The best (and hardest) part of planning a wedding is deciding on the theme and a color scheme. The big trend in weddings is to coordinate everything: the wedding party wardrobe, flowers, the ceremony and reception décor. How an engaged couple arrives at that decision is a personal thing, but paying attention to every detail doesn’t have to cost a fortune if you plan and shop wisely!

For example, this turquoise-and-gold table setting has some easy DIY ideas. Everything I used here I found at Goodwill stores.

Instead of the usual charger look for something different. For example, this gold serving platter looks great with a turquoise dinner plate rimmed in brown.

Then choose stemware in a coordinating color.

Forgo expensive napkin rings and make something unique (and practically free). I wrapped plain white napkins with pretty yarn and tucked in a name card I made with basic card stock and a stamping kit.

NOTE: I once found dozens and dozens of packages of four white napkins for $.99 at Goodwill. (I bought them all!) Keep shopping; you never know what bargains you will discover!

Who says you have to identify each table with a number? I wrapped wood initials with the same yarn and added a tassel. Be creative. Choose letters that will spell out a phrase you can hang on the wall of your first home together. (Love, Peace, Joy?)

The little bird candle adds another layer of texture and light to your place setting.

Just because your style is more casual than formal, doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be beautiful, personal and memorable.