There were many things about this wedding shot by The Youngrens that I loved, but something that really caught my eye was that the bridesmaids carried balloons instead of bouquets.
Just a quirky element that made a cute little impact. I’m not sure what they did with the balloons during the ceremony, but in this particular shot, you can see them behind the bride and groom – a fun little touch!
Images courtesy of The Youngrens Photography
So, you’re having a romantic, vintage wedding, and you’re looking for a unique way to dress up your reception tables. Insert vintage books.
Classic Bride via Flights of Fancy
Not only is this an eco-friendly decoration option (no new materials are needed), but the books add a touch of whimsy and character. They make a great base for milk jars filled with wildflowers, or they are great by themselves. Plus, you can even use them in photos.
Jessica Claire used this idea in her last photography workshop, stacking Anthropologie coffee mugs on top. She even used old books for her very own wedding invitations (see the post here).
Image courtesy of Jessica Claire – Photographer
You can find old books at garage sales, book swaps, used book stores, eBay and the list goes on. They are pretty inexpensive, but can make a big impact.
I recently found this post on Style Me Pretty about a week ago and wanted to share. I’m not one for tradition or going over board on design elements, so I immediately fell in love with the classic simplicity of the decor at this wedding. Plus, the fact that they used virtually all white and candlelight just really makes the loft space come alive. Enjoy!
It’s good to note that most of the design elements used by the bride and groom can be easily recreated yourself (woot!). The table numbers can be printed at home and placed on cardstock. For the centerpieces, you would just need to find some tall vases and floating candles. And the candles along the aisle for their ceremony? That’s an easy one. Just stop by your local Hobby Lobby or Michael’s to buy large hurricane vases and pillar candles.
All photographs courtesy of Heather Waraska via Style Me Pretty.
The space just really comes to life, which I love. And, all it took was some simple modern decor.
So, I’m all about saving a few bucks. I mean, who isn’t, right? Yeah, I clip coupons, just like my mom does, but this post isn’t about being frugal. It’s about being resourceful.
While a big beautiful flower arrangement is visually appealing and gorgeous, it can also be VERY expensive. And, for any brides out there looking to save a few bucks on centerpieces, here are a few tips.
1. If you absolutely have to have floral centerpieces because you have dreamt of it since you were two, then I suggest making sure you pick flowers that are in season. If you’re having a November wedding, picking ranunculas is not really an option, since they tend to be in season February thru May (Yes, this breaks my heart too, as my wedding is in September. Don’t get me started). You can absolutely find a florist who will order them for you, but they could easily be at least 1 1/2 times more expensive than they normally are.
2. Use fake flowers (gasp!). Yes, you heard me. There are some really realistic fake florals out there. If you plan on submerging calla lilies in a tall cylindrical vase, might I suggest you use fake ones? Although callas are easy to shape, they are also an expensive flower, so opt for the fake version. You can also use fake flowers for the guys bouts, which are actually very easy to make!
3. Choose centerpieces without flowers. This can be achieved by hanging things from the ceiling at various heights over the tables (if you are inside), using fresh produce and candles.
4. If you’re not much of a big wedding cake person, or you want a candy/dessert buffet, why not have different cakes/candies/sweets in the center of the tables? This way your guests can actually enjoy your centerpieces! Plus, it will get your guests moving around after dinner to find a slice of cake in a flavor they like.
And, for the record, the FI and I will not have floral centerpieces. We have opted for something fun and modern, and since we aren’t huge flower people, it wasn’t all that important to us. If you want tips or ideas on different non-floral centerpieces that can be budget friendly, shoot me a message.
Don’t forget, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make your wedding fabulous!
Really, this post can fit under my other posting series “Wedding Day Tips” and “DIY,” too!
I big puffy heart the idea of using a chandelier outside for a wedding. It adds an element of fantasy, romanticism and a touch of class. Plus, it’s just plain fun.
