wedding planning in desperate times

So you got engaged a while ago, or maybe just recently, but now the uncertainty of what was going to happen toward the end of 2008 has given way to the realization that we are in a global recession. In the new age of "DIY," everyone everywhere seems to be cutting back and telling you how you can do the same.

Scaling down is definitely important! I too was once a bride on a budget. But, if you've dreamed about your wedding day since you were a little girl, there are ways to keep your event classy while saving yourself a buck or two.

Tip: trim the guest list as much as possible, and consider having a smaller, intimate affair. You can still go for quality food, music, and all the other "trappings" that will set the tone for an elegant event, but you'll save a huge chunk of change overall.

Christy's invitations

When my client, Christy, came to drop off her envelopes to me, I had never heard of the stationery brand that she chose. Apparently she had gotten them online - but as I started to write, not only was the paper "behaving" (some papers accept calligraphy ink better than others), it was coming out perfect!

With that, I am adding NuArt to the list of brands that I recommend for best pen and ink execution. Others include Regency by Carlson Craft, William Arthur, Checkerboard, Crane & Co., and Vera Wang.

Congrats, Christy and Ed! It's been great working with you. :)