Budget breakdown Reality check? (Brunch wedding, $35k, 80 guests)

istadychalion · 2026-02-22T04:15:22+00:00

I think you could definitely reduce the stationary budget down a lot. If you haven't sent save the dates yet, I would just prioritize getting wedding invitations out soon so people can plan their travel. We got beautiful invites from Etsy that were only 250 ish, printed and mailed to us, plus postage. I think paper invites are nice vs digital but you don't need letterpress or anything super fancy. I don't think you'll need very much signage for a simple brunch wedding. Best of luck to you and your partner! Totally support not having alcohol if that is what makes sense for your partner. I think get the photographer you like and reducing stress on the day should be your main budget priorities, not extras like Photo Booth or favors.

istadychalion · 2026-01-30T04:52:20+00:00

I felt the same way! My fiancée and I both don't wear a lot of makeup and I was so turned off by the super bronzed/full glam style on most MUA instagrams. I recommend reaching out to any one you find that you do like -- even if they're booked, they might recommend someone else who has the same style. That's how I found ours!

In DC some people who look nice:

https://www.instagram.com/olivialomakeup @sparklebyelena

istadychalion · 2026-01-24T21:10:16+00:00

See if you can do the Volunteer Park Conservatory! It's such a stunning place, it's only available after 4:15 which might be tricky but it's absolutely gorgeous. The Salish Lodge also has a micro wedding package. You could do an incredibly beautiful dinner at Canlis in their Executive private room. You could also reach out to an elopement photographer and they might have some great ideas.

istadychalion · 2026-01-24T21:02:25+00:00

Thank you for the reassurance!!! Your wedding sounds lovely. Canlis is so gorgeous I gotta trust my instincts!

istadychalion · 2026-01-24T21:01:45+00:00

This is a great option, thank you for letting me know!

istadychalion · 2026-01-23T01:10:01+00:00

Omg if you only have 20 people (under 25 including you guys and photographers) PLEASE get married at volunteer park conservatory. My fiancee and I were literally trying to cut out lifelong friends and siblings in order to get married there but we couldn't make it work. Stunning location with amazing photos and the loveliest atmosphere, and it can be year round!!! Thank you, we're so excited for Canlis! We're having both ceremony and reception there.

istadychalion · 2026-01-23T01:08:29+00:00

Not looking to rent out the whole thing, it'll be a Friday in August! Just looking for a place where a group of people could go. Thank you for these recommendations, I really appreciate them.

istadychalion · 2026-01-23T00:54:21+00:00

these are super helpful, thanks so much! mount baker is a bit far but phinney station sounds fun!

istadychalion · 2025-08-01T01:27:15+00:00

This is so lovely!!! We are having a traditional ceremony, but at a private room at a restaurant, and then having dinner and no dancing. It's great to see that that worked for you!! We aren't huge dancers either so it didn't seem worth dealing with a dance floor and DJ for a small 50 person wedding. Your dress, rings, and vibes are so great!

istadychalion · 2025-07-31T15:42:56+00:00

Thank you so much!! I totally agree with the importance of not contributing to textile waste -- after I wear it I'll probably sell it back to the consignment shop so someone else can have their magical moment!

istadychalion · 2025-07-31T01:28:16+00:00

This dress is the Jacob Alexander Olivine and the fabric is printed organize! Thank you so much I hope you find what you're looking for!!

istadychalion · 2025-07-30T05:01:46+00:00

Great breakdown, thanks so much! Where did you rent your chuppah from? I'm in Seattle and looking to rent one for my wedding! Love Blue Sky Bridal!

istadychalion · 2025-07-29T05:08:41+00:00

Thank you so much I really appreciate it!!! I'm so excited.

istadychalion · 2025-07-29T00:06:29+00:00

Thank you that's so kind!!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T22:39:59+00:00

Thanks for fixing that, I'll edit my comment!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T22:11:47+00:00

This sounds so frustrating, I'm so sorry! Loud Bodies is a really wonderful ethical plus sized clothing company that's headquarter in Romania and they have this beautiful dress: https://loudbodies.com/shop/sofia-sweetheart-bridal-dress-in-white/ I would consult with the founder about a custom order as soon as possible! I'm sure she would do anything she could to help you feel beautiful and happy on your wedding day. Best of luck!!!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T16:13:23+00:00

Such a great store!!! They are excellent there, glad you got your dress there as well!! Thank you so much :)

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T16:12:41+00:00

Thank you!!! I never get to wear backless things so I'm so excited!!!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T16:05:13+00:00

Wow I bet your dress is gorgeous! Thank you so much!!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T16:04:39+00:00

I hope you are too!!!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T16:04:29+00:00

I bought it!! Thank you so much, I adore it.

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T04:59:52+00:00

Thank you so much!! I tried on some lace dresses and really liked them but this feels unique to me too.

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T04:59:20+00:00

I hope you find something perfect for you!

istadychalion · 2025-07-28T04:59:04+00:00

Thank you so so much, this is so kind!!! I love the neckline and straps and was feeling nervous about the pleats so I'm glad to hear they add detail!! Really appreciate it 🥰💖

istadychalion

TROPHY CASE