Julia + Dave’s wedding at Byron Colby Barn in Grayslake in September was the most impressive DIY wedding you’ll ever see. First, it rained so hard the night of the rehearsal that it took me three hours to drive from the city to the rehearsal at Dave’s parents house in Crystal Lake. It was not looking good for their outdoor ceremony at the barn.

Let me pause this recap for a moment to just say that Julia is likely one of the craftiest brides I have ever met.

These two made SO MANY things for their wedding, even I (who considers myself pretty crafty) was in shock. Yes she made the escort cards, relabeled the water bottles, made the luminaries, made votive holders to be hung from ribbon around the barn, covered books for the centerpieces, thrifted silver pieces for the centerpieces, made the table numbers and made the favors and packaging. BUT, my friends, (this is a big ol’ BUT) she also: made the glorious flower wall backdrop for the ceremony, made the invitations, programs and menus, made all of the boutonnieres, sewed table runners for all of the tables, sewed chair covers for all. of. the. chairs. (there were 100), arranged all of the flowers for the centerpieces and bouquets. I am exhausted just typing all of that and I know there were other things that I can’t find the finger strength to type. She puts crafters like me to shame. SHAME. End pause.

This wedding was such a team effort. The morning of the wedding so many of their family members were at the site with me setting up: Dave and his Dad put up the AMAZING flower wall that Julia made. Aunts tied chair cover ribbons. Grandpa laid runners out and arranged centerpieces. Julia’s brothers lit candles. The list goes on. Needless to say, I think (hope!) Julia felt good about leaving all of her hard work in many capable hands.

They had an adorable first look and took some photos with Kim from Bowtie Photography:

Guests were greeted with the much lauded “Dave loves Julia” and “Julia loves Dave” water bottles, and lemon and lime slices. 

Julia’s brothers had the honor of walking Julia down the aisle…

…where they said their “I dos” in front of the fabulous flowers.

Inside the barn for dinner, guests found their table by finding the book that matched the one on their escort card. (Dave and Julia met in the library, you see.)

The tables looked amazing (go Grandpa, go!.) Take note of those table runners and chair covers while you remember that she.made.them. Again with the emphasis.  After the wedding I tried to convince Julia she needs to start a side business doing flower arrangements (before I get engaged please?):

They danced their first dance, and then much fun was had:

Le sigh. I don’t think I have to say anything more.

Except! if you love Julia and want to see more of their wedding check out her wedding blog The Eventual Wedding and her current blog Ordinary Saturdays.

*all pictures in this post courtesy of the lovely Kim at bowtie photography

Julia + Dave’s Vendors:
Ceremony & Reception: Byron Colby Barn
Reception decor: Julia
Catering: Marvela’s Catering Services
Photography & Photo Booth: Kim at Bowtie Photography
Florist: Julia
Cake: Lovin Oven Cakery
DJ: Kristin with Toast & Jam
Day-of Coordination: Anticipation Events