Today's real wedding was not only gorgeous but eco-friendly. Connie and Stefan pulled off their fair trade wedding with palm leaf plates and bowls, a vegetarian menu, felt flowers, wire bouquets, and more! We also love that they encouraged their guests to wear bright colors and fun patterns. You will love this Fair-trade Backyard DIY Wedding in Idaho! Xoxo, Jessica

Connie + Stefan

September 21, 2019

Sandpoint, ID | Mom’s House off of Lake Pend Oreille

What was your total budget? Please provide a budget breakdown.

Photography: $1,750

Dress: $1,617

Catering: $5,302

Cake: $14

Favors: $261

Calligraphy: (printing/stationary) $300

Venue: $2204

Flowers: $822

Decor: $565

Groom’s attire: $0

Music: $510

Rentals: Included in other categories

Officiant: $206

Wedding coordinator: $400

Rings: $600

Hair/makeup: $858

Transportation: $324

Lodging: $866

Gifts: 1,107

Misc: $622

Total Budget: $19,000

How many guests did you have?

150

What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?

We wanted everything at our wedding to be fair trade, eco-friendly, sustainable, etc. Palm leaf plates and bowls, vegetarian menu, reusable napkins, felt flowers, wire bouquets, biodegradable glitter and so on. We also wanted a bright and colorful wedding. We encouraged our guests to wear bright colors and fun patterns.

Did you do any DIY projects or create any handmade items for your weddings?

My husband designed and printed our invitations, programs, and menus. He also made all of our signage. I painted our wedding favors. My husband also painted the drink menu and the bar.

What was the biggest thing you did to save money?

We got married on my mom’s property.

What was your biggest splurge?

Gifts for other people and the photo booth.

What was your favorite detail?

The wedding party accessories. The hairpieces and the boutonnieres, my rings, my Husband’s ring, the bridesmaid jewelry, the watches, the cuff links, all of these little works of art and craftsmanship that will last forever.

What is the most memorable moment of your day?

My father’s toast!

What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?

Pay for all your must-have items first and as soon as you can. Don’t do deposits, pay the whole amount if possible. Then use what’s left of your budget to buy things you want but don’t need.