Think your dream honeymoon is out of reach? Think again!

In the United States,  the average age for getting married falls somewhere between 26 and 28 years old. For most, this usually means you have probably lived on your own for a number of years and have accumulated most of the houseware items you might typically register for when you are getting married. It's also becoming more and more common for brides and grooms to pay for their own wedding, rather than relying on their parents. This may leave little to no funds for a honeymoon.

In my opinion, I think the honeymoon is one of the most important aspects to a wedding! You've just spent months planning, getting opinions, making appointments, choosing colors, and flowers, and food, and attire and....the list goes on! It so important that the bride and groom get to spend some quality quiet time together after such a hectic process. But what do you do if you can't afford it after paying for all those wedding plans?

I love the idea of a honeymoon registry. You can plan out your dream trip including everything from airfare to room service, even a massage or a facial if you'd like! If they choose, your guests can contribute to your honeymoon in lieu of that fourth toaster you so desperately need. ;)

Even if you choose something like a weekend getaway to the beach or somewhere like Bend (if you live here in Oregon), it would be a great investment and a pleasant start to your new marriage. There are honeymoon registry websites online (they usually charge a very small fee) or you can contact your local travel agent to inquire about making a registry through them. Many travel agencies can help you plan out your trip and find you great deals on hotels and airfare as well. That dream trip to Hawaii or the Bahamas might not be as expensive after all!

Happy planning! Here are a couple honeymoon registry sites to take a look at...

Traveler's Joy
The Honey Fund

New wedding venue in Sherwood!

Last night, Katie Campbell and I went to go check out a new venue for the Portland area.

Bella Via is located in historic Old Town Sherwood. This venue space can accommodate up to 275 guests, when using their beautiful outdoor patio area. The moment you walk in the door, Bella Via is filled with character and charm! The building was built in 1912, originally a church, but it has been used for various purposes throughout the years. Beautiful chandeliers hang in the main ballroom and a dark wood bar is located in the upper level of the building.

It really is a beautiful wedding and event venue! You can find photos and additional information on their website and facebook page.

Bella Via's website
Bella Via's facebook page

P.S. Katie and I tried some AMAZING cupcakes while at the open house! Bella Cupcake, located in Gresham. Definitely worth a try! Or two. Or three. ;)

"Flowers cost how much?!"

Sometimes, wedding expenses can be overwhelming. Flowers can be one of those when used in everything from your bouquets to table arrangements. Recently, a bride told me she had met with a local florist for a consultation and had given them a budget. The florist quoted her over twice this amount!

As soon as I heard this, I knew she needed to shop around! The florist my friend used last summer for her wedding was amazing! I contacted them and made an appointment.

A Floral Affair, recently relocated to Oregon City, was a breath of fresh air! Angel listened and understood that both style AND budget were important to this bride. She made suggestions on ways to save, but still have stylish and beautiful floral arrangements. She was able to provide everything within the bride's budget.

Always be sure to shop multiple vendors and ask questions! If you are trying stay within a certain budget, good vendors will have suggestions for you on ways you can save.

Stop by A Floral Affair and check out their website!

Hi, my name is Alex and I'm addicted...

...to TJ Maxx! It is rare that I step inside that store and walk out without a shopping bag full of amazing deals. Ok, or at least just one good deal! ;)  Lately I find myself stopping in at least once a week, just to see what's new.

Today I stopped in and took a look at their housewares section to see what I could use for an upcoming project. Brides, if you are doing DIY centerpieces but still want to wow your guests, this is the place to go! They had vases of every shape and size! And at VERY affordable prices! We are talking $4.99 to $12.99. I picked up a few for my project, each about eight inches wide; the shortest around 12 inches and the tallest about 2.5 feet. I can't wait to show you all how I'm going to use them for my upcoming project :)

So if you find yourself looking for a way to save on your upcoming wedding decor, TJ Maxx is definitely on my list!

Interview on katiecampbellphoto.com

This last Wednesday I was featured in an interview on Katie Campbell Photography's blog! Please stop by and check it out. Make sure to look at Katie's site as well; she's an amazing photographer and would be a great fit for your wedding!

Thanks Katie!

Interview with Katie Campbell