Info, advice, and inspiration for your affordable, inclusive, and beautiful wedding
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This edition of Under the Radar features maybe the first wedding dress designer I ever swooned over: Fable Dresses!
Fable Dresses’ Etsy says they’ve only been operating since 2017. But I swear I remember seeing owner and designer Jada’s dresses floating around the internet years before that and was in *love.*
I mean, just look at the incredible embroidery on this wedding dress bodice:
UGH. So delicate and pretty! All of Fable’s creations are hand embroidered and handmade from recycled materials. I just want to flit through the forest talking to birds and squirrels a la Snow White in one of these gowns. (A girl can dream, right?)
Fable Dresses offers affordable and eco friendly options for brides who want color and whimsy in their wedding outfit without spending a fortune. All of their dress options are less than $1,000. And this dress (with hand-embroidered butterflies on the shoulders!) is only $250!
Plus, you can get an embroidered ring pillow to match your look for an all-around magical ceremony:
Fable also offers belts with crystals, beads, and other glimmery baubles to accessorize their magical dresses! Which are also versatile enough to match your own mystical outfits. Personally, I think they’d make great festival wear!
So get over to Fable’s Etsy now, because all pieces are one of a kind! You don’t want to miss out on something magical.
Do you know a designer I should feature in an Under the Radar post? Let me know in the comments! (And if you want to see more magical dresses, check out these glittery, shimmery wedding gowns.)
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission, which helps keep us running. Thanks!
Sparkly wedding dresses are having a big moment! Shimmery, magical boho dresses are popping up everywhere and I love it.
My (totally unscientific) theory is that a Chosen By One Day’s iconic Nala gown, featured in styled shoots that have blown up Instagram and Pinterest, started the trend. I *drooled* the first time I saw Nala–then I saw the $7,000 price tag.
Other designers have taken note, however, and now there are *so many* more affordable sparkly dresses on the market–including some beautiful emulations of Chosen’s sought after sparkly gowns. Here are some of the best sparkly dresses I’ve come across–all with a much less painful price tag than Nala!
1. BHLDN – Artemia Gown
Obsessed with Chosen’s Nala but don’t have seven thousand dollars lying around to spend on a wedding dress? Artemia to the rescue! Artemia’s all over sparkle, nude slip, delicate sleeves, and open back have the same ethereal beauty as Nala–but at $1,995 a much less intimidating price tag.
2. Willowby – Lunella
Almost a dead ringer for the Artemia from sister brand Willowby by Watters, the Lunella has a deeper, more daring V-neck and is available with ivory and champagne slips. Lunella’s price range is $1,970-$2,378 and is available up to a size 24.
3. Willowby – Mercury
Lunella’s pearlescent counterpart! The Mercury is available up to a size 24 and its price range is $1,950-$2,338.
4. Reclamation Design Company – She Walks in Beauty Dress
Live your dream of being a golden goddess on your wedding day in this incredible dress, which is made to order in every size. Reclamation’s dresses are known for their impeccable design and adjustable, comfy fit–which I know from experience, wink wink–and at $955.26, is a steal.
5. Orion Gown – BHLDN
Wear the romance of a night sky in the Orion, a jaw-droppingly beautiful option for brides who want to radiate celestial magic. The Orion is $1,995.
6. ASOS – Needle & Thread Bridal Lace Dress
The gentle contrast of ivory sequin florals on this dress’ white lace makes for a look that romantic, whimsical, and sophisticated all at once. For a standout couture bridal look, the $583 price tag is ~not bad~.
7. BHLDN – Lorimer Dress
A romantic yet glam gown with flutter sleeves, a plunging backline, and all over sequin glitter, the Lorimer is $675.
8. Morning Lavender – Valentina Low Back Sequin Gown
More and more brides are killing it in colorful dresses on their wedding day, and all over sequins will turn everyone’s heads! This dress, available in deep red and deep green, is only $118.99.
9. Morning Lavender – Celia Silver Sequin Maxi
Another sequined stunner from Morning Lavender with a tassel tie waist for a glam look with a touch of boho! At only $88.99, this dress is great for brides on a budget who want to glitter their way down the aisle.
10. Boom Blush – Counting Stars Dress
White beads and silver sequins give this starry dress its night sky glitter. The Counting Stars Dress can be ordered with ivory, light beige, dark beige or blush lining and is $1,990.
11. E & W Couture – Orion
Yet another beautiful celestial gown with nude tulle and *glittery winged unicorns*–yep, no joke–for brides who want to feel like the ultimate fairy tale princess! E&W doesn’t list prices for individual gowns on their website, but their FAQ notes most of their dresses range between £1,500-£2,000 or approximately $1,666-$2,222.
12. BHLDN – Jenny Yoo Halsey Dress
Silver sequins + open back + flutter sleeves = simple, sophisticated glam! The Halsey Dress is $375.
13. ASOS – Sequin Cami Wedding Dress
A simple silhouette with all over sequins, this dress is for the classic bride who wants an unexpected touch of modern glitz! At only $285, this dress is easy on the budget–but ASOS’ website notes that it’s selling quickly, so jump on it if this is the dress for you!
14. My Eden Bespoke – Gold Sequin Dress
A cross hatch pattern adds complexity to this sleek, simple yet impactful gold sequin dress. This dress is £950.00 or approximately $1,055.
15. Anthropologie – Vicky Metallic Maxi Dress
This gold shimmer dress is for the glam rock brides! Studded white block heel boots, a painted black leather jacket with fringe, a bouquet with bold red and coral tones, and this dress would make the *perfect* rocker bride look. Throw a “‘Til Death” neon sign on the wall behind your sweetheart table and you’re set! The best news? The Vicky is available up to a size 26 and is only $198!
16. Boom Blush – Galaxy Dress
The flowing lines of silver sequins on Boom Blush’s Galaxy dress are romantic, glam, and boho all at once! The Galaxy Dress is $1,590.
17. BHLDN – Brenda Dress
Style this shimmery dress with a star tiara and dried bouquet to look like an ethereal celestial princess! The Brenda Dress is $325.
18. ASOS – Pleated Plunge Wrap Wedding Dress in Sequin
This dress offers modern sophistication and bold sparkle! At $308, it’s affordable for the vast majority of brides but like the previous ASOS dress, it’s selling quickly–so snag it while you can!
16. BHLDN – Orva Dress
BHLDN categorizes this gold sequined dress as mother of the bride/special occasion, but it has untapped bridal potential! Style with a crown of large red peonies and a pampas grass-accented bouquet and you’ve got a magazine-worthy wedding look. (Plus, it’s only $360.)
Are there any swoon-worthy sparkly dresses I’m missing? Let me know in the comments! And top off your scintillating wedding look with a statement piece from FBNW’s list of unconventional boho headpieces and hair accessories!
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission, which helps keep us running. Thanks!
Unless you’re an event planner extraordinaire who thrives on four hours’ sleep, planning a wedding is almost always a *little* stressful. (And often more than a little.) Juggling multiple priorities, hard budgeting decisions, and balancing family expectations with your own wants is *tiring.* Maybe even the excitement you felt after getting engaged has long fizzled out.
But it’s possible for wedding planning feel exciting and fun again! My partner and I both have anxiety and figuring out the tips I’ve listed below have helped us not only survive the process, but have fun and feel more connected with each other about what we want for our wedding. Even though the big day is getting closer and we have more to do more often, planning is still fun and exciting.
Really, these tips all revolve around a central idea: you deserve to allow yourself understanding, happiness, and friendship during the wedding planning process. So with that, let’s dive in:
1. Champagne and plan, baby
This one is so important, loves: treat yourself with something you both love that allows wedding planning to be meaningful, enjoyable time spent together.
When you and your partner encounter a budget snag with florals, or have to figure out replacing that dream photographer who fell through, or realize you *totally* forgot to account for renting glassware for your open bar, sometimes the stress gets taken out on each other. And that makes planning for your life together feel extra stressful.
A great way to remember what’s most important–that you love the other person enough to want them around for the rest of your life!–is to share something you enjoy together. This way, every time you plan you start from a place of feeling happy, relaxed, and on the same team as your partner.
And the treat is up to you! Maybe it is champagne. But it could also be your favorite takeout, coffee from your favorite spot, face masks, even your favorite funny movie playing in the background to help keep the mood light–whatever hits the spot.
2. Dessert tasting tour? Don’t mind if ~I do~ (couldn’t resist, sorry)
Look for opportunities to make fun outings out of wedding planning-related errands and include friends from your wedding party! Sure, we invite our bridal party along for dress shopping, but there are so many other opportunities to have fun with dear friends from your wedding party while planning! Invite them along for food and cake/dessert tastings. (If you can plan more than one in a day, make a day of it!) Take your person of honor who loves vintage decor to the antique mall when you hunt for ceremony aisle boho rugs on the cheap. Or if you have a simple, fun DIY (more on that in #3) they can help with, lay out the wine and snacks and invite them over for a crafting party!
Depending on the particular elements you’re including in your wedding, this can take a lot of different forms. The important thing is to let yourself think creatively about how to use wedding planning to spend more time with friends you love who make you happy.
3. Approachable, cost-contained, and bail out-able DIY
DIY-ing can help your budget and bring personalized touches to your wedding, but unless you’re already an expert in a particular craft too much DIY can become stressful and burdensome. Especially if you’re trying to DIY something that:
a) Must be done on or very close to the wedding day, i.e., anything involving fresh flowers
b) You have to make multiple of that you want to look consistent, i.e., wedding favors or again, fresh flower decor such as matching bouquets and centerpieces
c) Isn’t cost efficient vs. the non-DIY option
…then you may cause yourself *more* stress instead of less.
Instead DIYing fresh flower wedding centerpieces–which you’d have to do day of and doesn’t have a viable backup plan should something go wrong–try an approachable DIY that only requires making one or a few things ahead of time, in case you *do* need to ditch the DIY and hire a pro. Great examples include macrame ceremony arch backdrops, chair backings, and bouquet wraps; cardstock or paper installations for photo booths or above dessert tables; and spray painting cake stands and other small decor items.
Approachable, cost-contained, and bail out-able DIY that you and your love can do together–and with friends!–will make your wedding feel personalized and special without sabotaging your wellbeing.
4. Finished something stressful? Celebrate!!!
This is a *big* one.
It’s easy to tick off a wedding checklist item and immediately think about what’s next. But if you and your love finished something that required a heavy lift?
*For everything holy, take a minute and celebrate it!*
I know it can feel weird celebrating getting something done for a party that revolves around you and your love, but if we’re being real, weddings are often not *just* about you as a couple–at least from a logistical standpoint. Unless you’re eloping with just the two of you, your wedding planning probably involves a degree of making sure other people are having a good time–and that takes *work.* So when you’ve done your work, let yourselves celebrate a little! Celebrating is a way of loving yourself *and* your partner, and acknowledging your time and effort are worth something.
Are there other tips you have for easing wedding planning stress? Let me know in the comments!
(PS: Also, check out my recent post about throwing limiting expectations from others about your wedding to the wind with one of my favorite two words sentences, lol!)
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission, which helps keep us running. Thanks!
Planning a wedding in 2019 is interesting–and that’s an understatement. Trends skew nontraditional and budget-friendly and more couples are breaking away from gender norms and expectations at their weddings, which is great! But some folks have expectations that conflict with shifts toward less tradition and more inclusivity. And if you have any relatives helping to pay for a wedding, obviously a clash of values can lead to real conflict.
That’s why I want to give you permission to say fuck it.
Let me be clear: I’m not saying if you compromise on one of the expectations I talk about that you’ll regret your wedding day or fail to be the perfect, free-spirited, hair-blowing-in-the-wind-boho-supermodel person getting married that you “should” be.
I’m saying you deserve the permission and affirmation that you are 100% justified to want your wedding to feel like it’s *yours.*
And by the way, none of what I talk about here is dependent on spending more money. These are all things that don’t require you to spend more–if anything, I’m giving you permission to spend *less.*
So without further ado, here are four expectations people may have about your wedding to which you can say fuck it.
1. Having (or Not Having) a First Look
First looks have become a popular way for couples to see one another and let out nervous energy before the ceremony. Some couples also choose first looks because the whole “not seeing the bride until the ceremony” tradition originates from some cringe-worthy, patriarchal BS. But for some couples, the excitement and emotional buildup to seeing each other for the first time during the ceremony is really special. (My spouse-to-be and I aren’t super traditional, but we aren’t seeing each other until the ceremony for that butterflies-in-stomach anticipation. And I’m really excited about it!)
Either way, this isn’t about anybody else but you and your love.
I’ve seen blogs that complain from the vantage point of a *guest* about couples who choose first looks. (Which like, uh, honestly, who *asked* you?) But it doesn’t matter what they or anyone else thinks! Your ceremony should be structured with you and your love’s needs and happiness in mind first and foremost. Don’t worry about trying to satisfy tradition if a first look feels right, or getting a trendy first look photo if seeing your spouse-to-be for the first time when you or they walk down the aisle means a lot to you. This part of your wedding barely affects anyone else, but can really impact you and your love’s experience of the day. So make it about *you!*
2. Wearing a Traditional Color and/or Item of Clothing
Couples creating personalized weddings are trending less traditional and more imaginative with what they wear. Brides and spouses wearing dresses are opting for bright sequins, bold colors, and informal designs. Wedding jumpsuits are making big gains in popularity. And more queer, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming folk are dressing according to who they are and what they feel like themselves wearing, not what others think they ~should~ wear.
And…that’s exactly how it should be.
Let me say that if you’re a queer person from a conservative family, for instance, you may compromise and opt to dress in line with what your family expects to protect yourself from potentially hurtful comments on the big day–and that is totally, 100% okay. Not everyone comes from supportive family environments and doing what you can to have a painless, drama-free wedding is so absolutely fine.
It’s just that, queer dear heart, I hope you don’t have to.
I hope the people who say they love you are willing to see you at your most genuine and free. I hope there’s at least one relative you have an inkling will listen–and if you *do* talk to them, I hope they respond with kindness and care.
And if they don’t? I hope you have enough support and love from other loved ones in your life to feel okay saying fuck it–and doing what feels right and genuine for you.
3. Having a Religious Ceremony
Most of us come from families with some kind of religious background. Even if you share basic beliefs with your family and loved ones, your faith overall may look much different and less traditional than your parents’ or grandparents’ religion. Lots of couples run into the expectation to incorporate religious traditions into their ceremony, and maybe that’s not an issue for you! This is another situation where I *absolutely* understand compromising to keep the peace. But if a religious ceremony–or a ceremony with religious elements that conflict with your individual beliefs–brings you more than passing discomfort, there are two *very* good reasons to say fuck it:
1. Your emotions will be running *high* during your wedding. So even if you plan to poker face through, you may not be able to conceal whatever icky feelings you’re feeling about the religious stuff, especially if you have any traumatic associations with religion.
2. If you feel uncomfortable, the people around you will likely be able to pick up on it and feel uncomfortable, too. Which kinda defeats the purpose of incorporating religious stuff to make some people feel more comfortable.
Of course, I’m not saying you need a statue of Baphomet at your wedding altar to stick it to your church-y family at your wedding (though like, if you *want* a Baphomet statue that’s pretty rad, tbh). But if you’re really attached to say, not reading any Bible verses and including a Celtic handfasting into your ceremony? Gently explain what you want and go for it.
4. Details Out the Wazoo
Who among us is immune to the charms of perfectly boho modern place setting photos on Pinterest? (I’m sure there’s *somebody* but it ain’t me.) Dreaming about details and decor can be one of the most fun parts of your wedding! So by all means, work that creative energy for your big day if that brings you joy.
But also, remember this as a kindness to yourself: most people won’t remember or care if you had chargers during the reception dinner.
I don’t mean that in a “caring about those details is stupid and trivial” way. I mean it in a “if you can’t afford to curate every last little detail with aesthetic precision because you can’t afford a planner, work two jobs, and also like eating and sleeping occasionally, your wedding will still be awesome” way.
Like, really. It will be.
I’ve been to weddings with a wide range of looks and budgets, and I don’t remember the place settings from even the most expensive plated dinner reception. By the same token, I didn’t miss those details at more casual ceremonies. What I do remember from those weddings is the joy of seeing people I cared about get married and noticing the meaningful ways couples incorporated their unique selves into their wedding day. And sure, some of that did include decor, but not dozens of different things–just a few personalized touches that made the day feel sweet and meaningful. (One of my favorite examples: the bride baked the groom’s favorite pies in place of cake and bought a variety of vintage cake stands from thrift stores to display them for affordable, functional, and pretty decor.)
So cut yourself some slack on those details! Let yourself say Fuck It to every single tiny detail needing to be perfect! There are many people don’t have the time or money to make them all happen and still have amazing, beautiful weddings. (PS: if you do care a lot about, say, pretty invitations or place settings but time and money are tight, you can put together just one setting or print one fancy invite to be photographed! Getting that Pinterest-worthy photo without the stress and cost of fancy place settings for everybody sounds like a win-win to me, tbh.)
What are some other wedding expectations you’d tell people they should just say Fuck It about? Say it in the comments! Also, don’t forget to sign up for occasional emails from Fly By Night Wedding with updates and offers from around the wedding universe.
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission, which helps keep us running. Thanks!
Stressful though it may be, planning a wedding can also be pretty fun! Researching vendors, getting to know who they are and what they offer, and learning about the many ways to throw an awesome wedding has been an overall positive experience for my upcoming wedding.
One thing that has caused a little stress, however, is finding queer-friendly wedding vendors. My partner is queer, as are people in our wedding parties and invited guests, and we’re both adamant about only allowing vendors that are fully affirming and supportive of LGBTQ people be a part of our wedding.
Making this happen in Texas caused us both some nerves. Asking vendors if they’re queer-affirming in a state known for its hostility to non-cishet people is intimidating–something no one should have to experience when planning what should be one of the happiest days of their lives. If you’re a wedding vendor that welcomes LGBTQ couples and wants to ensure they feel safe contacting and booking you, below are four action steps that will go a long way:
1. Don’t hide your love!
Are you down with queer couples? Great, now say so!
My partner and I were so relieved when two of the vendors we loved replied that they’re cool with queer folks–but really, we shouldn’t have had to ask. Be loud and clear on your website, social media channels, and anywhere else you maintain a public presence that you’re inclusive and down with queer couples!
2. Feature LGBTQ couples!
If you’re a vendor that maintains an online photo gallery and/or shares photos via social media, feature LGBTQ couples! It was strange hearing from vendors that they *did* welcome queer couples–and that they’d worked with queer couples in the past–to then visit their website and social media and see not one visibly non-cishet couple. The message I got from that was, “We’ll take your money, but won’t acknowledge you exist.” And that’s…not okay.
3. Keep your contact form gender neutral.
This is such a simple, great thing to do! I pretty much *knew* that we’d hire our photographer when I saw his contact form used gender neutral terms. You can use “You” and “Your partner’s name” instead of “Bride” and “Groom,” for example, to keep your contact form gender neutral.
4. Ask pronouns–and give your own!
If you’re an individual, such as a photographer, makeup artist, or wedding planner/coordinator, include your pronouns in your email signature, on your website About page, and on social media profiles! This is a great indication that you’re not assuming anyone’s pronouns and understand the importance of respecting people’s gender identities. Asking the pronouns of the couples you’re working with also ensures they don’t have to correct or explain themselves to you–you’ve already done them to courtesy of asking.
Are there any other tips you’d suggest to help vendors be more approachable for LGBTQ couples! Let me know in the comments!
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission, which helps keep us running. Thanks!
Looking for a splash of unexpected color on your wedding day? These nine colorful boho wedding dresses are exuberant, bold, and festive–and perfect for brides with personalities to match!
Check out these colorful boho wedding dresses and find your unconventional wedding day look!
1. Lovely Bride – Palermo Dress
Covered in a stunning appliqué of muted blue flowers, this dress has a mystic yet modern, clean boho look. The Palermo dress is $4001.
2. Lucy Can’t Dance – Moonage Daydream
I love all of Lucy Can’t Dance’s retro-futuristic boho looks, and this pastel space queen dress is one of my favorites! The Moonage Daydream Dress adds two touches of light color with its reverse light gray dip dye skirt and iridescent sequin top. The Moonage Daydream is made to your measurements for $3,118.92.
3. Lucy Can’t Dance – Ground Control Dress
I just *had* to include another dress from Lucy Can’t Dance! The pale blue dip dye and geometric sleeves make this dress both offbeat yet fitting for many different boho wedding aesthetics. The Ground Control Dress is made to your measurements at $2,438.43.
4. Wardrobe by Dulcinea – Aurora Dress
This utterly ethereal dress is named after the northern lights the colors of its dip dye skirt bring to mind. Pair with a silver starry crown for a breathtaking celestial wedding look. The Aurora dress is $865.
5. Rue de Seine – Aegean Dres in Indigo
You’ll look like a princess from a faraway land in this dress! This gown’s dip dye tassels and lush blue and pale pink floral fabric are jaw-droppingly beautiful. The Aegean gown in indigo is $3,475.
6. Dame and Maiden – Pastel Lace Wedding Dress
The painted lace of this dress is unlike anything I’ve ever seen–the bold pastels, dip dye fringe armbands, and split front come together into an incredible boho gown.The warm, vibrant colors have me fantasizing about a summer solstice festival wedding! This dress is $1,795.
7. Dame and Maiden – Pastel Lace Wedding Dress with Fringe Sleeves
This. Dress. UGH. So vibrant, sunny, and festive, this dress is perfect for brides throwing weddings full of joy and color. That yellow to lavender ombré fringe is to *die* for! This dress’ price tag is $1,875.
What other colorful boho dresses have *you* found that brides would love? Let me know in the comments! Also, don’t forget to sign up to get my FREE exclusive “Four Places You Aren’t Shopping For Affordable Wedding Dresses (But Should)” Guide!
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission. Thanks!
As a lifelong crystal collecting, fantasy novel devouring, unicorn and dragon obsessed sentimental nerd, I love how the boho wedding trend has opened up so many possibilities for brides who want to look magical on their wedding day! One aspect of boho styling I’m happy to see get more creative is boho wedding hair accessories.
Here’s the thing: I love flower crowns! But there are so many other headpiece and accessory possibilities coming into vogue that deserve more spotlight. Also, flower crowns don’t fit every mystical boho persona: what if you want to be a winter queen, a celestial goddess, a crystalline princess?
So, I’ve collected nine boho wedding hair accessories that aren’t flower crowns for brides who want to accessorize outside the box here:
1. Gold Star Celestial Wedding Crown
Celestial weddings are having a moment right now and I am *into it.* This starry tiara is elegant yet whimsical, the perfect finishing touch to your bridal look. This crown is $125.
2. Large Crystal Wedding Back Crown
For the bride who wants a clean, modern boho look, this quartz hairpiece adds an earthy, raw touch of magic. This hairpiece is $133.
3. Opal Stud Tiara
Major rock’n’roll goddess vibes! I love this tiara–it’s edgy, organic, and a little bit outer space. This opal tiara costs $62.
4. Dark Mermaid Crown
Not every beach wedding has to be drenched in teal and fuschia! For the bride who dreams of a moody beach wedding, this seashell crown is a stunning finishing touch paired with a shimmery gold or ivory gown and structural dried bouquet. This seashell crown is $65.
5. Gold Star Bridal Headband
A simple yet striking hairpiece like this starry headband is both incredible romantic and easy to wear with a number of hairstyles. At $37.42, this is an affordable way to add starry night sparkle to your wedding look.
7. Wild Crystal Wedding Tiara
There are a lot of options out there for crystal crowns, but this one stands out for its wild, organic structure and two tiers of crystals. This stunning tiara is $161.50.
8. White Berry Bridal Crown
For a bride looking for an unexpected botanical headpiece, this berry crown is full of ethereal, innocent romance. And at $8.50, it’s an incredibly affordable way to achieve a unique and magical look for your big day.
9. Golden Halo Bridal Headpiece
Halo crowns are a fast-growing trend, and Batcakes Couture does them right! Most halo crowns are made from zip ties, but Batcakes’ crowns are handcrafted from wood and made to last. She offers a variety of halo crown designs, which can even be customized with colorful gems! This crown is $124.95.
10. Ivory Lace Bridal Crown
Piece. De. Resistance. Seriously, I gasped when I saw this crown, also from Batcakes Couture. For the bride who wants to exude magnificent, avant garde queenliness, this crown is meant for you. Truly, I *need* to see someone wear this for a moody, regal winter wedding. This snowy, beautiful crown is $300.
Have you stumbled upon creative boho bridal hair accessories worth knowing about? Share in the comments! Also, don’t forget to sign up to get my FREE exclusive “Four Places You Aren’t Shopping For Affordable Wedding Dresses (But Should)” Guide!
My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a cent more but but FBNW will get a small commission. Thanks!
One of the most exciting parts of your wedding is people from different stages of you and your partner’s lives coming together to celebrate your love. I know I can’t wait for old and new friends to meet at our wedding, and for our families to meet our friends they’ve not had the opportunity to meet before.
But cisheteronormative wedding traditions and cultural expectations–and the presence of conservative family (or friends) who follow said traditions and expectations–can make queer wedding party members and guests feel erased, embarrassed, and unsafe. As someone marrying a queer person, and as part of a couple with queer friends in our wedding parties and on our guest list, I want our wedding to feel as safe and welcoming to our queer loved ones as possible.
I’ve found very little advice on this online, especially advice that prioritizes the safety and comfort of queer guests over the couple showing potentially performative support. So, I want to offer five ways to help LGBTQ guests feel welcome and safe at your wedding:
1. Have an inclusive dress code.
This can apply to dress codes sent to wedding guests or your wedding party. For guest dress codes, make sure not to gender clothing options (i.e., “Gentlemen should wear suits”). For your wedding party, ask what your queer friend(s) are most comfortable wearing (if you don’t already know what kind of clothes they like to rock). You may have a queer woman in your bridal party you know loves to wear dresses, for instance, but a nonbinary or genderqueer friend that will want to wear something else. Just make sure to communicate and ensure your friend knows you want them to feel comfortable in whatever they wear for your wedding.
2. Accessible and gender neutral bathrooms (if possible).
I know this one depends on a lot of factors: where you live, how much you can afford to spend on a venue, family involvement in your wedding, etc. But if possible, having bathrooms marked as gender neutral–even if that’s a taped-on label over a gendered bathroom sign–lets your nonbinary, transgender, and genderfluid/genderqueer guests be present and included without the burden of trying to choose the “right” restroom. This, of course, in no way guarantees that other people at your wedding won’t be disrespectful, bigoted jerks. But it does signal to your guests what your values are as a couple–and since it’s a wedding, most people won’t push back on a couple’s choices and make a scene.
Also, handicap accessible restrooms ensure disabled guests feel comfortable attending your wedding. This was a big factor for us deciding a venue. There were a couple outdoor options we really liked, but would’ve required rented porta-potties or bathroom trailers with stairs. These options would’ve been nearly impossible for some of our disabled guests and guests with limited mobility to access.
3. Hire queer friendly vendors.
Again, I know this depends heavily on location, budget, and family involvement in your wedding. But if possible, hiring queer friendly vendors–especially for roles like photographer, DJ, etc. that have a high level of interaction with the couple, wedding party, and guests–helps create a safer atmosphere for everyone.
I was so relieved to find a queer friendly photographer for our wedding after scouring through tons of photographer profiles that talked about loving Jesus, only featured who appeared to be heteronormative couples, and had gendered contact forms (“Bride’s name” and “Groom’s name” instead of say, “Your name” and “Partner’s name”).
I’m not saying that people of faith can’t be queer friendly (or queer themselves, for that matter, as many are). But if you are a wedding vendor that wants to be safe for queer couples and wedding parties, you should say so explicitly on your website or other public contact forum–especially if you do adhere to a faith that historically has oppressed and excluded queer folks. This is especially important for photographers, given their level of interaction with couples.
4. Steer clear advisories.
This is more for your wedding party or very close, trusted friends. There may be some people attending your wedding you know have the potential to be rude or disrespectful to queer guests. In this case, you may want to give your queer pals a “steer clear” advisory for that person, for their own sake, to avoid any potentially hurtful or embarrassing interactions.
5. Ask what they need!
This is more appropriate and doable for your wedding party members who will be in the spotlight and interacting more with your family and vendors. It *is* your wedding and you have a *lot* to deal with leading up to and on the big day! But making time to talk or sending a quick text asking what will help them feel most comfortable and genuinely themselves during your wedding helps your queer love(s) know you see and appreciate them being there for you!
Please let me know if you have any feedback or additional tips! I’m open to correction, and want to provide actionable and helpful advice. Sound off! Also, don’t forget to sign up for the Fly By Night Wedding newsletter for updates and exclusive content!
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I love that more and more people have the opportunity to plan weddings that reflect who they are and leave behind convention, tradition, and stifling expectations. And one growing trend that I love for its affordability and bucking of tradition is the popularity of wedding jumpsuits!
Wedding jumpsuits aren’t just great for brides who don’t want to wear a gown on their big day–they’re also great for engagement shoots, rehearsal dinners, and reception looks for brides that want a ceremony dress and more dance-able look for their reception. Plus, all but two of the jumpsuits on this list are under $1000 (and some *way* under that), so these looks are great for brides on a budget.
Below are 14 beautiful wedding jumpsuits great for brides of all styles and price points:
1. ASOS Edition – Cape Sleeve Wedding Jumpsuit in Satin
The long cape sleeves and wide leg silhouette of this jumpsuit is regal yet clean and simple. At $261, it’s both beautiful and very affordable.
2. BHLDN – Kaley Jumpsuit
The allover lace and scalloped deep V neck of this jumpsuit are both bold and ultra-feminine. The Kaley jumpsuit is $498.
3. BLUSHFASHION – Blush Pink Long-sleeved Jumpsuit
This blush pink jumpsuit is so simple yet so stunning for the bride who wants to flaunt convention with silhouette *and* color! This jumpsuit is only $116.10, so it’ll fit just about every wedding budget.
4. Nordstrom – One-Shoulder Lace Jumpsuit
This lace jumpsuit has a boho feel with a modern, clean silhouette and only costs $166.
5. ASOS – River Island Cold Shoulder Frill Jumpsuit
The dotted illusion lace and off-shoulder frills of this jumpsuit make it an ethereal, feminine standout! At only $59.50, this is an absolute steal for your city hall ceremony or intimate elopement.
6. Cleo & Clementine – Lace Wedding Jumpsuit
Isn’t this playsuit a dream? It’s flirty and sexy yet feminine and ethereal, with its illusion lace and ribbon bow at the nape of the neck. Paired with a tulle or chiffon skirt for your ceremony, this jumpsuit makes for a danceable and darling reception look. This jumpsuit is $1,980.
7. JadoreAfrica – Wedding Jumpsuit with Cape
I love this jumpsuit! The cape and open back add drama and the clean, classic lines are utter sophistication. This bespoke jumpsuit is only $145!
8. Dame & Maiden – Lace Wedding Jumpsuit
Boho, feminine, playful–what’s not to love about this jumpsuit? This is perfect for brides throwing adventurous, festive ceremonies and elopements. This jumpsuit is $595.
9. Amsale – Crepe V-neck Jumpsuit
This jumpsuit has pockets(!!!) and the simple yet stunning buttoned illusion back will make a statement no matter your ceremony–plus, at $495, it’s pretty budget friendly for many brides.
10. Milamira Bridal – Manu Jumpsuit
Made of exclusive luxury lace, this sleeved jumpsuit is incredibly versatile: pair with a flower crown for an ethereal boho look, long necklaces for an edgy hippie vibe, or with a tied skirt as pictured for a modern wink at the classic wedding dress. The Manu is $880.
11. Little White Ivy – Rose Jumpsuit
The Rose Jumpsuit’s unique, illusion lace-paneled bodice and open back plus its tailored, practical legs (and pockets, hell yeah) pairs sleek and practical with feminine and delicate for the bride who wants to drop jaws *and* have some practical function for her wedding outfit. The Rose Jumpsuit is $1,062.82.
12. ASOS – Silver Bloom Lace Jumpsuit
This ASOS exclusive is a simple stunner–that open back is gorgeous–and is on sale for *only $30*–they’re low in stock and can be returned, so if you’re making heart eyes over this jumpsuit, get it while you can!
13. ASOS – Lioness Jumpsuit
I don’t see many off-the-shoulder jumpsuits, and love the feathered lace neckline and waist sash. Pair this jumpsuit with a flowy A-line white skirt for a princess-y ceremony look, then rock just the jumpsuit at the reception to dance in comfort all night long! This jumpsuit is on sale for only $44!
14. Milamira Bridal – Maikai Jumpsuit
From the front this jumpsuit is clean and classic, but the stunning open back is a sensual, modern detail that makes this suit absolutely breathtaking. The Maikai is $690.
Spill in the comments if you’ve found other amazing bridal jumpsuits–especially plus size and affordable ones! Also, don’t forget to sign up for the Fly By Night Wedding newsletter for updates and exclusive content!