Backyard Bliss on a Budget: Tom & Laurie's Big Day
When it comes to weddings, we often hear about big venues, elaborate florals, six-tier cakes, and honestly it's every photographer's dream to book one of those, but Tom & Laurie’s day was a refreshing, heartfelt reminder that you don’t really need a huge budget to have a beautiful wedding. What matters to you most? Those are the things you'll want to prioritize, just like Tom & Laurie.
Set in her daughter's cozy backyard space, surrounded by close family and a few furry friends, Tom & Laurie’s ceremony was intimate and genuine. No frills or fuss, just them and the people who mattered to them the most. Their story was 13 years in the making and every bit of the ceremony reflected that. A few rental chairs, florals DIY'd from a local Omaha craft store, and a gorgeous arch set the stage for beautiful photos and the perfect backdrop to the beginning of their forever. There was no bridal party, just the two of them holding hands in front of their favorite people.
After the ceremony, a toast with champaign, & the family formals, the celebration moved to a nearby local restaurant, a new fancy Mexican spot with a back patio perfect for gatherings. It also backed up to a golf course so obviously we took their couple's photos there. They didn't have seating charts or complicated timelines, just AMAZING food, lots of laughter, and a cake from a local bakery, in a laid-back space where everyone could be present. It was a reminder that you don’t need to spend big to make people feel cared for and connected.
While they kept most of their day very budget-friendly, Tom & Laurie did make one intentional investment: their photographer. They knew the day would go by in a flash, and they wanted someone who could capture it and preserve it for generations to come. We got photos of Laurie and her daughter helping her get ready, the kiddos playing between the ceremony & toasts, and of course all of the usual big moments. They also wanted to prioritize family photos, so we took quite a few of those. Their choice to prioritize photography meant they now have a gallery full of memories that reflect exactly how the day felt — not just how it looked. And honestly? That is what's going to really last.
Are you looking to put together an easy, budget friendly wedding? Here's some of my personal favorites, including some that I used at my own wedding to save our pennies, so we could spend it on what mattered to us the most which was our DJ & photographer.
1. Use a meaningful (and free) location.
If this is an option, a backyard, family home, or local park can be the perfect setting — intimate, personal, and completely free of rental fees (although you will have to check parks - some Omaha parks do require permits for gatherings).
2. Keep the guest list small.
Inviting just close family and friends allows you to be more intentional with your time, energy, and budget.
3. Dine out instead of renting a venue (or do a taco or pasta bar).
Instead of catering or renting a reception hall, celebrate at a favorite restaurant that fits your vibe. No setup, no cleanup, and often more affordable per person. Another option, if you're going to/want to stay at the same venue the whole time, you can do something like a taco bar or pasta bar. Both are relatively inexpensive & can also be inclusive of people with allergies.
4. DIY Florals & Decor...
Skip elaborate decor rentals and instead head to your local Michaels, Hobby Lobby, or craft store, and pick up whatever they've got on sale at the time. If you know what you're looking for, you can easily time the end of season sales and get florals very inexpensively that way. I've helped several friends with this now, and each time we've been well under half of the budget we had planned to spend on florals. You can also check Amazon or Facebook Marketplace for deals on things like table runners or decorations.
5. Focus your budget on what matters most.
Whether it's photography, food, music, or florals — invest in the pieces that will bring you joy both on the day and in the years to come.
Tom & Laurie’s wedding was simple and full of love, proof that you don’t need to spend big to celebrate big. Whether you're planning your own intimate “I do,” or just exploring what a smaller, more budget friendly wedding could look like, let their day be your reminder: meaningful is always better than massive. Always.
CassandraMarie Photography
Services in Omaha, NE
and surrounding areas
Email: cassandramariephotography3@gmail.com
Phone - What'sApp: 402-238-6309
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