Katie wrote me looking for some inspiration for her Northern California wedding. It will be at her parents’ house, with the ceremony in a pecan orchard, and the reception on the backyard lawn. The challenge for this board was that I wanted to stick with ideas that Katie could do herself, and that would fit within her budget. Her fiance likes the idea of a kind of country wedding, and Katie wants things to be more elegant, with what she called a gypsy/French aesthetic. The way I imagine this event, then, is with single large blooms for the bouquets (I used hydrangea, but a single peony or magnolia would work well, too). Buying flowers that are in season will take down the cost considerably. I would also float candles in the pool, because what is more romantic than that! I like the idea of a family style meal, with large platters of food on every table that are passed and shared, as well as several bottles of wine per table and a dessert buffet (baked goods are something that everyone can contribute). Also, it’s amazing what kinds of beautiful white dresses you can find that are significantly lower-priced than bridal gowns. The one I used in this board is only $360 by BCBG, and I think it works well with the feel of this event. Best of luck, Katie! I hope this board gives you some ideas.

Mood: country-gypsy-French backyard
Palette: mixed pastel

{click image to enlarge}

Credits: #94 Katie’s DIY Wedding

Top row from left: BCBG dress from Nordstrom, Belathee photo via Brooklyn Bride, image from Portovert, antique hydrangeas
Row 2: antique hydrangeas, ribbon mobile via {frolic}, tree peonies, candlelit pool
Row 3: mixed fabrics via Design Sponge, flowers via Brooklyn Bride, programs from MS
Row 4: buffet from Brides, bouquet from MS, cake table via Perfect Bound