Invitations- Although I'm a bit bias about this topic, owning an invitation company, but I honestly feel that custom is the way to go. It is the first thing for your guests to see and the last thing on their fridge up to years after the big day. If you are throwing a mass produced catalogue wedding, vistaprint is the way to go, but if you are throwing a custom one-of-a-kind event, let your guests know. You don't need seals, pockets and inserts to create an invite that impresses. Some of my favorite designs are on a single layer of high quality paper or double-sided wood, and am constantly being told about the raves that guests gave when viewing the invite.
Dress- Costing over half of my wedding budget, I find that if it is the "one", there is no arguing. Finding the right dress can take months or just a couple visits. Anderson's Bride in Anchorage carries all styles, many of which are not carried anywhere else in the state.
Venue- I was forced to change my venue only 2 days before family arrived for my wedding and was stuck without any money, my entire plan up in smoke and every venue booked. It was a blessing in disguise since my neighbor and great friend's house proved to be the ideal location and worked out even better than imagined. It proved to me that locations may surprisingly be decorated to fit most any occasion. When choosing a wedding location keep in mind the convenience for your guests, and that the money that you save on a less desirable location can go towards decorations saving you money in the end. Keep friends and families in mind for a great location.
Food- Taste is VERY important. I have been to numerous events where the food was horrible and that is remembered by all. Depending on your venue, you may have to use in house catering, otherwise it is up to you to sort endless options. An idea is to think of what food you love or any family/friend dishes that everyone raves about. People love showing off their prized dish and are usually more than happy to cook as a gift to you and your fiance. Most dishes can be made buffet friendly. Another option is to ask people that you trust for local caterers or order from a restaurant that you frequent.
Drinks- Buy a keg of a good beer, get some good wine (black box or bota box comes in cardboard, but tastes great and can be poured in carafes prior to the judgement of guests-if that concerns you). If you want liquor a good way to include it without buying out Brown Jug is to choose a signature drink (maybe you and your fiance's favorite) and offer only that. Maybe a gin and tonic or mojito.
Decor- Wedding decor can basically be split into two categories; organic or man-made
Organic decor- usually the most cost effective decor as long as you have somewhat of a creative gene. bark, rocks, wildflowers, scrap lumber...ect.. make great decor and work well in small doses or huge amounts paired with cans, jars, sand, or anything you can imagine.
Man-made decor- this decor works great for traditional, "night club" or modern weddings. I feel that when going this route it is worth spending a little extra money on one central decor item and keeping it simple. Finding an exquisite vase, fill it with ostrich feathers or fresh flowers and you are good to go. Make sure that the vase is of high quality and made with craftsmanship and there is no need to pair it with small votives, confetti or any other busy, money-costing sight distractions. In the end it is worth spending $50 on a nice vase and keeping is simple and timeless than finding yourself spending hundreds on multiple decor items.
Cake- Depending on the theme of your wedding the cake can easily be made by you or a professional. If you chose to take it on, then it is worth baking many options of a single cake flavor to make sure that it is as good as it can be. If you prefer a fondant covered beauty or have more than enough to do the eve of your big day it is worth hiring a professional to ensure perfection. Ask around for suggestions.
Flowers- As far as centerpieces go, flowers can be arranged by you with the help of loved ones or could not be composed of flowers at all. When it comes to boutonnieres and bouquets I suggest going pro. They are seen in almost every photo and can experience quite a bit of rough handling so it is worth knowing they will look great and survive the day. FYI-Mylord's in Anchorage does amazing work.
Random details- BE SELECTIVE!! Personalized napkins, monogrammed candy and heart napkin rings are fun, but if you are on a beer budget they are unnecessary and can drive you into a hole before you even know it. I have seen it happen multiple times. If you feel that you need some details try thinking of re-usable items. If you want napkin ring, choose a design that you will use in your home or use twine or something not as pricey.
Music- DJs are great. They keep the party streamline and keep you from having to worry about having the right songs on your iPod. Make sure that they have a fun personality, and that they are excited and experienced as an MC. They need to know the general timeline of your reception so that cake cutting isn't left out or the first dance isn't an afterthought. If not using a DJ ask an outgoing friend to make sure that these events take place in a timely manner.
I hope that some of these suggestions helps you or someone you know with their big day.
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