The Thrifted and Re-purposed Wedding

I was recently asked to help with the decorations for a friend's wedding. This sparked in me, an interest in how to use "junk" as an elegant wedding backdrop. Also... my son is a wedding photographer, and so I'm always looking at the pictures he has taken.

On this page, I'll be sharing some of the wedding ideas from wedding's I've helped with as well as some that he's photographed, that have a creative use of re-purposed items. Look for more ideas to continue flowing to this page, as I'm asked to help with more and more weddings. All my friend's kids are getting married these days. :)

Update: My son is geting married, and arrangements are underway. The backdrop will be my home and I'm so honored. I can't wait to share the decorations with you. The Bride has some great ideas.

Most photo's property of Allen Arrick Photography, Do not use without permission.


The centerpiece of the church backdrop was this wonderful old garden arch borrowed from a friend. Hanging from the center of the arch is a fabulous shabby old chandelier. The electrical is long gone on this chandelier, but it held these small candles perfectly.


to add interest to the arch, floating vases were displayed on each side, inside ornate wooden frames thrifted from various garage sales.

In the Entry Foyer was the traditional register, and a polite note to "please sign it" tucked into an old typewriter. We used lots of ornate frames painted black with spray paint, throughout all the decorations.


An old suitcase was the perfect place for a cash gathering vignette. Vintage sign letters spell out LOVE and lots and lots of flowers filling all the blank spaces. I used old books as lifts holding 2 containers for cash. The vintage chalk board lets everyone know what this display is for... "honeymoon fund".

On the opposite end of the honeymoon fund display, was this display. An old chippy plant riser holds glass containers filled with the bubble viles. The letterpress letters spell out, Gifts, Cards, XOXOXO and Love. The area between the suitcase and the bubbles would eventually be overflowing with gifts and cards.


On each of the round tables I used 4 sheets of 12" craft paper. placed like a * on top of the table cloths. Then I placed crayons on each table. Adults and Children alike enjoyed drawing pictures and writing messages to the newlyweds, which were saved and given to them when they returned from their honeymoon.

This cake display was absolutely fabulous and I had nothing to do with it. I love this idea so much and encourage you to make it your own. The cakes were delicious as well as beautiful!!!!

This is one of my favorite weddings that Allen has shot. The venue is in a barn. The bride spent months collecting all the special items she wanted to make this reception and wedding absolutely beautiful. She had a "bird" theme and I am amazed at what she accomplished. Enjoy

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You might find some inspiration from these books

Safety

I'd like to say a quick word about safety. Please use common sense when doing any of these projects. Use Caution with saws and power tools. Remember to wear gloves and eye protection. We want you to enjoy years of junking and crafting, so please play it safe.