Altmix Photography

i promised a treat for all you do-it-yourself brides out there, and here it is! we’ve been excited lately to be talking with ami and rebekah of elizabeth anne designs (ead). ami elizabeth and rebekah anne are creative professionals, offering custom stationary design, inspiration consulting, and diy project guidance and assistance. they also they write a lovely blog full of great ideas! sounds like a dream job, doesn’t it? this being said, i am delighted to be able to share with you a little bit of ead’s creative genius:

kate: can any bride be a diy bride?
ead: Yes, anyone can incorporate diy elements into their weddings. simple items such as packaging favors are easy and enjoyable projects for brides to undertake. however, those that don’t already have high quality adhesive on hand are not likely to find themselves all of a sudden acquiring advanced stationery creation skills. as a bride, be sure that before you undertake a diy project, you believe you can do it as well as (but cheaper than) a professional.

kate: in the overwhelming world of weddings, how does a bride find her style?
ead: a bride finds her style by peeling away the layers of what people expect and want for her. and finding what she truly loves. inspiration can be found in a favorite color, dress, shoes or couch. It can be found outside or inside. a wedding can be planned around something she finds in a magazine. the best advice we can give is to read, read, read, and research. the more she sees, the more cogently she can describe her vision.

kate: what are some simple ways you recommend to personalize a wedding?
ead: the first way to personalize your wedding is by choosing things to incorporate that matter to you. things that aren’t just “wedding” material. and if you truly love something, use it. don’t let people tell you that it’s not “done.” so what! it can be done by you. secondly, choose one important element of the wedding and do it *very* well. people will remember the extra flourish that was put into your first dance, or the cake, or the wine pairings.

kate: what do you advise even a diy bride to leave to professional vendors?
ead: leave set up and take down to your vendors. don’t ask family members to do this. you’ll miss out on those great moments before a wedding. photography is the only thing you take away from the day, please don’t have a friend-of-a-friend step in for this duty. choose a reputable, experienced professional who will provide you with shots you will treasure for the rest of your life.

kate: any other amazing tips you’d like to share with our readers?
ead:
*realize the limitations of your space or budget. work creatively within those to plan your perfect day. explore every alternative before making your decisions – not only will it give you peace of mind but you’ll feel as if you executed your day to the best of your ability.

*put together an inspiration board to guide the overall feel of your event. if an idea you are considering doesn’t fit in with the pictures on your board, don’t use it. this will help you to maintain a sense of cohesiveness. your invitations or save the dates are the first items that your guests see – they truly set the tone for the wedding. don’t skimp here!

*if you can at all afford it, use a piece of your budget for a day of coordinator. you won’t regret having an extra pair of hands around and it will allow you, your parents, and your bridesmaids to sit back, relax, and enjoy the day.

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thanks so much elizabeth anne designs for your inspiration! brides, you can do it!!

*all images are ‘inspiration boards’ by elizabeth anne designs!

please check out their blog for an interview with us!!