Featured Bride Lauren W., Wedding Location: Wayzata, MN | Wedding Date: October 8, 2011

How to: A unique wedding on a budget.

Happy Thursday! Well, it has been quite the whirlwind so far in our wedding planning and I am proud to say we have MOST of it done and accomplished! So... this post will not be a list of things we've done or anything fun.. yet boring, like that! Instead, I want to dedicate this post to Etsy.com. Not only my personal favorite website, but the best website to get familiar with if you're planning a very personalized, budget-friendly wedding! So far, by using Etsy and all of the fabulous designers and shop owners, I have managed to save a boat-load while also adding special touches to our wedding! Here are a few photos of some unique items we will be having as a part of our big day.

Custom card box:

Birdhouse made by CleggFarmCreations on Etsy So... you're probably thinking, so what are these things for? Well... the birdhouse will be custom designed for us to look like the outside of our new home with our names and wedding date on it and will be used as our card box. This is part of another "project" we are putting into action currently as well, which I will discuss later. ;)

Bridal party gifts:

Handbag made by SweetPeaTotes on Etsy The handbag is a version of something special I will be customizing and ordering for some special ladies in my life (*have to keep it a bit of a secret, since I know they read my posts!). It will match with our wedding theme & colors and has room for even more customization as well! In bulk, these were much more cost-effective (not to mention, Eco-friendly) than other bridal party gift options.

Decorations:

Candles made by dchampin on Etsy Lastly, the candles will be ordered in bulk as well to use for some of our, "outdoors - brought - in" decor. These will add a fun and different element to our big day while staying classy and of course, matching easily with any colors. Etsy.com is an addiction! I actually have my own shop on Etsy that specializes in custom bridal headpieces. It's a great way to support local and national small businesses while saving a buck or two along the way! Think about these things when deciding on pieces of your big day! ...and if you want some inspiration, search their "Treasury" for some great ideas and visual stimulation! Happy Planning, Ladies & Gents! Cheers! Lauren Other Posts You'll Love: First Things First: Wedding Ceremony Site, Wedding Reception Site & Wedding Photographer Our newest Bride-to-Be: LC of LCPhotography Rachel & Josh : The Best Day Of Their Life

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