Why DIY? (and some peeks of Emma's wedding dress!)

So... this weekend I got married. Whoa. I've been feeling a million different feelings this weekend (not to mention this season). I married my best friend and started a new exciting chapter in life. Tons of our family and close friends were in town to celebrate with us. I think we both agree we didn't get spend enough time with anyone, but I guess that's how it goes. And of course, hosting a big event has its stresses as there are a million last-minute details to do. We hardly had enough time to get our wedding portaits done, but I really wanted those bike photos! A little ridiculous (and terrifying) riding a bike in a wedding dress, but it all worked out. :)

One thing that's been on my mind during the whole preparation period is why DIY? We created a lot of the elements for my wedding from scratch. My brother made our invites. My sister designed my wedding dress (you can see it in the video) and a bunch of talented folks work on it including: Elsie, Katie, Jessica, Laura, Kinsey and even me. Big project that I will cherish forever. Elsie and Rachel (plus others) helped put together all the flowers. My sister-in-law collaborated with me to create all the recipes served at the reception, and she (plus other helpful hands) cooked everything. I had a hand in every decoration used at the ceremony and reception with a lot of help from Laura, Katie and Sharon. Jeremy (and company) preformed all the ceremony music. And so many others helped with special projects or other preparations.

I could have just bought a wedding dress. There are SO many beautiful ones out there. I could have bought all my decorations or had professional caterers make the reception food. And that would have been great too. But some of my very favorite memories from the past few months were times when I was working on projects with friends or family. I get a little teary eyed just thinking about it. DIY allowed me to add another layer of meaning to my wedding day. And I loved every minute of it. And I feel so thankful for all the help I received.

Thanks for letting me share this quick video we put together for you. Trey and I are off to our honeymoon today. When I get back and things start to settle down I can't wait to share all the photos and new projects with you! xo. Emma

Photo by: Arrow&Apple