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Winter Wedding Guest Dresses For Every Dress Code

November 3, 2024 | marissa
winter wedding guest dresses

Image by Helena Brauer Photography. Keep scrolling to find the perfect winter wedding guest dresses

Winter weddings are magical, but dressing for them can be a challenge. Sure, the first things that come to mind might be velvet fabrics, mock necklines, and long sleeves—but those are just the tip of the iceberg. Whether attending a black-tie affair, a cozy mountain lodge celebration, or a chic urban soirée, there are countless unexpected ways to blend style and comfort. In this guide, we’re breaking free from the predictable to bring you fresh outfit ideas for every winter dress code, location, and aesthetic.

To help you kick off the search for your perfect winter wedding guest dress, here are some of our top tips:

  • Opt for winter-friendly fabrics like velvet, tweed, lace, or jacquard
  • Embrace rich winter shades such as navy, baby blue, burgundy, emerald, gold, or silver
  • Combat the chill by layering with thick tights when possible
  • Closed-toe pumps are always a safe choice, but sleek boots can look great with more casual dresses
  • Try pairing a coat with a bold print like leopard or plaid with a simple, solid-colored dress
  • Don’t forget winter accessories like hats, scarves, or gloves for outdoor moments
  • Steer clear of dresses in winter whites, creams, or beiges—too close to white to take the risk!


Winter Wedding Guest Dresses Based on Dress Code or Aesthetic

Black Tie or Formal Wedding

For a black-tie or formal dress code, a floor-length dress or gown is a must. From there, the options are endless. Velvet remains a timeless choice, as it’s universally flattering and perfect for winter weddings. A simple yet elegant velvet wrap dress is always a standout option. If you’re looking to make a statement, tiered dresses are trending and add a playful touch. Don’t be afraid to experiment with prints—a subtle rose pattern on a flowy, floor-length gown can be both sophisticated and unexpected.

Cocktail or Semi-Formal Wedding

Wearing a mini or midi-length cocktail dress for a winter wedding offers plenty of versatility and opportunities for creative styling. We’ve spotted 80s-inspired dresses making a comeback, featuring details such as ruching, bubble hems, frills, and off-the-shoulder necklines. Bows, whether bold or subtle, are another trend taking the spotlight. Think a big, satin bow on your lower back for a 60s vibe or a playful bow print for something a little out of the ordinary.

 

Downtown or Urban Wedding

Why let the men have all the tuxedo fun? A tuxedo dress is a bold and ultra-sophisticated option for a city wedding. For those who love modern elegance, corset tops paired with skirts in lengths from mini to maxi offer a chic twist. Not feeling something form-fitting? Looser shift or trapeze-style dresses are effortlessly cool. And for the daring fashionista, sheer panels, bold colors, and asymmetrical necklines capture the edgy, statement-making energy of an urban setting.

Mountain Lodge or Resort Wedding

Winter weddings at a ski or mountain lodge often mean snow. Choose a dress that’s beautiful yet functional—skip the dragging trains or restrictive sheath skirts that make movement tricky. For warmth, stick to fabrics like wool, fleece, cashmere, or a heavier crepe or velvet, and steer clear of lightweight options like cotton or polyester. Dresses with linings or layered textures are perfect for keeping you cozy while still looking effortlessly chic against a stunning snowy backdrop.

Christmas Wedding

A Christmas wedding isn’t a costume party, but leaning into the theme is surely welcome. Is red too obvious? We don’t think so. It’s flattering on multiple skin tones and adds that perfect festive pop to your look. More options are green minidresses with tights, a velvet babydoll dress with puffy sleeves, or a piece with intricate buttons or trimming for vintage charm. For inspiration, consider your Christmas outfits from childhood—then give those nostalgic styles a grown-up twist like figure-hugging silhouettes or shoulder-baring designs. Festive and fashionable.

New Year’s Eve Wedding

Sequins, sparkle, and fringe—oh my! If you’re lucky enough to attend a New Year’s Eve wedding, it’s the perfect excuse to bring out your glitziest attire. Think beyond traditional dresses and embrace metallics and shimmering fabrics that catch the light as you dance the night away. Whether you opt for a form-fitting sequined gown or a playful fringe dress, don’t shy away from bold accessories that add to the festive vibe. This is the time to shine, so let your outfit reflect the excitement of ringing in the new year while celebrating love!

Love these winter wedding guest dresses but need a jacket to help keep you warm? Check out our favorites here!

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Use This Wedding Decor Checklist to Help You Nail Every Detail

October 22, 2024 | riley

Image by Nomad by NK

Planning a wedding is no small task, especially when it comes to decor. There are so many moving pieces, especially when your venue is a blank slate. With all the details you need to consider, it’s easy to forget something. That’s why we’ve put together this simple, stress-free wedding decor checklist to make sure you’re covering all the bases. Whether you’re going for a grand celebration or a more laid-back vibe, this checklist will help you keep everything in order.

Wedding Decor Checklist

Wedding Ceremony Decor

The ceremony is the heart of your wedding, but it’s also usually over pretty quickly. That means there’s no need to break the bank here. We suggest focusing on what matters most: seating and a beautiful backdrop. These key elements are all you need to make your ceremony feel personal and polished. However, if you envision a few more details, here is our complete list of wedding ceremony decor options.

Image by Kailash Wedding

Cocktail Hour Decor

Cocktail hour is where the fun begins! While the reception is packed with activities, it’s during the cocktail hour that your guests have a chance to mingle and socialize. It’s worth dedicating some of your decor budget here to make it inviting—think about the bar, snack tables, and maybe a few lawn games to keep things lively.

Wedding Reception Table Decorations

Your reception tables are where your guests will spend most of their time, so this is where you can really show off your style. Whether it’s through elegant centerpieces or personalized table settings, the right decor will set the vibe for the evening. Just remember, here at Junebug Weddings, we celebrate the uniqueness of every wedding and believe that its beauty lies in your personal touch.

Image by ANNOVA

Wedding Reception Decor

Last, but certainly not least, is your wedding reception as a whole. As we mentioned earlier,.the reception is where guests will spend the majority of their evening, making it the ideal opportunity to invest in decor that leaves a lasting impression. It’s also the place where you can flex those creative muscles and potentially step outside of the box.. From neon signs to epic seating charts to giant balloons, this is the perfect time to express yourself.

Pro Tip: Pin this wedding decor checklist for easy access as you plan, or download the spreadsheet to keep on hand and stay organized throughout your wedding journey.

If you need more help in crafting the wedding of your dreams, check out our list of planner & designer recommendations. Looking for more checklists to prepare for your big day? Our wedding planning checklist is perfect for you!

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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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Why You Need a Wedding QR Code for Photos

September 12, 2024 | riley

While wedding photographers capture the key moments from your big day, there’s something uniquely special about the candid, unfiltered photos taken by friends and family. Never Miss Moments’ wedding QR code makes it easier than ever for guests to share those photos with you. Here’s why a wedding QR code is our favorite affordable hack for rounding up photos from guests without all of the stress.

8 Reasons You Need a Wedding QR Code for Photos

1. Collect ‘Almost Missed’ Moments

Your wedding day is filled with countless moments that your photographer may miss–they’re only one person, after all. Guests often capture spontaneous and candid shots that you’re going to want to look back on years after the big day. By setting up an online wedding gallery, you create a centralized spot where everyone can upload and view these different perspectives. 

2. Streamlines Photo Sharing

Traditionally, guests might share their photos through email, text, or social media posts. This can be hard to keep track of, especially when you’ve got a lot on your plate after the wedding (like the honeymoon, sending out thank you cards, and returning back to reality). A wedding QR code gallery simplifies the process by providing a single link where all photos and videos can be uploaded. Guests simply scan your unique QR code, which directs them to your shared digital album, making it easy to contribute and access photos & videos in one place.

3. Engages Your Guests

Including an online wedding gallery for your big day adds an interactive element to your wedding. It encourages guests to take and share their own photos and videos, making them feel more involved in documenting the celebration. This not only increases engagement but also provides you with a wider range of photos and videos that capture different angles and emotions of your special day. 

4. Real-Time Sharing

We know that after your big day, you’re going to be anxious to see any and all content your photographer, videographer, and guests have captured. That’s why a QR code gallery is so handy–as guests upload their photos and videos, you’ll have access to them almost immediately. This way, you can share all of your highlights on social media the very next day. The best part? There are no apps or logins required.

5. Reduces Stress 

Managing a wedding can be overwhelming, and the last thing you want to worry about is collecting photos from multiple sources. As we said, you’re going to be busy! By setting up an online QR code gallery, you streamline the process, allowing guests to independently upload their photos and videos without needing to contact you directly. This means you don’t have to stress about endless text messages coming through, so you can go into your honeymoon in newlywed bliss.

6. Easy to Use

Not everyone at your wedding is going to be technologically savvy, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be able to partake in sharing their photos. Never Miss Moments is easy to use, hassle-free, accessible for everyone worldwide, regardless of their geo-location, and there’s no limit to how many photos or videos that can be uploaded. We consider all of those a win.

7. Can Be Beyond Your Big Day

Your big day is not the only day in the wedding planning process that you’re going to want to remember. From the engagement party, bachelor/bachelorette party, bridal shower, rehearsal dinner, and welcome parties, there are countless events along the way that your QR code gallery can be super useful for.

8. Make the QR Code Match Your Decor

Your QR code place card doesn’t have to be an eyesore in your decor. Never Miss Moments makes it as easy as possible for you to help it blend in seamlessly with your theme by providing free editable place card designs that you can use. Of course, there’s always the option to DIY it using Photoshop or Canva as well, thanks to the ability to receive your QR code via email. The more you display it, the easier it is for your guests to find it and share their photos with you!

By giving your guests the opportunity to easily share and access photos, you’re going to be left with a lifetime of memories from the perspective of the people who mean the most to you. To get started, visit Never Miss Moments to get your very own wedding QR code for photos for your celebration. Not sure if it’s right for you? Check out their try-before-you-buy option, where you can see just how easy it is for your guests!

Image by Elle Studios

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This Colorful Post Office Hotel Wedding Blended Egyptian and Australian Cultures

September 8, 2024 | justine

Marina and Grant’s Post Office Hotel wedding was a vibrant blend of their Egyptian and Australian heritages. They envisioned a celebration that combined tradition with modern flair, crafting a lively and colorful atmosphere for their guests. By honoring their diverse backgrounds and bringing their families together, they created an event that seamlessly fused cultural elements, resulting in a truly unforgettable day where everyone came together as one.

The day began with a beautiful church ceremony featuring a traditional Coptic crowning that honored Marina’s cultural heritage. This reverent start was perfectly balanced by a festive reception that let the couple’s personalities shine. They transformed the hotel’s dining hall into a colorful wonderland, with bright flowers on the tables and a striking streamer installation filling the ceiling. The result was a playful atmosphere that set the tone for an unforgettable celebration.

If you’re looking to add some vibrant personality to your big day, this wedding is just what you need for inspiration. Nikki McCrone captured every moment perfectly, making sure the lively and fun vibe of the day really shone through.

The Couple:

Marina and Grant

The Wedding:

Post Office Hotel, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

 

 

Creating an Intimate and Relaxed Atmosphere at Their Post Office Hotel Wedding

We wanted a fun venue where people could relax and enjoy the party. The Post Office Hotel was the perfect location because it offered great indoor and outdoor spaces while still feeling intimate enough to keep our guests close. It’s a beautiful building that doesn’t need many decorations. We love plants, and the Postie is full of them. It also suited our day’s plan perfectly—it was close to our church and had a front bar where our guests could gather and catch up before the reception officially got underway.

Thoughtful Details That Made Their Guests Feel Special

The personalized details we created for our guests came together beautifully. The place cards were small chocolate bars with customized wrappers that we designed ourselves. Each wrapper featured our guest’s name along with a little in-joke, pun, or memory we shared with them. We just wanted to put a smile on their faces, and it got people talking when they found their tables. We also provided a flier at the church explaining our ceremony’s traditional details and meanings. We wanted everyone, especially those unfamiliar with the church, to understand, appreciate, and feel involved in the ceremony. Other personalized touches included our welcome sign, which featured artwork of a matchbox because we met on Tinder, our seating chart with a lyric from our favorite band, and small cards with a QR code linking guests to a digital disposable camera app we set up so they could take and share photos. These small details really made the wedding feel like “ours.”

The Benefits of Collaboration and Organization in Wedding Planning

Planning a wedding while managing everyday life can be challenging, so we found using a very visual to-do list incredibly helpful. Our house had a large poster frame where we used sticky notes to track each task. We organized the notes into columns for things we needed to “decide on,” “book or organize,” “buy,” and “make.” It’s incredible how many small details pop up during wedding planning—whether you think of them at random times or they come up in conversations. Having a central place to jot down these tasks allowed us to use our planning time more effectively. Our other key advice is to plan your wedding together. You want the day to reflect you as a couple, so both partners should have a say in the details. It’s fun and ensures one person isn’t shouldering the load alone. Also, creating a shared email address for all wedding contacts was a lifesaver.

How They Adjusted Their Post Office Hotel Wedding Budget Without Compromising on Essentials

At the start of our planning, we discussed our budget and, fortunately, aligned closely on what we thought was reasonable. With the cost-of-living crisis impacting our planning, we had to make slight adjustments, which we had anticipated. Instead of cutting anything, we focused on finding ways to save money. Neither of us was interested in cars, so we skipped the limousine or classic car and opted for a spacious van that accommodated our entire bridal party. We also saved by designing our stationery and signage ourselves, a task we both enjoy. Additionally, we chose the POV disposable camera app as a more affordable and convenient alternative to physical disposable cameras. While we didn’t splurge on anything, we carefully organized our budget to ensure we could afford the photographer and videographer we wanted and prioritize food and drink.

Setting the Tone for Their Fun-Filled Reception with Middle Eastern Drummers

One moment we kept talking about after our wedding was our entrance to the reception, which flowed seamlessly into our first dance. We kicked things off with a performance by traditional Middle Eastern drummers. To blend our Egyptian and Australian cultures, we arranged for the drummers and band to do a bespoke performance of “Are You Gonna Be My Girl?” by Jet, which then transitioned into the traditional entry music. We had all our guests surround the dance floor to take in the performance, and our bridal party made a group entry rather than walking in pairs. This meant that when we entered, we were immediately surrounded by all our guests. They were also able to join us on the dance floor for our first dance with the drummers, which really helped kick off the night with a lot of energy. The whole thing lasted about 40 minutes! So many people came up to us afterward, telling us how loud, fun, and different it was. It was extraordinary to share that moment with everyone, setting the perfect tone for the fun reception we wanted.

Making Their Wedding an Extension of Their Big, Loud Families From Cocktails and Props to Late-Night Snacks

We wanted our wedding to truly reflect who we are as a couple and the vibrant nature of our families. Our families are big, loud, and welcoming, so we aimed for our wedding to be an extension of that spirit. We focused on elements that would enhance our guests’ enjoyment of the day—personal touches, dance floor props, and a selection of cocktails on arrival, including some virgin mixes for our pregnant friends. Since we love food and our families do, too, we made sure there was plenty of it. This included a sweet treat after the ceremony, extra meat and jugs of gravy with the main meals, three wedding cakes, and a sneaky late-night snack of chips and gravy on the dance floor.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Nikki McCrone
Event Planning –
Venue – Post Office Hotel
Floral Design – Urban Antidote
Wedding Morning Catering – Chef Victoria
Cake – Sweets by Sue
DJ – DJ Danny Farah
Videography – Ruby O’Dowd
Wedding Dress – Evie Young
Groom’s Apparel – Politix

 

Congratulations to Marina and Grant on their colorful Post Office Hotel wedding, which beautifully blended Egyptian and Australian cultures. A special thank you to Nikki McCrone for capturing every beautiful detail and memorable moment that this couple will cherish for the rest of their lives.

Combining tradition with personal touches is the key to making your wedding truly your own. By thoughtfully integrating elements that reflect your heritage and unique style, you create a meaningful and memorable celebration. If you’re looking for more inspiration on how to blend these aspects seamlessly, check out our guide for creative ideas and practical tips.

 

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Warm Desert Chic Fall Korakia Wedding

September 5, 2024 | kailey

Eleni and Daniel wanted their wedding to be anything but ordinary; they aimed for a celebration of everything they loved. With the venue and November’s ambiance setting the stage, they embraced a moody color scheme and a desert-chic style. Every detail was carefully planned with the help of Junebug vendor The Walk Down The Aisle, from the dark florals and candles to the unique decor and furniture, all coming together to make their Korakia wedding vision a reality.

They couldn’t have chosen a more perfect setting for their big day than the historic 1920s Moroccan hideaway. Surrounded by lush gardens, a serene fountain, and a Moorish archway serving as their altar, the courtyard offered a stunning backdrop for their vows. After the ceremony, they moved poolside for the reception, where guests were welcomed by beautiful tables adorned with lush floral arrangements and Edison bulb chandeliers hanging above each one. The setup seamlessly blended with the natural surroundings, adding to the enchantment of the event.

If you love the desert landscape and moody, sensual tones, then this is the perfect inspiration for you. Luckily, Let’s Frolic Together captured every detail and moment so you can swoon over it and pin it to your mood board.

The Couple:

Eleni and Daniel

The Wedding:

Korakia, Palm Springs, California, United States 

Incorporating Personal Style into Their Big Day

I saw the Berta dress of my dreams, and nothing even came close. Everything was planned around the dress. I knew I wanted boots to bring in that desert vibe, and I came across these white Chanel boots that completed the look. Dan’s suit was timeless, and the accessories were special to him, making the look different from a typical wedding look. We both love fashion, and our styles came together for this day.

Two Highlights of Their Korakia Wedding: The Emotional First Look and a Cozy Retreat

We have two memorable moments. The first look was incredible; after postponing our wedding four times due to the pandemic and restrictions, it was the moment when everything finally felt real and exciting, like “we made it.” We were both so happy to see each other that we each got teary-eyed. Another special moment was before the first dance when we sneaked back to our room to share a cocktail and some small bites. We highly recommend this private moment amidst the exciting chaos of the day.

Keeping It Short and Sweet with a 20-minute Ceremony That Wowed

We wrote our own vows from scratch, and our officiant made his part truly unique to us by incorporating our families, dogs, and friends—it was incredibly special. We also knew that no one wanted to sit through a long ceremony, so we kept it to 20 minutes, which was the perfect length.

How Clear Communication with Loved Ones Can Simplify Wedding Planning

Set expectations with family and friends from the start. Share your goals for the day, where you’d like them to be involved, and where you’d prefer them to take a backseat. Doing this from the beginning ensured a drama-free planning process and allowed us to focus on what we wanted rather than what was expected.

Celebrating Their Korakia Wedding Their Way with Every Small Touch

We’re proud that we truly made the day our own. Having attended weddings that felt very traditional, we knew that wasn’t the right path for us. Despite family questioning many of our choices around decor, music, and more, we embraced our vision. The amazing thing about Korakia was that we worked with every vendor to perfect even the smallest details. We handpicked every element, from the music and food to the drinks, decor, and even the utensils. It may sound trivial, but each tiny detail came together perfectly to realize our vision. When we walked into the reception, it was exactly what we wanted. Our photographer even captured guests with their mouths dropped open at the sight of our celebration.

Palm Springs Charm and the Unique Appeal of Korakia

My husband and I love Palm Springs for its retro aesthetic, friendly locals, and beautiful homes—it’s such a cool place. Korakia Pensione was the first location on our list, and we put down the deposit within hours of seeing it. It’s such a special place; you’re transported out of California and into a Mediterranean locale. I didn’t get that “feeling” from any other venue.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Let’s Frolic Together
Event Planning – The Walk Down the Aisle
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Korakia
Floral Design – Layered Vintage
Catering – F10 Creative
Officiant – Randy Lioz
DJ – Dart Collective
Invitation Design – Wildhouse Ink
Wedding Dress – L’Fay Bridal
Bridal Accessories – Cartier + Chanel
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Baltic Born
Groom’s Apparel – The Kooples
Rings – Kristin Coffin + Cartier
Rentals – Signature Party Rentals + Planks & Patina + Archive Rentals

 

Congratulations to Eleni and Daniel on their warm, desert-chic fall Korakia wedding. A big thank you goes out to Let’s Frolic Together for capturing all the special memories and stunning elements that this couple will cherish for the rest of their lives. And of course, a special shout out to The Walk Down The Aisle for helping the couple bring to life this unforgettable celebration. To see more of their work, check out their profile in our directory of the best wedding planners from around the world.

This wedding beautifully demonstrates how the location and tones can set the tone and bring everything together. If you’re starting to plan your big day and need more ideas, visit our venue and color palette guides to build a solid foundation for the wedding of your dreams.

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Unexpected Wedding Expenses to Keep in Mind When Creating Your Budget

August 30, 2024 | riley

Keep reading to uncover unexpected expenses and ensure you’re fully prepared! Image by Josie Brooks.

When setting your wedding budget, there are so many details to juggle that it’s easy for unexpected wedding expenses to slip through the cracks. Even with the best wedding budget tool, it’s hard to account for every little thing, especially things that don’t go as planned or that you assume someone else will pay for. So, before finalizing your budget, be sure to review these 17 unexpected expenses to make sure you’ve got everything covered.

Unexpected Wedding Expenses 

1. Postage Wedding Budget

When planning your invitation budget, don’t forget to account for the stamps you’ll need to mail them all. That includes the stamp for the actual invitation, the stamp on the RSVP envelope–if you’re not doing RSVPs through your wedding website–and your thank you notes.

If you’re using thick or uniquely shaped paper, wraps, or other add-ons that will add weight or bulk to your invitations, be sure to check with the post office to find out if you need extra postage.

2. Day-Of Stationery

You’ve likely already accounted for your invitations, save the dates, and thank you cards, but have you thought about the paper good you’ll need for the actual wedding day? Ceremony programs, menus, table numbers, framed signs, and escort cards should all be built into your stationery budget.

3. Marriage License

This is the most important item on the do-not-forget list, but many couples tend to forget they need to pay for their marriage license. The price ranges from $25 – $100, depending on your state, so be sure to check your state’s website for the exact fee.

4. Alterations

One of the biggest mistakes brides make is spending their entire fashion budget on the dress. Since it’s one of the most important items of clothing you’ll ever wear, you want to make sure that it fits you perfectly. Build enough money into your budget for alterations, which can run anywhere from $100 to $800, depending on how much customization you are doing.

5. Undergarments And Accessories

As with alterations, undergarments and accessories are an important part of rounding out your bridal look and should be built into your fashion budget. Think lingerie, garter, veil, jewelry, clutch, shoes, hairpieces, and a getting-ready robe.

6. Bachelor Or Bachelorette Parties

Although most people assume that the wedding party pays for the bachelorette/bachelor parties, the truth is that many couples do end up pitching in to alleviate the burden–especially for weekend-long festivities. If you plan to pitch in for your party, don’t feel like you need to pay most of your way. These parties are meant to celebrate you, so your wedding party should spoil you just a bit.

7. Taxes, Service Fees, and Tips

Taxes and service fees take us by surprise every time and, when making such large purchases, they add up quicker than you can imagine. Vendors will charge different fees for different services, so be sure to read your contract carefully before committing.

Also, keep in mind that service fees and tips are different! The service fee is the cost of executing a particular service, and most vendors expect a tip on top of that fee. The general tipping guideline for wedding vendors is between 15-20%, so make sure to build that into each vendors’ total cost. You can read more about gratuities in our guide to tipping your wedding vendors!

8. Overtime

Despite all your best attempts to make sure everything is wrapped up and cleaned up before your allotted time ends, you should have a small reserve of money set aside just in case. Look over your contract to see how much your venue and vendors will charge should you go over. If you absolutely can’t afford any extra time, plan your hard cut-off time to start clean-up even earlier.

9. Sound And Lighting

These might be the last two things on your list of ceremony and reception costs, but they’re also the two of the most important. When hiring a DJ, be sure to ask if sound setup and additional lighting is needed/included in the total price.

If you’re having live music at your ceremony, you’ll definitely need to amplify them so all your guests can hear. Whether you’re having an indoor or outdoor wedding, you’ll also need to be sure everyone can hear the music, the vows, and the readings, so you’ll need to invest in some sound equipment regardless.

As for lighting, be sure to check out our ultimate guide to wedding lighting, which lays out everything you need to know to make sure your event is lit properly.

10. Welcome Bag Delivery

This is one even we were surprised to find out. Some hotels will charge you to deliver those cute little welcome bags to your guests’ rooms. The average fee is $7, which can quickly add up if you have lots of out-of-town wedding guests. To avoid this fee, simply ask your hotel to give each guest a bag when they check-in instead of delivering it to their room.

11. Insurance

While not always necessary, having insurance for your wedding can save you from a headache down the road. Wedding insurance can help protect you if things go wrong, like vendor cancellations or unexpected weather. Additionally, ring insurance is a good idea to cover the cost of lost, stolen, or damaged wedding rings.

12. Vendor Trials

Want to make sure your hairstylist or makeup artist is a perfect fit? Trials are a great way to test things out before the big day, but they usually come with a price tag. Be sure to budget for them so you’re not caught off guard.

Image by Weddings Art.

13. Vendor Travel and Delivery Fees

If you’re hiring vendors from out of town, there could be additional charges for travel, delivery, and setup. Whether it’s a photographer or your florist, make sure to clarify these costs upfront to avoid surprises later.

14. Wedding Transportation

From limos to shuttle buses for your guests, wedding transportation can add up quickly. These costs are often overlooked, so be sure to factor them in to keep your wedding day running smoothly.

15. Vendor Meals

Your vendors will be working hard all day, and many will require meals during the event. Some venues include this in their packages, but others don’t, so check ahead to avoid unexpected charges.

16. Thank You Gifts

Thank you gifts are a small but thoughtful way to show appreciation to your bridal party and family members. While they don’t have to be extravagant, this extra expense can add up, especially if you give gifts to a large group.

17. Post-Wedding Expenses

The wedding might be over, but there are still a few lingering costs. From changing your name on legal documents to cleaning your wedding dress, post-wedding expenses often pop up when you least expect them. Make sure you set aside a little extra to cover these final tasks!

Now that you know the unexpected wedding expenses that can pop up, be sure to add the ones that apply to your budget. If you’re worried about the costs adding up, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to save as you plan your big day. Keep these in mind, and you’ll be able to stay on top of your spending while planning the wedding of your dreams!

Image by Pat Cori.

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This Hotel Xcaret Wedding Was as Chic as It Was Romantic

August 27, 2024 | justine

Alisha and Haley chose a destination wedding because most of their friends and family live out of state. Mexico was the first international place they visited together, so it felt special to go back. They wanted their guests to have an unforgettable time. Inspired by the stunning tropical scenery, their Hotel Xcaret wedding allowed everyone to enjoy a lovely vacation while celebrating their big day.

On a sandy spot by the inlet, the couple exchanged vows beneath an altar framed by bold floral pillars. The magic continued at their beach cave reception, where they dined on tables filled with lush arrangements and candles and danced the night away, surrounded by striking rock formations and under a canopy of stars. Oh, and did we mention that all of this took place on the same day as a solar eclipse? If that’s not good luck, we don’t know what is!

Their special day was truly a wedding like no other. Just take a look at these stunning images captured by Junebug vendor Arte Visual MF, and you’ll see why we guarantee you’ll agree.

The Couple:

Alisha and Haley

The Wedding:

Hotel Xcaret, Playa del Carmen

The Value of Professional Help in Destination Wedding Planning

If you also have a scenario where many of your guests live scattered across the country, a destination wedding is a great solution. When guests have to travel to attend your wedding, picking a fun location makes it more enjoyable for everyone. Plus, choosing a destination wedding means you typically get to spend multiple days with your guests. For anyone having a destination wedding, we advise working with a travel agent who specializes in wedding groups. Our travel agent was beneficial in securing our wedding contract and hotel room block and working with all our guests to plan their travel. You have so much to think about when planning a destination wedding, and having a great travel agent alleviates so much stress. One regret we have from the wedding is not hiring a wedding planner or at least a day-of coordinator. We had the help of our friends and designated support staff from the resort. We love hosting events as a couple, but even if you are “Type A” and think you can handle it all to save money as we did, we’d still say, “Hire someone!” Our day would have been more seamless and stress-free had we had an extra person to oversee all the details.

Crafting a Unique Hotel Xcaret Wedding by Combining Deep Jewel Tones and Tropical Touches

We first chose our wedding venue, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, and built our wedding style around it. We wanted the design to draw inspiration from the beautiful tropical landscape while reflecting our desire for a romantic, chic, and moody atmosphere representing us as a couple. We aimed for the day to feel stylish and special, unlike any other. We settled on deep jewel tones for our décor and floral arrangements, incorporating tropical touches like palm leaves and seashells. Additionally, a solar eclipse occurred on our wedding day, adding a unique and exciting energy to the celebration.

Creating a Cohesive and Complementary Look By Going Wedding Dress Shopping Together

As a two-woman couple, we had to ensure that our wedding day looks were cohesive and complementary. In an unconventional twist, we went wedding dress shopping together. At our very first bridal shop, Haley found a slim-fitting dress adorned with feminine lace and beading, while I discovered a minimal and chic dress that perfectly matched her style. Our accessories completed our looks: Haley handcrafted tropical-inspired earrings, and I chose a unique floral cape, custom-made from an Etsy shop, instead of a veil. Additional special touches included a vintage robe from a local Tucson flea market, which Alisha wore while getting ready, and Haley’s perfume named “Tucson” by Astier de Villatte, adding a touch of home.

Honoring African American Traditions and Family During Their Ceremony

One of our favorite ways to personalize our ceremony was by involving our family members in special roles. Haley’s grandmother served as our flower girl, while her 13-year-old brother acted as our ring bearer and “bubble boy,” delighting the crowd with a bubble gun during the recessional. From our hiding spot before walking down the aisle, we could hear the cheers and laughter as Nana tossed rose petals. We also had each of our siblings perform a reading during the ceremony, including Maya Angelou’s poem “Touched by an Angel.” To make the ceremony even more personal, we flew our pastor from Tucson to officiate, featured a live harpist on the beach, had our photographers capture a group photo with all our guests immediately after the ceremony, and honored the African American tradition of jumping the broom.

Making Their Hotel Xcaret Wedding Truly Authentic with a Choreographed First Dance and Heartfelt Toasts

Our wedding felt like an authentic expression of us as a couple. The small details made all the difference. We are proud of how we pulled off our choreographed first dance. When Beyonce’s new album, Cowboy Carter, was released just a week before our wedding, we decided to change our first dance song to “II Most Wanted” because it resonated with us deeply as a same-sex couple. Three days before our wedding, we started choreographing a dance to the song and pulled off the performance on our wedding day. All of our siblings in attendance gave toasts during dinner—Haley’s three brothers and Alisha’s sister and brother. There was laughter at inside jokes, tears at heartfelt words, and so much love in the room.

 

Managing Stress and Distractions by Staying Focused on What Matters Most

As a same-sex couple, we faced challenges throughout our relationship, and we wanted our wedding to celebrate the joy and beauty of our love. From the supportive guests we invited to the meaningful readings in our ceremony, we carefully designed a genuinely celebratory day. We focused on keeping the main thing: our marriage and being present with each other. This required intentional choices and preparation, especially since a destination wedding can bring many distractions. By centering on the day’s purpose, we made planning decisions that helped us manage stress and stay focused on what mattered. We were determined not to let anything pull us away from the essence of why we were there.

Staying Under Budget by Making Smart Financial Choices

Our budget was $40,000, which included travel and a resort stay for us and our officiant. We splurged on our photography and videography. The wedding day goes by so fast. We wanted to capture all the memories to look back on and to see parts of the day we might have missed. We initially didn’t have videography in our budget but decided to add it a couple of months before the wedding because we heard it’s a top regret of many couples. We are so glad we did. One trick that helped us stay under budget was opening a travel credit card before we started wedding planning. We put all of our big purchases on the card and were able to use travel points to purchase our flights to Mexico, as well as the flight for our officiant. We also saved by making digital invitations, designing our signage and paper goods, having family and friends do our hair and makeup, and not having an official bridal party.

Enhancing the Experience with Resort Activities and Excursions for Guests at Their Hotel Xcaret Wedding

We are proud of creating a fantastic travel experience for our guests. We picked a beautiful all-inclusive resort, designed a complete travel guide that was sent to guests before arrival, passed out welcome bags with travel necessities, and planned fun events for everyone to enjoy (like a group excursion to Xplor Park for ziplining, a welcome cocktail party the night before the wedding, and a “Newlywed Fiesta” at Xoximilco the night after the wedding). Our guests enjoyed a wonderful vacation while attending our wedding and creating lasting memories with us. Many even joked that we should plan a trip to all return to the resort together in a year for our first anniversary.

Easy-to-Transport Handcrafted Favors and Accessories

We DIYed wedding elements that were easy to take with us on the airplane. Haley designed all of our paper goods on Canva, including our dinner menu, bar and guest book signage, wedding weekend itinerary, and a wedding day newspaper. We also had a friend calligraph our guests’ names on natural capiz shells for our seating chart and name tags, adding a tropical touch to our decor. Haley, who loves making jewelry as a hobby, spent the weeks leading up to the wedding handcrafting bracelets as gifts for each guest’s welcome bag. She also created her wedding earrings.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Arte Visual MF
Venue + Catering + Live Music  – Hotel Xcaret
Floral Design – Corazon Luxury Weddings
Officiant – Alison Harrington
DJ – EventPros Riviera Maya
Wedding Dresses – Maya Palace
Bridal Accessories – Lamnhi Bridal
Travel Agent – Hola Weddings

 

Congratulations to Alisha and Haley on their Hotel Xcaret wedding that was as chic as it was romantic. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Arte Visual MF for expertly capturing every breathtaking detail and cherished moment of our enchanting celebration. Be sure to check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Are you considering a destination wedding? It’s the perfect opportunity for a close-knit celebration with your favorite people and to create lasting memories. For an exceptional experience, partner with experienced vendors who can elevate your special day.

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This Paliku Gardens Wedding Offered Incredible Views of Hawaii

August 18, 2024 | justine

Tammy and Moonyoung dreamed of a cozy garden wedding with incredible views of the Koolau Mountains. They chose Hawaii to make their big day even more magical, surrounded by mountains and water. After months of planning, hunting for wedding ideas on Instagram, and creating a mood board, their vision came to life beautifully. Their Paliku Gardens wedding boasted a sunset-inspired color scheme, breathtaking flowers and decor, and views that left everyone in awe.

They couldn’t have picked a more stunning spot for their ceremony. The couple exchanged vows with the sea, mountains, and horizon, creating a perfect backdrop. The magic continued at their tented garden reception, where candlelit tables adorned with lush flowers and greenery set a romantic tone. The highlight of the evening was the beautiful floral and lighting installation above the dance floor, adding an extra touch of enchantment to their special day.

Their wedding day was like a fairy tale brought to life, full of breathtaking details that are sure to inspire your own special day. Thankfully every moment of this beautiful celebration was captured by the talented Junebug vendor Derek Wong. 

The Couple:

Tammy and Moonyoung

The Wedding:

Paliku Garden, Hawaii, United States

Cherishing a Quiet Moment Before their Paliku Gardens Wedding Ceremony

The most memorable part of the day was definitely the private first look that Moon and I shared at the Halekulani Hotel before heading to our ceremony and reception at Paliku Gardens at Kualoa Ranch. It was a special moment just for the two of us before the whirlwind of the day began. It allowed us to truly be present with one another, and it felt like we were the only ones in the world—except for our photographer, videographer, and wedding content creator, who were there to capture the moment.

How to Balance Joy and Budget on Your Wedding Day

Make decisions that will make you happy as a couple. Your wedding day is a time to celebrate your love and the beginning of the next chapter in your lives. Your guests are there to celebrate you, so do what brings you joy. Sticking to a budget can be challenging, but my one piece of advice is to splurge on things that will make an impact or are important to you. Create a prioritization list to help you decide where you might need to stay under budget so you can splurge on the things that matter most.

Choosing the Right Wedding Vendors by Trusting Their Gut

We’re most proud of two things when reflecting on our wedding and the entire planning process. First, we trusted our instincts and chose the right vendors with whom we connected and truly vibed. Living in Boston and planning a destination wedding in Hawaii meant we had to make the right choices with our vendors. With so much happening behind the scenes, their guidance and support made the 1.5 years of planning and the actual day feel seamless. Second, we’re glad we prioritized our happiness and made decisions based on what would bring us joy on our wedding day.

Why a Paliku Gardens Wedding Was the Perfect Choice for Them

When we decided on a destination wedding, there was no doubt we wanted it to be in Hawaii. After all, it was the first place we vacationed together. Initially, we explored resort and hotel options because we thought it would be easier to coordinate with fewer vendors, but it didn’t feel right for us. We ultimately chose Paliku Gardens at Kualoa Ranch (where many movies, like Jurassic Park, have been filmed) because it truly captured the essence of Hawaii. An outdoor wedding overlooking the Koolau Mountains—absolutely breathtaking. We couldn’t see the venue in person until our wedding day, and it was more than I could have ever imagined. It was definitely worth coordinating with multiple vendors to pull off such a beautiful and perfect wedding day.

The Creative Journey Behind Their DIY Paliku Gardens Wedding Signs

We DIYed our menu and small wedding signage, including the bar menu, table numbers, gifts and cards sign, guestbook sign, dinner menu, and table name cards. I invested in a Cricut machine during the wedding planning process because I’ve always had a creative side and knew I wanted to make something special for our big day. The signs were all acrylic, hand-painted with vinyl lettering that I cut using the Cricut machine.

Creating Instagram-Worthy Moments with a Bubble Gun

We brought a bubble gun machine for our grand entrance and used it on the dance floor throughout the night. It was a huge hit with our guests and created some truly amazing photos and videos for Instagram reels.

Honoring The Bride’s Father with a Special Pasta Dish During Their Paliku Gardens Wedding Reception

The wedding day menu featured a special off-menu item created by Memoirs to honor my late father. Since Moon and I love pasta, we knew we needed to include a pasta dish alongside the braised short rib and coconut macadamia nut-crusted catch of the day. We added garlic shrimp with linguine pasta to pay tribute to my father. The wedding day menu was family-style, reflecting our cultural tradition of sharing meals with our closest family and friends.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Derek Wong
Event Planning – Fred and Kate Events
Venue – Paliku Gardens
Floral Design – Marie Blooms Floral
Catering – Memoirs Catering
Cake – A Cake Life
Officiant – Grant Gomes
DJ – DJ Troy Michael
Videography – Redefined Weddings
Invitation Design – Momental Designs
Makeup + Hair Styling – Face Art Beauty
Wedding Dress – Ines by Ines Di Santo
Bridal Accessories – Kleinfelds +  L’elite Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – SuitSupply
Groomsmen’s Apparel – the Black Tux
Rings – Van Cleef & Arpels
Rentals – Aloha Artisans + Accel Rentals + Hawaii Fine Linen Rentals
Transportation – AMT Hawaii + Oahu Party Bus
Photo Lounge – Redefined Weddings
Wedding Content Creator – Iniki Leialoha of Leialohasocials
Gelato Cart – Via Gelato
Cold Sparks – Fro Baby Productions
Welcome + Seating Chart Sign – C’est Calligraphy

 

Congratulations to Tammy and Moonyoung on their Paliku Gardens wedding, which featured incredible views of Hawaii. A heartfelt thank you goes to Junebug vendor Derek Wong for capturing every stunning moment for us to enjoy. If this celebration has inspired you, don’t miss the chance to check out his profile in our directory of the world’s top wedding photographers.

This wedding truly highlights the impact a venue can have on the entire celebration. As you plan your special day, remember just how crucial the right venue is. If you’re looking for tips on finding the perfect location, be sure to check out our guide. Choosing the right backdrop is the first step in bringing your dream celebration to life.

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This Intimate Hacienda Sac Chich Wedding Was a Celebration of Cultures

August 6, 2024 | justine

Cass and Adam first thought about eloping because planning a big wedding was too stressful with many cultures and people involved. Adam is half Bengali and half Mexican, while Cass is half French and half Swiss. They met in Kenya when they were five and have since lived in many different countries. One side of their family wanted a big wedding with over 300 guests, while the other side preferred a small gathering of fewer than 50. Ultimately, they realized they wanted a big party where all their friends and family could come together. And they did just that! Their intimate Hacienda Sac Chich wedding weekend beautifully blended all cultures and became the joyous celebration they dreamed of.

Tucked away in the lush jungle of the Yucatán, with equal parts old-world charm and modern design, they couldn’t have chosen a more spectacular setting for their celebration. The 17th-century renovated henequen factory provided a magical backdrop for their ceremony, featuring a mix of cultural traditions. They had a traditional Bengali mirror ceremony and sealed a wine bottle with letters to open on their 5th anniversary, a French tradition. The garden reception that followed was equally enchanting, with lots of candles and long tables for conversation, all under glowing string lights.

We could go on and on, but we’ll let these images captured by Junebug member Alex Krotkov tell the complete story. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to create a unique celebration that honors your heritage, look no further.

The Couple:

Cass and Adam

The Wedding:

Hacienda Sac Chich, Yucatan, Mexico

A Intimate Hacienda Sac Chich Wedding Weekend of Cultural Harmony and Blending Traditions

We had a friends-only party on Thursday night so everyone could meet with friends from New Zealand, South Africa, Switzerland, France, and Denmark. On Friday, we hosted welcome drinks at a wine bar, wearing traditional Bengali outfits with Mariachi music, blending our cultures perfectly. Saturday was our wedding day, featuring a mix of cultural traditions. We had a conventional Bengali mirror ceremony where we looked at each other in a mirror and stated what we saw. We also sealed a wine bottle with letters to open on our 5th anniversary, a French tradition. Everything felt intimate. Adam and I took pictures with each guest, using them as the seating chart, and wrote personal notes for everyone. With 125 guests, the wedding felt incredibly intimate. The atmosphere featured lots of candles and long tables for conversation. During dinner, we played a French game where guests stood up if a statement applied to them, and we guessed what they had in common.

Embracing the Opportunity to Unite Loved Ones

You can do both, but if you’re ever in doubt about having a wedding—do it. You won’t regret it. We legally got married on our 10th anniversary in NYC on February 16th, 2023, with just the two of us. It felt like we had the elopement piece and didn’t need to plan a bigger wedding. But thank goodness we did! It’s the only time in your life when everyone unique to you will be in one place. As two people who have lived all over and have family worldwide, this was our one moment for all our loved ones to meet.

 

How They Made Each Guest Feel Valued at Their Intimate Hacienda Sac Chich Wedding

Our ability to make a 125-person wedding feel intimate was worth all the time and effort. Using pictures with each guest as the seating chart and writing a personal note to each guest made everyone feel special. We wanted to show appreciation to everyone who tried to celebrate with us. It was important to us that our guests felt our love for them. We wanted our wedding to be a close, heartfelt party with our friends and family, ensuring everyone felt welcome and valued.

The Story Behind Their Unique Intimate Hacienda Sac Chich Wedding Favors

We are very proud of our wedding favors, and many people don’t know the effort that went into them. Each guest received a little pouch and a travel tag. The pouches symbolized Bangladesh, and we filled them with French dragees (chocolate-covered almonds), a typical wedding treat in France. We initially ordered the pouches from Amazon but wanted a different quality, so Adam’s mom had them custom-made in Indonesia, choosing the fabric for each one. Cass’s mom brought the dragees and lavender from their garden in France. Both moms assembled the pouches with the dragees, lavender, and a little note when they arrived in Mexico, symbolizing the union of cultures. The travel tags, featuring our initials and the wedding date, were a keepsake to reflect our love for travel and to honor the journey everyone made to be with us on our special day.

How Adam’s Childhood Find Became a Sweet and Meaningful Wedding Surprise

Adam gave me a very significant ring that brought me to tears while I was getting ready (there are a few pictures from that moment). When he was eight years old, he found an engagement ring in the street in Vietnam. He kept it all these years, and I knew about it. I often asked him when I could have it, but he always said no. He had it appraised to ensure it was real diamonds, and on our wedding day, he gave it to my bridesmaids to present to me with a note: “I always knew I was going to give this ring to the woman I marry. I love you.”

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Alex Krotkov
Event Planning – YucatanLove
Venue – Hacienda Sac Chich
Floral Design – Harmonia Floral
Catering – Bravo Catering
Cake – Lavalles
DJ – DJ Chap
Live Music – Quo Vadis
Videography – One Cameraman
Makeup + Hair Styling – André
Wedding Dress – Liz Martinez Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Vintage India NYC + Suit Supply
Rentals – Minimal
Favors – April

 

Congratulations to Cass and Adam on their intimate Hacienda Sac Chich wedding, which was a celebration of cultures. A heartfelt thank you to Junebug vendor One Cameraman for expertly capturing every moment of their unforgettable celebration. For more beautiful celebrations like this, explore his profile in our directory of the best wedding videographers from around the world. We also have to thank Junebug vendors YucatanLove and Alex Krotkov for helping bring their vision to life. It’s proof that magic happens when Junebug vendors work together!

Their wedding shows how adding personal and creative touches can make your day unforgettable. If their special day has inspired you, but you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry! Our guide to planning a multicultural celebration is here to help, with plenty of ideas to get you started on your own extraordinary journey.

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