When it comes to designing weddings, the biggest challenge I’ve come across as a wedding designer is balancing budget concerns with desires for unique expression. Not all of us have the resources to throw lavish events. But, with a little creativity and some finesse (which you all possess), designing the look and feel of your reception is as simple as identifying what appeals to you as a couple.
For today’s couples, there are an overwhelming number of choices when it comes to decorating their reception. One search online will yield a seemingly countless number of options that the couple can choose from. However, just because there is so much variety out there doesn’t mean you need to do any of it, especially if these choices don’t represent you or your partner.
Thinking Outside the (Favor) Box
The most memorable receptions I’ve attended were the ones that had the DIY feel behind it. These receptions were steeped with homemade touches that bespoke of the couple’s personal style.
Because handmade weddings infuse the personalities of the couple in imaginative ways, the atmosphere is more intimate, which creates a more inviting environment for family and friends celebrating your marriage.
So how do you create a look that is reflects your style and at the same time doesn’t break the bank? While there is no hard and fast rule, there are a few simple guidelines that will make your wedding a true celebration of you.
Keep it Simple
Whether it is a certain color or a theme, having one or two elements that are repeated throughout will create a wonderful stage in the reception area.
Light the Way
Lanterns provide excellent mood lighting and create an entirely different feel depending on the type used.
Perform Double- (or Even Triple-) Duty
Add in elements that can be used for more than one thing. Fan programs will keep the guests cool and informed. Potted plants double as aisle liners and table décor, and can be given to guests as favors.
Go Au Naturel
Fruits, pebbles and other natural elements make wonderful settings and add to the personalized, handmade feel of your reception.
Be Your Own Florist
Arrange your own flowers to suit your tastes. Doing what works for you puts a custom-made stamp on your festivity.
Reduce, Reuse, Rejoice!
Celebrate in an eco-friendly way by collecting tins and jars for floral arrangements and guest favors. Choose invitations that are made of recycled paper. Consider purchasing a vintage wedding dress (or prom dress)!
By keeping these simple guidelines in mind, you can make certain that your wedding shines with uniqueness without breaking the bank. Best of all, by consciously incorporating these aspects into your celebration, you will ensure that handmade weddings become a long-standing tradition, one that you and your guests will truly enjoy.
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Sign in to add your ownPoPkO says:
i love your article, thanks for sharing these great ideas!
16 years ago
smashing says:
cool article! is that first pic of the cake topper by nicole clark? http://www.etsy.com/shop_sold.php?user_id=5002527 she makes the coolest personalized little people and dogs for cakes :)
16 years ago
kimmchi says:
coool fubabee great article!
16 years ago
CourtneyWatson says:
Thank you so much for this! I am planning my own "handmade wedding" and love the project ideas. I am thinking of doing bouquets of flowers made from ribbon/fabric scraps and knitted flower boutennieres (sp?). The possibilities are endless!
16 years ago
UpfromtheAshes says:
Great article! If I ever get around to getting married, I am definitely going handmade!
16 years ago
ragqueen says:
GREAT Article!!!!! Way to go!
16 years ago
papermenagerie says:
Thanks for using the pic of the flowers my cousin designed! I'm just sad that the only photo I have is of two bouquets in an ice bucket. They were so lovely! I guess the lesson is that you *do* want to make a list of "must-take" photos.
16 years ago
jenspeaks says:
Great tips - I wish I had the Etsy resource when we were planning my wedding three years ago! Thanks for including my crystal bridal bouquets in your treasury at the bottom.
16 years ago
KisforCalligraphy says:
Amen Sister! These are rules to live by!
16 years ago
waisze says:
Great tips. I couldn't have written it better. Thnx for including my tin =)
16 years ago
nicherndesigns says:
i totally had no idea our zen garden was on here!!! if anyone has questions on how it was done, feel free to convo me! :)
15 years ago
Lara Harris from studiolara316 says:
so many creative ideas!
11 years ago
Stephen Bushnik from NutshellCards says:
If your full of sweet & light Give everyone a love bite. Nutshell Cards are designed with love in mind! We plant the seeds for a whole new relationship! Our rhyming bundles of love let you create a "love day" for someone special. These pillow-sized cards can be left in clever places throughout the day to share your thoughts & show you love....lots! (IN LOVE Couples bundle) Makes a perfect gift favour, couples will actually USE! Thank the wedding party with a card at their chair....before they get there! (Wedding Party Bundle) Romance your partner with some wedding play on your wedding day! (Wedding Day Couples Bundle) Happy people, happy thoughts! Nutshell hits the happy spots!"
11 years ago
creations4brides from creations4brides says:
Natural elements and bringing in your personal ideas. It's your special day!
11 years ago
Linda Hunt says:
Very encouraging. I am the "wedding planner/coordinator/DIY decorator for a young lady I claim as my grandchild. She wants kind of a rustic, vintage, shabby cic look. Lots of burlap, jute, ivory lace, baby's breath. Mason jars, etc. it should be quite the challenge but I'm wicked with a hot glue gin. Thanks for the tips.
10 years ago