David at Flowers by George Barnes is a great guy. He’s not only a florist but he saves abandoned birds (which help out at the shop by greeting customers). David was more than happy to accommodate our budget without losing our vision of the look of our wedding. The one disappointment was my bouquet. I had wanted peonies and last minute, David was forced to change it to roses. I kept a stiff upper lip and soldiered on (I didn’t want to be a Bridezilla) but looking at the pictures, it just wasn’t the same. The rest of the flowers were just as we had hoped (maybe even a little better). I loved the gardenia I wore in my hair and the small bouquets that my Mom, MIL and GIL carried were precious.

My DH came up with the idea to get dance lessons for our first dance. I definitely needed help in that department so I agreed. Luckily, two women in my office had been taking salsa lessons and they both highly recommended Oscar Ramirez. Oscar was an amazing teacher. He was patient, funny, very talented and so encouraging! He created a dance that fit both of our personalities and even mixed a song for us for our first dance. Everyone at the wedding approached us after our dance to tell us how impressed they were! We enjoyed the lessons so much; we plan on continuing with his group lessons and even going out dancing!

Who says jury duty isn’t fun? I made a friend that served on the same jury as I and we spent our extended lunches downtown, taking care of wedding errands (she got married about a month before I). My new friend introduced me to Elena Collection. What a find! Adorable handmade dresses for a great price (don’t be afraid to barter). I couldn’t have been happier with the FG dresses and with the price, their mothers didn’t mind when the girls ended up with a combination of sand from the beach and chocolate from the cupcakes all over them!

J.Crew was the perfect choice for clothing for our seaside wedding. We both found exactly what we were looking for. I found a great dress on sale for only $99! Although you may not find a deal like that, I highly recommend J.Crew for any bride on a budget. The only catch is you need to order the dress in order to try it on. As far as I know, J.Crew does not carry any of the wedding dresses they offer in the store. My DH found a well-made suit that he felt comfortable in. J.Crew even did all of his alterations for free. Another little trick for budget brides, order in the store and the shipping is free!

Adi and Cat of Next Exit Photography are a married, dynamic couple who run their business out of their adorable house in West Los Angeles (with their recently added studio located in their backyard). They're funny, completely down-to-earth (which makes you instantly comfortable with them) and incredibly personable. They treat every client like they're the only client. Adi and Cat are never too busy for a chat or a question (even a dumb one).

All these compliments and I haven't even gotten to the best part....their photography. Although I've only had the pleasure of working with them once (my engagement pictures).......

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I see the proof in their blog and brand new website. Every wedding, family portrait, engagement session, event and pregnancy picture.....perfect. They have a way of catching every moment while remaining seemingly invisible. If I had to pick one thing I love the most, it's the photojournalistic style.....beautiful.