Wedding season is upon us, and while it’s often a time of celebration and love, it can also be a time of financial and planning stress. From parties to wedding gifts, the costs can quickly add up. But with a bit of creativity, community and some DIY magic, you can survive and thrive during this wedding season. By leaning into community and imagining new ways to connect with our loved ones we can create unforgettable moments during this season. I want to offer you some tangibles for planning, money saving hacks and focus on us thinking of practicality around your special occasion!

Plan For The Best:

There is so much that goes into coordination, but we can often rely on some tools and focus on the basics to bring together a perfect event. I really enjoy planning apps and using a paper planner to track tasks.A great party planning app to check out, specific to weddings and bachelorette/bachelor partys is https://letsbatch.com/. As for handwritten planners check out: https://daydesigner.com/collections/shop-all they have some great planners that can really help to organize your thoughts as you really get into it. Or if you are a list maker check out: https://ladyfingersletterpress.com/ for affordable notepads that read with small inspirations like “ Fuck It, Iʻll Figure It Out”.

Now that we know where to start here are some tips to keep in mind around destination planning, activities and more:

Plan an event close to home like a stay-cation, booking an air bnb instead of a hotel, or camping trip close to your city. Though if traveling is a necessity, think of planning your flights during the off season.

Save money on food by making cooking an activity you do together rather than going out, have drinks at your location prior to a night out, or think of arranging for folks to bring food to your planned gathering (potluck style).

You can also plan for free activities like hiking, exploring the botanical garden or rose garden and having your event in a local park. Other affordable activities can be karaoke or hosting your own dance party. In addition to lively time together, coordinating down time to chat and relax is essential.

DIY Wedding Gifts

DIY gifts can be a great way to connect with folks in your wedding party. Whether it’s a spa day kit, a gourmet cooking kit, or a personalized crafting kit, these gifts can create long lasting memories.Add personal touches like handwritten notes or custom labels for an extra special touch.

You can also make homemade candles, soaps, or bath bombs with a bit of planning, providing unique and personalized gifts that everyone will love. You can reference this great creator for some recipe and product tips for DIY body care items:

https://wellnessmama.com/beauty/diy-beauty-recipes/ with an extensive list of recipes, there are so many options!

Another engaging way to create with your loved ones is making art pieces or personalized cards. Hand-painted canvases or framed prints can make memorable gifts. Hereʻs a kit for $29 to create a texture art piece that could be a great take home gift or piece for the day of: Etsy DIY Art kit.

A heartfelt, handmade card can also add a personal touch to any present, making it more meaningful without costing a fortune and there are a multitude of tutorials on youtube as well as pre-assembled kits at local art shops. I recommend also checking out DIY Bar in Portland offering a “Unique venue with a warm vibe serving beer, sangria & mimosas as guests work on craft projects.” with cost ranging from just $30-50 per person.https://www.diybar.co/s/shop

DIY Bachelorette/Bachelor Party Gifts and Party Planning

Planning bachelor or bachelorette parties can be fun and affordable with self-made decorations and kits as well. Gather your friends and make it an activity to create together. You can create simple kits to craft banners, centerpieces, and other decorative items for the wedding day as well. Not only will this save money, but it will also add a personal and memorable touch to the event. Creating themed party favors is another great idea. Personalized tote bags, t-shirts, or hats made with our kits can make great keepsakes for the party guests.

In addition to this, you can also explore creating a memorable and fun bachelorette or bachelor party by incorporating Clone-A-Willy or Clone-A-Pussy kits. These kits not only add a creative, intimate touch but also provide a sexy and memorable keepsake. ;)

Hereʻs a party idea utilizing them:

Theme: DIY Erotica Night

Supplies Needed: Clone-A-Willy kits, Clone-A-Pussy kits, aprons, disposable gloves, and post kit packaging supplies like gift bags that folks can paint and/or add glitter to.

Activity: Set up a workshop where guests can create their own custom sex toys. Provide a step-by-step guide and create a fun, supportive environment. Encourage creativity with decorating the packaging for their beautiful final product.

You can also incorporate fun items from local sex shops: https://www.sheboptheshop.com/ is a great option focused on affirming diverse identities and exploration of our sexual wellness.“Since 2009, She Bop exists to support a diverse community with an emerging personal and social awareness of healthy sexuality as an important component to everyday life.” They also offer some fun classes that could be a fun addition to the party day. “Class topics

include the G-spot, anal play, non-monogamy, communication, cunnilingus, BDSM, burlesque, rough sex, fellatio, rope bondage, and many more. In addition to in-house educators, we enlist local sexuality instructors such as Stella Harris, Ev'Yan Whitney, and Jessie Fresh.”

Make sure to prioritize comfort and consent, ensuring everyone is having a great time and feels included.

These ideas can create a fun, unforgettable time while celebrating in a unique and intimate way. These projects are not only budget-friendly but also add a unique and personal touch to the celebration.

Wedding Outfits on a Budget

When it comes to wedding outfits, buying secondhand is a great way to save money. Thrift stores and online marketplaces offer a variety of stylish options at a fraction of the cost. Another option is to repurpose items you already own. With a little creativity, you can transform a simple dress or suit into a wedding-ready outfit with the right accessories.

Sharing wedding outfits with friends is another cost-effective solution. If you’re attending multiple weddings this season, consider swapping outfits with friends. This way, you can have a new look for each event without spending extra money.

Wedding season doesn’t have to drain your wallet or your spirit. You got this! Check in with yourself and your people throughout and try to keep dreaming. Hopefully you can also use these creative and cost-efficient tips, enjoy all the festivities and know that at the end of the day it's okay to compromise by finding creative solutions. Surviving the wedding season is not only possible but tangible,as many folks have done it before you! Lean into the wealth of knowledge that exists through small blogs like this or tap in with friends for more ideas.

XOXO and Happy celebrating!

Keke Walker