In the last post I talked a bit about why my husband and I decided to have a small wedding ceremony. This post will share some of the behind the scenes details.

I started the day by getting my hair and make-up done. I decided to get ready at the home I grew up in, while Ryan got ready with his dad and brothers. There was something so special about being at home, surrounded by people that helped me grow, the people I love. Tied to my bouquet, I carried trinkets from both of my grandma’s and my best friend, it was my way to keep them with me throughout the day.

We didn’t have a bridal party, so when I did a first look, I did it with some of the most important women in my life, with a special introduction from my niece. It was followed by an emotional first look with my dad.

After the ceremony (which I shared more of here), we held a reception at the Livingston Depot, a historic train depot and part time museum located in Livingston, MT. There we were joined by additional friends and family for the celebration. My favorite part of the entire day was spending time with friends I hadn’t seen in years, but yet here we were, all together again!

The décor was simple–almost everything was handcrafted, and it all tied in to who we are and what we love. We used a mix of long and round tables, laid out to surround the dance floor. On the long tables, we had wooden table runners that I wood burned with special dates, quotes, and images. Each one was different, so guests could walk around and learn about our relationship. My dad and husband built the wooden bar for the wedding. Our flowers were a mix of gorgeous bouquets from Eco Flower and live, loose flowers we scattered around the tables.

The *delicious* bbq dinner was a nod to my husband’s southern roots. Our desserts were a mix of donuts (from the most amazing local donut shop) and cake from Momofuku Milk Bar (a NYC bakery that’s on my bucket list to visit someday). We also had pumpkin rolls and a caramel apple bar because, hello fall!

Our budget was small, the wedding day was a bit unconventional, and it was all so perfect. After letting go of the expectations and pressure that I put on myself, I was able to put together a day that was exactly the right day for my husband and I.

Be sure to check out our list of vendors below!

Want more behind the scenes? You might be interested in my dress shopping experience.

My wedding vendors:

• Photography: Tracy Montoya Photography
• Dress: After 5 and Weddings
• Rings: Riddle’s
• Hair and Makeup: Tresses Salon
• Catering: Blondie Bakes
• Donuts: Granny’s Gourmet Donuts
• DJ: Joe’s Mobile
• Bartending: Scissorbills Saloon