Fun Backyard DIY Summer Wedding

The most important thing on Lauren and Dan's wedding day was to have fun with their family and friends - and they made it happen one DIY project at a time.  Everyone in the bridal party and family had a hand in putting together this fabulous tented backyard affair.  The bride's father - a wood shop teacher - made loads of details and props for the wedding, bridesmaids cut table runners, groomsmen constructed a catapult to launch the bridal bouquet, and the moms washed out pickle and salsa jars that would hold votives on the couple's big day.  Between the activities leading up to this wedding and the ceremony and reception themselves, the bride and groom are sure to remember this day for years to come.  We can't thank Something Blue Wedding Photography enough for sharing this real wedding with us.

The groomsmen put together this awesome catapult to launch the bridal bouquet.  Guests wrote their names on flags and stuck them in the yard to see who's guess is closest.  Talk about a fun wedding game! 

Photographer: Something Blue Wedding Photography / Event Designer: A Touch of Elegance LLC / Favors and Gifts: Apex Bee Company / Invitation Designer: David's Bridal / Tent Rental: Ocean Tents & Party Rentals / Floral Designer: Reynolds Garden Shop / Caterer: Sweet Jenny's / Signage: Sweet NC Collective

Laid Back Beachside Florida Wedding

When Melissa from Melissa Serra Photography sent us this gorgeous Florida wedding, we breathed a sigh of relief.  The white sand, the blue water, we can almost feel the warm ocean air and saltwater spray.  Sigh.  There is absolutely nothing better than the relaxed island feel of a beachside wedding.

Kira and Cory were lucky enough to wed among the stunning Florida beaches along with their closest family and friends.  Their relaxed reception was held in the beautiful backyard of Kira's parents family home. Nearly everything was handmade by the bride and groom.  From the bouquets to the reception decor even down to the gorgeous bamboo wedding arbor where they said their vows.  Kira's bouquet was handmade by her mother and included antique brooches that held special meaning to her.  From the boho styling to the casual decor, everything about this wedding has us completely smitten.

 

Simple yet elegant, this gorgeous bamboo arbor was handmade by the bride and groom's family and looked simply stunning blowing in the wind at their beachside ceremony.

 

This tiki bar with hand written chalkboard menu screams island living.  Such a great way to add an effortless, relaxed feel to a beach wedding.

Photography: Melissa Serra Photography / Caterer: The Chef's Table / Decorations and Bouquets: Handmade by the Bride and Groom

DIY Doughnut Bar Real Wedding

Ana and Cliff were married on a gorgeous April day in Michigan.  Their outdoor wedding was held at the bride's parents' home which was a bit nerve wracking due to the crazy weather mother nature was laying down on Michigan the week before.  (If you know April in the Midwest, than enough said). But the weather pulled through and this outdoor DIY wedding was nothing short of spectacular.  You are not going to believe the amazing details put together by the bride and groom.  Hint: A mountain of Krispy Kreme doughnuts and a popcorn bar may make an appearance.  Of course all of this would not have been possible without the mad skills of Brandon Shafer Photography who helped bring it all to life.  Thanks for sharing!

The groom was dressed in casual denim and vintage tweed with a matching Polo bow tie.  Which was completely fitting for Cliff since he runs his own business selling unique vintage suits.  In fact, each groomsman rocked a different style vintage suit and shoes.  The biggest shocker yet...the men picked up all their attire for a steal at thrift stores and off Ebay.  Proof you can look dapper on a budget.

Ana and Cliff did a first look to share a special moment just between the two of them.  There is nothing more pure and romantic than when a bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day.  Which makes this sweet moment just between the bride and groom even that more special.  And we have to say a "first look" before the ceremony is also a great way to shake off some wedding day jitters.

Words cannot convey how in love we are with this guest book sign in area.  Asking guests to mark their favorite passage in your Bible is such a sweet idea for any Christian wedding.  How amazing would it be (even years after) to look back through your Bible to see what friends and family have highlighted for you.  Definitely a sentiment worth cherishing.

This Krispy Kreme doughnut bar is to die for! Doesn't it make your mouth water and your eye's glaze over in delight (pun intended).  Set out some personalized goodie bags for guests to fill up and take home as late night treats.

As if the doughnut bar wasn't enough! A popcorn bar complete with M&M's, roasted peanuts, and other delicious toppings also greeted guests.  The best of both worlds; sweet and savory to satisfy everyone's palette.  What an adorable addition to an absolutely perfect DIY wedding.

Photography: Brandon Shafer Photography / Ceremony Venue: Kentwood Community Church / Reception Venue: Bride's Parents' Home / DJ: Celebration Entertainment / Caterer: Adeline Leigh Catering / Tuxedos: Thrift Stores and Ebay / Wedding Dress: Bridal Gallery / Makeup: Brandis Baughman / Hair: Cody Fugate / Groom's Shoes: Thrift Store / Bride's Shoes: Davids Bridal