem to have loved you in numberless forms, numberless times…
In life after life, in age after age, forever.
My spellbound heart has made and remade the necklace of songs,
That you take as a gift, wear round your neck in your many forms,
In life after life, in age after age, forever.

Whenever I hear old chronicles of love, its age-old pain,
Its ancient tale of being apart or together.
As I stare on and on into the past, in the end you emerge,
Clad in the light of a pole-star piercing the darkness of time:
You become an image of what is remembered forever.

You and I have floated here on the stream that brings from the fount.
At the heart of time, love of one for another.
We have played along side millions of lovers, shared in the same
Shy sweetness of meeting, the same distressful tears of farewell-
Old love but in shapes that renew and renew forever.

Today it is heaped at your feet, it has found its end in you
The love of all man’s days both past and forever:
Universal joy, universal sorrow, universal life.
The memories of all loves merging with this one love of ours –
And the songs of every poet past and forever.

Image by Jordan Voth

I Carry Your Heart With Me by e.e. cummings

i carry your heart with me (i carry it in
my heart) i am never without it (anywhere
i go you go, my dear; and whatever is done
by only me is your doing, my darling)
i fear
no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet) i want
no world (for beautiful you are my world, my true)
and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant
and whatever a sun will always sing is you

here is the deepest secret nobody knows
(here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud
and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows
higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)
and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart

i carry your heart (i carry it in my heart)

Soneto 17 by Pablo Neruda

No te amo como si fueras de sal, topacio
o flecha de claveles que propagan el fuego:
te amo como se aman ciertas cosas oscuras,
secretamente, entre la sombra y el alma.

Te amo como la planta que no florece y lleva
dentro de si, escondida, la luz de aquellas flores,
y gracias a tu amor vive oscuro en mi cuerpo
el apretado aroma que ascendió de la tierra.

Te amo sin saber cómo, ni cuándo, ni de dónde,
te amo directamente sin problemas ni orgullo:
asi te amo porque no se amar de otra manera,

sino asi de este modo en que no soy ni eres,
tan cerca que tu mano sobre mi pecho es mia,
tan cerca que se cierran tus ojos con mi sueño.

Sonnet 17 by Pablo Neruda (translated by Stephen Tapscott)

I do not love you as if you were salt-rose, or topaz,
or the arrow of carnations the fire shoots off.
I love you as certain dark things are to be loved,
in secret, between the shadow and the soul.

I love you as the plant that never blooms
but carries in itself the light of hidden flowers;
thanks to your love a certain solid fragrance,
risen from the earth, lives darkly in my body.

I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where.
I love you straightforwardly, without complexities or pride;
so I love you because I know no other way

than this: where I does not exist, nor you,
so close that your hand on my chest is my hand,
so close that your eyes close as I fall asleep.

After Love Poems

We adore these love poems to read at wedding ceremonies. Whether they are used it in lieu of more traditional pieces of the ceremony, read by a close friend or relative, or even read from one of you to the other, these love poems have a way of touching our hearts more closely than we know—especially the moment before “I do.”

While you’re working on your wedding ceremony, here are a few more sentimental unity ceremony ideas we’ve collected. Of course, once those are complete, you’ll need the perfect recessional song to walk back down the aisle.

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Affordable Bridesmaid Dresses Under $100

August 27, 2022 | Junebug Weddings

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is such an honor, but let’s face it, it can also be super expensive. We know you want to look good standing next to your best friends on their big day without breaking the bank. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of our favorite affordable bridesmaid dresses under $100 for you to shop guilt-free. Don’t worry, just because they are affordable doesn’t mean that they skimp on style!

Affordable Bridesmaid Dresses

Memorable Romance Velvet Maxi Wrap Dress

Amazing Evening Black Tiered Maxi Dress

AW Enyo Dress

Azazie Evalleen

Birdy Grey Kira Velvet Dress

Oh The Drama Balloon Sleeve V-Neck Maxi Dress

Azazie Deandra

Birdy Grey Lisa Midi Dress

Feeling Flawless Velvet V-Neck Maxi Dress

Birdy Grey Monica Dress

Azazie Lecia

AW Andie Dress

Birdy Grey Alex Convertible Dress

Birdy Grey Jesse Dress

Moments Of Bliss Black Backless Mermaid Maxi Dress

Birdy Grey August Convertible Dress

AW Merbok Dress

Azazie Christiana

Feel the Romance Off-the-Shoulder Maxi Dress

Heavenly Hues Maxi Dress

I’m All Yours Ruffled Maxi Dress

Looking your best while standing next to your best friend on their special day shouldn’t break the bank. These affordable bridesmaid dresses are just the start. If you’re looking for even more options, check out our round-up of the best places to buy bridesmaid dresses online!

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The Top Websites To Buy Your Wedding Invitations Online

August 4, 2022 | kailey
wedding invitations online

Image by Elle Kendall Photography. Keep scrolling to see the best places to buy wedding invitations online

After picking your dream venue, finalizing a wedding date, and deciding on a budget, it’s time for wedding invitations. And with only one chance to make a good first impression, you’ll want to make it count. Wedding invites are the first thing your guests see, and it’s their job to relay important info and get them excited for your big day. 

With that in mind, choosing where to purchase your stationery suite can quickly become overwhelming. But with this round-up, you can say goodbye to that stressful shopping experience. Here are the top places to purchase wedding invitations online from the comfort of your couch. 

What You Should Include On Your Wedding Invitations 

Designing your wedding invitations is the fun part. But, before jumping in, it’s important to know exactly what you should include. With limited space available, these are the details that should be prioritized: 

  • You and your significant other’s first and last names 
  • Date and time of your wedding ceremony and reception
  • Ceremony and reception locations 
  • Dress code 
  • Returnable RSVP card 
  • If you’ve chosen to have a wedding website, you can also include the URL 

Where To Purchase Your Wedding Invitations

1. Zola 

Zola really has everything you need when it comes time to plan a wedding–invitations included. There are thousands of designs, all fit for a different wedding and style, meaning you’re sure to find something you love. They also make it super easy to personalize each invitation, with options to change colors and foil types. And the best part? You can also get matching programs, menus, place cards, and thank you notes so your aesthetic remains constant throughout the entire wedding.

2. Etsy 

Etsy is one of our favorite places to shop for all things wedding-related, invitations included. With a variety of stationary sellers, there’s truly something for every couple and every wedding theme. Being independent designers, you’re not only supporting small shops, but it also gives you the ability to work closely with artists. This means you can customize your invitations in a way a larger company might now be able to. 

  1. Wedding Invitation Terracotta Ivory ($10.90); 2. Custom Wedding Invitation Suite ($1.29); 3. Elegant Wedding Invitation Set ($11.99); 4. Watercolor Venue Tri Fold Invitation ($188)

For more stunningly simple Etsy invitations, click here for the ultimate round-up. 

3. Minted

Minted is one of the top names in wedding invitations. And with thousands of beautiful designs by talented artists, you can imagine why. You’ll find designs in just about every style, color, shape, and orientation—inclusive to all wedding styles and budgets. Plus, they offer special features like a free matching wedding website and a free sample kit so you can see and feel the quality of your future wedding invites. 

1. Overlap ($63+); 2. Little party big love ($63+); 3. Chantilly ($267+); 4. Picture Perfect ($63+)

4. Papier

Papier’s planners and stationary took the world by storm. They’ve now stretched their creative designs into wedding invitations created with love in mind. You’ll find simple modern designs, vintage floral designs, and even pastel watercolor designs. After one glimpse of these stunning styles by Papier and its independent artists, you’ll agree that sometimes less is so much more. 

5. Greevelope 

For couples planning a fully sustainable wedding, Greenvelope is calling your name. Its mission is simple: save time, save trees, and save money with email invitations and RSVP tracking.  All you have to do is upload your own custom design or pick from one of their exclusive designer suites. Greenvelope takes care of the rest. The best part? A donation is made with every sale to a non-profit organization that maintains forests! 

Image by The Tinsley Co.

6. Basic Invite 

If you prefer a hands-on approach to your wedding planning process, Basic Invite is the wedding invitation source for you. Every inch of each Basic Invite invitation is customizable. Beyond changing obvious aspects like your names, wedding date, and venue info, this easy-to-use website allows you to alter the color and details of each design to match your wedding style. 

7. Zazzle

You may know Zazzle as a customization station, allowing users to create custom apparel, home goods, and art, but you might be surprised to learn that Zazzle‘s custom options include wedding goods! In addition to products like personalized cake toppers and wedding favors, it has an excellent selection of wedding invitations for any style–from modern to vintage to watercolor to geometric. The site features a design customization tool that allows you to get into the nitty-gritty of your invite and make desired changes.

1. Modern Bold Monogram Black and White Wedding Invitation ($2.50); 2. Abstract Arch Wedding Invitation Boho ($2.21); 3. Cute Script Elegant Photo Overlay White Wedding Invitation ($2.51): 4. Bohemian Burnt Orange Modern Minimalist Invitation ($2.66)

8. Shutterfly 

You’re probably familiar with Shutterfly specifically for photo printing, but they’re so much more than that. This online company also specializes in wedding invitations. As a leading photo printing company, Shutterfly is a great option for photo wedding invitations. However, they also have a wide selection of invitations designed with seasonal, floral, watercolor, typographical, glitter, foil-stamped embellishments, and so much more. Once you’ve selected a design, you can customize the color, trim, and paper type to match your wedding theme. 

  1. Modern Photo Wedding Invitation ($2.55); 2. Simple And Stylish Wedding Invitation ($2.19); 3. Modern Contrast Wedding Invitation ($2.15); 4. Soft Silhouette Wedding Invitation ($2.04)

9. Paperless Post 

Couples with designer taste without that designer budget, this one’s for you. Paperless Post is a wallet-friendly solution that allows you to send gorgeous stationery from top designers like Kate Spade, Paper Source, and Oscar de la Renta via email. They also collect mailing addresses, track RSVPs, and follow up with guests instantly. Want to send out paper invites? Check out their sister company, Paper Source. 

10. Lovebird

Lovebird allows couples to manage all wedding guest communication in one streamlined, innovative, and beautiful platform. It offers a full set of features including premium wedding websites, beautifully designed digital wedding invitations and save the dates delivered via text or email, RSVP tracking and notifications, guest list management, meal selection, guest polling, gift registry integration, and messaging capabilities.

Tips For Creating And Ordering Your Wedding Invitations 

  • Use colors from your mood board that’ll be incorporated in your wedding decor and fashion
  • Make sure your wedding invitations are legible (we’re talking about your font and color choices)
  • Make your wedding invites straightforward, only adding necessary information and not overcrowding the invites
  • Order extra 20-25 wedding invitations just in case 
  • Consider hiring a calligrapher to address your wedding envelopes for a more personal touch

Wedding Invitations FAQ

What Is The Average Cost Of Wedding Invitations?

The price of wedding invitations will vary. If you and your significant other choose paper invites, this price will be dependent on your design, printing style, paper quantity, and quantity. The average cost typically ranges between $300 and $700 for both invitations and envelopes. Keep in mind, any extras will add to that starting price.

If you are working with a tight budget, consider paying for an invitation template that you can customize on your computer and then have printed. These templates typically cost anywhere from $2 to $20. All you then have to do is pay for printing.

How Do I Choose My Wedding Invitation Design?

Before creating your wedding invitations, you’ll want to have a clear understanding of your wedding style, theme, and colors. Is your wedding sleek and modern, or is it a casual backyard affair? What flowers will be incorporated into your arrangements? Which colors will be prominent in your fashion and decor? The answer to these questions will heavily influence the design of your invites. 

When should I order wedding invitations?

From designing to printing, the whole invitation process can take anywhere between three to six weeks. With wedding invitations typically being sent out six to eight weeks before your big day, you’ll want to order invitations at least five to seven months before your big day. This will alleviate your stress and leave wiggle room in case of any speed bumps during the process. 

Again, this timeline is dependent on the company and design you choose. That’s why it’s so important to do your research before hitting that purchase button. 

How far in advance should I send out my wedding invitations?

For a more traditional celebration, sending out your wedding invitations six to eight weeks before your wedding date is a good rule of thumb. If you’re hosting a destination wedding, invitations should be sent out to your guests three months in advance. This gives loved ones time to book transportation and accommodations and clear their schedule. 

Wedding planning is quickly evolving, making it easier and easier for couples to bring their dream wedding to life. You can find vendors, inspiration, and even wedding invitations right from your phone. If you need some wedding invitation inspiration, check out our favorite Etsy wedding invitation suites.

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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 Oregon Wedding Among the Trees

May 4, 2022 | riley

Hayley and Gabby originally wanted to elope with just the two of them, an officiant, and their photographer. But once word got out, their friends and family wanted to join them on the happiest moment of their lives. So the couple planned a slightly bigger celebration to include their closest loved ones. With a great love for travel and the outdoors, their intimate Oregon wedding among the trees was the perfect magical setting for their big day. 

Tucked away in the middle of an enchanting forest, their ceremony on the Redwood Deck featured a statement triangle arch, dreamy florals by Songbird Floral Designs, and glowing lamps. The couple said their “I dos” under towering trees with gorgeous light coming through. They brought the romantic boho woodland vibe into their cozy Opal 28 reception with an eye-catching macrame backdrop, tablescapes full of greenery, and gilded details. 

With the help of their planner Keen Events, the two brides were able to pull off an unforgettable celebration, all beautifully captured by Dionne Kraus Photography. Scroll through to learn more about their wedding journey—there’s more than meets the eye. Despite the hurdles, this wedding is proof that love truly conquers all. 

Dionne Kraus Photography’s Thoughts On This Intimate Oregon Wedding

I came home from this wedding so teary. I didn’t know beforehand, but some members of the family didn’t RSVP because they didn’t support the marriage. On the day of, they decided to come last minute and even participated although they were pretty quiet and reserved for the most part. Some of my last photos of the night during the dance party were of the family embracing their bride and crying with their now married daughter. 

The peacefulness and acceptance will forever stay with me. The power of that moment was tangible, and I don’t think there was anyone in that room not crying. When the song ended, they danced with their daughter’s new wife. The happiness showed as they held the woman who loved their little girl, I just can’t put into words. 

The Couple:

Hayley and Gabby

The Wedding:

Hoyt Arboretum, Portland, Oregon, United States

Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Planning A Micro Wedding

Recommended Reading: The Prettiest National Parks for Your Wedding

Recommended Reading: Read This if You’re Planning an LGBTQ+ Wedding

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Dionne Kraus Photography
Event Planning – Keen Events
Ceremony Venue – Hoyt Arboretum
Reception Venue – Opal 28
Floral Design – Songbird Floral Designs
Cake – Dream Cakes
Live Music – DanceHall Days Band
Makeup Artist – Blossom and Beauty
Rentals – Power of Love Rentals

 

Congratulations to Hayley and Gabby on their intimate Oregon wedding among the trees. And big thanks to Dionne Kraus Photography for capturing the love, joy, and overall emotion of their special day. 

This wedding proves that you can be surrounded by your loved ones while still having the intimate affair that you desire. You can even swap traditions for more forward-thinking ideas, so feel free to craft a wedding day that’s as unique as you and your partner.

Sponsors
Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings

7 Cool And Casual Wedding Ideas

April 5, 2022 | riley

In case no one has told you—you don’t need to have an over-the-top wedding to create a magical, memorable event. If you and your partner aren’t “the formal kind,” then a cool, casual wedding might be your style.  There’s no template for a true-to-you wedding day, after all. You don’t have to take our word for it, though. Let these casual wedding ideas inspire you to create a laid-back wedding with a cool, unique flair.

Tips + Casual Wedding Ideas

1. Find a Comfortable and Unconventional Venue

Start with your wedding location. If comfortable and relaxed vibes are your goal, think about the places you feel most at home. It might even be your home—or your parent’s backyard, or the lakehouse you’ve spent summer nights for the past 20 years. As a bonus, a memorable location means less decor is needed to create a space that feels like you. 

If your house isn’t quite fit to entertain a group of people, you can rent an Airbnb for an intimate wedding weekend experience that still feels like home.

Questions to Help Determine Your Wedding Location:

  • Where do you enjoy spending time on the weekend? 
  • What’s your favorite restaurant? Is it large enough to accommodate the number of guests you’ll invite?
  • Do you enjoy going to museums or art galleries?
  • If you could move anywhere in the world, where would it be?
  • Do you prefer the outdoors, such as a national park, or somewhere indoors?

Recommended Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Finding Your Wedding Venue

2. Offer Pre-Ceremony Refreshments and Snacks

Welcome cocktails and snacks set the stage for a fun, laid-back time. If you’d prefer to leave the party until after you say “I do,” you can opt for a coffee, lemonade, aqua fresca, or mocktail bar. If you want to support a small local business you love, consider hiring them to organize this for you. 

Blanking on what type of snacks would be best to hold your guests over until the meal?

Here are Some of Our Favorite Wedding Snack Ideas:

  • Charcuterie table – To avoid spreading germs, create individual charcuterie cones 
  • Food truck – Everyone loves a food truck, no matter what kind of food the truck serves. It also makes a great photo-op to entertain guests while they wait
  • Sentimental foods – If you have family or friends who have passed, honor them by creating a table of their favorite foods

3. Utilize Mix and Match Seating

The Danish have created and coined a lifestyle known as “hygge,” which essentially means for something to be cozy and comfortable—to create a welcoming feeling. If that’s exactly the aesthetic that you’re looking for on your special day, consider a mix of chairs, textures, and colors that will provide the perfect element of unexpectedness and coziness. You can do everything from poufs and oversized floor pillows to mismatched vintage chairs, picnic set-ups, and boho lounge areas. 

Shop Our Favorite Floor Pillows:

4. Choose Greenery Over Florals

Lush weddings are popular among couples who enjoy minimalist vibes. Skip floral arrangements and create a fresh, natural feel with greenery. Many couples skip traditional floral arrangements altogether and use a few different textures of greenery or dried flowers for bouquets, centerpieces, and ceremony backdrops. Eucalyptus, olive branches, rosemary garlands, and tropical leaves are perennial favorites, but we recommend working with a florist who can recommend seasonal greens and arrange them in a beautiful way.

Junebug Tip: If you want to save money and still want florals or plants for your big day, use BloomsyBox, a flower subscription company. They have colorful dried flowers, plants, bouquets, and more. You choose what you want and get them hand-delivered to your door. They even offer dozens of pre-made bouquets. Junebug readers get 10% off with the code JUNEBUG

5. Serve Comfort Foods

If there’s a common theme that unites casual couples, it’s food. Specifically, comfort food. We’re talking about the kind of meal you get once a week because it’s your thing. Maybe it’s pizza, tacos and margaritas, ramen, or burgers. Whatever it may be, don’t be afraid to treat your guests to it. Not only does it make your wedding more laid back and personalized to you as a couple, but your guests will also get a kick out of the delicious food. And if the idea of a seated dinner or buffet isn’t your style, bring in a food truck or go potluck-style and ask guests to bring a dish of choice. 

6. Host A Brunch Wedding

Speaking of food, if you’re much more breakfast people and you envision your day including cinnamon rolls, pancakes, and mimosas, why not host a brunch wedding? They’re a great way to save money, and they also give you the chance to tie the knot in the venue of your dreams if it’s booked up on the date that you always wanted. Plus who doesn’t love breakfast food? And saying “I do” earlier means that you can jet off to your honeymoon that same day.

Recommended Reading: Brunch Wedding Ideas for the Early Birds & Breakfast Lovers

7. Play Games During Your Reception

If you’re hosting your wedding outdoors, add some lawn games to keep guests entertained and allow them to mingle if they don’t know one another very well. From corn hole to giant Jenga to ring toss, there’s a wide variety of nostalgic games that you can play. The best part is that there are so many customized options out there that you can keep long after the wedding that will remind you of one of the most important days of your life every time you play.

Your wedding day should be a reflection of who you are as a couple. We hope these casual wedding ideas have inspired you to stay true to yourselves and ditch the formal wedding if it doesn’t feel true to who you are. But, don’t forget, even laid-back couples can benefit from expert planning and coordination. In need of a wedding planner who will help your day run seamlessly? Let our hand-picked professional wedding planners guide you through the process so you can enjoy every minute of your special day. 

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