When Oceana and Matt tied the knot, they weren’t looking for grandeur; they were after something personal and true to who they are. With a £5,000 budget and a creative, DIY approach, they transformed Lower Hardres Village Hall into a rustic, garden-party-inspired celebration. From the sunflower-themed garden games, vintage doily backdrop, and a ceremony led by Oceana’s mother—the day truly reflected the couple’s likes and values.

The day began at the registry office, where the couple exchanged their official vows in a small, intimate setting. Later, they gathered friends and family for a second, more personal ceremony, complete with hand-written vows and a walk down the aisle to Christina Perri’s A Thousand Years. “I was very touched by Matt’s lovely vows”, Oceana said. “Walking back down the aisle with everyone blowing bubbles felt like such a joyous moment.”

For their reception, Oceana and Matt leaned into a laid-back, community-centered atmosphere, with an eclectic mix of outdoor games, a bubble machine to entertain the little ones, and live music from a vintage inspired singer. They also had a swing dance in the evening.

With a passion for crafting, Oceana took on the ambitious project of making six dresses in the months leading up to the wedding, one for each of the bridesmaids and her own dip-dyed gown. “I always knew I wanted to make myself a dip-dye wedding dress,” she told us. “Making it myself, I got the dress of my dreams for about £300, with enough leftover to make another dress for the registry office.”

Not only did Oceana craft the dresses she also made the the doily backdrop on the arch and the cake. Her mum did all the catering and flowers and her dad made the arch, cake stand and garden games. “We saved a lot by doing our own flowers and catering”, she explained. “My mum and I just bought flowers from the supermarket and arranged them. We got engaged at Christmas 2023, and were married in August 2024. It was a very busy few months!”

The day’s biggest expense was the village hall, but even that was a bargain at only £750, plus a £200 deposit. “It was one of the cheapest, and nicest locations we found”, the bride concluded. “I’m so pleased we went for something unconventional. Weddings are expensive but you don’t have to listen to anyone or change your day; it’s possible to have a lovely wedding on a budget. Just be yourself and have the wedding you want.”