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Rainy Outdoor Wedding in Washington

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Ilana + Josh love camping so much, they decided to make it their wedding venue! Find out how this savvy couple was able to have the day of the dreams near the beautiful Lake Cushman while also keeping the budget under $16k.

Ilana + Josh

Olympic, Washington
09/23/2023 · 60 guests
Total wedding budget $15,900

Budget Breakdown

Below is an estimated wedding budget breakdown provided by the couple.

  • Flowers
    0%
    $50
  • Alcohol/Bar
    2%
    $300
  • Partner 2 Attire
    3%
    $400
  • Partner 1 Attire
    4%
    $600
  • Venue
    4%
    $700
  • Photography
    43%
    $6800
  • Catering
    44%
    $7000
  • Total wedding budget
    $15900

Did you do any DIY Projects or create any handmade items for your wedding?

Ilana + Josh picked wildflowers from a wildflowers farm, and incorporated them into their bouquets and boutonnieres.

What creative or personal aspects did you include in your wedding?

The couple loves camping, and rented out an entire group campsite for the after party. The day before their wedding, people camped and had a s’mores bonfire rehearsal dinner!

What is the most memorable moment of your day?

Josh had actually proposed with a handmade sword, and the couple used it in some of their photos, and to cut the cake!

What was the biggest thing you did to save money?

Ilana + Josh held their wedding ceremony at a campground. The lake was beautiful for photos, the park area was amazing for a ceremony, and the group campground was awesome for both an after party and lodging guests who didn’t want to get a hotel or Airbnb.

The bride’s parents made cheesecakes, which were delicious and a favorite of the bride. Making their own playlist and renting a speaker was also cost effective and as much fun as having a DJ.

What was your biggest splurge?

The biggest splurge was photography!

What was your favorite detail?

The bride’s favorite detail was her white Doc Martens that she laced with ribbons to match her wedding dress.

What’s the best advice you have for planning your wedding now that you’re on the other side?

The best advice from the bride is having an elopement photographer that does location research with a budget in mind. Find a perfect spot for your group size that is also beautiful!

Caterers who provided food, rentals, tables, chairs, and plating – and also who served alcohol that the couple bought from Costco was extremely effective!

Vendor Credits