US

So I haven't properly introduced ourselves and I thought the best way would be with a short Question and Answer:
Occupation?
He is an educator and I am a graduate student. No relation
Your engagement?
Just us, on a cold dark night surrounded by candle light
Perfect Date?
Chinese food and a movie (we are couch potatoes by heart and practice)
Symbolic flower?
Tulip (our first date ) Flower Meanings:

Tulip: Perfect lover
Tulip, Red: Believe me, declaration of love, fame
Tulip, Variegated: Beautiful Eyes
Tulip, Yellow: Hopeless love, There's sunshine in your smile

Ideal Wedding?
Small, casual, and laid back surrounded by family and close friends. Think: Outdoor fall picnic; hot apple cider; warmth; rustic vintage.
Favorite experiences together?
Taking paths less travel, exploring the beaten trail in the woods, the zoo, exploring the shore lines of Michigan, listening to him play the guitar.
Why we work?
I'm neurotic and he is patient. At the end of the day we make each other laugh.
Our strongest secret?
My tears make him cry and his tears make me cry.

I'm not one for country music but FI's idol is Bob Dylan (yes, he wants his first born to be named after him). I think Garth Brooke's voice is a little bit more... melodious?

Beginning words

Hello/Hi/ Welcome.....
I am sharing my ideas here in hope to give inspiration; Showing how things can be done in an alternative way and at an alternative cost. My mom taught me most things can be done myself and this idea runs most of my home decor and now my wedding planning. I believe forever I we treasure the memories of my wedding and the items that I put my heart into. I hope my guests will be impacted by these decisions.

The wedding:
Mr. Engagement and me are planning an outdoor fall wedding. Our ideas are eclectic and without theme (much like myself). Embraced in our ideas are love for vintage and all things beautiful, including each of our personalities! Our inspiration comes primarily from Martha Stewart, Knot bios, and the weddingbee. We also try to avoid the "wedding Industry" like the flu and opt for some untraditional decorating advice from home decor.


TIPS:

* DIY are not always cheaper! But they add sentiment and charm to your day (I believe that is what it should be about).
* That said, DIY can often be WAYYYYY cheaper. Especially for the special extra "Martha" touches that begin costing an arm and a leg.
*Use items that have resale value or that you after the "I Dos" ill be great additions to your new home.
* Use items that are not "wedding" retailed. Adding wedding to anything increases the price, photography, flowers, etc. Not only does price increase but items that are not wedding are sometimes more beautiful. Tulle ain't my thing!
* Shop the clearance aisles after Christmas. Yes centerpieces, favors, candles, vases can all be found after clearance up to 75%. Remember somethings can be mismatched but then other things can't be. Don't give up a chance to get 100 table napkins for 1.00 for the additional 25% off, when stock goes down.

These are a few items that may help the bank and save you from that ugly, "THAT COST HOW MUCH!!!" look and maybe bring a bit of sentimental tear to our eye years later.