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

October 10, 2024 | riley

Keep reading for wedding budget tips tailored to fit your unique needs and priorities. Image by Emma Jane Photography

We know money is a sensitive subject. But, when it comes time to set your wedding budget we want you to feel confident, so you can walk away from your budget spreadsheet knowing that you nailed it. That’s why we put so much time into creating wedding budget advice, tips, tricks, and tools for every couple.

Many couples struggle with how to start creating a wedding budget, but we’re here to help. Every couple is unique, which means every budget will be too. With a few simple steps, you can create a wedding budget that perfectly fits your needs and priorities.

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

1. Set Your Wedding Budget Priorities

Before you do anything budget-related, you and your partner have to decide your top priorities for your wedding day. Chances are you won’t be able to throw unlimited amounts of money at everything you both want, so it’s important to decide together what areas will get the most attention. We recommend you each make a list of priorities separately, from highest to lowest, and then share them with one another.

From there, choose the top three areas you both think are most important, and plan to spend a good chunk of your budget on those areas. If you realize that none of your top three priorities match, try and switch to a top-two or top-four list, where each of you gets to choose one or two must-haves.

Then list out the other areas below those top priorities—from highest to lowest again—so you know how to allocate the remaining budget.

2. Talk to Anyone Who Is Contributing

Before you and your partner set your final numbers, talk to anyone who has expressed interest in helping fund your wedding and figure out exactly how much they want to contribute. That way, you can either subtract that number from you and your partner’s contribution–meaning you’ll pay less than you initially thought–or you can allocate the money you’re saving into another area of the wedding.

If your parents or grandparents haven’t brought up money by the time you’re ready to start creating your budget, don’t be afraid to ask in a polite and respectful way. If you approach the subject out of curiosity rather than with the expectation that they pitch in, they will be more likely to understand where you are coming from. Be prepared for the possibility that they might not be able to contribute anything.

3. Crunch The Numbers

Now that you know your priorities and know who is contributing money to the wedding, it’s time to figure out exactly how much you and your partner are willing to spend. This number will vary for every couple, but it should always be realistic. Meaning it needs to fit your personal finances and long-term goals, not the other way around.

Determine how much you can comfortably pull from your everyday budget without taking away from your other expenses. Then look ahead and figure out how much you can realistically put into a wedding savings account. Lastly, determine if you can responsibly take money from other savings accounts and how much that could be.

Keep in mind that ideally you and your partner should have about three months of living wages set aside in case of emergencies and you shouldn’t negotiate that security for the sake of your wedding. You also want to make sure you’re still making payments on existing debts, such as credit cards or student loans. Be sure to take these things into consideration as you crunch the numbers.

Once you have your numbers, combine them with any contributions you’ll be getting from family members, and you’ve got a wedding budget to start working with.

4. Determine Your Guest Count

Unless you’ve decided to elope, the greatest impact on your budget is your guest count. It will determine your venue size and your food and alcohol budget since you’ll likely pay per person. If you’re on a really tight budget, this is where it’s most important to be strategic and follow narrow down your wedding guest list to ensure you can afford your other must-haves.

Even if you’re not on a tight budget, take some time to think about what size wedding you really want. Then think about the financials in terms of how much you and your partner want to allocate to catering and how that breaks down per-person. From there, you should be able to budget out multiple scenarios with varying guest counts and choose the one you like the most.

5. Creating Your Ideal Wedding Budget Through Research

Couples tend to forget when setting a wedding budget that location determines many of the expenses. Weddings vary in cost depending on geographic location, which is why researching the costs in your specific area–or your specific destination–is vital for keeping you and your partner on budget.

While researching, also note the price differences for getting married during the week versus the weekend and the price differences for each month of the year. There are many creative ways to save money on your wedding, so do as much research on your options as you can.

6. Prepare For The Unexpected

When it comes to wedding planning, unexpected things will come up. It a fact and it’s totally okay. Some things you’ll be able to rework, and others you’ll have to let go of. One way to stay ahead of the game is to prepare for wedding expenses that aren’t on most wedding budget lists.

For example, did you know that some hotels will charge you as much as $7 per unit to deliver welcome bags to your guests’ hotel rooms? Yeah, that one catches many couples by surprise, too. These little things add up over time, which is why we’ve created a list of unexpected wedding expenses to keep in mind. It covers everything from postage to taxes, tips, and fees. Trust us, you’ll be so glad you built those little things into your budget from the very beginning.

7. Decide Whether The Honeymoon Is A Separate Wedding Budget

Now, for the best part of wedding planning–the honeymoon. Some couples include the honeymoon and its essentials in their overall wedding budget, while others choose to create a separate budget altogether. Again, everyone is different here. It will depend on what seems most logical to you and your partner.

You may have money in your daily budget set aside for travel, and the honeymoon would come out of that, so it makes sense to keep them separated. Or, perhaps it’s easier to set one budget and include everything wedding and honeymoon related into that. There’s no one right way to do it. Just be realistic and decide what works for your unique situation.

With these tips, you should be well on your way to creating the best wedding budget for you and your partner. We know that wedding planning–budgeting especially–can be stressful, so be sure to check out our ten tips to beat wedding planning stress before you tackle any stressful tasks.

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This WulingYuan Wedding Honored Chinese Heritage Beautifully

October 9, 2024 | justine

Laurel and Mike’s Wulingyuan wedding wasn’t just a celebration—it was a stunning tribute to Chinese heritage and the special memories tied to the location. For Laurel, this place held deep personal meaning, as it was where her grandmother used to take her as a child. Although her grandmother passed away when she was young, Laurel found a beautiful way to honor her memory on their wedding day. The couple masterfully blended heartfelt traditions with their modern love story, creating an unforgettable celebration that perfectly wove together their roots and shared future.

Wulingyuan, a UNESCO World Heritage site, set a breathtaking backdrop for their vows, with its stunning quartz-sandstone spires towering above. Mismatched white garden gates adorned with flowers and lush foliage added a whimsical garden theme to the celebration. Their hotel reception continued this enchanting vibe, featuring tables overflowing with blooms and cascading greenery from above. A highlight of the evening was the rave cave—a unique stalagmite cave that housed the hotel’s restaurant—where they brought in a local DJ from the San Francisco Bay Area to keep the energy alive all night long.

If the vibe was off the charts, the fashion was even more spectacular. The bride stunned in a striking red gown for the ceremony and later changed into a chic white strapless dress for the reception. With the help of their talented vendor team, they brought their vision to life and executed it flawlessly. To see how this couple infused their big day with their unique styles while honoring tradition, scroll through these beautiful images captured by Junebug vendor Katherine Elyse.

The Couple:

Laurel and Mike

The Wedding:

Wulingyuan, Hunan Province, China

 

Embracing Culture Through Fun Challenges for the Groom

The most memorable part of the day was the door games. In Chinese culture, these games are like a playful “hazing ritual” where the groom has to prove himself through various challenges to be accepted by the bride’s community. Traditionally, this happens as a parade to the bride’s family home, but we wanted to share the experience with our friends who traveled worldwide, so we held it on stage. Each bridesmaid presented a challenge to the groom and his groomsmen, ranging from “Can you handle sweet, sour, salty, and spicy foods?” to “Let’s wax your legs!” The games ended with an exciting tug-of-war and arm wrestling match featuring some of my strongest aerial dance friends.

Choosing a Meaningful Location to Honor Family Heritage For Their WulingYuan Wedding

We chose this location because it holds special meaning to me—it’s where my grandmother used to take me when I was a child. Sadly, she passed away when I was young, but I wanted to honor her memory. The overall design was meant to celebrate the unity of Chinese and American cultures. Since Wulingyuan is a UNESCO World Heritage site, we followed certain guidelines to respect the environment. We sourced everything locally, from agricultural towns, and only used food vendors from the area—nothing from big cities. We embraced a “leave no trace” mindset, avoiding items like balloons or plastic plates and only choosing things that could be composted or reused. Even the flowers were picked from nearby, and our chosen colors blended perfectly with the natural scenery. In Chinese culture, we created an idiom for our wedding: 龙蛇金约, which means “from dragon to snake, from San Francisco to New York.” Mike was born in the year of the dragon, and I’m the year of the snake. My family immigrated from Mainland China to San Francisco, and his family is from New York.

 

The Importance of Hiring a Wedding Planner and Day of Coordinator

There were only three things that truly mattered to me at the wedding: the food, photography, and music. My mother, who’s big on events, handled most of the aesthetic details. If there’s one thing worth investing in, it’s a day-of wedding coordinator and planner. I had a wedding planner, but without a day-of coordinator, my family and bridesmaids had to manage what they could. Since the staff didn’t speak English, I ended up handling a lot myself. Despite these small issues, they didn’t take away from the things that really mattered to me. I just wish I could’ve enjoyed the day more instead of focusing on organizing everything.

A Culinary Journey from Grandma’s Kitchen to their WulingYuan Wedding Table

I wanted to share the local food I grew up on, the kind my grandmother used to cook for me as a way of showing love. I didn’t want fancy dishes like lobster or sushi. Instead, I wanted sticky rice shiitake mushroom shaomai, tang you ba ba (sweet gluten balls), all kinds of noodles, and more. The locals thought I was crazy for choosing street food over something extravagant, and I had to fight for it several times because I really wanted to support the street vendors. For me, sharing food is like sharing my culture, and watching our friends try new dishes they’d never experienced in their own countries made it all worthwhile. One of my favorite moments was seeing a good friend from New York City go back for three plates of tang you ba ba—she loved it so much it was all she ate the entire night!

Choosing Authenticity Over Tradition in Wedding Photography

I was familiar with the typical mainland Chinese photography style and knew I didn’t want to look like a made-up princess. Katherine Elyse, my photographer and dear friend, has an unmatched “naturalism” style that I absolutely love. I needed someone who could take away all the stress—whether it was about the location, posing, lighting, editing, or photo selection. These photos would be the ones I’d hang on my walls, share with my child, and look back on for years to come, so it was important to me that everything felt effortless and authentic.

Bringing the Party to Life With a Bay Area DJ in the Rave Cave

After the reception, we moved to a unique party spot we affectionately dubbed the “rave cave,” a stalagmite cave that housed the hotel’s restaurant. No rave cave would be complete without great music, so we flew in a local DJ from the San Francisco Bay Area to spin for us. The vibe was incredible, and the music added an unforgettable energy to the celebration.

Celebrating Community with Thoughtful Guest Gifts

Every guest received two thoughtful items: freshly made ginger candy—one original and one spicy—from a local candy maker and a travel tea set. It’s been my favorite thing to see how everyone is using the tea sets; some take them to work, some use them to infuse their sweet tea, and others even make their overnight oats with them. The candy was delicious, and many friends asked where they could buy more, but unfortunately, they couldn’t because a local street vendor made it.  

Private Rooms for Couples to Connect During the WulingYuan Wedding Celebration

We set up “conceiving private rooms” right outside the rave cave to give our friends who were trying to conceive a private space to escape to on our wedding day. It was a thoughtful touch, and fun fact—two of our friends actually succeeded in conceiving.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Katherine Elyse
Ceremony Venue – WulingYuan
Reception Venue – Harmona Resort & Spa
DJ – Daniel Imani
Rings – Gigi Gruber

 

Congratulations to Laurel and Mike on their WulingYuan wedding.Their special day showcases how a wedding can seamlessly blend traditions while remaining truly unique. A heartfelt thanks to Junebug vendor Katherine Elyse for beautifully capturing all the love, beauty, and magic from every angle. To see more of her talent and photography style, check out her profile in our curated directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

The most memorable weddings are those filled with genuine details that reflect the couple’s journey and love story. Wondering how to add these personal touches to your big day? Our guide has all the inspiration you need to create a truly unique and unforgettable celebration.

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This Intimate Peter Pan Bistro Wedding Was the Definition of Cozy

October 7, 2024 | justine

Jenn and Matthew’s Peter Pan Bistro wedding was a cozy, sentimental affair focused on community, delicious food, and timeless elegance. Opting for a late fall event, they drew inspiration from autumn walks, fondue parties, and intimate gatherings with friends. Prioritizing a small guest list and simple logistics, they skipped a wedding party and chose the charming Toronto restaurant for the evening. With DIY touches, mismatched secondhand decor, and a warm color palette, their big day was a perfect blend of personal memories and classic romance.

The couple selected a charming 1980s heritage building, an ideal backdrop for their day. After officially tying the knot at Guelph City Hall the day before, they held a symbolic ceremony framed by stunning fall florals and stained glass windows. The seamless transition to the reception welcomed guests into a cozy and inviting atmosphere, where tables were beautifully decorated with lush blooms and glowing candlelight, setting the stage for a truly intimate and magical evening.

These stunning images, captured by Junebug vendor Jennifer See Studios, beautifully showcase the love and joy that filled their wedding. As you scroll through, you’ll discover unique fall ideas for creating your own seasonal celebration.

The Couple:

Jenn and Matthew

The Wedding:

Peter Pan Bistro, Toronto, Canada

Incorporating Meaningful Items into Their Peter Pan Bistro Wedding

In keeping with our personal values of reusing and incorporating meaningful items, we designed our rings by reworking an inherited ring set. My outfit included lace from the dress my mom and baba wore, and I also wore some of their jewelry. Matthew wore a navy suit and tie he already owned, only treating himself to a new pair of socks.

Navigating Legalities and Embracing a Symbolic Ceremony 

The day before, we went to Guelph City Hall with our parents to take care of the legalities. We surprised them by sharing vows we had written for them. We decided to have a symbolic ceremony on the day, with a close family friend officiating. He’s a great storyteller and always knows how to make us laugh. Both ceremonies reflected a humanist perspective, and we wrote our own vows, which made them very special. It was a full expression of who we are and included surprises for each other.

How Their Florist Brought Their Peter Pan Bistro Wedding Decor Vision to Life

Once we visited Peter Pan Bistro, the vibe of the upstairs event space and the main floor restaurant was exactly what we were looking for. The historical building perfectly blended the outside with the inside in an elegant yet understated way. With its fantastic bar, cozy booths on the main floor, stained glass, fireplace upstairs, and tall punched tin ceiling, it felt right for a big dinner party on a cozy winter night. The florist played a crucial role in bringing our vision to life. With all the venue’s character, we focused primarily on florals for our decor. Mackenzie of Fable Floral Design embraced our ideas, incorporating mushrooms and a mix of secondhand bud vases we could send home with guests. She also managed candles and rentals, making it a one-stop shop for us. Her recommendations for linen rentals for napkins and runners helped create a cohesive and streamlined decor plan.

Overcoming Design Challenges with DIY Solutions

The card box was a collaborative DIY project. We discovered a traveling card box shaped like a charming little wooden house used at numerous weddings and events across the province. Made by someone’s aunt, it was sturdy and unique enough to be shared. We added our decorations, giving the “Just Married” bunting a fresh twist by labeling it “A Life Event,” as we affectionately referred to our milestone. We also used a digital pack from Pulp Templates Company on Etsy to design our menus and print signage. This creative outlet was enjoyable, and the user-friendly WYSIWYG online editing tool made it much more accessible, especially after facing challenges with Adobe Illustrator for our original e-invites.

Creating Lasting Memories with Friends and Family

Walking into the space and seeing all the flowers set up for dinner was unforgettable. We were in awe, smiling at how the dreamy atmosphere made all the effort worthwhile. It truly felt like a special day, and everyone looked fantastic. Although we didn’t rehearse the first dance, we had always known the song “Postcards from Italy” by Beirut. Riding the day’s high, we spun and swayed together, smiling the whole time. The banter between our dear friend who attended the event and the family members and friends who gave speeches was hilarious. The smaller, more intimate vibe made it feel even more meaningful.

The Power of Asking: Finding Flexibility in Planning

Whether it’s about timing, extra cleanup, sound equipment, or bar menu options, you might find more flexibility than you expect; though it may come with a cost, all you have to do is ask. Many items, like event chairs and candles, are priced as if you want everything to match or be brand new. If that’s not a priority for you, plenty of simple and less wasteful alternatives are available. Be sure to explore reuse boards and marketplaces for unique finds. Regarding accessibility, while we loved our venue, the layout across two floors was complicated, especially with only a long flight of stairs and no elevator. Fortunately, there were washrooms on the second floor with the event space. We also chose to skip many traditional elements. We received helpful advice to start with a blank slate and build up what you want rather than feeling like you’re subtracting things.

Why a Peter Pan Bistro Wedding Was the Right Choice

We chose a restaurant for our wedding to ensure high food and drink quality while accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies. Supporting a restaurant after the COVID shutdown was vital, but we were cautious about potential closures and focused on established venues. Some places we considered could only accommodate 40 guests or fewer, so we adjusted our search for venues that could fit 60 to 75 for a seated dinner within that number. We appreciated that the location was transit accessible and relatively central, although the final-mile traffic did create some challenges on a Saturday evening. The building’s history and the restaurant’s charm ultimately won us over, especially after enjoying a delicious meal on our first visit, which included a savory truffle crème brûlée appetizer. We also liked that the event menus featured unique options, including excellent gluten-free and vegetarian choices.

Enhancing the Tablescape with Forest-Inspired Favors that Doubles as Decor

To enhance the tablescape, we gave out beeswax candles in various forest-inspired shapes, such as pine cones, morel mushrooms, and delicate lotus-like droplets. Our goal was to offer a consumable, local product that was easy for our guests to transport.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Jennifer See Studios
Venue – Peter Pan Bistro
Floral Design – Fable Floral Design
DJ – DJ Roy and Smayzee
Makeup Artist – Rebecca Smith
Wedding Dress – Labl Couture
Bridal Accessories – Sixpence Bridal
Rings – Kim Drosdick
Rentals – Nayos
Favors – Huckleberry Hives + Eastern Woodlands Trading

 

Congratulations to Jenn and Matthew on their cozy Peter Pan Bistro wedding. A special thank you goes out to Junebug vendor Jennifer See Studios for capturing every detail that couples can use as inspiration. To see more stunning celebrations like this, check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers. 

Whether you choose a seasonal color palette, set the mood with themed invitations, or align your signature cocktails with the overall decor, you can elevate your celebration with these warm and inviting ideas for a beautiful autumn event.

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17 of the Best Texas Wedding Photographers

October 6, 2024 | riley

In a state as diverse and vibrant as Texas, the options can be overwhelming! From the sprawling landscapes of the Hill Country to the charm of big cities like Austin and Dallas, Texas offers a wide variety of options for every wedding vision and theme. Whether you’re drawn to candid shots or elegant portraits that look like they belong in Vogue, Junebug is lucky enough to work with some of the most talented professionals in the world–and we want to help you find the photographer of your dreams. That’s why we’re rounding up 17 of the best Texas wedding photographers we know you’re going to love.

17 of the Best Texas Wedding Photographers

1. Amy Karp Photography

Photography style: Timeless editorial

Good for: Couples who want a photographer who’s been in the biz for almost 20 years

Review: “Amy is without a doubt the best wedding photographer out there! From day 1, when I inquired about her services all the way to gallery delivery, Amy was organized, professional, and great to work with. She is an absolute joy to be around. Her associate shooters are equally as amazing. They made my husband and friends feel extremely comfortable and at ease during their portraits. I fully trusted them to capture our wedding weekend perfectly, but they knocked it out of the park and exceeded my expectations. If Amy is available on your wedding date, put down your deposit as fast as you can. You won’t regret it!”

2. Laning Photography

Photography style: Editorial documentary

Good for: Couples dreaming of timeless photos that will never go out of style

Review: “Hannah and Nick are not only the best wedding photographers but some of the most kind people! They were easy to work with from start to finish! They were communicative and extremely detailed. Our wedding planner recommended Laning Photography to us, and it was a no-brainer after seeing the work they do! Our photos turned out incredible and were exactly what we wanted! We got our sneak peeks literally the next day, and we were totally obsessed (and once we got our whole album, we were even more obsessed)! If you’re looking for two cool people to shoot your wedding/event, Nick and Hannah are them. We felt so comfortable with them shooting our wedding, and wish we could relive it again! Thank you, Laning Photography, for creating long-lasting memories!”

3.  Erin Marcin Photography

Photography style: Refined documentary

Good for: Couples who are always up for an adventure

Review: “Erin is amazing. My wedding would not have been the same without her. We love her, not just as a photographer but a person as well.”

4. Mandi Roach Photography

Photography style: Timeless editorial

Good for: Couples who want the unscripted, in-between moments captured

Review: “Working with Mandi was the BEST investment my husband and I made for our wedding. We had our photographer fall through at the last minute, and Mandi took us in, and my oh MY, do I now believe everything happens for a reason! Not only is she the most kind, attentive, passionate, and fun photographer I have ever met, but she also has a beautiful eye and talent for creating magic and making the moments come to life via pictures. There are so many moments that are quickly forgotten during the craziness of a wedding day, and being able to comb through her art and relive those moments is so tender and so treasured by myself, my family, and my friends. I recommend Mandi for every event and moment in life that you want photos of. Everything she touches turns to gold and truly makes you feel like you’re in Vogue!”

5. Courtney LaSalle Photography

Photography style: Natural storytelling

Good for: Couples that want their photos to have a playful feel

Review: “Courtney was amazing with our wedding photos. She made amazing accommodations for us and delivered sneak peeks and our entire album in an incredible time. I never imagined our albums would be so big, but Courtney captures every perfect moment, even the little ones. She always produced more photos than I ever thought I would receive. This woman is a complete sweetheart and knows how to make every session unique and comfortable. I would 100 percent work with her again and recommend her to anyone who listens.”

6. Alexandra White Photo

Photography style: Timeless documentary

Good for: Couples who are afraid to be in front of the camera

Review: “Alexandra did both our engagement and wedding photos. Both times she was great to work with—very communicative and open to giving us great direction to get the best photos. We had a very small micro-wedding at a family member’s house, and she was great about giving us an hourly rate (as opposed to buying a full-day package). I was afraid that we’d look awkward and stilted in a lot of our photos (just because of who we are as people), but she got so many great candid shots where you can tell how happy we are. We also had some animal guests that Alexandra was excellent with—she got some super cute shots of just the dogs and horses. We love the photos we got back and would recommend Alexandra to anyone!”

7. The Ramseys Photography

Photography style: Realistic documentary

Good for: Couples who don’t want a wedding album full of awkward poses

Review: “Where to even begin?! Having Wil and Paige photograph our wedding, our engagement shoot, and my bridal portraits was the best decision we’ve ever made. They were so fun to work with, professional, and made everything so easy. Plus, the photos are stunning. Works of art. We are so excited to have them photograph everything else we do for the rest of the time and are so lucky to call them not only our photographers but also our friends! Cannot thank them enough.”

8. Leah Turney Photography

Photography style: Documentary editorial

Good for: The eternal romantics who want their photographer with them throughout the entire planning process

Review: “Leah was amazing! We requested to take our couple photos at a national park before the wedding, and she immediately embraced the idea and all of the logistics that came along with it. My husband and I consider ourselves not to be photogenic people, so we were really worried about our photos looking awkward or too posed. But Leah truly made us feel at ease and comfortable when taking photos, and we absolutely love all of the photos that we have seen so far! She even brought two film cameras during our photo session which I have not seen photographers do before. Overall, Leah was kind and genuine and truly made us feel special on our wedding day! She even went out of her way to capture some special moments for us which we are so grateful for.”

9. Kayla Jane Photography

Photography style: Natural editorial

Good for: Couples who want a photographer who doesn’t take themselves too seriously

Review: “We had the pleasure of working with Kayla Jane Photography for our wedding photos. Grace was our photographer, and she was fantastic. Communication leading up to the big day was prompt and straightforward. On the wedding day, Grace was extremely flexible when our schedule changed unexpectedly during the reception. She kindly accommodated all of our requested shots. Grace chose beautiful locations for our photos and let us pull in friends and family for impromptu pictures, capturing many special moments. Her warm demeanor kept everyone at ease while posing for photos. The results aren’t back yet, but we’re very excited to see them, knowing that Grace worked hard to document all aspects of our special day in her signature artistic style. We wholeheartedly recommend Kayla Jane Photography!”

10. Brownie Photography & Production

Photography style: Photojournalism

Good for: Couples who seek beauty in everything and are looking for something different

Review: “Ashley was amazing! She made me feel so comfortable during my bridal portraits, and my now husband and I had so much fun during our engagement pictures! The pictures we got back from our wedding came out better than we could have imagined. She worked great alongside our videographer and was super professional. Communication was always on point, which is very important for a vendor when your wedding planning, so keep that in mind! If you’re debating booking Brownie Photography, DO IT!”

11. Ama by Aisha

Photography style: Modern photojournalism

Good for: Couples who want gorgeous wedding photos and a beautiful wedding video

Review: From the very first interaction with Ama by Aisha, I was very impressed with the responsiveness and professionalism, but this team is so much more than that. Aisha and Claudia are both so incredibly artistic and talented . Every picture we got was captured authentically and emotionally. Both our engagement shoot and wedding day were so much fun! We felt comfortable with our photographers and trusted the creative process, even if posing felt a bit awkward at first. I cannot recommend Aisha and her team enough, wherever you are getting married!

12. Elisa Lopez Photography

Photography style: Candid documentary

Good for: Couples who want a photographer who’s going to narrate your day the way you want

Review: “We knew we wanted a wedding that was colorful and bright, and it was important for us to find a photographer who would honor those decisions. And Elisa definitely did! She and her assistant were on time, around, and posed us when needed, but otherwise unseen and captured the best candids throughout the day. We received our photos promptly and have been enjoying them with our family and friends. We also used Elisa for our South Congress engagement photos. We knew from that photo shoot we picked the right photographer for us, and we will definitely use her again in the future!”

13. Anna Claire Beasley Photography

Photography style: Documentary with a focus on nostalgia

Good for: Couples who want their photos to transport them right back to their big day 50 years from now

Review: “We seriously cannot recommend Anna Claire enough. We were drawn to her because of her incredible skill and her selfless support of our ideas. She weaves flexibility into her schedule in order to host adventure sessions for her clients at some of the most beautiful locations in the country, which allows for an extremely fun and personal experience while capturing engagement photos or portraits with your partner. She also supported us in our decision to have an unconventional wedding, and she helped capture it through her great dedication and thoughtfulness as a photographer. She is professional but also ridiculously fun and she did whatever it took to take care of us throughout the whole experience, from wedding advice to shared conversation over a meal of breakfast burritos to carrying six different cameras on our wedding day. The photos are honest, beautiful, and romantic, and they are more than anything we imagined. Choosing Anna Claire as a photographer was easily the best decision we made for our intimate wedding, aside from choosing to marry each other (obviously). We cannot recommend her enough, truly!”

14. Breathless Wedding Chronicles

Photography style: Artistic documentary

Good for: Couples toying around with a destination wedding

Review: “Gab and Chris did a fantastic job shooting our wedding. They were able to both accommodate our style preferences and propose ideas for photos that were fun and creative. They are so friendly and invested a lot of time in getting to know us and our preferences before our wedding and welcome party. We were so happy with how the photos from our wedding turned out and with the first look that they planned and shot for us. They took some iconic photos of us and our friends and family that we will treasure forever.”

15. Philip Thomas Photography

Photography style: Documentary storytelling

Good for: Couples that want to avoid wedding photography cliches

Review: “I cannot recommend Philip enough! My husband and I are not people who love taking pictures, but Philip made us instantly feel comfortable! He captured every little moment from our wedding that we will cherish forever. Not only were the candid photos amazing, but the group photos/staged pictures were incredible! Philip is so kind and fun. He made a very daunting process feel like a breeze. He even sent our wedding photos earlier than we expected. Hire him, you won’t regret it!”

16. John David Weddings

Photography style: Romantic storytelling

Good for: Couples that want photos that look like they belong in a magazine

Review: “First and foremost, JD is an artist, and his collection of work is truly fine art. When I worked in the wedding industry, I would frequently recommend JD to my clients because of his personality and aesthetic. I’d tell my couples that there are many wonderful photographers out there, but choosing a photographer that you vibe with, is kind to your wedding party, and isn’t a diva is IMPORTANT! 6 years later, and it was finally my turn to hire JD for my engagement shoot and our destination wedding in New Orleans, and while I knew he would knock it out of the park, he far exceeded my hopes and dreams.”

17. Gloria Goode Photography

Photography style: Photojournalism

Good for: Those who want a wedding photographer and a best friend

Review: “The. Best. Photographer. Ever. I have so much to say about Gloria. She really made my dreams come true! First of all, she is just great and so personable. Everyone loved her. My partner wasn’t excited about pictures, but she made it SO easy and fun. She took my ideas and ran with them and had even better ideas of her own. She worked so well with other vendors (film, planner, etc.) She captured candid pictures like no other. I could go on and on… but just look at her work!!! I would get divorced and remarried all over again just to work with her.”

These incredibly talented wedding photographers are just the beginning. If you’re on the hunt for a planner, florist, videographer, etc. in Texas, we’ve got you covered. Check out our highly vetted directory of wedding vendors in Texas!

Image by Light as Gold

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Colorful Blue and Red Chiesa Del Carmine Destination Wedding

October 4, 2024 | justine

Allison and Andrew found their wedding venue in the most unexpected way. The bride struck up a conversation with a stranger, who casually recommended the place. Since they got engaged in Italy, it just felt right. Call it fate, but it turned out to be the perfect choice. Set in an 11th-century garden estate with soft blue and red tones and the stunning Italian countryside as their backdrop—their Chiesa del Carmine destination wedding was truly a dream come true.

Their vibrant garden ceremony, officiated by Junebug vendor Tuscan Pledges, was a beautiful start to the day. The celebration continued with a garden reception that stayed perfectly on theme, featuring blue linens, blue florals, and blue table settings, creating a stunning and cohesive look throughout.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding filled with lush greenery and blooming flowers, you’ll love these breathtaking photos by Kristine Grinvalde. This celebration is packed with inspiration, making it a must-see for anyone planning the perfect garden wedding.

The Couple:

Allison and Andrew

The Wedding:

Chiesa del Carmine, Perugia, Italy

How Blue Became the Heart of Their Chiesa Del Carmine Destination Wedding Theme

The hardest part of wedding planning was decision fatigue, and picking an overall design was challenging because the options and possibilities were endless. I have always loved the color blue and knew I wanted to incorporate it into the design; I just had no idea how exactly. I did an initial mood board on Pinterest, sent it to my excellent wedding planners, and then let them take the lead on the design. They sent me two beautiful design options, and I went with the blue and red color scheme. This was a significant risk for me because I was nervous it wouldn’t be traditional enough, but the more we planned, the more I fell in love with it.

The Bride’s Journey to a Timeless Wedding Look

I really wanted a timeless wedding wardrobe. The wedding dress was a true labor of love. Picking out my wedding dress was my number one priority when planning: the hardest thing I did but the most fun part of the wedding planning process. After seeing their embroidered lace, I fell in love with the designer Reem Acra. Their fabrics are unique yet timeless, and I knew I wanted to be a Reem Acra bride! Having a June wedding in the Italian countryside complicated things because I knew I would be dealing with warm temperatures, but I still wanted the timeless look of long sleeves and a high neck. I also wanted the versatility of removable sleeves, and being comfortable on my wedding day was another huge priority. So we customized it. I chose the Mexico dress by Reem Acra. It had a low illusion, so I changed it to a corset. We also lined the bodice and added fabric to the cups. But the most stunning customization is the removable bolero that Dimitra’s Bridal Couture made custom for me. We bought the matching fabric from the designer, and the Dimitras team handled the rest to give me my dream two dresses. I can’t thank the teams I worked with enough, and I couldn’t love this dress anymore. I also love that I can keep the bolero forever and wear it on anniversaries to come.

A Heartfelt Tribute: How a Vintage Alfa Romeo Honored Their Fathers

We will always cherish many moments, but we loved the vintage Alfa Romeo we rented. Both of our fathers were really big into cars and worked in the automotive industry in Michigan. Cars have always been a big part of our lives, as we would go on drives in sports cars with our dads or help them work on the cars in the garage. This was a fun way to incorporate both of our dads who couldn’t attend, have a great photo opportunity after the ceremony, and enjoy part of the day with just us as a couple.

Why Trusting Your Vendor Team Makes All the Difference

Our advice to couples: take some deep breaths! Wedding planning truly can be so stressful because of the commitment involved. A motto I always say is to trust the experts. Hire great wedding planners, select trustworthy vendors, and let them do what they do best. Especially your photographer and makeup artist, book the vendors where you love their work and let them take it from there. Trusting vendors and giving them freedom to do what they do best is so essential to making everything run smoothly. If you are trying to change or direct what a vendor typically does, you aren’t selecting the right one for your special day.

How a Random Conversation Led to the Wedding Venue of Their Dreams

In March of 2023, we had been engaged for nine months already and had no idea what we were going to do for a wedding and where. We were skiing in Breckenridge and decided to go to Vail for the day. Andrew is a much better skier than I am so I decided to take the day off and head to a spa while he skied. There was a woman in the locker room that I talked with, asking her about what services she had done. We were talking, and she asked if I had just gotten engaged. I told her that we had been engaged since June 2022, and we had gotten engaged in Italy. We were considering a wedding back in Italy. She immediately recommended Chiesa del Carmine, where she stayed for a family vacation. We looked into the venue/villa that night and booked our wedding date a week later.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Kristine Grinvalde
Event Planning – Olivia Sodi Weddings & Events
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Chiesa del Carmine
Floral Design – Flowers Living
Catering – Ristorante Tonino
Officiant – Tuscan Pledges
DJ + Rentals – Alma Project
Live Music – Florence Jazz band
Videography – STUDIO DOLCE VITA
Invitation Design – Meg Morrow Design
Wedding Website Illustrations – Customs by SOF
Illustrations – Tuscan Lab
Makeup Artist – Alena Bezrodna
Vintage Car – Slow Hills
Wedding Dress – Reem Acra
Bridal Accessories – Ralph Lauren
Groom’s Apparel – Ted Baker Tux
Transportation – Golden Travel

 

Congratulations to Allison and Andrew on their colorful blue and red Chiesa del Carmine destination wedding. Huge thanks to Kristine Grinvalde for capturing every enchanting detail and unforgettable moment. And a special thank you to Tuscan Pledges for officiating and sharing this beautiful wedding with us. To see more weddings they’ve officiated, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding vendors.

This wedding is a perfect example of how much a venue can shape your entire celebration. As you plan your big day, keep in mind that the venue plays a significant role. Check out our complete venue guide for helpful tips on finding the perfect spot. Your path to a dream wedding starts with picking the perfect backdrop!

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Everything to Know About Your Bridal Bouquet

October 3, 2024 | riley
bridal bouquet hero

Image by Na Lia Weddings

The bridal bouquet is one of the most important details of any wedding. Whether you’re decking out your ceremony and reception spaces in flowers or keeping things minimal, your bouquet will help tie your overall wedding look together with your theme. It also acts as a symbol of love, style, and personality. 

From lush cascades of fresh florals to minimalist arrangements of wildflowers, there are so many routes you can go when creating your bouquet. That’s why we’re breaking down everything you need to know–including costs, stem count, how to make one, how to wrap it, and preservation tips. 

What is a Bridal Bouquet?

The bridal bouquet is a hand-held floral arrangement the bride carries as she walks down the aisle. It serves both practical and symbolic purposes. Historically, it was meant to ward off bad luck and evil spirits. In some civilizations, the flowers and herbs symbolized happiness, fidelity, and fertility. Today, it has evolved into a statement piece that reflects the bride’s taste, the wedding theme, and, at times, the season of the celebration.

Types of Bridal Bouquets

Traditional Floral Bouquets

A traditional floral bouquet is what you’re most likely most familiar with. These bouquets are typically made from fresh flowers like roses, peonies, lilies, or tulips and are known for their classic look.

Wildflower Bouquets

Wildflowers have become extremely popular over the past few years, so it’s no surprise that wildflower bouquets are becoming trendy. Perfect for rustic or outdoor weddings, these bouquets are less structured and often include a variety of colorful, seasonal flowers.

Recommended Reading: 40+ Wildflower Wedding Decor Ideas For Your Big Day

Greenery and Foliage Bouquets

Your bouquet doesn’t have to be made up of flowers. If you want to keep things minimalistic, consider a bouquet made of greenery like eucalyptus, monsteras, or ferns. They’re not only beautiful, but they are also budget-friendly and long-lasting.

greenery bridal bouquet

Image by Silvia Falcomer

Non-Floral Bouquets

Some soon-to-be-wed couples opt for alternatives like paper flowers, fabric flowers, or even bouquets made of jewels, brooches, or feathers for a unique look. We’ve also seen parasols and singular flowers grow in popularity.

wedding bouquet alternatives

Image by EFEGE

Dried Flower Bouquets

If you’re hosting a boho celebration, dried flowers may make the perfect addition to your theme–think pampas grass, dried palms, etc. These bouquets can be kept indefinitely with minimal maintenance, and they can still come in a wide variety of colors (yes, that’s right–you can have dried florals that aren’t just brown).

dried bridal bouquet

Image by Cinema Wedding

How Much Does a Bridal Bouquet Cost?

The price of a bridal bouquet can vary greatly depending on several factors, including:

Size and complexity 

The more intricate and large the bouquet, the more expensive it will be. Bouquets with cascading flowers, exotic blooms, or complex arrangements will often cost more.

Flower type

Premium blooms like orchids, garden roses, or peonies tend to be more expensive, while seasonal and local flowers are generally more affordable. Roses and lilies are mid-range options, and wildflowers or daisies may be more budget-friendly.

Recommended Reading: Tips For Navigating Setting Up Your Wedding Floral Budget

Seasonality

Flowers that are out of season will generally be more costly because they have to be imported or grown in special conditions. If there’s a flower that you’ve always envisioned being a part of your day, a quick Google search can tell you when it’s in season to help you prep!

Geographical location

The cost of living in your area can also impact the price of a bridal bouquet. Florists in major cities or high-cost regions typically charge more than those in rural areas.

Average Costs by Bouquet Size:

  • Small bouquets (e.g., single flower or few stems): $100–$150
  • Medium bouquets (standard size for weddings): $150–$300
  • Large, elaborate bouquets: $300–$500+

Junebug Tip:

If you want to save money on your florals, there are a couple of things you can do. As we mentioned earlier, if possible, use in-season flowers, as they are more readily available and typically cheaper. We also recommend opting for filler flowers and greenery (such as baby’s breath) to add volume without increasing the cost too much.

How to Make Your Own Bridal Bouquet

Making your own bridal bouquet is a great way to save money and add a personal touch to your wedding. It can also be an opportunity to bond with your wedding party. If this is something you are considering, you’re going to need the following materials:

Materials You’ll Need:

  • Fresh flowers (choose a mix of focal flowers, secondary flowers, and fillers)
  • Foliage or greenery (like eucalyptus, ferns, or ivy)
  • Floral tape
  • Floral wire (optional, for reinforcing delicate stems)
  • Ribbon or fabric for wrapping
  • Scissors or pruning shears
  • Floral pins (to secure the ribbon)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Choose Your Flowers: Select a mix of flowers based on your wedding colors, theme, and budget. You can typically find flowers in bulk in places like Trader Joe’s, Costco, and Sam’s Club. A balanced bouquet typically includes:
    • Focal Flowers: Larger blooms that catch the eye, like peonies or roses.
    • Secondary Flowers: Smaller flowers like tulips or lisianthus that complement the focal blooms.
    • Fillers: Greenery, baby’s breath, or smaller blooms to fill in gaps and add texture.
  2. Prepare the Flowers: Remove excess leaves and thorns from the stems. Trim the stems to your desired length, making sure to cut them at an angle, which allows for better water absorption and keeps the flowers fresh for longer.
  3. Arrange the Flowers: Start with one or two focal flowers and gradually add secondary flowers and greenery around them. Hold the stems loosely in your hand, turning the bouquet as you add more flowers to maintain balance. Adjust the placement of flowers as needed until you’re happy with the shape.
  4. Secure the Stems: Once satisfied with the arrangement, tightly bind the stems using floral tape. Start about 4-5 inches below the blooms and wrap downward.
  5. Wrap the Bouquet: Cover the floral tape with your chosen ribbon or fabric. Secure the ribbon with floral pins, hiding them neatly within the fabric.
  6. Final Touches: Leave some extra length at the bottom if you want a cascading ribbon. You can also add decorative pins, pearls, or small charms to customize your bouquet.

Junebug Tip:

While we’re forever advocates of DIY projects at weddings, we can’t recommend hiring a florist enough. They can help bring all of your flower dreams to life while also helping you remain within budget. They know how to take care of your flowers beforehand and throughout the celebration (which may seem easy but does require a lot of work), and they can help you cut costs without sacrificing your vision.

bridal bouquets

Image by Kate Merrill

How Many Stems Are Typically in a Bridal Bouquet?

The number of stems in a bridal bouquet depends on its size, style, and the type of flowers being used. Here are some general guidelines:

Small Bouquet

A small bouquet typically contains 10–15 stems. This is ideal for minimalist brides or those looking for a simple, understated look.

Medium Bouquet

A medium bouquet generally has 20–30 stems, which allows for a balanced mix of focal flowers, secondary blooms, and fillers. This is the most popular size for bridal bouquets.

Large Bouquet

A large bouquet can contain anywhere from 40 to 60 stems or more. These are often lush, full arrangements that make a dramatic statement, perfect for grand or formal weddings.

Keep in mind that larger flowers–like hydrangeas or peonies–take up more space, so fewer stems may be needed to create a full look, while smaller blooms like spray roses or daisies require more stems.

DIY wedding bouquet

Image by Elissa Deline

How to Preserve Your Bridal Bouquet

After your wedding day, preserving your bouquet can be a meaningful way to keep a lasting memento. There are several methods you can choose from, each offering a different result.

Air Drying

This is one of the simplest and most popular methods. Simply hand the bouquet upside down in a cool, dry, and dark place, allow it to dry for about two to four weeks, and then spray with hairspray to preserve the shape and prevent crumbling.

Pressing Flowers

Pressing is a great option if you’d prefer a flat keepsake (which can be framed). Remove the flowers from the bouquet and lay them between two sheets of parchment paper, place the parchment paper between heavy books (or use a flower press), and wait for 2-3 weeks. They will then be ready to be framed or added to a scrapbook.

Professional Preservation

If you decide not to go the DIY route, there are companies that specialize in bouquet preservation, like For Keeps Florals, using advanced techniques to preserve your bouquet by pressing, displaying in a shadow box, or encasing in resin, which creates a more permanent and vibrant keepsake.

Recommended Reading: 5 Ways to Preserve Your Wedding Bouquet

Your bridal bouquet is just the beginning of your wedding flowers. To ensure that you have everything you need, we’ve put together a wedding flower checklist to incorporate florals throughout your day. And, of course, we can’t recommend a florist enough. To find the florist that’s going to help you make your flower dreams a reality, check out our directory of florists from around the world!

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This Alaskan Elopement Theme Was “Coffee for a Lifetime” and We Couldn’t Love it More

October 2, 2024 | justine

Ayla and Jake’s Alaskan elopement was simple and meaningful, just like their relationship. After getting engaged, they imagined different places for their wedding but realized the perfect spot was right in front of them—on the bluff where they live in Wasilla, Alaska. With stunning views of the inlet and mountains and a place they often visited for adventures and sunsets, it felt right. They wanted to say their vows somewhere they could see every day, sipping coffee together, and they made it happen in the most beautiful way.

The couple started their day in their cozy home, sharing breakfast and coffee. Their closest family gathered to send them off, and during the ceremony, they exchanged vows by the fire, surrounded by a few of their favorite people as witnesses. The day ended with everyone they loved gathered in their living room, eating cake and popping champagne, as the house filled with love and joy, marking the start of their new life together as husband and wife.

Their intimate elopement came together easily, full of love, and now they can always return to the place where they promised forever. If you dream of saying “I do” in a stunning, secluded spot surrounded by breathtaking scenery, check out these gorgeous photos captured by the talented Junebug vendor Chelsa Jay.

The Couple:

Ayla and Jake

The Wedding:

Wasilla, Alaska

Celebrating Forever Right in Their Snowy Backyard: How Their Alaskan Elopement Came To Be

After we got engaged, we imagined different places for the ceremony—a mountaintop or the spot of our first date. But then we realized the perfect place had been right in front of us all along. Living on a bluff in Wasilla, Alaska, our front porch looks out onto the inlet and a majestic mountain view. A few months before the wedding, Jake started taking snow machine trips to the inlet, where we’d have fires, enjoy sunset views, and spend time together with our little family. We knew this was where we wanted to promise our lives to each other—a place we could visit often and see every morning while sipping coffee in our living room. Our intimate elopement came together effortlessly, filled with joy and love. We’re grateful to reminisce and visit the exact spot where we said our vows whenever we like. The theme of our ceremony, officiated by a dear friend, was “coffee for a lifetime.” We wanted to make the moment last forever, and what better place than our own front yard? That’s right—our small wedding took place just a three-minute snowmobile ride from our porch. Surrounded by close family and friends, we left the rest of the world behind, if only for the night. Our tiny “backyard wedding” came together with a little family, a few friends, and lots of love!

Embracing Their New Family with Vows, Promises, and a Shared Future

During our ceremony, we exchanged vows while cozied up by the fire, surrounded by a few of our favorite people. We spoke from the heart, focusing on creating a strong foundation for our marriage, family, and future children. I surprised Jake by not only sharing my vows with him but also making promises to his daughter, Alma. Jake then placed a ring engraved with Alma’s name on my finger. At that moment, our little family of three became one.

How Their First Dance Song Became a Special Tribute to Their Baby Boy

“Banks” by Needtobreathe was our first dance song and holds an incredibly special meaning for us. Now, we enjoy our morning coffee with our precious 5-month-old baby boy, Banks LJ Wade. Even before we met him, he was a part of our wedding day. There’s something so special about cozying up with your fiancé on a snow machine as you ride out to get married. We were truly living the moments we had both been praying for.

Personalized Moments and Cherished Memories at Their Alaskan elopement

We’re most proud that throughout the process, we stayed focused on each other and our love, making the day even more perfect than we’d dreamed. The smiles, the flower crown, and how all the little moments came together were just incredible. After our elopement at the inlet, we walked up the stairs into our living room to be greeted by our parents, who watched the ceremony through binoculars and welcomed us with deep, thankful hearts. We celebrated together with a toast. Every detail of our wedding was personalized; even the unplanned moments felt like signs that we had truly found our forever in each other.

A Perfect Ending to Their Intimate Alaskan Elopement

We woke up in our cozy home and shared breakfast and coffee before our intimate elopement, which was just a short distance away. One of our closest friends officiated the ceremony and also did Ayla’s makeup and hair in our living room, which overlooks the inlet where we got married. Our closest family gathered to see us off, and our parents were waiting at home for us after we exchanged our vows. When we returned, we celebrated in our living room, enjoying cake and champagne. Our home was filled with love and joy as we began our new life together as husband and wife.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Chelsa Jay
Floral Design – The Teal Door
Cake – Leisl Jane
Officiant + Makeup Artist – Chantel Baldwin
Wedding Dress – Dalliance Gown Rentals

 

Congratulations to Ayla and Jake on their unforgettable Alaskan elopement. Junebug vendor Chelsa Jay deserves a huge thank you for capturing every moment of this sweet, snowy adventure. To see more meaningful celebrations like this, check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best photographers.

After checking out these amazing photos, you might be ready to plan your own elopement—and who could blame you? To get the ball rolling, take a look at our guide for planning an intimate special day you’ll remember forever.

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This Pastel 16TULUM Wedding Brought a Garden Party to Mexico

September 30, 2024 | justine

Ashton and Alec envisioned a vibrant spring garden for their big day, inspired by their love for nature’s beauty. They wanted a celebration that felt both elegant and intimate, filled with lush florals that captured this dream. To escape the city’s hustle, they chose a serene, scenic venue in Mexico, offering the perfect backdrop. With soft neutral tones accented by rich, deep colors and the expert touch of Junebug vendor Pride Maya Weddings, they flawlessly brought their vision to life in a stunning pastel 16TULUM wedding.

The celebration dazzled from start to finish with stunning details. The ceremony featured eye-catching asymmetrical pillars, making their vows even more special. For the reception, they set up a lounge area with colorful furniture accents. To end the night, they brought the fun with an LED dance floor and a DJ playing electronic music. They cleverly alternated between fun and romantic vibes throughout the wedding, keeping the atmosphere lively and engaging.

This stunning celebration perfectly intertwined their love story with the breathtaking natural backdrop, resulting in an unforgettable event. Get ready to be amazed by the exquisite details, all expertly captured by Beatatum Photography.

The Couple:

Ashton and Alec

The Wedding:

16TULUM, Tulum Centro, Mexico

Highlights from Their Pastel 16TULUM Wedding

Ashton: It’s hard to choose just one favorite moment, but the ceremony stands out the most. Walking down the aisle surrounded by my closest friends and family was incredibly special. Seeing my husband under the rainbow flower arch at the end made me so happy. The reception was another highlight. The decor, venue, and food were perfect, and the flowers and lights matched our guests’ outfits beautifully, making it all feel like a movie scene. 
Alec: The most memorable part for me was the first look and sharing our private vows. It was an emotional experience to see the love of my life and start our journey together. Although Ashton looks beautiful every day, when I turned around, I thought she looked absolutely magical in her dress.

Tips for a Smooth Wedding Planning

We recommend hiring a wedding planner, even if you’re super organized. Be clear about your wants and ask plenty of questions. We started planning a year ahead, and our ideas evolved, so sharing those changes with your planner is key. They can help adjust plans and find the best vendors. Remember, not everything will go perfectly, but sometimes the best memories come from things that don’t go as planned, so try not to stress. Also, a realistic budget should be set, and one person should manage it to keep spending on track.

The Perfect Blend of Decor and Music

We’re most proud of how all the little details came together to make everything run smoothly and beautifully for us and our guests. The decor, music, and refreshments complemented each other perfectly, creating a once-in-a-lifetime memory. Ashton was incredibly proud of not crying during the wedding—she usually tears up when she sees other couples’ wedding photos and videos.

The Importance of Communication and Vision

The key to planning our wedding was finding the right wedding planner, especially since the event was overseas. We needed someone great at communication, execution, vision, and planning. Once we had that, we were confident the wedding would be amazing, no matter what. We focused on the most important aspects and adjusted the rest of our plans to fit our budget. For the remaining funds, we looked for ways to save and considered DIY options to stay within our financial limits.

How Their Pastel 16Tulum Wedding Came to Be 

We chose 16Tulum because we wanted an intimate spot for our guests to enjoy the wedding weekend. We loved that the venue captured the Tulum vibe inside and was close to everything we needed after the wedding. The venue staff were responsive and friendly, which was a big plus. Finally, we wanted the space to have a spring garden feel, and 16Tulum perfectly matched that aesthetic.

DIY Name Tag Keychains That Doubled as Favors

We used an acrylic printer to make our own name tag keychains for the dinner seating. We also created the wedding invitations and menus at home, drawing design inspiration from YouTube.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Beatatum Photography
Event Planning – Pride Maya Weddings
Venue – 16Tulum
Floral Design – Grisel Serrano Florals
Catering – Hoja Santa
DJ – Uno Audiovisual
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – PrepTulum
Wedding Dress – Netta BenShabu
Accessories + Rings – Cartier
Groom’s Apparel – Suitsupply

 

Congratulations to Ashton and Alec on their pastel 16Tulum wedding, which brought a charming garden party vibe to Mexico. A big thanks to Beatatum Photography for capturing all the exquisite details, and a special shout-out to Junebug vendor Pride Maya Weddings for helping make their vision come to life. To see more of their amazing work, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding planners.

The florals and color palette at Ashton and Alec’s wedding perfectly brought their garden party theme to life, blending soft pastels with rich hues for a stunning effect. If you’re looking for more ideas for your own event, our florals and color palette guides offer plenty of tips and inspiration to help you create your dream look.

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Sultry Avant-Garde Thompson Hotel Dallas Wedding

September 28, 2024 | kailey

Dani and Adam were on a mission to create a modern, moody vibe that stood out from the rest. After going through 20 different designs and color ideas, they finally found the perfect fit—bold shades of red, which felt just right for their January wedding. With the help of their amazing vendors, they brought their vision to life, transforming their Thompson Hotel Dallas wedding into a stunning, sultry, avant-garde celebration.

They chose the hotel for its sleek, modern design and flexible spaces that could be totally personalized. The clean, elegant venue was the perfect canvas for their dream wedding. Their ceremony featured a stunning mirrored chuppah decked out in bold florals, while the reception was a striking mix of black, gold, and red. Towering candles and vibrant blooms set the mood, and a black-and-white checkered dance floor added the perfect touch for an unforgettable night.

If your dream wedding is all about modern elegance, bold sophistication, and artistic flair, then this is the inspiration you’ve been looking for. These stunning photos, taken by Junebug vendor Laning Photography, perfectly capture the incredible day they poured their hearts into creating.

The Couple:

Dani and Adam

The Wedding:

Thompson Hotel Dallas, Texas, United States 

Bridal Fashion Done Right: A Tale of Two Dresses and Four Pairs of Shoes

My wedding day looks were incredibly fun! I had two dresses and four different pairs of shoes. I got my wedding dress at Kleinfeld Bridal, which was so special because my mom got her dress there over 25 years ago. I went with my maid of honor and my mom’s maid of honor, and it was such a special moment for all of us. My second dress was a super fun party dress from Nadine Merabi. For shoes, I wore Gianvito Rossi for the ceremony, red Mach & Mach heels for our reception entrance and first dance, Nike for comfort, and Tony Bianco shoes with the party dress.

A Meaningful Thompson Hotel Dallas Wedding Ceremony Under a Beautifully Adorned Chuppah

For our ceremony, we had a beautiful chuppah adorned with flowers and draping over the top. My childhood Rabbi officiated, using a wine cup from both my family and Adam’s. The Rabbi had known both of our families for years, so it was incredibly meaningful to have him perform the marriage blessing for us.

Why Hiring a Planner Made All the Difference for This Couple

We hired a planner to help us with the wedding from start to finish, and it was amazing. They took so much off our plate, especially in the week and day leading up to the wedding. I highly recommend getting a planner at least for the final month so you don’t have to stress as much! Make sure to really soak in the small moments—they go by so fast.

A Thompson Hotel Dallas Wedding Reception Transformation

We didn’t fully know what the room would look like. We knew the layout and the colors, but we had no idea just how grand it would actually turn out. When we walked into the reception space, our jaws dropped—we were blown away by the design and the elaborate florals. Watching our guests walk in and seeing their jaws drop too was an incredible moment. To this day, we still receive compliments on the flowers from our reception and ceremony. Not only were they impressive, but our florist did an incredible job setting them up and getting super creative. I’m also proud of how smoothly everything went. I tend to stress about all the little details, but the day went off without a hitch—from getting ready in the morning to our first look, wedding party photos, ceremony, reception, and exit. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfectly executed day.

Aerialist Entertainment and Unique Wedding Details That Wow Guests

We surprised our guests with an aerialist performance as soon as they walked into the reception space. Dressed in a sparkly red outfit that perfectly matched the room’s vibe, she provided fantastic entertainment that had everyone buzzing. Our guests even compared it to a Cirque du Soleil show! For the engaged couples in attendance, we gave out champagne bottles with custom labels that read, “Congratulations, you’re next!” Our seating chart was a fun dog-themed affair, with table numbers displayed on little tennis balls that guests loved taking home for their pets. Instead of a traditional cake, we opted for cookies and ice cream sandwiches from Pokey O’s Cookies & Ice Cream, which was a huge hit. We also made sure to keep the energy high by having Nightowl Coffee available all night so everyone could keep dancing with us.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Laning Photography
Event Planning – Alice and Apricot
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Thompson Hotel Dallas
Floral Design – Petals Couture
Aerialist – Ashlyn Peters
Live Music – Intensity Bands
Videography – Alex Adkins Creative
Invitation Design – LetterArt
Makeup Artist – Erin Blair Makeup and Hair Design
Hair Styling – Tease to Please
Wedding Dress – Kleinfeld Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – The Black Tux
Rings – Olschwanger Designs
Rentals – Bella Acento + Top Tier + Render Co. + Hoop Rentals + POSH Couture
Dance Floor – Imperial Floors
Linen – BBJ La Tavola
Seating Chart – Vim + Venture

 

Congratulations to Dani and Adam on their sultry, avant-garde Thompson Hotel Dallas wedding. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Laning Photography for capturing all the stunning details and offering inspiration to soon-to-be-wed couples. For more beautiful celebrations and exceptional photography, be sure to check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

The right venue and color palette can make your wedding day truly unforgettable. Your venue sets the scene, while your colors tie everything together and show off your style. To help you choose the perfect match for your big day, check out our venue and color palette guides for some great tips!

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Hauntingly Beautiful and Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

September 27, 2024 | justine

Taylor and Cody’s decision to get married in Scotland was all about following their hearts. They wanted a wedding that captured the moody, dramatic, and gothic romance they love, and their Isle of Skye elopement did just that. Dressed in all black, they embraced the epic, rainy landscape in October, their favorite time of year. Saying “I do” on Friday the 13th, atop a cliff with breathtaking views of the sea and mountains, was pure magic for them.

Picture this: standing in the Scottish Highlands, battling wind and rain, freezing, and practically shouting their personally written vows to each other. The pair were crying, laughing, and completely immersed in the moment, overwhelmed with gratitude that they were in Scotland, getting married. The dramatic, moody weather only added to the magic, making their goth dreams come true in the most unforgettable way.

At the end of the night, the couple retreated to a quaint little cottage, where one of the most emotional and surreal moments of their lives unfolded. After a day full of thrilling adventures, they finally had a chance to soak it all in, wrapped in each other’s comfort. They shared their first dance to “Yellow” by Coldplay, indulged in cake, and savored every moment. If this sounds like your dream celebration, just the two of you, you’ve got to see all the stunning images captured by Junebug vendor Alex Mabrey.

The Couple:

Taylor and Cody

The Wedding:

Isle of Skye, Scotland 

Their Hauntingly Beautiful and Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement Filled with Unforgettable Moments

Scotland was so dreamy, and honestly, every part of our day was memorable. We didn’t have the stress of entertaining anyone but ourselves. We were on our own timeline, adventuring all day across the Highlands. It was just the two of us and our incredible dream team creating such beautiful, raw, and emotional memories. It all felt like a dream. Being surrounded by such ancient history and epic landscapes was truly magical. Seeing Cody standing at the top of the mountain, waiting for me, was incredibly emotional—one of the most beautiful and intimate moments of my life. Standing in the Scottish Highlands, getting whipped by wind and rain, freezing, and practically screaming our personally written vows—we were crying, laughing, and completely at the moment, grateful to be in Scotland, getting married. Scotland’s moody weather was so dramatic during our ceremony, making it all the more magical. Our wedding was a blur of happiness. Our goth dreams came alive, and it was absolutely magical. Our souls are the happiest they’ve ever been.

How This Couple Embraced Scottish Tradition in Their Wedding

We spent the afternoon admiring the incredible architecture and rich history of Dunvegan Castle and Garden Estate, nestled by the sea. It was a chilling experience to explore such ancient history, especially knowing that the McClure surname is connected to it. A cool fact—McClure dates back to the Clan MacLeod, and Dunvegan Castle is the home of Clan MacLeod. We sealed our marriage with a Scottish tradition in the cemetery church ruins, drinking red wine from a Scottish quaich. We were completely in our element, surrounded by old stones and peaceful company. Cemeteries bring our souls pure joy and happiness—a place of stillness, reflection, and beauty. There’s something so beautiful about a creepy, quiet old church ruin in the Scottish Highlands, especially on a gloomy, rainy day. This is our love language. We were completely in our element, dancing in the dreamy Scottish church ruins, with nowhere to be, just enjoying each other’s company and celebrating our marriage after 14 years. We’re all about this kind of energy.

How Their Cottage Retreat Became the Most Surreal Moment of Their Big Day

The moment we celebrated just the two of us back at our quaint little cottage at the end of the night was one of the most emotional and surreal of our lives. The excitement of the day’s adventures had finally settled, and we could soak it all in within the comfort of each other. We had our first dance to “Yellow” by Coldplay—a song that holds a special place in our hearts. We sang, cried, and ate cake, surrounded by candlelight. It was so intimate and beautiful, just the two of us. All my goth dreams came to life on Friday, the 13th of October, 2023. We will forever relive the energy and emotion of that night. Our souls have never been happier. I’ll never get over how special our wedding day was, and we’ll keep celebrating until we’re ghosts. I am incredibly grateful to be loved by Cody.

Embracing Your Unique Wedding Vision: Advice from the Couple

Our advice, follow your heart. Your wedding is for you and your partner. It’s easy to lose sight of your dreams when family and friends are excited to celebrate, but remember, this day is about reflecting on your unique relationship. We don’t regret any of our choices; it was the best day of our lives. We’re incredibly proud of the dream team we assembled. We planned everything ourselves, without a wedding planner—two years of research and planning, managing a 7-hour time difference, and relying on our vendors’ support through countless emails and late-night calls. Trusting everything without seeing it until the big day was challenging, but our wedding team nailed it, and we couldn’t be prouder. Our day wouldn’t have been possible without this talented crew, and we’ve made friendships we’ll cherish forever. We even met up with them at a pub later that evening before heading back to our cottage for a private dinner and dance.

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

How They Turned Their Wedding into a Month-Long Scottish Journey

Cody and I chose to get married on the Isle of Skye, Scotland, because it holds a special place in our hearts. Dressed in all black, we wanted to immerse ourselves in the dramatic, rainy landscape that Scotland is famous for. October is our favorite time of year, and getting married on Friday the 13th atop a cliff with views of the sea and mountains was absolutely magical. It took our breath away. McClure is Scottish, and our history traces back to Clan MacLeod, who owns the Dunvegan Castle and Garden Estates. We wanted our wedding to be more than just a single day, so we spent an entire month celebrating our marriage and honeymoon, exploring different parts of Scotland. It was an incredibly thrilling journey, and we’ll definitely be returning. These memories are deeply emotional for us, and we are so grateful for the wildly beautiful experience we shared together.

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

Creating a Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement Look with a Romantic Twist

This might sound a bit morbid to some, but if you know us, it’s totally on-brand! From the start, our goal was to look like we were heading to our own funeral. We nailed it! We wanted to channel all the energy of moody, dramatic, and gothic romance. Our biggest style inspiration was, of course, all black (white just isn’t our color), with lace and velvet trims to add some dimension. We both wore Doc Martens, naturally. For beauty, I opted for a simple, soft, natural makeup look and a sleek low bun to complement, not overshadow, my dress. It was all about elegance and simplicity. Our flowers were inspired by “Corpse Bride,” featuring cool earth tones to contrast with our all-black attire, creating a dead yet edgy romantic vibe.

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

Gothic Isle of Skye Elopement

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Alex Mabrey
Ceremony Venue – Isle of Skye, Scotland, UK
Floral Design – Floral Menagerie
Cake – Rosewood Cakes
Videography – Ashley Hope Films
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Josephine Way
Wedding Dress – The Bridal Collection + Alyce Jayne Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Commonwealth Proper Suiting

 

Congratulations to Taylor and Cody on their hauntingly beautiful and gothic Isle of Skye elopement. Many thanks to Junebug vendor Alex Mabrey for capturing and sharing every unforgettable moment with us. To see more intentional celebrations like this, check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

If these heartwarming moments have you thinking about eloping but you’re unsure where to start—we’re here to help. Take a look at our ultimate elopement planning checklist to jump-start your planning and make the process effortless.

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