Gorgeous wedding... on a budget!

My very dear friends Jeff and Elizabeth got married this weekend in Chicago.  They really wanted to do a fun yet elegant wedding on a budget.  With their permission, I am posting a few of my own pictures as well as the basic budget for some of the items they purchased.  This just proves that you can splurge in the areas you want to, save in other areas, and create the perfect wedding!

Other than it being a little chilly and overcast for a June wedding, everything was fantastic.  The couple really infused their personality into the celebration and I think all the guests really appreciated that.  We felt like one big happy family of 80.

I promise to post some professional pictures of this wedding when I can... I was too busy having fun to take many pictures myself!  Thank you to Jeff and Elizabeth for inviting us, we had a blast!!!  ♥Shelly

 

Along the river

Ceremony location

 

Handsome best men

 

Beautiful ladies of honor

 

The happy couple

 

Congratulating the bride and groom

 

The restaurant

My husband and I enjoying ourselves

You know I love candy....

Here is the budget run down from the bride:
Nordstrom "reception" dress: $178
Forever 21 headband: $7
Shoes: $200 (bling)
Vintage watch from Etsy: $12
Earrings: borrowed
State park ceremony venue: FREE
Friend as officiant: FREE
Trumpet player: $100
iPod playlist during dinner: FREE
Flowers: $800 (they still look GREAT after two days)
Home made invitations, escort cards, table numbers and programs: $300
Horse carriage ride for bride and groom: $150
Candy table (including jars, scoops and bags): $200
Snapfish guest book: $20
Dinner/bar: splurge......it was all about the food :)  ***
After party: cash bar at a venue with a free jazz ensemble

Attendance: 80

***The bride didn't disclose the amount spent on food and alcohol at the reception, but this restaurant has 4 course dinner options for as low as $35 per person.  Buffet options are even more affordable.