Here are some of my favorite photos from our magical day (I could only upload 20!). It was absolutely amazing.
The Positive: All my vendors were outstanding. Sweet ceremony, great food, great music, beautiful decor. People were loving and supportive and we had a blast. My husband teared up when I walked down the aisle and when he danced with his mom - super sweet. It was cloudy all morning and when the officiant read the traditional Irish blessing and he said may the sun shine warm upon your face, the clouds magically parted. Plus my 85-year-old grandmother surprised us all when she started dancing to Usher. I couldn't have asked for more. It was a wonderful day.
The Negative: It was about 10 degrees colder than predicted so it was pretty chilly during the ceremony. There was stress and drama from divorced parents and the wedding party during the engagement, which didn't ruin our day, but still created some tension outside of the wedding day. The hotel blocks and shuttle were a complete waste of time/money. Everyone was traveling including us; many people declined and most of the people who came just made their own arrangements. I thought the wind may blow out our unity candle, and it did, but it was at the very end so it wasn't a big deal. The officiant was standing in front of it anyway so I don't think anyone noticed and if they did I'm sure they didn't care.
Approximate amount spent: $20k
Flowers and other decor: $2k Haley's Garden/Hobby Lobby & Michael's
Photography: $2k Joseph Dix Photography
Dress, alterations, veil: $1500 David's Bridal
Wedding Bands: $1500 Shane Co.
Invites, Save the Dates, Day Of Stationary: $400 Etsy ArtHomeBoutique, Ann's Bridal Bargains
Catering: $5k Luella's BBQ
DJ: $1600 Remix Weddings
Officiant: $600 Richard Burton
Ceremony Musicians: $500 Julie Chiles
Venue and Rentals: $4k The Lodge at Bear River, Classic Event Rental
Cake: $400 828 Sweet Events
Hotel Shuttles: $1000 Asheville Explore Tours
My main piece of advice: Don't sweat the small stuff; have fun on your big day and focus on your new spouse!
Photos by Joseph Dix Photography
Mr & Mrs
I am freezing
Wedding Party
Ceremony
Mr & Mrs 2
Rings
Bouquet and Princess Shoes
DIY Lantern
Ceremony Space
Unity Candles
Welcome Table
Bluegrass Prelude
Memory Mantle
Place Settings
BBQ buffet was devoured
We were not good at the cake cutting
Groom's cake with cookies 'n cream filling
Cupid Shuffle
My sweet husband
To the getaway car
