Thinking about skipping the ballroom for a mountain? A wedding planner breaks down the harsh reality of National Park weddings, including exact links to Special Use Permits, how to dodge tourists, and what food actually works on the trail

Want a wedding appetizer that is fresh, affordable, and interactive? A DIY Caprese Salad Bar is the answer. In this guide, I share my shopping list for 50 guests, tips for keeping ingredients cool outdoors, and unique twists like adding stone fruit and citrus.

Looking for a wedding food station that feels like a warm hug? A Southern-style biscuit bar delivers comfort and creativity in equal measure. In this guide, I share how to style savory and sweet toppings, calculate quantities for your guest list, and even share my favorite homemade buttermilk biscuit recipe.

When I started planning my own wedding, I was stuck between two versions of myself: the Wedding Planner (who wanted everything to look high-end) and the Real-Life Bride (who looked at catering bills and wanted to panic).

When I started planning my own wedding, I was stuck between two versions of myself: the Wedding Planner (who wanted everything to look high-end) and the Real-Life Bride (who looked at catering bills and wanted to panic).

If you’re looking for a drink station that feels fresh, inclusive and fun, a kombucha mocktail bar might be the perfect choice. When I planned our summer micro‑wedding, we wanted a non‑alcoholic option that still felt celebratory.

Creating a tea station was one of the best decisions I made when planning our affordable wedding. Not only did it fit our rustic aesthetic, it gave guests a fun way to customize their drinks without relying on alcohol.

Growing up in Florida, I’d spent weekends at farmers markets and my grandfather’s garden, so the idea of a farm‑to‑table menu immediately appealed to me.

Planning our wedding on a tight budget taught me that great food and memorable experiences don’t require a giant price tag. Instead of choosing a typical buffet or dessert table, my husband and I set up a build‑your‑own smoothie bowl bar at our brunch reception.

When my partner and I decided to tie the knot, we knew we wanted a day that felt like us without spending a fortune. As someone who writes about affordable wedding venues and menus, I felt a bit of pressure to practice what I preach!

One decision many couples face early on is whether they should rent their decor or buy it outright. The answer isn’t the same for everyone. What it comes down to is storage, style, and your post-wedding plans.

Let’s take a close look at the pros and cons of renting vs. buying your wedding decor, including a side-by-side cost breakdown, hidden fees, and tips on deciding what’s worth investing in.

It’s not hard to plan an eco-conscious wedding menu that’s both beautiful and budget-friendly. Here’s everything you need to know.

Planning a wedding on a budget often requires creative solutions, especially when it comes to what meal you serve your guests. And if you’re on a budget, those costs can add up quickly! 

A potluck-style reception is one of the most heartfelt and practical ideas out there. Done right, it can feel like a true celebration of community, with guests contributing family recipes, regional favorites, or tried-and-true comfort foods. 

But while potlucks are cost-effective and cozy, they also come with their own set of logistics, etiquette questions, and organizational needs.

Here is everything you need to know to host a smooth, safe, and joy-filled potluck reception. We will cover everything from asking for contributions politely to keeping Aunt Lucy’s lasagna at the right temperature.

There’s something wonderfully efficient and intimate about hosting both your wedding ceremony and reception in the same room. It creates a cozy, familiar vibe that guests appreciate. It can be a savvy budget decision as well. 

But pulling off a smooth transformation from ceremony to reception in under 60 minutes? That takes strategy, teamwork, and a little creative magic. Here’s how to pull it off without stress, even when your timeframe is tight.

More and more couples are catching on to a well-kept industry secret: weekday weddings! Let’s break down the real reasons why a weekday wedding might just be the best decision.

Just when you think you’ve found the perfect venue… surprise! The final invoice has a few mysterious extra expenses you didn’t see coming.

So, before you sign on any dotted lines, you’ll need to know what’s what. Here are some sneaky wedding venue fees to look out for so you and your new spouse don’t suffer from a case of sticker shock on your special day! 

Planning a wedding in 2025 doesn’t have to drain your bank account. With inflation affecting day to day spending and couples seeking more personalized, sustainable experiences, budget-friendly weddings are more stylish than ever. 

So if you’re worried about committing to a venue, you’re in luck. Here’s an essential list of questions to ask before booking your wedding venue to help you make an informed and confident decision.

The charm of red, white, and blue can help you celebrate love, freedom, and the bride-to-be.

If you’re planning a bridal shower for a bestie who loves BBQs, summer sunshine, and all things patriotic, a 4th of July-themed bridal shower is the perfect way to go.

No matter if you're hosting a cozy afternoon gathering or a sparkler-lit evening affair, this guide will help you pull off an unforgettable celebration full of Americana vibes and plenty of heart.

Sri Lankan culture is best known for its rich blend of diverse influences. Because it is nestled in the Indian Ocean, you’ll notice hints of Buddhism, Indian, and Western traditions within Sri Lanka’s heritage.

This means weddings on the island nation of Sri Lanka are gorgeous, festive affairs that hold deep-rooted meaning for its citizens. 

So whether you or your spouse have Sri Lankan roots or you want to honor the country within your wedding ceremony, there are many special traditions and rituals you can use to strengthen your celebration.