Creative Alternatives for Independent Brides

A ceremony at dusk with lanterns, candles, and lights. A black gown, fire-red hair, and fabulously rich-looking decor. The groom in leather armour and the bridesmaids in capes. Have I got you yet? Check out this forest wedding for all of this and more.

From top to toes, these ladies embraced their fave colors: yellow and black. The sand ceremony combined the colors, the candy buffet made me drool over the colors, and even their shoes matched. You'll love the DIY details and adorable look-alike cake toppers.

Wedding themes can be awesome. But they're totally not necessary! Check out what happened when one bride felt forced into choosing a theme.

We've featured lot of the DIY details from this wedding already, but this is finally the full story, including the best bits of all. The rainbow details, detachable dress, and the (somehow amazing) amateur photography are awesome — but just wait until you see the groom's face as the bride walks down the aisle, and the adorbs ring bearer and his flying rings.

I'm super excited to introduce all my Southern California brides to Santa Barbara-based sponsor ByCherry Photography. Because the Southern California area NEEDS more awesome photographers that not only cater to our kind but also list their services at prices that don't make me want to give up on the human race. And the quality of her images — WOW! Keep reading to see if you qualify to jump on her last-minute special discount.

If you spied Karen and Ian's program entitled "So You're Going to Sit Through a Wedding" and wanted to know what was inside, we've got it! Check out how they explained the details of the ceremony and reception in a funny and graceful way.

A wedding in an authentic nightclub dating back to Prohibition is the PERFECT place for a speakeasy-themed party featuring peacock details, a little burlesque, live music, and a to-die-for corseted gown. Check out this vintage-style wedding, but beware the ill-fated salt ceremony!

Things were very cool in the Offbeat Flickr Pool this week. From umbrella fights to steampunk accessories, and a man who enjoys his cake… a lot. Enjoy these selections from the Flickr Pool and the Offbeat Bride Pinterest account in this Monday Montage.