I love this bride’s bouquet — she had a forest wedding, and I think it’s awesome that she chose to make a bouquet from the natural flora in the area. It really binds the event to the location, is super low-impact and eco-friendly (no pesticides!), budget-conscious, and in this case made for a gorgeous casual bouquet full of fern fronds and wildflowers.

(Thanks to Organic Photo for the photo!)

The offbeat bride: Susan Beal, writer (and Offbeat Bride lab rat!)

My offbeat groom: Andrew Dickson, artist

Location & date of wedding: August 7, 2005, Contemporary Crafts Museum, Portland, Oregon

What made our wedding offbeat: We got married by our good friend Diane in the Church of Craft, at a craft museum, and threw a big party afterwards, so it really reflected the two of us! We DIYed everything we could (with a couple of exceptions) but we also did a lot of trading, and between that and some creative math we were able to pull off wine, beer, champagne, and dinner for 150 people, slightly under budget.

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The offbeat bride: Kate Davies, Barmaid

My offbeat groom: Lee Davies, Delivery Driver

Location & date of wedding: September 3rd, 2005 in Ammanford, South Wales

What made our wedding offbeat: After 10 years together, we decided to throw a big fat funky retro wedding. We had a tight budget so I made everything: invitations, wedding cake, favors, order of service, seven bridesmaid dresses — not to mention my own dress. And I did it all in keeping with our pink and green theme.

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My best friend is an offbeat bride and she’s planning an awesome personality-filled offbeat wedding for October. There’s a problem though — centerpieces. We’re trying to find something that’s DIY, doesn’t cost much, and doesn’t involve flowers. Yikes. Any suggestions? —Miranda

Any suggestions?! Even though we skipped centerpieces all-together at our wedding, I inhaled dozens of ideas online during the planning process. Here are a few of my favorites …

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