100 Layer Cake

A year before their wedding, Michele + Ryan purchased a home (a very cute one). To share all the hard work they’d put into it they decided to host, design, plan, and execute their own wedding. Here’s the smart part: They figured they should spend all the money they would have spent to throw a wedding elsewhere on things they could use well after the wedding and not just the day of. The bulk of the wedding cost went towards home improvements – paint, new doorknobs, light fixtures, furniture, a new deck, landscaping, and of course a few decorations. That’s not only sweet, but pretty genius, right?

On eBay, Michele’s dress was labeled as a “Vintage Mother of the Bride Dress” and was probably four sizes too big. That didn’t stop her from seeing that it was the dress. And, with a price tag of $76? Yes, please!

Farmer’s Markets are where it’s at for flowers. Michele and best friend, Kaye, walked away with a grocery cart filled to the brim with peonies, poppies and other colorful flowers for only $124! And, all those pretty plates, glasses and silverware? They were all collected from Goodwill and Value Village. The key to collecting such a mass amount is to start early! Like as soon as you’re engaged early. Then you can either keep them afterwards, or resell them!

These two obviously have a knack for hunting and buying such treasures, don’t they? Michele is an interior designer & stylist, so if you love all the unique pieces you see in their home, definitely check out what they’re hunting and selling at Reinspired Home.

Any advice for those planning now: TIME! Weddings take time, so much time. Don’t procrastinate. Get started right away and get help. No one can do this on their own. Also, just walk away. I’m the type of person that likes to be in charge of everything, but no one wants to deal with a crazy stressed out bride. If something is overwhelming you then take a break, get some air, or pass on the task to someone you trust. Everything seems like a big deal, but it really isn’t. The best moments from you wedding day are going to be the ones that aren’t planned. Enjoy them.

Thanks for the tips Michele! Congratulations!

Photography: Kristen Marie / Venue: private residence / Event design + planning: Bride /Flowers: MOH / Pie: family + friends / Hair and Makeup: Vera from Mode Organic Salon / Bride’s dress: vintage from eBay / Shoes: Goodwill / Hairpiece: birdcage veil purchased from bride’s seamstress / Bridesmaid dress:  Xtbay  / Groom + Groomsman suits:  Dutchess Clothier