Ashley and Victor chose an intimate wedding to focus on each other and not worry about the details. Ashley’s parents eloped 33 years ago without a hitch, so they had full support for their decision.

“We were able to focus on each other the entire time … It literally was all about us,” Ashley said.

While it was difficult to find a photographer, the couple ended up finding one that was a perfect fit. The talented Caroline Ro did a marvelous job capturing this beautiful wedding!

Ashley, 32, Victor, 32

Location: Folly Beach, SC and Charleston, SC

Wedding Date: March 18, 2017

Number of Guests: 0

Wedding Cost: $1,000

Wedding Ceremony Location: Morris Island Lighthouse, Folly Beach, SC

Wedding Reception Location: We did not have a reception; the two of us drove to get barbecue out of town after, then had dinner later that night.

Why did you have an intimate wedding?

We were able to focus on each other the entire time and not worry about all the details that come with a wedding.  It literally was all about us.

 
What are some the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding?

Finding a photographer.  We found a lot of photographers that handle weddings don’t want to do elopements.

What were the highlights of the ceremony?

The sunrise and just being the two of us.

What were the highlights of the reception?

BBQ in the south, on a date with my best friend, can’t get any sweeter!

What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding?

Being stress free.

What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding?

Do it!  It was the best decision we could have made.  I honestly look back on that day and remember it as the best day of my life.  It was so romantic and simple- just perfect.

Vendors:

Photographer: Caroline Ro

Dress: eBay and JoAnn Fabrics

Shoes: Aldo

Flower Crown: Paula Jean’s Garden

Groom’s Suit & Tie: Express

Location: Public beach, Charleston, S.C.

Makeup: Target

Wedding Bands: Etsy

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Svetlana and Drew’s rustic Canadian elopement in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada was everything they imagined their day to be. 

“As avid lovers of the outdoors and lakes we decided to begin our lives as Mr. & Mrs surrounded by a glacier lake and the Canadian Rockies,” Svetlana said.

The naturally beautiful surroundings allowed for a truly picturesque scene and some epic photos.

A big thanks to Arina B. Photography for sharing this lovely elopement with us!

Svetlana, 30 & Drew, 52

Location: Moraine Lake, Banff National Park, Alberta

Wedding Date: September 16, 2016

Number of Guests: None

Wedding Cost:  $15,000

Wedding Ceremony Location: Moraine Lake

Wedding Reception Location: None

Why did you have an intimate wedding?

For us being together surrounded by mountains and water was everything we imagined our wedding day to be. As avid lovers of the outdoors and lakes we decided to begin our lives as Mr. & Mrs surrounded by a glacier lake and the Canadian Rockies.

What are some the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding?

Having a destination wedding outside of United States is most definitely a challenge but not one that is impossible. We spent many late hours researching, reading and compiling our wedding files. After picking our location, we began reading and it was very quickly realized that Canmore, Alberta was a tourist destination with late spring and late summer being the highest tourist months, so we choose September in hopes of having more availability for the lodging. Finding lodging proved to be yet another challenge and after weeks of searching the VRBO site, Drew found the perfect condo. Not only was our wedding considered intimate but it was a true elopement; it was just us two and the photographer. We relied heavily on our amazing photographer to guide us the day of the wedding.

Was it difficult to pare down the guest list?

Our family and friends were very excited for us and the immediate family were thrilled to see us tie the knot and we did not experience any push back or negativity.

Did you have any ‘issues’ with the small guest list from friends and family? If so, how did you address them?

Over all everyone was very excited and happy for us. Myself being in the military and constantly moving for different assignments it was the most ideal thing for us to elope. We held an intimate reception for our family  upon returning from our wedding and were able to share the happy moment with them.

What were the highlights of the ceremony?

The majestic view of the glacier lake with its sparkling turquoise water was mesmerizing.  As we climbed to the top of the overlook where we chose to exchange our vows you could not help but be in awe of the painting like view. We choose to have our special day in the valley of the ten sisters, the mountains surrounding the glacier fed lake. I remember crying as Drew vowed to always protect me and cherish me. Happy tears streamed down my face as the wind gently swept them off my face. I felt the luckiest girl on earth. Peace overcame me and with a kiss we sealed our love for one another.

What were the highlights of the reception?

We had planned to celebrate with a bottle of wine and cheese tray on the shore of the lake, but due to time constraints and our dinner reservation we choose to forgo that. That evening after our wedding ceremony we enjoyed an intimate dinner under the candle light with our lovely photographer. It was special to bond with our photographer who has now become a dear friend of ours.

What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding?

For us having no pressure of entertaining the family or coordinating schedules with a large group was so stress relieving. Having the ability to spend a week to enjoying the mountain town of Canmore and travel throughout Banff National Park was beyond special. We created the best memories eating smoked salmon on the shores of the Athabasca River as we explored the Ice field Parkway one of the most scenic places on earth. We hiked the snow dusted trail to photograph Peyto Lake with its deep aqua blue water and snow caped peaks.  I don’t think we would have had those moments had we not decided to have an intimate wedding.

What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding?

Do it! You deserve to be spoiled and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Vendors:

Photography: Arina B Photography

Dress: Oleg Cassini

Suit: Joseph Abboud

Shoes: Badgley Mischka

Hair/Makeup: Hair Company, Banff Canada

Flowers: Elements Floral Design Ltd.

Bouquet: Arina Borodina

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Who doesn’t love a bit of bling? Whether it’s a subtle set of blush earrings, or some breathtaking druzy chandelier earrings, Etsy has the perfect pair of earrings to bedazzle your ‘I do’ crew.

These rose gold beauties from BelleRaquelleShoppe are perfect for the bridesmaids that love to make a statement. If you prefer something a little more understated, you can go with the freshwater pearl earrings.

For a unique option, try these beautiful knot style earrings from FoxblossomCo. They’re perfect for everyday wear, or for your bridesmaids to wear at your wedding.

Looking for a sweet way to propose to your bridesmaids? This set of peach champagne earrings from ForTheMaids will do the trick!

Do your bridesmaids like to go all out with their bling? If so, choose these rose gold teardrop earrings from GlitzAndLove.

Druzy adds a subtle sparkle that jazzes up any outfit. Have your bridesmaids wear these gold druzy studs from kealohajewelry at the wedding.

With dazzling Swarovski and elegant rose gold, these blush earrings from iloniti will have your girls swooning!

See your bridesmaids’ eyes light up when they receive this sparkling mint and coral earring set from iloniti.

Looking for the perfect “Thank You” gift? Look no further! How lovely are these green and gold earrings from ForTheMaids?

This stunning blush pink earring set is from ForTheMaids.

These heart dangle earrings by LidiaRjewelry are perfect for the minimalist bridesmaid.

*This post contains Etsy affiliate links

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Finding the perfect gifts for your bridesmaids can be a challenge, especially if you’re a bride on a budget. Well, we’re here to help! From bridesmaids robes to gorgeous jewelry, we’ve hunted down 50 awesome bridesmaids gifts under $50.

Robes are white hot right now, so we’re going to kick off this list with these soft and luxurious robes from LeRoseGifts .

Want something a little more colorful? Try these floral robes from silkandmore.

How pretty are these bridesmaid PJ shorts from LeRoseGifts? You can wear them with matching robes (also under $50).

Make your wedding even more fun with these monogrammed oversized bridesmaids shirts from SweetThoughtBoutique.

Not only are these blue robes from SincerelySofiDesigns soft and comfy, they also photograph beautifully for those ‘getting ready’ shots.

Now, onto some bath and body products that will ensure your bridesmaids are pampered before the big day!

Can you believe that this luxurious rose spa day gift set from HomemadeSimplyMom is under 50$! Yes, please!

Make sure your girls look and feel their best on your wedding day with this SkinFoodByAB body care gift set.

This lovely spa set from Lizush includes all-natural products like Lavender Natural Soap Bar and Lavender Body Oil. At this price, you’ll want to order one for yourself as well!

Watch your bridesmaids’ eyes light up when they open this awesome fairy cake bath and body gift set from SugarMilkCo. Plus, it’s only $20!

Are you planning a destination wedding? If so, there isn’t a more perfect gift than this Palm Leaf travel spa set from LittleFlowerSoapCo.

At only $16, thiss amazing, unique gift bath and body gift set from KayaSoaps is affodable – and fabulous!

You may have noticed these beauties featured in the box above. This set of four solid lotion bars from KayaSoaps includes scents like Matcha green tea and Rose & Ylang Ylang.

Relaxation in a box. That is the only way to describe this deluxe spa set from DaveandAthena.

Keep your bridesmaids’ skin soft and smooth for the wedding with this detoxifying pink clay face mask from FormularyFiftyFive. You can attach it to your bridesmaid proposal cards.

It’s no wonder that this spa gift set from LittleFlowerSoapCo is selling like hotcakes!

Keep it natural with this aromatic handmade bath gift set from LittleFlowerSoapCo.

Delight your bridesmaids with this Rose and Ylang Ylang skincare set from EvyJoAndCo.

Wedding cake sugar scrub and a bridal bouquet scented candle from lulusugar? Is there a better gift to propose to your bridesmaids?

Now onto edible gifts. For a gift that intrigues both the mind and soul, choose this organic tea gift set from DaveandAthena

This fabulous chocolate bar set from AlicjaConfections is the perfect treat for a fun bunch of gals.

If design and flavor is what your after, this blush pink tea canister with honey black tea from WolfTeaSelect is the match for you

Choose three of six scrumptious flavors for this marshmallow sampler pack from whimsyandspice.

Kids at heart and gourmet foodies alike will enjoy this gourmet S’mores Kit from whimsyandspice. You could also include some of whimsyandspice‘s other goodies like chocolate butterscotch bars, or chocolate espresso brownies  for the sweetest gift imaginable.

Jewelry is the perfect bridesmaids gift. No one will ever guess that these dainty, sparkling druzy necklaces from BareandMe are under $50.

This gorgeous rose gold initial necklace from RiverValleyJewelry is the perfect keepsake for the bridal party.

Looking for the perfect way to propose (to your bridesmaids of course)? They’ll be delighted to receive these peach champagne jewelry sets from ForTheMaids.

At only $10 each, you can give these simple and sweet hear knot rings from hoopsbyhand in a little gift package.

Cranes are symbolic for love in many countries and myths, so this rose gold  origami crane necklace from OliveYewJewels is the ideal gift for your girls!

Isn’t this druzy necklace from chipandchisel a stunner? With 14 carat gold and natural blue druzy, $42 is a great deal!

Make your bridesmaids feel extra special with this gold bangle from georgiedesigns.

Looking for a beautiful personalized keepsake for your bridesmaids? Look no further! This rose gold name bracelet from BurntHoneyJewelry will be worn long after the wedding.

If what you want is a delicate piece that will be treasured forever, this swallow bird layered necklace from studiomirage is the choice for you!

Add some romantic glam to your bridesmaid outfits with this flower deer ring from TedandMag. Complete the look with a matching necklace.

Everyone enjoys getting something customized. Why not choose this simple, custom hand stamped necklace from PinkTwig?

Keep it minimalist with these gold stud earrings from PinkTwig.

Planning a boho wedding? These tricolor resin bands from daimblond are the perfect addition!

Clutches and makeup bags are great gifts. They’re fun and functional and can be used on your wedding day. This cactus makeup bag from NJsBoutiqueCo is so on trend!

How perfect would these personalized makeup bags from SassyGalsWisdom look in your getting ready shots? You’re gals will adore them!

Give your girls a compliment with these “You’re like really pretty” makeup bags from PCBHome.

Keep everyone smiling with these Hello Gorgeous makeup bags from DesignByRube.

Blush is very popular right now, and rightfully so! Keep on trend and include these beautiful monogrammed blush clutches from  MamaBleuDesigns in your bridesmaids’ gifts.

We’re obsessed with this envelope clutch from LudaMelnick. It’s sleek, stylish and best of all, made from vegan leather, so no animals were harmed.

Shades including lavender and blush combine to create this lovely clutch from DavieandChiyo that is both sweet and romantic.

Personalizing an item takes it from a gift to a keepsake. This personalized floral mug from FaithanddreamsGifts is cute and useful.

Your girls will love these personalized champagne flutes from FoxblossomCo. Add a bottle of champagne with a custom label for a little more fun!

Pretty and feminine, this custom floral journal from boRann will have everyone taking up journaling, if they haven’t already.

These gorgeous floral compact mirrors from ModParty are the perfect way to pop the question to your bridesmaids. You can place a “will you be my bridesmaid” note inside for a sweet surprise.

How about this lovely custom jewelry box from SugarAndChicShop?

Keep your bridesmaids’ clothes in order with these personalized hangers from TheHeartCollective. They’re especially helpful if your bridesmaids have matching dresses. After the wedding, they can use the hanger at home and be reminded of your wedding each time they wear their fave dress.

And finally, our last item is for the all the boho lovers out there! These whimsical dream catchers are from MeadowandMoss.

*This post contains Etsy affiliate links

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Today, we are featuring a stunning styled shoot from Davis Hilton Photography. Here’s what Davis had to say about the shoot:

“A vintage studio, two beautiful dresses, countless house plants, indie music, coffee, a wild bouquet, and so many smiles. Sonora was so natural in front of the camera, I am convinced that she is a wood nymph. It was amazing to see her have so much fun in each of her dresses, and her tattoos matched perfectly with their elaborate layers and patterns. Sonora’s charming nature, as well as her natural look and feel, turned this shoot into a masterpiece.”

Vendors:

Photographer: Davis Hilton Photography

Model: Sonora

Flowers: Anna Mara Flowers

Dress: Ania Bridal

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