Choosing Peabody Essex Museum, in Salem, MA as their wedding venue, Melissa and Derek celebrated their love in disco meets 1980s themed wedding with a black tie dress code. The day was filled with neon lights, disco balls and colourful flowers.

The fashion designer bride customised her Berta dress and made her veils (a long one for the ceremony, a short one for the party) herself. She also customised her Sola Wooden Flowers bouquet by adding plastic holographic flowers (they were also on the cake!)

“From the beginning, we were inspired by 1980s music videos and neon colours”, she told us. “Our officiant was a DJ from the local classic rock radio station and we danced the night away to an 80s cover band. The hardest part of planning was making sure everything made sense with our theme! We knew we wanted our wedding to be a reflection of our personalities.”

The bride had 11 bridesmaids, something she definitely wouldn’t change, and the whole day felt like one big love fest. “I have a large family and friend group and I wanted everyone to feel included” she explained. “I loved our black sequin bridesmaids dresses.”

The reception was a spectacular 80s discotheque, where guests danced into the wee hours. As they had 180 guests, food and drink was their biggest cost, but its one they don’t regret as everyone had such blast and the food was amazing.

“It is such a magical time, cherish every moment, even during the planning”, Melissa concluded. “It all happens so fast so enjoy every second! Also, use your local businesses. We tried to support as many local and small businesses as possible.”