I'm so crafty!

As I put more and more things together, I have discovered that DIY (or do-it-yourself) is the way to go. Initially, I was a little worried about how things would turn out, but after much success with our invitations, I have found that some simple craft projects have allowed me to have exactly what I want for (mostly) cheap!

Our ceremony programs, for instance, turned out beautifully. I had FedEx Kinkos copy off the inside pages and the personalized part of the covers and we created an assembly line to put them together. Kris's mom came over and helped us glue covers together, which was SO helpful. With our handy-dandy three hole punch and some sheer, bright pink ribbon, we were able to put them together into books!

I was able to use the exact fonts I wanted, and included the monogram I designed! With everything (including polka dot scrapbook paper, black and white cardstock, copies, ribbon, and glue), it was probably about $200 to make 100 eight-page programs. Stationary stores I looked at charge at least $750 for 100 two-page programs!

Another project that ended up being super easy was the flower girl basket. I purchased a small white basket with a fabric inlay just before Easter. I removed the fabric inlay, and later, I wrapped the handle in sheer, polka dot ribbon. I tied bows at the base of each side of the handle and it turned out beautifully!

It fits with the style of our casual, garden wedding much better than the satin-covered, pearl-studded ones you find in stores, AND it was only about $10! (Store-bought baskets run from $20-40!)

***For brides who are looking for more exciting DIY ideas, become a member of the Offbeat Bride Tribe at www.offbeatbride.ning.com!