Page 136 – Love & Lavender

Turquoise and Poppy Red Wedding at Texas Ranch

This turquoise and red wedding is full of absolutely stunning details, including one of our favorite color schemes! Katherine O’Brien did such a wonderful job capturing Cindy and Mario’s big day.

Long roadway leading to wedding venue - Texas Old Town

The venue was a picturesque property called Texas Old Town.

direction sign to wedding site; pathway to seating area

flower arrangement; bird's nest displays

Rosehip Flora did an amazing job with the bouquets and boutonnieres, as well as the bird’s nest displays that decorated the ceremony.

bride's red bouquet; groom's red tie and red boutonniere

bride's red heels with accordian style bows; red flower and turquoise succulent

We are total suckers for anything with succulents, and we especially love the contrast of the bright red flowers with them!

man wearing Jewish Kippah; bridesmaid in turquoise dress with red sash

bride and groom under chuppah at wedding ceremony

The chuppah was made from Cindy’s mother’s wedding veil, which made it extra special.

bride and groom sharing first kiss under chuppah

bride and groom in open field of the Ranch

bride and groom sharing intimate moments

bouquet of red tulips and assorted other red flowers

red flowers in vases and little bird cage nests

The birds and red flower theme carried over into the reception centerpieces, with mason jars full of lovely arrangements and more adorable little bird’s nests.

little pecan pie favors tied with red ribbon

The escort cards were miniature pecan pies with the guests names and table assignments tied to them. Vintage alphabet cards in turquoise frames designated the tables.

vintage turquoise frames with alphabet cards for reception tables

photobooth picture displaying a message in a turqouise frame

Photobooths always add so much extra pizazz (especially ones with silly props). It’s fun to see the guests’ personalities come out!

photobooth shot of bride and groom announcing "husband and wife"

vintage convertible wisking bride and groom away

Thanks Katherine for letting us feature this lovely wedding! There are many more photos on her blog, so click here if you want to see more!

32 Honeymoon Outfit Packing Essentials: Item Ideas for a Romantic Getaway

In the case of wedding festivities, the traditional saying ‘the calm before the storm’ is often quite the opposite! Your actual wedding may feel a bit stormy, in the sense of planning every detail and making sure things go smoothly.

The good news: you have the calm part to look forward to by taking a relaxing honeymoon with your new spouse.

This article is about making it more stress free when planning your amazing honeymoon outfits.

Whether you’re a detail-oriented type of guy or gal, or someone who leaves everything to the last minute, our essential guide is sure to have you on the airplane with minimal time and effort. So relax, take a big exhale, and get ready for a romantic and peaceful honeymoon with your new spouse.

Amp up the Honeymoon Romance

After the positive and negative “stress” of a wedding, couples need some quiet downtime as newlyweds. Although my husband and I enjoy all types of travel, for our honeymoon we knew that we wanted to just relax and have nothing to worry about. We selected an all-inclusive package at a resort in Tahiti, where we planned to swim up to bars, sip Margaritas, and float in clear turquoise waters.

Packing for Tropical Climates

The advantage to tropical climate packing is that you don’t have all the bulk and weight, since you won’t be needing many warm sweaters, coats, or boots. Although you will have more space, packing can become a bit of an art form since you’ll want to stay under the standard weight requirement (see our tip below on carry-ons).

The great news?

With a few key versatile pieces you can have dozens of outfit options and everything you need – whether you’ve got a week or a month to honeymoon!

Other Types of Honeymoons

If you’ve decided on another type of honeymoon don’t panic! We’ve got a comprehensive guide to packing for all types of honeymoons here. Alright, let’s get down to business. You bought your tickets, chose your accommodation and are setting your mind into honeymoon-mode.

Tip: if you haven’t finished the planning we shopped around several sites but mainly used Expedia and Hotels.com to book some amazing deals.

Make a Packing List

My suggestion is to grab a pen and blank piece of paper while you read this article. Yes, you can do this step now even if your honeymoon is months away.

Make a numbered list of what you will pack, with some ideas from this guide along with other packing guides. It will become clear what you already have and what you need to acquire.

There may be some items that you want to order online that could take from a few days to a couple of weeks to arrive. We hear you asking, “But, why pack super early when I may use certain items before I go, especially at the wedding?”

This list doesn’t mean you have to put anything in a suitcase, but you’ll leave yourself a lot more prep time and far less stress at wedding time if you only need to gather and place in the bag rather than have to choose! We want to make this list as practical as possible, not only to save you time and money, but to make sure you have essential items that you will use over and over again.

Of all things, we know firsthand the investment that is made in “everything wedding,” and it only makes sense you get the most bang for your buck. I like to own carefully selected items that have style, value, and function all in one. Quality may come at a higher price initially, but the value provided over the years does payoff. You will notice several items in our list that can be re-used from your wedding for your honeymoon.

Baggage: Go Small or Stay Home

We’re all about the carry-on bags. Nowadays, with airlines charging expensive fees for bags and extra weight, and the common occurrence of missing luggage, save yourself the potential trouble!

If you’re in the market for some amazing new travel gear or want to put it on your registry, we’ve done all the research and compiled our favorite luggage here. Honestly, among bigger ticket purchases like a mattresse or home coffee machine, luggage is a place where a little extra investment goes a long way.

Without further a-do, here’s our carefully selected, head-to-toe, carry-on sized list that will have you looking smokin’ hot for all of those Insta shots … as well as for your new spouse!

Honeymoon Outfit Accessories

1) A Squishy Straw Fedora

by BP.

Hats can be the type of accessory whose trend changes almost every season, with one exception: the fedora!

Honeymoon outfit essentials – straw Fedora hat

Fedoras tend to be more classic and last style-wise, not making you look so last year. Better yet, some fedoras such as the one pictured are squishable, meaning you can save yourself the trouble of wearing it on the plane or it coming out of your suitcase totally warped.

Come on’ people – a squishee hat!

I bought this hat as an investment piece – it’s the only one I own – and trust me, it has already paid for itself several times over!

2) A Big Floppy Hat

by LuckTen

There’s nothing that shouts I’m on holiday and ready to lounge in the sun with a glass of fizz louder than a big, floppy hat.

Whether you’re picnicking, adventuring or honeymooning poolside, an oversized hat will keep you cool while making you feel like an international woman of mystery. Can you picture yourself walking along the surf, dangling your hat in one hand and holding on to your hubby with the other?

Do yourself a favor and grab a floppy hat for that snapshot moment!

3) Folding Wayfarer Sunglasses

by Ray-Ban

Continuing on the theme of accessories that tend to stay on trend, enter RayBan Folding Wayfarer sunglasses. With a tiny and functional twist on the iconic Wayfarer, these beauties are an investment piece for so many reasons. Great eye protection, a style that flatters just about everyone, and particularly great for travel since they fold up to a tiny palm-sized case.

No products found.

For more on this particular pair check out our review here.

4) Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet

by Street Level

Reversible Faux Leather Tote & Wristlet Street Level

I love a simple, classic over-sized purse when I travel. This way, I have extra space to carry a small laptop or tablet, scarf or sweater, snacks, phone and earbuds, and any other essential items for the plane. Plus, if I’ve stuffed my carry-on, there’s usually room in my large purse for any extra necessities.

Stylish, yet functional. You’ll notice this theme will become a pattern. I recommend this one by Street Level for the following three reasons.

It is reversible for two-looks-in-one
It comes with a wristlet to keep cards and phones secure
Although it looks like leather, it’s vegan so no animals were hurt in its production!

5) Crossbody Day Bag

by Baggallini

Got a full on, super fun itinerary planned for your honeymoon celebrations? Get prepped with a safe, secure and easy to carry crossbody bag to store all your essentials.

Ok, this isn’t what you want to wearing when you’re out for romantic cocktails. It IS a bag that’s going to come in really handy when you’re exploring historical highlights or bustling markets. Keep all your essentials tucked away inside and you’ll be able to keep your mind where it belongs – on the fun new things you’re experiencing together.

Honeymoon Jewelry

I pondered this one for a while, but realized that jewelry is one thing I love to collect as a souvenir. In Tahiti, of course, I bought pearls. Nowadays I don’t like traveling with expensive items so I stick with my wedding band/engagement ring and a simple pair of inexpensive earrings. The rest I pick up to take home with me as a memory!

Honeymoon Outfit Tops

6) Leather Moto Jacket

by Madewell

You might be wondering why on earth one would bring a jacket to a place where you’re going to be soaking up the sun and cooling off in the ocean. Well, there are bound to be moments where it gets a bit on the cooler side.

A moto or denim jacket is a stylish yet functional piece. It will go with jeans, leggings and even over a maxi dress at night. This is a standard part of my in-transit outfit since I always feel like an icicle on an airplane.

7) Cozy Cardigan

by UGG

Although you may be honeymooning in a tropical climate, it can really cool off at night. And besides a jacket, you’ll want to have a couple of warm items for air-conditioning. This cardigan by UGG is the ultimate in cozy.

8) Active Wear Tee

by Zella

Pack at least two t-shirts in your suitcase, among your long-sleeves and tanks. Choose one that can work for a variety of purposes. I love this Zella tee because it can be used for day-to-day outfits and it’s also an activewear item for yoga classes or scenic hikes.

9) Tank & T-Shirts

by BeforeTheIDos

A tank top is probably the one item besides a swimsuit (and underwear obviously) that I use on a daily basis while on vacation. Tank tops are lightweight and easy to pack, wash, and dry. So you can afford to take four of them along no problem!

I always take tanks that are loose, soft and comfortable yet stylish. This cute custom tank by Before The I Dos keeps it beachy and fun with the custom detail. Again, think versatile. A tank like this can be easily layered under a moto jacket with jeans/leggings or on its own with cutoffs over a bikini. Check out this Honeymoon Vibes t-shirt. It’s pretty cute too!

Honeymoon Swimsuits

Even though one swimsuit would probably suffice, I’m a two to three swimsuit packer. I figure, why not take a few options – two bikinis (sporty and stylish), and one to two one-pieces. Like the tanks, they weigh almost nothing and are tiny to roll up. Plus, if you’re headed to a beach resort, you can be sure this will basically be your uniform for the week.

10) High Waist Vintage Style One-Piece

by Swimsuits for All

high wasted swim suit for honeymoon essentials

Retro swimwear is back in a big way. Not only are one-pieces and bodysuits having a big moment, but high-waisted, full coverage suits are everywhere. I adore this suit by Swimsuits for All, reminiscent of the days of Marilyn Monroe. Flattering, sexy and right on trend, this is going to look great in photos.

11) Honeymoon Worthy One-Piece

by Becca

White onepiece bathingsuit – honeymoon essential

If you’re not into the retro or super trendy stuff, this one-piece is an amazing alternative that channels “Just Married” vibes. An ultra-feminine, romantic, lace print with an underwire to keep you feeling supported and gives off a flattering look whether you’re curvy or boy-shaped.

A great bonus is that this can double as a bodysuit in an outfit under cutoffs or jeans.

12) String Bikini

by J. Crew

What’s a beach holiday without at least one show off piece of swimwear? This will take up next to no room in your luggage, but it will make a big impact on the beach. Feel flirty and fun in a sweet, string bikini.

13) A Bathing Suit Cover-up

by VIX SWIMWEAR

If your swimwear will be on the skimpy side, it’s always a good idea to pack a cool cover up. Something elegant like this red number is perfect for slipping on after a dip in the pool and will have you feeling cocktail-ready in no time.

A kaftan is another no fuss option if you don’t want to muss your hair.

Honeymoon Dresses

14) A Maxi Dress

by LOVEAPPELLA

A maxi dress is still an essential vacation item in my mind. The maxi has been around for a while and isn’t going anywhere trend-wise. It’s the perfect item to have on hand for romantic dinners, elegant photos, and as an added bonus, it’s loose, cool and comfy.

I love the simplicity and ease of this maxi dress that comes in five colors and will still be totally on trend this time next year.

A Convertible Dress

by Etsy: FashionDesignsStore

Alright, if there’s one piece that you invest in from this post, I’m putting in a plug right now for this Convertible Wrap Dress. Over 8 different looks in one dress! That’s 8 days of your vacation you can have a different outfit while packing ONE thing!!

15) A Romper

by Fraiche by J

Set off for long walks or shopping trips feeling footloose and fancy free in a super stylish romper. It’s the perfect daywear, and this particular little number is smart enough for dinner too. Looks perfect with strappy sandals or colourful sneakers and will help you stay chill even on the hottest days.

16) A Going Out for Dinner Dress

by Dress the Population

You’ll want to pack at least one fancy dinner dress, too. This gorgeous plunge-neck creation is a brilliant choice and it comes in your choice of eight colors. Some seriously timeless styling means it won’t be dating any time soon.

Honeymoon Lingerie & PJs

17) Sweetheart Robe

by Silkandmore

Here’s the perfect chance to get even more use out of some of your wedding purchases. If you wore a robe or kimono for wedding day morning makeup/hair preparations, pack it. I can guarantee you’ll use it on your honeymoon too.

Whether you want to layer it over some gorgeous lingerie, pull it on after the shower, or wear it as a bikini coverup, it will come in handy. Plus, chances are it is made out of lightweight, very packing-friendly fabric like this super soft and silky robe by Silkandmore.

18) Lingerie

by Flora Nikrooz

Chemise lingerie for honeymoon outfit essentials

Although lingerie isn’t a heavy item to pack, I don’t think it’s necessary to go totally overboard. One or two cute, sexy pieces will work, along with a few pairs of nice underwear and bras.

I bought one of these babydolls and get a surprising amount of wear out of it, even outside of vacation and special occasions. It’s comfortable, cool on hot summer nights, and as a bonus, makes you feel super sexy when you slip it on.

19) Basic PJ Set

by Eberjey

Eberjey Basic Pajama Set for Honeymooning

A cute little PJ set like this one from Eberjey makes me feel flirty, fun, and oh-so-relaxed. It’s soft and comfy and ideal for lounging around, yet also flattering enough to make sure you’ll still feel the honeymoon vibes.

20) Underwear

by Amazon

My sister-in-law first told me about these several years ago and hyped them up so much I had to check them out. Let me just say, they did not disappoint! If you’re hesitant about the price, I get it. However, let me tell you these were a game-changer. They are the only underwear I’ve worn ever since I put them on the first time. They have lasted in the washer (I’ve also put them through the dryer by accident on many occasions), through intense workouts, and I love the fact that they are uber-comfy while also being sexy.

An added bonus is that you can match them with a lacy bra for double-duty as lingerie. Thongs aren’t your thing? Their Vikini style and Boy Shorts will equally rock your world.

21) Drawstring Linen Pants

by Free People

Although technically these should go under the pant category, I’m going to include them here because this is another double-duty item. These linen pants are pajama worthy with a drawstring and super lightweight fabric, yet totally acceptable as pants during the day.

Pull them on over your swimsuit as you return from the pool or beach and they’ll dry in no time.

Honeymoon Bottoms

22) Cuttoff Denim Shorts

by 501

Remember your absolute favorite, worn-to-death, pair of Levi’s 501s?

Well, they are still every bit as good now as they were back in the day. I suggest taking at least one pair of denim shorts, they’ll go with every one of your tops, and they are the perfect thing to pull on over your swimsuit. Really, what can beat a classic pair of Levis?

If you’ve never owned a pair, it’s time you entered the world of 501s. Enough said.

23) The Ankle Skinny Jeans

by Current/Elliott

Normally I wouldn’t recommend taking many (if any) pairs of jeans since they can be bulky and heavy. BUT, I’m going to make an exception because I have often worn one pair on the plane in transit. That is … if you plan to forgo the just married matching honeymoon outfits!

These are my go-to pair for several reasons.

Current/Elliot has been dominating the denim scene in recent years with their looks-good-on everyone cuts.
They’re more like jeggings – plenty stretchy and totally comfy, and of course easy to pack when rolled.
Not only do they feel amazing they look even more amazing.

A bit on the pricier side. Worth it? Totally.

24) High Waist Moto Legging

by ALO

Hands down, I recommend packing at least one pair of leggings. They are easy and light to pack, and if you play your cards right you can use them for dressing up AND being active. These Moto leggings by Alo are the perfect example. They have details that make them look super dressy under a tunic with heels, but are also made for playing sports and practicing yoga.

Honeymoon Footwear

25) Honeymoon Flip Flops

by FlipSideFlipFlops

I think these are absolutely adorable! They’ll certainly make sure you’re celebrating your big day with every single step. Let the world (well, your fellow beachgoers, at any rate) know just how happy you are with a pair of personalised flip flops – the perfect way to make this holiday staple extra special.

26) The Perfect Ballet Travel Flats

by Tieks

Honeymoon travel essential – Tieks ballet flats

Ballet flats are a favorite go-to shoe. They look brilliant with basically everything and are a real treat when you’ve been in heels all day.

And, what could be better when you’re packing your honeymoon bags than flats that fold up into a teeny tiny package. For more on this particular pair of Tieks check out our review here.

27) From Wedding to Honeymoon Sandal

by Valentino Garavani

Perfect Sandals for wedding and honeymoon travel

If you invested in a pair of comfortable shoes for your reception (like the Tieks above), now’s the time to get more use out of them. I purchased a pair of Valentino Garavani similar to the ones pictured, and I was so satisfied that I now bring them on every vacation — even colder climates if I’m going to be in a hotel.

I particularly like this style that wraps around the ankle. Not only do they have classic Valentino comfort, they are stylish enough to wear to dinner disguised as fancy sandals vs flip flops.

28) A Light Weight Pair of Sneakers

by Zappos

If you’re anything like me, there’s a time when comfort comes pretty high on your list of ‘must haves’. I love looking swish as much as the next person but sometimes you’ve got to treat your feet right. These classic sneakers from Converse are just the ticket. I personally prefer the clean white ones without the signature stripes. They’re super comfy even on long walks, they’re nice and light for packing, and they’re just sleek enough to keep your wardrobe on the right side of stylish.

29) A Casual Pair of Sneakers

by Toms

TOMS Classics for essential honyemoon travel

Whenever I travel, regardless of the destination, I wear a pair of comfortable yet stylish casual sneakers. Normally they are part of my airplane outfit, but sneakers like these ones by Toms are so lightweight they’ll also fit in a carry-on no problem. I love that these ones have a beachy vibe, and as a double bonus – they’re vegan!

30) A pair of Heels

by Stuart Weitzman

Sensible shoes are a must have for any holiday, but a honeymoon needs a little special something. A good pair of chunky heels like this are high in the glamour stakes as well as practical for lengthy evening walks to and from the hotel.

Honeymoon Extras

31) Personalized Honeymoon Luggage Tags

by LifetimeCreations

Personalized Wedding Honeymoon Luggage Tags

It is likely the first time you’re traveling together as a married couple. So take full advantage of this momentous trip with some seriously cool and understated luggage tags

You never know, a member of the cabin crew might just notice your new status and give you a little special treatment. These are a cute buy that you’ll be able to use again and again.

32) Honeymoon Sand Holder Keepsake

by Etsy: PointerCreatives

There’s a good chance you’ll find lots of lovely mementoes no matter where you’re honeymooning, but why leave it to chance? Bring this nifty little glass bottle with you and you’re guaranteed you’ll be brining home something special to commemorate your travels.

Scoop up the sand on a romantic walk and be sure to share lots of meaningful kisses along the way.

So there you have it. Mix and match these items to fit in a carry-on bag, and I can almost guarantee you a month’s worth of different outfits. Honeymoon outfits that are both of excellent quality and versatile are always a good idea for travel and just in general to own.

Capsule wardrobes have been exploding recently, due to their simplicity and ease – making decisions easier and saving time. Think of this as your capsule honeymoon wardrobe – essential items that will work together for many options, yet not weigh you down. You’ll have absolutely everything you could want and need, and feel much lighter, satisfied, less stressed and so much better for it.

We would love to hear from you. Is there anything not on this list that is an essential for you when planning a romantic getaway? Let us know in the comment section below!

Did you find this post useful? Then save THIS PIN below to your Honeymoon Checklist board for later!

Pinterest pin - 32 Honeymoon Outfit Packing Essentials

8 Wedding Dessert Table Ideas + A Pretty Pink Dessert Bar!

One sweet trend that we’ve noticed is having a big wedding dessert table to supplement (or replace) a traditional wedding cake. First let’s take a look at some of our favorite unique dessert table ideas.

And then stay tuned for later in the article where we look at a pretty pink dessert table styled shoot!

Dessert Table Ideas

1. Vintage Drawer Dessert Table

We love the setup of this table from Style Me Pretty.

Wedding Dessert Table idea - vintage drawers filled with donuts

Stacked vintage drawers house treats like apple turnovers and doughnuts…yum!

2. Chic White Vanity

This dessert table from Bride Scouts is one of our all-time favorites.

Wedding dessert table idea - DIY white vanity dessert table set against a white wall. Red Cherries on cupcakes give a pop of color

First of all, those empty white frames and the gorgeous vanity are perfection. Second of all, she did the entire thing for $40–every single treat on it was from the grocery store!

3. Artwork Inspired Dessert Table

The inspiration for your dessert table can come from anywhere – even a piece of artwork!

Thiebaud inspired wedding dessert table idea

We love this Thiebaud inspired cake spread, by Kate Harrison. Seriously, how cool is that?

4. Giant Balloon Dessert Table

A post on dessert tables would not be complete without a work by Amy Atlas, who is pretty much the queen of dessert tables!

Giant white geronamo balloon wedding dessert table idea - Amy Atlas

We especially like this one. Big balloons are such a simple (and affordable) way to add some drama and height to your spread.

5. Ice Cream Bar Dessert Table

We absolutely love the idea of an ice cream bar, and how cute is this one?!

Ice Cream Bar Wedding Dessert Table with build your own topping station, bunting banner, and custom sign

The girls of Eat Drink Chic provide detailed instructions for how to pull this off and even have templates for all the cute labels!

6. Bookshelf Dessert Table

This idea, via Style Me Pretty, would be fabulous for a wedding, bridal shower, you name it!

Bookshelf wedding dessert Table with all sorts of pies, candy, and vintage decor ideas

We never would have thought of putting desserts on a bookshelf but it’s such a great way to display them, especially with cute wallpaper in the background.

7. Mossy Tree Dessert Table

Mossy Tree wedding dessert table with macaroons, cake, and other candies

This is so well styled, from the moss on the table, to the wooden cake base, to the little bird sitting on the nest of robin’s egg blue macaroons!

8. Winter Wonderland Dessert Table

Winter Wonderland wedding dessert table idea with frosted white donuts and candy cane cakesicles

We love the way the girls of Lolliblog described this adorable winter wonderland table that they put together: “Like a sugar-coated forest, this magical dessert table features such delicious delights as red velvet candy cane cakesicles sprinkled with peppermint, fluffy red velvet cake sandwiches and piles of fluffy white snowballs.”

Sounds delicious!

Pretty Pink Dessert Bar

We love desserts! So when we saw this beautiful dessert table styled-shoot we immediately wanted to share it with you all. Not only do the sweets look super yummy, but the team of talented Texas vendors put together a gorgeous table setting too!

pink table cloth for wedding styled dessert table

We love all the cute labels for the desserts!

The table is so elegant! We love the color scheme, and the chair accents are the perfect touch.

Vendors

Photographer: Catie Ronquillo
Event designer: Ebony Peoples
Baker: Deceitfully Sweet
Graphic designer: Doodle Dog Advertising
Florist: Haute Floral

Guide to a Beach Wedding on a Budget

Today, we want to share more budget-conscious ideas with a beach wedding on a budget. There is nothing more romantic than a wedding at the beach! If you go through your city’s parks department, you should be able to reserve a stretch of beach for a lot less than a typical “wedding venue,” and you’re guaranteed to have a beautiful backdrop for all your pictures! For this inspiration board, we envisioned a fun and laid-back 1950’s beach-party-inspired affair.

Last week we shared our ideas for a backyard wedding on a budget – click here if you missed it.

Beach Wedding on a Budget – Essentials

The Decor

We envision a big white tent on the beach with bunting banners draped across it. The tables would have simple, casual centerpieces of mason jars and vintage bottles filled with bright, cheerful flowers. Mason jars can be purchased for $1/jar or less, and you can find vintage bottles fairly inexpensively at thrift stores and antique stores. You could even save wine bottles for an even more budget-friendly approach.

The Food

Barbecue is perfect for a summer beach wedding. It’s casual, delicious, and it won’t break the bank! Trader Joe’s sells mini hamburger patties and mini buns that would be perfect along with chips. Old-fashioned soda bottles are a must for the 50’s inspired beach wedding. If you’re looking to save money, you could follow this DIY tutorial on how to make your own soda out of generic brand soda water. It even includes downloadable templates for adorable retro labels!

The Dessert

Ice cream cones and a spread of delicious cakes and pies would take the place of a tiered wedding cake. You could challenge your friends and family to a bake-off and have them each bring their signature baked good. Stick little flags into each dessert with the name of baker. Then, have everyone vote on the best dessert! At the end of the night, we imagine a beach bonfire and s’mores. You can make cute little s’mores packets as your favors by simply repackaging graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows, all of which are very inexpensive. If you need inspiration, here is a tutorial.

The Fashion

Going with our 50’s inspired theme, what immediately jumped to mind for the bride’s dress was something short with a poofy skirt–which is perfect for the beach, because it won’t drag in the sand and get dirty. Stephanie James and Dolly Couture are two great places to look for short vintage-inspired wedding dresses. For the bridesmaids, pick something bright and cheerful that they will actually wear again, like this cute little number (on sale!) from Anthropologie.

The Details

Make ribbon wands for guests to wave at you as you head back down the aisle or as you depart. Provide frisbees and volleyballs for fun and games on the beach–some of the more adventurous guests may even jump in the water! A bonfire with s’mores would end the evening perfectly.

The Invitations

We designed our bunting banner invitation suite with this board in mind–and to help you stay on budget, it’s free!

Image Credits: Soda pop captured by Meg Perotti, Mini burgers captured by Welovepictures, Yellow dress captured by Jagger Photography, Smores captured by Kat Bevel Photography, Beach vases captured by Best Photography, Chip bags captured by Mary Banducci Photography, Tent
and bunting captured by Photographers: Modern Hearts, Camp Fire captured by James Besser, Mason Jar captured by Amanda Thiessen,
Photography, Car captured by Maile Lani, Wedding gown captured by Aubrey Joy, Drift Wood Sign captured by Danielle Gillett Photography, Ice cream captured by Amanda Lloyd Photography.

Western Style Wedding in a Texas Ghost Town

Today’s wedding took place in the ghost town of Grapetown, Texas. Jonathan and Cameron chose the location because they had often passed by it on a 60 mile loop that they cycled on the weekends.

Jonathan and Cameron designed a poster for their invitations that included information like the history of Grapetown, a map, their wedding website, and what attire to wear. We love the idea of doing posters instead of traditional invitations. They totally set the tone for the fun, western-style wedding that this was!

Of course, no western style wedding would be complete without a pa i r of cowgirl boots to walk down the aisle!

Jonathan and Cameron handmade their ceremony backdrop–a Maypole with orange and blue flags stapled to ribbons.

For the food, the couple kept everything local — Texas beer, Hill Country wine, and a Tex-Mex brunch of brisket tacos and quesadillas (yum!).

If you’re loving the font that they used in all their paper goods, it’s called Rosewood and it’s available to download here.

The favors were bars of soap, handmade by the bride. She labeled them “Smithdish,” a combination of their last names Smith and Standish, and called them “Cedar Fever.” With a mix of olive, canola, safflower, coconut, juniper, lavender, and sage oils with hill country juniper berries and needles, they sound amazing!

The reception/dance hall was decorated with paper lanterns and lots of posters!

For the guestbook, guests signed the mat of a framed poster.

We totally want to be guests at a wedding like this! With entertainment like bocce ball, horse shoes, and swing dancing, we are sure that everyone had lots of fun.

For dessert, there were cupcakes on a galvanized metal stand complete with a “Day of the Dead” topper.

What a fun wedding! Thank you to Katherine for sharing her beautiful photography.

Vendors

Photographer: Katherine O’Brien
Florist: Dodds Nursery, Fredericksburg
Officiant: Reverend Leigh Rawlings
Band: Miss Leslie and her Juke Jointers
Caterer: Cartwheels Caterers
Dress: Priscilla of Boston

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Unique Ceremony Backdrops – Ideas for your Wedding Day [2025]

A unique ceremony backdrop is designed to frame the scene of your wedding ceremony, tying in with your theme and turning every photo into a perfectly curated shot. Selecting the perfect backdrop can elevate your wedding photos from cute and kitschy to professional and elegant.

Ceremony backdrops are excellent for tying your theme in with your ceremony space and narrowing the focus of your audience (and the camera). For example, if your ceremony is taking place on a beach or in a garden it is easy for your nuptials to be overtaken by the sand and the surf, or the expansive foliage. A structured backdrop helps offset a busy background (no matter how beautiful it may be!) and brings the attention back to you.

Whether you are opting for a boho backyard bash or a refined evening gala, there is a ceremony backdrop out there for you! We’ve collected our top picks of versatile backdrops, from beachy macrame to flowery arches. Which one would look picture-perfect at your venue?

Wedding Ceremony Backdrop Ideas

1. Macrame Wedding Backdrop

by Etsy: TheHousePhoenix

This macrame backdrop by TheHousePhoenix will add a warmth to your vows that will perfectly exemplify the creation of your new life together. Perfect for a smaller, rustic themed wedding, this is a great fit for an outdoor or barn ceremony. This backdrop is also totally timeless – not too flashy, not too trendy but always pretty and forever sweet!

2. Triangle Wedding Arch

by Etsy: StylishBrideAccs

Truly a boho bride’s dream, this strikingly minimalistic triangular backdrop looks like it has been pulled straight out of a magazine! The clean geometric lines give it a truly high fashion feel, while the textured wood adds the perfect dash of hippie flavor. Add your favorite flowers, palms, or decorative feathers to make it truly one-of-a-kind!

3. Hexagonal Metal Arch

by Etsy: EfavormartBoutique

It’s hard to believe that something so simple would have such an impact on your wedding day aesthetic but there is no denying that this round metal arch has a feminine and romantic feel perfect for anyone’s big day! We just love the versatility of this piece. It is the perfect choice for any theme – indoor or outdoor, rustic or modern, large or intimate, this pick will make the perfect addition to your wedding day décor!

4. Pergola Arbor

by LeJoy Garden

Metal Pergola Arbor,Wedding Arch 7.5 Feet Wide x 6.4 Feet High or 4.6 Feet Wide x 7.9 Feet High,Assemble Freely 2 Sizes,Lightweight Wide Wedding Garden Arbor Bridal Party Decoration White Arbor

The best thing about this wedding arch by LeJoy Garden? Easy. It’s the potential! If you’re looking to create a wedding backdrop that is tailor-made for you and your taste, then this is the perfect place to start. Consider it a blank canvas! It is light weight and easy to assemble meaning you can set it up and dress it yourself, ensuring you’ll get to make it look exactly like you want it to!

5. Artificial Flower Garland

by Dearhouse

4Pcs 6.6Ft/Piece Artificial Flowers Silk Wisteria Garland-Dearhouse Artificial Wisteria Vine Rattan Silk Hanging Flower for Home Garden Outdoor Ceremony Wedding Arch Floral Decor (White)

Whimsical, romantic, and classically sweet, this floral wisteria and garland arch is a no hassle and surprisingly affordable way to add some picturesque, natural beauty to a wedding of any theme or size. Leave it as is for simplistic, classic look or add personal touches like brightly colored artificial flowers or fairy lights for a an extra bit of pizazz!

6. Floral Copper Pillars

by Etsy: PishPoshLove

Simple yet unique, eye-catching yet subtle, and decadent yet dainty, these arched floral pillars put a modern twist on the ever-so popular and always fashionable floral archway. As demonstrated perfectly on the PishPoshLove Etsy page, these pillars are just as effective in a polished, upscale wedding venue as they are in the middle of a perfectly lit garden or country-fide barn setting! Whether you cover it in natural greenery or brightly colored roses, this is a truly beautiful piece that will look just as beautiful in photos as they do in person!

7. Draping Fabric Over Birch Arch

Wedding Arch Draping Fabric 3 Panels 30 x 20Ft Chiffon Fabric Drapery Wedding Ceremony Reception Swag Decorations(Dusty Rose +Mauve +Blush)

by Ling's Moment

Draping fabric is a really simple yet effective way to give your big day the ethereal and out of this world feeling that you’ve always dreamed of! We love the idea of pairing these beautifully colored drapery panels by Ling’s moment with this rustic birch arch by blueskies forever. The juxtaposition of the pastel, youthful, and fairytale-esque fabric with the natural texture of the birch wood will make your backdrop truly unique!

8. Tapestry

by Etsy: BlushingDrops

This is the perfect piece if you’re looking to add a bit of personalization to your wedding ceremony scene! Showcase the lyrics of the song that played on your first date, a verse from the poem you shared on your first Valentine’s Day, or even a personalized message to your loved ones in the crowd. Either way, this beautifully minimalistic tapestry is an amazing pick that will make your wedding aesthetic all your own!

9. Giant Paper Flowers

by Etsy: PolyankaDesigns

Bright, colorful, and totally eye-catching, these large paper flowers by Etsy seller PolyankaDesigns are the perfect background pick for an outdoor or garden ceremony. We love these because while they pull from the traditional floral patterns so often found in wedding décor, they have a really youthful flair that make them a great fit for your modern and trend-setting day!

10. Artificial Vines

by Yatim

78-Ft 12 Pack Silk Artificial Ivy Vines Leaf Garland Plants Hanging Wedding Garland Fake Foliage Flowers Home Kitchen Garden Office Wedding Wall Decor

Whether you are looking to set a mystical, tropical, or ethereal scene, this artificial hanging vine backdrop may be exactly what you are looking for! Trying to capture some Midsummer Night’s Dream vibes? Add some fairy lights with a light scattering of brightly colored flowers. Looking for a more romantic Pride and Prejudice inspired look? Forget a light scatter – go crazy with dramatic, pastel arrangements! Craving something a bit more heavenly? Incorporate some white drapery! Whatever you are trying to achieve, this pick is a really versatile and effective place to start!

11. Green Leaves

by LYWYGG

5X3FT Green Leaves Photography Backdrops Mmicrofiber Nature Backdrop Birthday Background for Birthday Party Seamless Photo Booth Prop Backdrop CP-87-0503

While similar to the hanging vines listed previously, you may want this green leaves photography background if you’re looking for something a bit more in touch with nature. This is a really no-fuss way to give the illusion that you and your partner are exchanging vows in the fairytale forest of your dreams! Plus, this is literally made to POP in photos, so you can be assured those candid ceremony photos will look bright and polished!

12. Chiffon Curtains

by B-COOL

Romantic Wedding Drapes Ivory Chiffon Party Backdrop Curtain 9.8ftx10ft Long Soft Backdrop Drapes for Photography

Simple, feminine, romantic, and undoubtedly timeless, you just can’t go wrong with these chiffon curtains by B-Cool! They look like they were taken right out of a dream and will look just as beautiful on a beach or in a garden as they will in a church or posh wedding venue! The best part though, is that despite looking very expensive, they are actually very affordable! Don’t you just love a bargain?

13. Rustic Wood Arch

by Etsy: EventDecorDirectShop

The perfect pick for a barn or country themed wedding, this wooden ceremony arch is simply to die for! This is definitely one of the pricier options on the list but that clean and crisp wooden stain, impressive craftmanship, and grandiose 7ft height, make this pick worth every penny! Leave it as is for something natural and rustic or dress it up with some drapery for something a bit more feminine either way you’ll feel like country royalty while standing before your loved ones!

14. Storybook

by Etsy: LGCreativeStudios

You’ve finally found your storybook ending, why not make it official in front of the storybook backdrop? We are just suckers for all things idyllic and romantic and this amazing piece by highly rated Etsy seller LGCreativeStudios totally fits the bill! You can even personalize the text with your own love story – how sweet is that?!

15. Flower Wall

by No products found.

No products found.

There is no denying it – this hydrangea wall mat is breath-takingly beautiful. I mean who doesn’t want to tie the knot in from of a literal wall flower?! How posh and chic! This also immediately springs to mind all of those decadent wall flowers Kanye West was always gifting Kim Kardashian. You always wanted one and now you can have one too! (RIP in Kimye – those flower wall Instagram posts will be sorely missed).

16. Copper Wedding Chuppah

by Etsy: ACollectionOff

This is the kind of wedding backdrop that everyone is sure to love! (yes, even that one judgemental aunt!) It’s grand, it’s romantic, it’s ethereal, and it’s feminine without being too frilly. It truly does have something for everybody!

17. Crochet Chuppah

by Etsy: LaceNWhimsy

Made for the boho wedding of your dreams, this crochet canopy by highly rated Etsy seller LaceNWhimsy is the perfect for and down-to-earth, outdoor wedding. The canopy itself is handmade, carefully crocheted by shop owner Beverly, which adds a really warm and homey feeling to a day that can easily become overly manufactured and commercialized. Plus, it’s totally reusable which means you don’t have to worry about hurting the environment after only one use! Use it as a table cloth or area rug and voila! You’ve given the piece a whole second life!

18. Curtain Twinkle Lights

by No products found.

No products found.

Okay, so this isn’t a particularly unique idea but believe us when we say that twinkle lights are popular for a reason! They add such a beautiful ambience to any wedding day décor and are incredibly versatile, meaning they will make a perfect addition to any wedding day theme! The possibilities are truly endless.

19. Aisle Runner

by Etsy: jcreatescalligraphy

The picture of elegance, this versatile aisle runner looks so sophisticated when hung up as a back drop. It’s unusually thin width looks so simple and sleek! This particular pick can be adorned with your favorite song lyrics, making it a deeply personal addition to your big day!

Real Wedding Backdrop Inspiration

1. A lovely stage designed by the bride

stage bedisgn backdrop designed by the bride — via Martha Stewart Weddings

2. A backdrop table filled with flowers

3. A bold and colorful backdrop made by the groom

4. A rustic backdrop with strings of cotton

5. A ceremony arch made with bookcases

6. A fabric backdrop inspired by a circus tent

7. A crystal chandelier hung from an arch made of dried palm fronds

8. A weathered wood structure with built-in vintage windows

Such creative ceremony backdrops floating around the web recently! I mean, how do these brides come up with these ideas?!

paper plates as wedding ceremony backdrop idea

Yup, those are paper plates! I love the idea—so budget friendly!

budget friendly streamers outdoor wedding backdrop

Bright and beautiful! I love how colorful these two backdrops are.

Sign and old doors for ceremony backdrop

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 , 7, 8

There You Have It!

Whether you’re tying the knot on a sandy beach, in a rustic barn, or at a refined country club, a unique wedding backdrop has the ability to tie your theme together and elevate the entire space. Your audience will know exactly where to look, and the beautiful ceremony scene will be framed by a tasteful backdrop designed to set your pictures apart.

When it’s time to make that fateful walk down the aisle, you’ll glimpse the stunning wedding ceremony background and know that the time has come. You’re getting married! And the wedding photos you’ll cherish for years to come will be picture-perfect, thanks to your ceremony backdrop.

Save THIS PIN to your Wedding Planning board on Pinterest so you can always find it when you need to!

Unique Ceremony Backdrops - Pinterest pin

Steven and Allison’s Wedding

We are so excited to share this gorgeous wedding today! Steven and Allison were married in Johnson City, Tennessee and Jamie Clayton did a FABULOUS job capturing every detail of their big day. We were shocked to learn that it was his first time shooting a wedding–we are sure we will see a lot more from him in the future!

Allison’s necklace was passed down to her from her family.

We love this shot–she looks so happy!

Allison’s beautiful dress was from JCrew, and so were the bridesmaid’s dresses! We absolutely love seeing bridesmaids in patterned dresses.

We love all of these group shots. Huge bridal parties always look awesome when they’re all lined up–and this group looks particularly fun!

Steven cut all the logs for the centerpieces and Allison collected the mason jars for the tealight centerpieces throughout their engagement.

Love those cute little covered buttons on the back of her dress.

Allison found the bird for the cake topper on Etsy and Steven’s aunt made the wedding cake the traditional New Orleans way–with charms in it! Apparently, it’s a tradition in New Orleans for the unmarried female friends of the bride to simultaneously pull ribbons out of the cake, which have silver charms attached. The charms include a ring, a heart, a thimble, a button, a horseshoe, a clover, an anchor, a dime, and a penny. Each one has a traditional meaning (the ring means next to marry, the heart means true love, the thimble means old maid, etc.). What a fun tradition!

What a sweet wedding this was! Thanks Jamie for sharing these beautiful images!

Wedding Cake Inspiration from Bride’s Attire

Need some wedding cake inspiration? We love when an element of the bride’s attire becomes the basis of an entire wedding cake design. Whether it’s a necklace, the material of the dress, or a detail like covered buttons, a sash, or a brooch, we think that using your attire as inspiration is fantastic! Here are some of our favorite ideas.