Our Wedding: DIY Projects

As a control freak hands-on bride, my goal is to ensure as many elements of our wedding as possible embody Ben's and my vision. I've had a few people look at the ideas I've presented and say "that's so you" or "that's so you & Ben"; it's one of the coolest things to hear and it makes me even more excited for our big day...

One of the ways we're hoping to accomplish this sense of personalization is through homemade, DIY, elements. I have a penchant for DIY projects and I quite often find myself taking on more projects than I can finish. For this reason, I keep reminding myself that there is an impending timeline and that I must be selective.

At this point, the projects on my list are as follows:

1. Napkins. I've ordered a batch of fabric in a delicious pattern to be turned into napkins for our reception. Although napkins are typically one of the last things a bride thinks about, I saw them as an opportunity to inject an element of pattern and boldness to our otherwise neutral tablescapes. Additionally, they are sustainable in that they will be used again (and - once washed - gifted to my helper bees).

2. Table Runners. I'm on the hunt for the perfect jute or canvas to embody the burlap look we're going for (minus the horrid smell). To add a little glamour to the rustic table runners, I'll be affixing vintage style lace to the edges (a la these beauties). I'm excited for these to be used again in our home and the homes of our friends and family.

3. String Globes. This was the first project that made it to my 'list.' I am in love with the look of these globes both hung separately and in clusters, like this example. At this point it's still a 50/50 toss up between white or hemp string; however, white might be pulling ahead. This project is going to be messy; therefore, I'll require a lot of plastic balls and willful hands of my wedding party and craftiest friends. (I will primarily be using this tutorial).

4. Boutonnieres. I fell in love with a style that's a little bit eclectic, a little bit whimsy, and altogether unique. It also happens to be a style that doesn't use any fresh flowers. For this reason, I have the ability to assemble the bouts beforehand. I will post status updates once I start this project (I'm hoping it proves to be as simple as I imagine).

5. Centerpiece Vases. I have officially started the collection of mismatched vases that will be used as our centerpieces. I'm working with our florist to determine the overall look; however, the plan for the vases is set and the eclectic collection of thrift store vases will receive a happy makeover shortly. Again, progress report to come.

6. Menu Board. One of my two crafty Uncle Dean's is assisting on this one and has acquired a pile of old vintage barn wood (swoon) that will be assembled, stained, and painted on to recreate this menu board. We'll be propping it up on an easel at the end of our buffet.

So. That's it. Gulp.

I have a few surprises up my sleeves; however, these are the projects you can expect progress reports on. As one of my 2012 goals, I intended to complete one project per month between January and August. To date, January and February have been filled will establishing this list and acquiring the supplies and help required to accomplish these goals, a feat in and of itself. From here on in, these ideas will become reality and I'm thrilled to share the process with you.

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Side note: in poetic fashion, my dress arrived on Valentine's day. It is everything I dreamed of and looks great hanging in my closet.