Elopements are here to stay and there is so much to love about them. What I love most as a photographer is seeing couples taking back the power on their day and doing what they want to do. So, I have put together this list of stellar dresses that are elopement worthy AND $500 & under!

we are officially just under 4 months until our wedding day and yes, i am a perfectionist! a firm believer in “if you want something done right, do it yourself” so here is a list of some of the tools, vendors, crafts and ideas that have helped me along the way thus far from an engagement dinner to the big day and every special event in between. from custom printed paper goods to party favors and decor. i hope that you find this list helpful and please feel free to reach out in you are in need of a designer! (i am an artist with a knack for this and have been designing all of our own custom invites, menus, programs, stickers, etc.) best of luck! xo

💍 Wedding Affordable Essentials and DIY Needs: From a 2024 Bride on a budget! 💍 ✨ Provided links are affiliate links. I may make a small commission from customer purchases. ✨

All things Bridal! Here is everything wedding related including bridal outfits, decor, bachelorette, gifts for special people! Here I will provide mulitiple sections for all wedding events!

Whether you're attending a wedding soon, or you'd just like a pretty outfit in your closet, hope you'll find your next “go-to” in my list!

A curated list of wedding guest dresses I love that are flattering, stylish and comfortable to dance the night away!

Products I used to have long, healthy and shiny hair before my wedding day! Start using these products a year to 6 months out from your wedding for optimal results

Here’s some things I used to plan my wedding! I’d like to help out some other ladies by recommending BUDGET FRIENDLY options. :)

i'm a gemini baby and my 24th birthday is coming up in the spring and with that i need to start planning for my 24 hour party with the 24k gold theme. i'm sharing my decor and my plans for my 24 hour party for my 24th birthday and i do consider my birthday a spring holiday and i believe everyone that has a spring birthday deserves to consider it as a spring holiday

I was a 2024 bride, here's everything we asked for on the registry and actually got! We only did an amazon registry so everything on here can be found on there :)

Things I bought for my wedding weekend that made our day a success (All linked products are affiliate links)

This list has so many family-friendly Halloween invites that you can send digitally by text, email, or social sharing! You don't even have to figure out Canva or any design software because all the editing is done for you in 24 hours or less! Just order, get your awesome video and share with your guests! A wide variety of Halloween designs you won't see anywhere else! They're perfect for kids, teen and adult parties, as well as church events, office parties and community gatherings! Save time and money by going digital and impress your guests with one of these memorable video invites!

2026 bride over here! I’ve compiled lists of items I will be using (or want to be using) that I want/need for the next year or so. Here’s to being the future Mrs Jennings!🥂

I have made a list of some of my favorite venues that I have had the pleasure to officiate some amazing wedding at!

I have a handful of weddings coming up that are very formal and these are the dresses I’m considering!

Follow this list for my favorite items for a summer wedding - including bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner!!

Getting ready for your big day? It can get overwhelming! Here are a few recommendations to take the overwhelm to ease and allow you to feel more settled in the decisions you make.

Chic graduate photo announcements plus matching graduation party decor, desserts, and favors

From your engagement party to the rehearsal dinner,and every special moment in between, these dresses are made to celebrate you. Curated by a bridal stylist, this list features looks that are flirty, elegant, and effortlessly bridal without being too “wedding day.” Whether you're going full glam or keeping it sweet and simple, there's a dress here for every pre-wedding event on your calendar. Let the countdown to “I do” be just as stylish as the big day itself!

Thinking of asking for their hand in marriage? Check out this list of resorts that will be perfect for that unforgettable moment! If you need assistance or have more questiosn about these resorts feel free to contact me!

Planning a party soon? These are some must have products to decorate! Adding a few pics of ways I have used some of these products in my parties!

Sorry in advance for all of the Taylor Swift puns. For real though, where are all my Swifties at? I don't know about you guys, but I am over the moon excited for my dear friend, Taylor Swift (haha). Seriously, though, this is MY royal wedding. To celebrate, here's a mood board for the wedding. And Taylor, if you see this, I'd LOVE an invite!

Need some inspiration on wedding party proposal gifts or day of thank you gifts? Here is a collection of ideas ranging from meaningful keepsakes they’ll treasure forever to practical picks they’ll actually use! * Contains affiliate links *

If you're heading to a black tie wedding and have no idea what to wear—don’t stress, I’ve got you. I rounded up the most stunning black tie wedding guest dresses that are chic, classy, and totally photo-worthy!

Affordable party supplies I have purchased and reviewed. Themes are a big deal to me and I try my best to find everything that fits!

Some of the things I was loving as a 2025 bride! From funky to traditional, these items really elevated our wedding day from another generic weddubg to truly OUR special day 💞

This is list is for brides working with any budget. Whether you are wanting a chic or dramatic look, I have a little something for everyone!

Hi!! I often find the best places for natural/relaxed family and engagement sessions are locations that mean something to you; hence why I love photographing people in their homes and yards - especially kids. But if you're looking for somewhere a little different, then I have some suggestions below. I've also tried to include links to my blog posts in most of the descriptions, so that you can see more photos. As always, for more general info please click here - darcytroutmanphotography.com

Flower combs are so much easier than you think and such a fun way to spruce up your hair. I love to use dried flowers so make it last!

All of my wedding favorites from ETSY!

For our brides looking for the perfect accessories and jewelry gifts!

This theme is perfect for a non traditional, edgy bride. It’s spooky, chic, and sure to be the newest trending theme💀

It isn’t even clocking to me yet that my boyfriend stood on business, and now I’m engaged! 🤏🏽🙂‍↕️💍 Whaaat?! It feels so weird honestly, but I’ve never been happier and now all I can think about is preparing! We don’t even have a date set, but I feel this rush of energy to begin this next chapter of my life. 🥹 But this list won’t be just for the Bride-to-Be (or as I like to call it b2b). This list is for all women and girls looking to really dial in, and finally make themselves a priority. To grow, be better, do better, look better, feel better! 🌱 This list will feature Sections for what I think is necessary for the next chapter of my life to be the best it can be - Items to buy after getting engaged 💍 - Meditation videos 🧘🏻‍♀️ - Workout Clothes/Videos/Equipment 💪🏼 - Books/Journals/Planners 📓 - Other Useful Things! ✨ Let me know if you try any of these items and how they worked for you! 🫶🏻

for all of the bride-to-be's and their besties looking to splurge on them!

My full face and all the little details that helped make me look and feel my best on the big day 🥰

Everything you need to host a luxe wedding on a budget and have your guests asking “YOU made this?!” (While also not going insane) ;)

Unique, thoughtful gifts your Groomsmen and Maids of Honor will love! Everything here is stylish and something that I would want myself.

If you’re a beach girly, ‘Last Toast on the Coast’ is totally the theme for you! Everything beach aesthetic before you say ‘I do’

You shouldn't have to squeeze yourself into a size 10 sample wedding dress and pretend you can tell what it would look like if it actually fit. You shouldn't have to pay a “fat tax” for purchasing a larger size. (Seriously, screw that!) Check out these inclusive Boston & New England wedding dress boutiques with a wide range of sample sizes and styles available to try on in-store.

As a recent 2025 bride, here are some of the most important things that came in handy (or that I wish I had) on my wedding day! 🥰🫶🏼

The king and queen of Kansas City are getting married. These are all the of my favorite things and all the items needed for their happily ever after ❤️

Starting your venue search in north NJ? Check out my list of venues as a bride who is not into the typical banquet hall aesthetic!

Graduation Party supplies and gift ideas for the graduates of 2025.

Chic & Elegant Dresses with options for destination weddings!

Throw the ultimate Love Island bachelorette party. 📱💌 I got a text that said you need this list packed with 🌴 tropical vibes, 🔥 sizzling outfits, 🎉 epic games, and 🍹 delicious drinks. Let’s get the party started! 💃✨

These are things my fiancé and I will be adding to our wedding registry. From things we need around the house, to things that would just be special in our home 🫶🏻

Some pretty wedding invitations that I've run across online, with different styles and themes. Customize them and order online for your own wedding.

As a 2027 bride these are my DIY needs that you may want to use to help with saving some $$$

Whether the bride-to-be is a Western girlie or not, Disco cowgirl & Last Rodeo bachelorette are hot themes! Its fun, quirky, and allows you to mix a few aesthetics with the vibrant pink shades that are perfect for this type of party celebrating the soon to be Mrs.

If you’re looking for a wedding guest dress, I find it so hard when it comes to winter. These winter dress options are fun, elegant and timeless. I’ve chosen lots of colours to mix and match. The organza dresses are a personal favourite of mine. #weddingguestdress #wedding #weddingdress #dress #events #goingout #fashion

This is a list of dresses you can wear to your formal event or wedding without breaking the bank AND still looking like a million bucks. I love originality and wanted to link pieces I necessarily haven’t seen before!

Because they’re family too. This collection includes must-have essentials to make your dog’s role in your wedding day effortless and picture-perfect — from elegant accessories and ceremony-ready outfits to comfort must-haves and smart gear for the big day.

These movies are great when it’s cold outside and you just need some you time

I'm a professional wedding photographer and here you can find all of my photography must haves, as well as some stuff that are on my wish list.

Think midnight skies, constellations, soft metallics, candles, and a magical glow everywhere.

Celebrate the memory of your loved one with this beautifully designed White Hydrangea Watercolor Celebration of Life Memorial Collection. Each product in this elegant series features a digitally watercolor painted design of delicate white hydrangea flower blossoms on a soft white background, symbolizing purity, grace, and remembrance. Whether you're planning a funeral service, a death anniversary, or sending words of gratitude, this collection offers a range of fully customizable items to honor their legacy. Choose from invitations, perfect for mailing or sharing digitally, order of service programs, sympathy thank you notes, funeral guest books, foam poster boards and even memorial candles for a warm, personal touch. Each item is thoughtfully created to provide a comforting and tasteful way to remember and celebrate their life. These versatile designs are ideal for in person gatherings or virtual memorials, blending heartfelt simplicity with timeless elegance. Personalize every detail to create a unique tribute that reflects their spirit and your cherished memories.

Some of my favorite finds for wedding events as the bride. I'm excited to share some of top contenders for my upcoming wedding! I have so many favorites that I am having trouble deciding. I have picks for my reception, bridal shower, bachelorette party, rehearsal dinner and more. I even have accessories I am considering. Feedback on favorites is welcomed!

I just finished my destination wedding in Costa Rica! Here are my wedding day makeup must haves to achieve that flawless elegant GLOW!

This is your sign to plan the destination wedding you've been thinking about. I just planned my destination wedding and I'll be sharing all the tips I learned here.

A “will you be my bridesmaid” gift box written in the stars! I've picked out everything you need for a celestial-inspired bridesmaid proposal.

Wedding planning can be stressful, and it's hard to know where to find good quality products that don't break the bank. This list outlines a bunch of affordable products that will enhance your wedding and add to the magic of your special day!

Class of 2025 Graduation is almost here and it's time to celebrate all of your student's accomplishments with a party. From what to eat, fun games, family trips, and invitations - here's some fun and fabulous graduation party ideas to get you going.

I've planned and attended several destination bachelorette parties, including my own, my sister's and my cousins! I know planning a memorable girls' weekend for a group can feel overwhelming. In this list I'm compiling bachelorette itinerary guides for destination inspo, ideas on party favors, bachelorette party outfit ideas and more. Hope this helps you with your planning!

When wedding planning, all decor can add up so fast and Amazon has such cute wedding decor for so affordable! Here are some decor i used and am so glad i did!

These are all dresses from Amazon for formal events that I either own and have worn or bought as options anad have tried. All are good quality to last through nights of fun on the dance floor and beyond!

I’m newly engaged and here are some essentials that I’m looking into it have already bought! Most of these products you can find on Amazon.

So you’re heading to the beach and wanting to treat your girls to some gifts with coastal vibes. Here’s the ultimate list of goodies your girls are sure to love! And as a bonus, all gifts listed are available in TSA-friendly travel sizes!

nearly-weds now is the time to start dreaming of what you need (and want) on your wedding registry. this list will help you get started! 🤍

If your sister is like mine, the lucky in love Vegas theme is perfect for the bachelorette party theme! These are the hottest decorations and party favors to fit the theme

I recently got married and I used these South African based sites to order some of my gifts. So here is my ultimate plug, especially if you don't want to order from overseas. :)

So many events and we always feel like we “don’t have enough options”. I’m here to give you options girlies! Organized by events. You’ll see classic beige & some colorful items as well! Some events need a good POP!

Thoughtfully designed and fun tickets for parties and events.

After over 7 years in the industry, we've learned a thing or two about who to trust and depend on. This is our list of the top Colorado wedding vendors that we know and trust, with an emphasis on businesses that are LGBTQ-affirming, giving back to their communities, and minimizing their environmental impact. If you need further recommendations, just ask! Please check out our BLOG for more great resources.

Are you getting married at the beach? Then check out this list for all the best outfit inspo for your beach wedding! Beach weddings are some of my favorites to photograph and the bridal outfits are the most fun to find inspo for!

Here are some of my favourite picks for this wedding season! The perfect transitional dresses for a late summer or early fall wedding

Discover stylish boys’ suits perfect for weddings, special occasions, and formal events. From newborn outfits to sharp suits for tweens, these looks combine comfort with elegance. Whether he’s a wedding guest, ring bearer, or dressed up for a celebration, most people choose these timeless suits to make little boys look polished and confident on the big day. 💐 #BoysWeddingSuit #KidsFormalWear #RingBearerStyle #BabyToTweenFashion #SpecialOccasionSuit

The best way to support small business! Some of my favorite purchases over the year. From special occasions, to gifts, to little treats, here's what I've been loving from Etsy.

These items are straight off my notes in my phone of items I’ve bought for my wedding or plan to buy! I deep dove into hundreds of websites finding the best dresses, shoes, and accessories.

I’ve used this adorable baby shower invitation myself, and it made our celebration so special! With soft pastels, charming illustrations, and a touch of elegance, it’s easy to customize and send—and my guests couldn’t stop complimenting it. Now you can use it too to make your baby shower unforgettable!

Several of the items I used at my daughter's wedding. The products are beautiful and they added some much to the decor of the event. Many of the items listed are being used at Engagement Parties, Bridal Showers, Weddings & Baby Showers. My Event/Parties Business allows me the freedom to try some many items to add to the experience.

I'm getting married soon, and have been focusing on taking care of myself even more so that I can have an extra glow on my wedding day. These are products i'm loving for wedding prep, some provide immediate results and others are products i've been using overtime leading up to our big day!

Invited to Everything? These dresses will be your wedding season MVPs. Whether you're headed to a breezy beach ceremony, a black-tie evening affair, or a backyard bash, this list of wedding guest dresses has you covered. From trending colors and flattering silhouettes to budget-friendly picks and head-turning styles, these dresses are perfect for every dress code and vibe.

All things wedding! Currently planning my wedding and it has been stressful! Here are some helpful recommendations so you don’t have to search as hard as I did!

I love decorating parties for the kids, friends, family, and myself. Everything that I used in the past years you're going to see here.

Finding the perfect anniversary gift can be difficult. Here are a few niche ideas, traditional to modern themed, to solve indecision—Or spark some unique ideas, at the very least

These are items that my husband and I added to our wedding registry! Some items were gifted, some items I went and purchased with gift cards that were given to us, but we love all of them! I am all about making my home cozy and inviting and I feel like all of these have helped achieve that goal!

Looking for a gorgeous dress in the perfect shade of blue to wear to a wedding? Whether you're a guest or a bridesmaid, these blue wedding dresses are great choices for a festive occasion. Search styles in every hue of blue and find the perfect frock for any event.

Go ahead and RSVP “yes” to that wedding invite — because you’re going to want an excuse to wear these dresses! This list of gorgeous wedding guest looks is organized by season to make your search effortless. Let me know which one’s your favorite! 😍

We are ALL so busy- this will be a carefully curated ongoing list of beautiful gifts and party supplies from incredible craftsmen (and women, hello). Including handmade birthday banners, cake toppers, invitation & clipart designers that will save MAJOR time and money. Which we can all use a little extra of!

A hand-picked collection of rich burgundy wedding finds with timeless vintage charm. Deep wine florals, antique gold accents, candlelight, and heirloom-inspired textures.

As a recent college grad, engagement season is coming at me from every direction. These are some of my favorite finds for putting together a thoughtful gift for the engaged girls in your life!

Weddings are expensive! My fiancé and I could not find what we wanted that wouldn’t break the bank, so we decided to make our own, budget-friendly wedding decor! Don’t let yourself get too stressed. This is a beautiful time in life. Enjoy the process and allow it to bring you closer to your partner.

struggling to find western wedding decor/ items? take a look at my list for inspiration!

Wedding planning can be managed independently by the couple, with the help of family and friends, or through the expertise of a professional wedding planner. The ultimate goal is to transform ideas and dreams into a beautifully executed celebration that reflects the couple’s love story.