Did you do any DIY Projects or create any handmade items for your wedding?
My dad and I run a small business where we make wooden projects. He made flower frame boxes that greeted our guests, the table number display and boxes with everyone’s name on them.
What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?
The design seamlessly blended elegance with meaningful personal touches, capturing the couple’s shared passions. Drawing inspiration from the beach’s natural beauty, the vastness of the night sky, and the groom’s love for STEM and his career in aerospace – the decor incorporated soft blues, whites, and sandy tones alongside subtle aerospace themes.
Lush greenery and delicate blooms added a fresh, organic feel; while starry accents, celestial lighting, and metallic details evoked a modern, ethereal atmosphere. The thoughtful integration of aerospace-inspired elements celebrated the couple’s story, creating a welcoming and intimate ambience that reflected their unique journey together.
What is the most memorable moment of your day?
I secretly arranged for a launch countdown to play as I walked down the aisle, which was a nod to the groom’s background in aerospace. Later, a real rocket launch over the venue created a breathtaking and unexpected moment, perfectly ending the night.
What was the biggest thing you did to save money?
The biggest thing we did to save money was definitely negotiating with the larger companies for a better rate and services where we could offer them. I also looked for references to get the best price, not just vendors who pay to be visible on wedding sites.
We also went with floral rentals, and that cut our expense by almost $15,000. It was important for us to pick a venue that was already beautiful so we didn’t have to purchase more flowers and rentals to decorate the reception venue.
What was your biggest splurge?
It was definitely the venue, but we would have spent more because we loved the place, food, and service. The staff treated us like family.
What was your favorite detail?
The horse drawn carriage. It was a beautiful perk from the venue and it made it feel like we spent so much more than we did.
What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?
Look far and wide for prices. Don’t be afraid to ask for a better price, but also respect their prices as their business is their livelihood.
Definitely be open to rentals, especially for flowers, as it will cut costs by a third.
Share any additional details you’d like us to know about your event:
When the groom joined the STEM Coalition, a nonprofit inspiring kids in science, the bride wrote a children’s story to help him explain the “Space Force.” The story eventually became a book, introduced as a wedding favor. The main character, uncannily resembling the groom, delighted guests.
When a bridesmaid couldn’t attend due to postpartum recovery, a friend seamlessly stepped in. She found a matching dress, shoes, and accessories just in time. Her dedication and love were a touching gift to the bride.
