Maybe it's just that time of year, but it seems like I can't go a day without someone mentioning the fact that they just got invited to a wedding, are about to attend a wedding, are trying to decide on a wedding present or are stressed about what they are going to wear! Along with fun and excitement also comes some pressure around how to afford all these gifts and gorgeous dresses all throughout the summer.

Turns out it’s easier than you might think to show up looking great and find a cool gift without breaking the bank every time. Of course it may take a little extra time and creativity, but there are really some great options out there if you are willing to get in the DIY spirit and make some smart choices. Here are some tips to get you started...

You don't have to spend a fortune to find a wedding-worthy dress, especially in the spring. Look for fabrics like chiffon and polyester—they have a more dressed-up look than cotton or rayon, but are less expensive than fabrics like silk. Sexy open back styles like our Magnolia Open Back Dress and Maritime Cross Back Dress have great details that hit a high style mark for just over $50. If you are willing to spend a tad bit more, our Lemon Frosting Dress and Evelyn Beaded Dress have some sweet embellishments like lace and shimmering beads to up the dazzle factor.

Don't forget to accessorize! We know that YOU would never be caught wearing the same jewelry or carrying the same bag as everyone else at the party. A pretty little clutch like this limited edition suede clutch by Marketa New York is all you need for toting around wedding day essentials. These earrings  by Italian designer Mikinora will add a touch of vintage glamour to any ensemble. Check out our Entre Nous section to see more limited edition and custom accessories that will wow the other guests.

Not sure what to do with those lovely locks of yours? Here’s a great tip from British Vogue:

1. Find strings of pearls (faux is fine) at thrift or consignment shops
2. Break apart and use a hot glue gun or dots of super glue and fasten to bobby pins
3. Dot about hair ala Chanel, and voila!

Not crazy about pearls? Visit this site to see a ridiculous amount of inspiration for pretty up-dos. 

And what about your pout? If you don't want to spend money on a new lipstick but are aching to try out something new, take this tip from Lucky magazine! Mix two of your favorite lipstick colors to create a brand new, ultra flattering shade. I've tried it myself and it really does work like magic. Rule of thumb: any two shades that are flattering on you will mix to create a third shade that also looks great!

I don't know about you, but I am always obsessed with finding the perfect shoes for my dress and somehow they never end up being as affordable as I want them to. That's why I was really excited when I came across this tip from Refinery 29. This is a step by step guide on how to turn any old shoes into super cute cap toes! Here some combos I think would look great…

• Black pointy flats + silver cap toe
• Brown leather pumps + gold or bronze cap toe
• Nude round toe flats or pumps + pastel cap toe (try mint or rose!)

For the Bridesmaids

Paper flowers by Frances & Francis make lovely hair accessories that your bridesmaids can wear to the wedding, and beyond. I'm head over heels for these dreamy cream ones…

Macaroon keepsake boxes with thrifted jewelry, brooches or some other talisman like the perfect found shell or stone will be deliciously close to their heart.

Or, take advantage of the super affordable custom options out there and personalize some arm candy for your best ladies, like this Gold Charm Liberty Ribbon Bracelet or this Personalized Heart Bangle.

For the Bride + Groom

Get personal! Ask for one of their favorite photos of the two of them and have it turned into a work of art for their home. Canvas Pop can take even tiny photos and enlarge on canvas without sacrificing too much quality…they can even create a canvas from an instagram photo!  Thinking that is just a little too much work? Take the lazy route and get them a gift certificate to 20x200. Just $100 will get them five pieces of original artwork like this gorgeous Kathranne Knight print. 

You can also put together a date night kit for them with one of their fav bottles of booze, instructions on how to whip up a gourmet cocktail, a digital mix of your favorite lovey dovey tunes, and a swoon-worthy scented candle they wouldn't splurge on for themselves.

Or, get them started on a path to gourmet cooking with this retro recipe box (or this if you are feeling a little more spendy) and a few of your favorite recipes. Throw in  a display worthy kitchen gift that they can't get from Crate & Barrel like these ombre spatulas or  these geometric salt and pepper shakers. 

We hope this helps to get the creative juices flowing! Visit us on Pinterest for even more ideas, tips, gifts and inspiration for an indie-rific wedding season!

What are some of your favorite DIY wedding tips??

xoC+C