Cupcake pictures

I’m convinced I’m neutral in undertone, but can never decide what looks best on me as I feel like what I wear and lighting really doesn’t help. Opinions would be much appreciated:
Look 1 (picture 1 and 2): Shiseido Synchro Skin Radiant Lifting Foundation (110 Alabaster) L’Oreal Infallible More Than Concealer (320 Porcelain) Rare Beauty Warm Wishes Bronzing Stick (Bright Side) Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer (Nude Bronze Light) Dior Rosy Glow Blush (Pink Lilac)… on eyes and cheeks Jordana Ticia Mini Set and Brighten Duo (Parma Lilac) to set eye lids Peaches and Cream Pigment (Prin) 17 Lengthening Mascara (Brown) Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat (Pillow Talk Fair) L’Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick (303 Rose Tendre) Rare Beauty Brow Gel NYX Micro Brow Pencil (Taupe) Maybelline Fit Me! Pressed Powder (105) Iconic London Setting Spray
Look 2 (picture 3): Shiseido Synchro Skin Radiant Lifting Foundation (110 Alabaster) L’Oreal Infallible More Than Concealer (320 Porcelain) Huda Beauty Easy Bake (Cupcake) Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer (Nude Bronze Light) Pat McGrath Blush (Divine Rose)… on eyes and cheeks MAC Eye Shadow (Embark)… as liner 17 Lengthening Mascara (Brown) Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat (Pillow Talk Fair) Pat McGrath Lip Gloss (Divine Rose) Rare Beauty Brow Gel NYX Micro Brow Pencil (Taupe) Maybelline Fit Me! Pressed Powder (105) Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray

My daughters 10th birthday was this past weekend and she loves Melanie Martinez, so I got her cupcakes Melanie Martinez themed. I wish I would have taken better pictures instead of running around like a chicken without a head!

I'm looking into starting a cake business on the side. I've always loved making cakes and have sold a few in the past but never did anything official.
I'm at the point where I'd like to do a "soft opening" or trial to see if this is something I'd really like to do. My main questions are in regards to pricing. My area varies on prices for 6" - 8" round cakes (3-4 layers) I've seen $75 - $180. I've added some pictures of what I've done recently and would like some options as to what prices would be considered fair. I've done a handful more including a 2 layer wedding cake (I'm hoping to get my hands on a photo of it soon!), tons of cupcakes, and cake pops. I lost a lot of my photos when I cancelled my facebook account a few years ago.
I'm no professional and have learned a lot since I've made a few of these cakes but constructive feedback is always appreciated. Thank you in advanced!
Cake details:
1: 6" round, 3 layers, white velvet cake filled with ermine frosting, decorated with vanilla buttercream (2024)
2: 8" round, 4 layers, white velvet cake, ermine frosting (2024)
3: 8" round, 4 layers, vanilla cake, vanilla buttercream (2024)
4: 13x19 sheetcake, chocolate cake, chocolate frosting (2016)
5: 6" round, 3 layers, vanilla cake, traditional buttercream (2024)
6: 8" round, 4 layers, funfetti cake, strawberry curd, vanilla buttercream (2023)
7: raspberry cream cheese cupcakes, with cream cheese frosting (2023)
8: 6" round smash cake, 3 layers, vanilla buttercream (2022)
9: 8" round, 4 layers, vanilla cake, vanilla buttercream (2022)
10: 6" round smash cake, vanilla cake, 2 layers, vanilla buttercream, topped with strawberries (2021)
11: 8" round, 4 layers, vanilla cake, strawberry curd, vanilla buttercream (2021)

A Latte Fun Long Islands New Play Space and Cafe Its Fun for Are you looking for a place that combines fun for the kids and relaxation for the adults? A Latte Fun, Long Island's newest play space and cafe, offers just that. With a wide range of activities for children of all ages and a cozy cafe serving delicious treats, there's something for everyone.But that's not all - A Latte Fun also fosters a sense of community and provides a comfortable environment for parents. Want to know more? Keep reading to discover the exciting features and offerings that make A Latte Fun the go-to destination for families in South Huntington, NY.Key TakeawaysA Latte Fun is an indoor playspace and cafe located in South Huntington, NY.The playspace is safe and gated, catering to children from crawlers to eight-year-olds.A Latte Fun offers a range of activities for caregivers and children to enjoy, including arts and crafts, baking classes, and children's yoga.A Latte Fun is a great venue for children's birthday parties, providing a clean, safe, and exciting environment, with birthday party packages available.Overview of A Latte FunA Latte Fun isn't just your ordinary play space and cafe; it's a vibrant and welcoming haven for both parents and children in South Huntington, NY. As soon as you step inside, you'll be greeted by the cheerful sounds of laughter and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods. This indoor playspace offers a safe and gated environment for children from crawlers to eight-year-olds to explore and have fun.While the little ones are busy playing, parents can relax and enjoy a cup of fancy coffee and indulge in tasty baked goods. The cafe at A Latte Fun offers a wide variety of options, including light breakfast and lunch items. Whether you're craving a creamy latte or a flaky croissant, there's something to satisfy every palate.But A Latte Fun is more than just a place to grab a coffee and let the kids run wild. It's a community where parents can connect and children can make new friends. The friendly staff ensures that everyone feels welcome and comfortable. They're always on hand to ensure the safety and engagement of the children, allowing parents to relax and enjoy their time together.Location and FacilitiesLocated in South Huntington, NY, A Latte Fun offers not only a vibrant playspace and cafe but also a range of facilities that cater to both parents and children.The location accessibility of A Latte Fun is a major advantage for families in the area. Situated in a convenient location, it's easily accessible by car and public transportation, making it a breeze for parents and children to visit.The playspace itself is spacious and well-designed, with a variety of play space amenities to keep children entertained for hours. From a trampoline for bouncing fun to a double slide for thrilling races, there's something for children of all ages to enjoy. The playspace also features a colorful carousel, providing a whimsical experience for little ones. Additionally, there are cozy corners for quiet play and a book reading lounge area for storytime sessions.As for the facilities catering to parents, the cafe at A Latte Fun is the perfect spot to relax and recharge while keeping an eye on the little ones. The cafe offers a wide selection of fancy coffees, tasty baked goods, light breakfast, and lunch items. It provides a comfortable and welcoming environment where parents can connect with other caregivers and form friendships.The staff at A Latte Fun are attentive and dedicated to ensuring the safety and engagement of the children, giving parents peace of mind as they enjoy their time at the playspace.With its convenient location, accessible facilities, and exciting play space amenities, A Latte Fun truly offers a fun and enjoyable experience for both parents and children.Age-specific Play AreasWhen exploring A Latte Fun, visitors will discover that the playspace offers age-specific play areas designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of children at different stages of development. These age-specific play areas provide numerous benefits for children's development and growth, as well as create an environment that fosters freedom and exploration.Here are three reasons why age-specific play areas are important:Promotes developmental milestones: Age-specific play areas at A Latte Fun are carefully designed to encourage children to reach their developmental milestones. For example, the crawling area stimulates motor skills and spatial awareness, while the toddler area focuses on balance, coordination, and social interaction. By providing targeted activities, children have the freedom to explore and learn in a way that's appropriate for their age, allowing them to develop and grow at their own pace.Enhances social and emotional development: Play is essential for children's social and emotional development. The age-specific play areas at A Latte Fun provide opportunities for children to interact with their peers, practice sharing and taking turns, and develop important social skills. Additionally, engaging in play activities that are tailored to their age group helps children build confidence, self-esteem, and emotional resilience.Fosters cognitive and imaginative skills: Play isn't just about having fun; it also plays a crucial role in cognitive and imaginative development. Each age-specific play area at A Latte Fun is designed to stimulate children's curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. From sensory play in the infant area to imaginative play in the preschool area, children are encouraged to explore, discover, and use their imagination in a safe and supportive environment.At A Latte Fun, age-specific play areas are more than just spaces for children to play. They're carefully crafted environments that promote the overall well-being and development of children, allowing them the freedom to learn, grow, and have fun.Menu and Cafe OfferingsThe menu at A Latte Fun is filled with delicious treats and refreshing drinks for both children and adults to enjoy. Whether you're in the mood for a tasty snack or a specialty coffee, our cafe has something to satisfy every craving.For the little ones, we offer a variety of menu options that are both kid-friendly and nutritious. Our menu includes favorites like chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, and mini pizzas. We also have fresh fruit cups, vegetable sticks with dip, and yogurt parfaits for those looking for a healthier option. And of course, no visit to A Latte Fun would be complete without trying our famous homemade cookies and brownies!But it's not just the kids who get to indulge in delicious treats. Our cafe also serves a wide range of specialty coffees for adults to enjoy. From lattes and cappuccinos to mochas and espressos, we've a coffee to suit every taste. And if coffee isn't your thing, we also offer a selection of teas, hot chocolates, and smoothies.In addition to our menu options, we also have a variety of daily specials and seasonal treats. Whether it's a pumpkin spice latte in the fall or a peppermint mocha during the holidays, there's always something new and exciting to try at our cafe.Comfortable Environment for ParentsAs parents step into A Latte Fun, they're greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately makes them feel at ease. The comfortable environment provided at A Latte Fun is designed to prioritize parental relaxation and foster friendships. Here are three reasons why parents find A Latte Fun to be the perfect place to unwind and connect with other caregivers:Cozy Seating Areas: A Latte Fun offers plenty of cozy seating areas where parents can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious treat from the cafe. From plush armchairs to comfortable couches, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you want to catch up on your favorite book, chat with fellow parents, or simply take a moment to yourself, the cozy seating areas provide the perfect spot for relaxation.Socializing Opportunities: A Latte Fun isn't just a place for children to play, but also a hub for caregivers to socialize and form connections. The welcoming and friendly atmosphere encourages interaction and conversation among parents. Whether you strike up a conversation while watching your little ones play or join one of the organized activities, A Latte Fun provides ample opportunities to meet new friends and nurture existing friendships.Peace of Mind: A Latte Fun understands the need for parents to have peace of mind while their children are playing. With trained attendants on site, parents can relax knowing that their children are safe and engaged in age-appropriate activities. The playspace is gated and secure, allowing parents to enjoy their time without worrying about their child's well-being.At A Latte Fun, parents can unwind, connect with other caregivers, and create lasting memories with their children. It's a place where relaxation and friendship go hand in hand, providing the perfect escape for parents in need of some freedom and rejuvenation.Attendants for Child SafetyWith trained and attentive staff members on hand, parents can feel confident in the safety and well-being of their children while visiting A Latte Fun. Child safety measures are of utmost importance at A Latte Fun, and the role of the attendants is to ensure a secure and enjoyable environment for all the little ones.The attendants at A Latte Fun are carefully selected and undergo thorough training to ensure they're equipped to handle any situation that may arise. They're knowledgeable about child safety protocols and are constantly vigilant, keeping a watchful eye on the children at all times. Their presence provides an added layer of security, giving parents peace of mind as they sip on their fancy coffees or indulge in a delicious treat from the cafe.The attendants not only prioritize safety but also actively engage with the children, creating a fun and interactive experience. They're always ready to join in on a game, help with an arts and crafts project, or simply have a friendly chat. Their warm and friendly demeanor fosters a sense of trust and comfort, allowing children to feel at ease in their surroundings.In addition to their role in ensuring child safety, the attendants also play a vital role in fostering a sense of community. They facilitate social interactions among the children, encouraging them to make new friends and build lasting connections. The attendants understand the importance of socializing and provide a supportive environment where children can learn, play, and grow together.At A Latte Fun, parents can rest assured that their children are in capable hands. The dedicated and attentive attendants prioritize child safety while creating a fun and engaging atmosphere. So, parents can relax and enjoy their time at A Latte Fun, knowing that their children are safe, happy, and well-cared for.Mommy and Me ActivitiesLooking for fun and interactive activities to enjoy with your little one? A Latte Fun offers a variety of Mommy and Me activities that are sure to create lasting memories and foster a strong bond between you and your child. Here are three benefits of participating in these activities:Creativity and Expression: Mommy and Me crafts provide a wonderful opportunity for you and your child to unleash your creativity and explore different art forms together. From painting and drawing to making collages and sculptures, these crafts allow your child to express themselves while having fun. Watching your little one's imagination come to life is truly a magical experience.Bonding and Connection: Engaging in Mommy and Me activities creates a special time for you to connect with your child on a deeper level. It allows you to share laughter, joy, and learning experiences together. These activities provide a nurturing environment where you can build a strong foundation of love and trust, strengthening your relationship as you navigate through the early years of your child's life.Developmental Benefits: Mommy and Me activities offer numerous developmental benefits for your child. Whether it's improving fine motor skills through arts and crafts or enhancing cognitive abilities through interactive games and puzzles, these activities promote overall growth and development. Additionally, they encourage social interaction and communication skills, helping your child build confidence and make new friends.Baking and Cooking ClassesEngaging in the creative world of Mommy and Me crafts at A Latte Fun is just the beginning of the exciting and educational experiences that await you and your child - now get ready to tantalize your taste buds with their delightful Baking and Cooking Classes.At A Latte Fun, they offer kids baking classes that are both fun and educational. These classes are designed to teach children the basics of baking while allowing them to explore their creativity in the kitchen. From making cookies and cupcakes to creating delicious pastries, your little ones will be able to unleash their inner chef.To give you a taste of what to expect, here's a sneak peek at some of the activities featured in the kids baking classes at A Latte Fun:WeekThemeActivity1Cupcake CreationsDecorating cupcakes with colorful icing and sprinkles2Cookie CrazeBaking and decorating different types of cookies3Pizza PartyMaking homemade pizza dough and adding your favorite toppings4Sweet TreatsCreating yummy desserts like brownies and fruit tartsThese classes provide a hands-on learning experience where children can learn about measurements, mixing ingredients, and following recipes. Not only will they develop their culinary skills, but they will also learn valuable life skills such as patience, teamwork, and creativity.And what's even better is that after each baking class, you and your child can enjoy a coffee and pastry pairing at the A Latte Fun cafe. So while your little ones are exploring the world of baking, you can sit back, relax, and savor the delicious treats.The kids baking classes at A Latte Fun are a perfect way to bond with your child, learn new skills, and create lasting memories together. So why wait? Sign up for a class today and let the baking adventures begin!Children's Yoga and StorytimeChildren at A Latte Fun can embark on a journey of relaxation and imagination through the enchanting world of Children's Yoga and Storytime. This unique activity offers a multitude of benefits for children, both physically and mentally. Here's what you can expect from these interactive and engaging sessions:Improved flexibility and strength: Children's yoga poses help to stretch and strengthen their growing bodies, promoting flexibility and enhancing their physical abilities. Through these movements, children can develop balance, coordination, and body awareness.Enhanced focus and concentration: Yoga encourages mindfulness and helps children develop the ability to concentrate and focus. By practicing different poses and engaging in breathing exercises, children can learn to calm their minds and improve their attention span.Boosted creativity and imagination: Storytime at A Latte Fun takes children on captivating adventures through the power of storytelling. By immersing themselves in imaginative tales, children can expand their creativity, stimulate their imagination, and develop a love for reading.During Children's Yoga and Storytime sessions at A Latte Fun, children have the opportunity to explore their bodies through yoga poses while also engaging in interactive storytime activities. The combination of movement and storytelling creates a dynamic and engaging experience for children, promoting their overall well-being and fostering a love for both physical activity and literature.These sessions are led by experienced instructors who understand the unique needs of children. They create a safe and supportive environment where children can explore, learn, and have fun.Studio Space for ClassesThe studio space at A Latte Fun offers a vibrant and creative environment for children to explore a variety of classes and activities. Whether your child is interested in dance, music, or yoga, our studio space provides the perfect setting for them to unleash their creativity and have fun. Take a look at some of the exciting studio space activities and creative classes we offer:Studio Space ActivitiesCreative ClassesAge RangeYogaMommy and Me Yoga2-4 yearsHip-hopDance5-8 yearsBalletBallet3-6 yearsMusic and MovementMusic2-5 yearsArt and CraftsArt4-7 yearsOur studio space is equipped with all the necessary equipment and materials to make each class engaging and enjoyable. From colorful dance mats to musical instruments, your child will have everything they need to fully immerse themselves in their chosen activity. Our experienced instructors are passionate about what they do and are dedicated to providing a positive and nurturing environment for your child to learn and grow.At A Latte Fun, we believe in the power of creative expression and the benefits it brings to a child's development. Our studio space is designed to inspire imagination, boost confidence, and foster a love for learning. Whether your child wants to twirl in ballet class or groove to the beat in a hip-hop session, they will have the opportunity to explore their interests and discover new talents.Come and join us at A Latte Fun's studio space for an enriching and fun-filled experience. Watch as your child's creativity blossoms and their confidence soars. With our wide range of studio space activities and creative classes, there's something for every child to enjoy. Let their imagination run wild and give them the freedom to explore their passions in a supportive and encouraging environment.Fun Play EquipmentWith a range of exciting and interactive play equipment, A Latte Fun offers a thrilling and engaging experience for children of all ages. Our play space is designed to spark imagination, promote physical activity, and create lasting memories.Here are three reasons why our fun play equipment will leave your children wanting more:Giant Trampoline: Picture your child bouncing with joy on our giant trampoline. With every jump, they'll feel a sense of freedom and exhilaration. This interactive play experience not only brings laughter and smiles but also promotes coordination and balance.Double Slide: Our double slide is a crowd favorite. Children love racing their friends to see who can slide down the fastest. The feeling of wind rushing through their hair as they slide down brings a sense of adventure and excitement. It's a thrilling experience that will have your little ones begging for more.Colorful Carousel: Step onto our vibrant carousel and watch as your child's eyes light up with wonder. They'll have the chance to choose their favorite animal to ride, whether it's a majestic horse or a friendly elephant. As the carousel spins, children can enjoy the feeling of freedom as they go round and round.At A Latte Fun, we believe that play should be a liberating experience. Our fun play equipment provides children with the opportunity to explore, imagine, and interact with their surroundings in a safe and engaging environment. So come on over and let your children unleash their inner adventurer as they embark on a journey of fun and excitement.Birthday Party PackagesReady to throw your child the ultimate birthday party? Look no further than A Latte Fun's exciting and hassle-free birthday party packages.At A Latte Fun, we understand the importance of creating lasting memories for your child's special day. That's why we offer a range of birthday party themes and customizable packages to suit your child's interests and preferences.Choose from a variety of fun and imaginative themes, such as princesses, superheroes, animals, pirates, and more. Our dedicated team will work with you to create a one-of-a-kind party experience that your child and their friends will never forget. From the moment you step into our beautifully decorated party room, you'll be transported to a world of wonder and excitement.Our birthday party packages include everything you need to host a memorable celebration. We provide party decorations, including themed table settings, balloons, and banners, to create a festive atmosphere. Our experienced staff will take care of all the details, from setting up the party room to cleaning up afterward. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy the party with your child.In addition to the themed decorations, our birthday party packages also include playtime in our safe and engaging playspace. Children can bounce on our trampoline, race down our double slide, and ride our colorful carousel, all while having a blast with their friends. It's the perfect combination of fun and entertainment.At A Latte Fun, we believe that every child deserves a special birthday celebration. That's why we offer affordable birthday party packages to fit any budget. So whether you're looking for a small gathering or a larger celebration, we've options for you.Don't stress over planning your child's birthday party. Let A Latte Fun take care of everything. Contact us today to book your child's ultimate birthday party experience.Socializing and Community BuildingAt A Latte Fun, we believe in the power of socializing and building a strong community for both parents and children. We understand the importance of mom support and playdate opportunities, which is why we've created an environment that fosters connection and friendship. Here are three reasons why socializing and community building are at the heart of our mission:A Place to Connect: A Latte Fun provides a welcoming space for parents to come together and share their experiences. Whether you're a new mom looking for advice or a seasoned parent wanting to meet like-minded individuals, our playspace and cafe offer the perfect setting to connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of raising children.Playdate Opportunities: We believe in the power of playdates to not only entertain children but also facilitate social interaction and friendship building. At A Latte Fun, you'll find a wide range of activities and play areas where children can explore, learn, and have fun together. Our staff is always on hand to encourage positive interaction and help facilitate playdates between children.Supportive Community: We strive to create a supportive community where parents can find encouragement, advice, and a listening ear. A Latte Fun is more than just a play space; it's a place where friendships are formed, and bonds are strengthened. Whether you're looking for a shoulder to lean on or someone to celebrate milestones with, our community is here to provide the support you need.At A Latte Fun, we believe that socializing and community building are essential for both parents and children. We invite you to join us in creating lasting connections and building a strong community that uplifts and supports one another. Come and experience the joy of socializing and building friendships at A Latte Fun.Pricing and Opening HoursWe offer convenient pricing options and a variety of discounts to make your visit to A Latte Fun even more enjoyable. At A Latte Fun, we believe that everyone should have access to a fun and safe play environment without breaking the bank. That's why we've carefully curated our pricing options to suit different needs and budgets.Our admission fee is $16 for the first child, $10 for crawlers, and $12 for siblings. We also offer play pack discounts, where you can purchase multiple visits at a discounted rate. These play packs are perfect for families who plan on visiting regularly or for groups of friends looking to have a great time together. Additionally, we've unlimited play packages available, allowing you to enjoy unlimited playtime during our opening hours.We understand the importance of staying connected in today's digital age, which is why we've a strong social media presence. You can find us on Facebook and Instagram, where we regularly update our followers with the latest news, events, and discounts. By following us on social media, you'll never miss out on any exciting promotions or special events happening at A Latte Fun.Our opening hours are designed to accommodate your busy schedule. We're open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (unless closed for a special event). Whether you're looking for a weekday outing or a weekend adventure, we're here to provide a fun and engaging experience for you and your little ones.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat Are the Parking Options Available at a Latte Fun?Outdoor seating is available at A Latte Fun for those who prefer to enjoy their coffee and treats outside.As for parking options, there's ample parking space available at the facility, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors. Whether you're coming for a birthday party or just to enjoy the playspace and cafe, you can easily find parking nearby.Are Strollers Allowed Inside the Playspace?Yes, strollers are allowed inside the playspace at A Latte Fun. They understand that parents may need to bring their strollers, and they've made sure to accommodate for that.The play area is designed to be accessible for strollers, with wide pathways and plenty of space to maneuver.So, you can easily bring your little one in their stroller and enjoy all the fun activities and attractions that A Latte Fun has to offer.It's all about making things convenient for parents!Can Adults Bring Their Own Food and Drinks to the Cafe?Yes, adults can bring their own food and drinks to the cafe at A Latte Fun. However, please note that during adults only events, there may be specific policies regarding outside food and drinks.We encourage you to check with the staff for more information.As for the alcohol policy, A Latte Fun doesn't serve alcohol, but they do offer a variety of fancy coffees and other non-alcoholic beverages for adults to enjoy.Are There Changing Facilities Available for Babies?Diaper changing facilities at A Latte Fun make it a convenient and family-friendly space. We understand the needs of parents with babies, and we provide a clean and comfortable area for changing diapers.In addition, our parent lounge area offers a private and quiet space for breastfeeding. We want to ensure that parents can relax and enjoy their time at A Latte Fun, knowing that we've their needs in mind.Does a Latte Fun Offer Any Membership Options or Loyalty Programs?At A Latte Fun, we offer membership options and loyalty programs to provide even more value for our visitors.Our membership options allow families to enjoy unlimited playtime and exclusive benefits, such as discounts on admission, snacks, and birthday party packages.Our loyalty program rewards frequent visitors with special perks and discounts.We want to ensure that our guests feel appreciated and have the opportunity to make the most of their experience at our play space and cafe.ConclusionIn a Latte Fun, the fun never stops!With our exciting play space, delicious cafe offerings, and a welcoming environment for parents, we've got it all covered.So why wait? Grab your little ones and head on over to our South Huntington location for a day filled with laughter, connections, and endless fun.Don't miss out on the chance to make memories that will last a latte!

Ignore the dirty dish in the sink. My mini haul from Sprout’s Farmer’s Market. Pictured: Tater tots, vegan spam, cupcakes, cheese balls, buffalo ranch carrot chips, chik’n bbq pizza. I got two bags of the Space Balls because they were buy one get one free. About to get lit 🔥

I found these breakdowns + tips and tricks very useful when planning, so I thought I would finally get around to sharing our wedding. Feel free to ask any and all questions about our mainly DIY wedding! What can I say. It was an incredible day full of so much emotion. Our guests had an incredible time as their experiences were our largest focus. This meant that they all showed us so much joy, love and warmth on the day and I could not have asked for a better day!
We got married on May 12 last year, and I understand that the money we spent then would have slightly changed. I know our venue has increased by a couple of hundred.
We had guests from three continents and our families are based on opposite sides of the planet (England and Australia, while we are in Germany). In the end we decided on a local destination wedding. I say this because the wedding was a max 2 hour flight from where most of us were based. We are also incredibly fortunate that our friends like to travel as much as we do, and they had the financial means to do so. For those on much lower budgets, we worked with them to organise cheap hostel accommodation and taxis in a nearby town and car-pooling with other guests. The venue surprised us. On the day we got married they had a super car display of 10-12 super cars for a different event. Theres cars were displayed at the entrance to the hall we got married in. Total luck!
Basic Logistics Friday Wedding 40 Guests (no children) Ceremony Start: 2:30 pm, Afterparty end: 11:45pm The afterparty was dancing and board games for those that didn’t want to dance Bridal Party: 2 Bridesmen/Flower Men, 1 Best Man
General costs: Venues: 4150€ Celebrant: 460€ Photography/Videography: 2235€ DJ: 550€ Insurance: 75€ Food: 1211€ Drinks. 2064€ Décor: 1085€ Bridal attire + hair and make-up: 1725€ Groom’s attire: 1400€ Stationary: 115€ Favours: 50€ Misc: 170€ Total: 15190€
I will break down the costs further and my DIYs in the comments!
Things I really liked: 1) Choosing a ceremony location that needed absolutely NO decorations. 2) First dance directly after our ceremony 3) No MC, I did this all myself. The event was small and this worked 4) Private photoshoot of just my husband and I at the beach. Lovely moment just to us. We took some champagne 5) Using local foods and trying to minimise waste with items that could be recycled or re-used 6) Toast drinks being a representation of us 7) Adding in a welcome event and breakfast the next day made the wedding feel longer and gave us much more time to talk to and hang out with everyone. 8) A small number of guests means that I have beautiful memories with every single one of them 9) Venue provided a day of coordinator for the ceremony- it was a nice and stress- free morning. 10) A box of rave accessories for the afterparty, glasses, light up scrunchies, glowsticks etc 11) My bridal party doubling as my flower men
What didn’t work so well: 1) Set up of the venue. I set up everything the evening before and a friend of my MIL was meant to just move the things into place on the day. The venue had previously said they would not do this. Then on the day they got excited and took over. This led to my cake being displayed incorrectly. It was meant to be 4 etagere levels of cupcakes and the top the cake. They put them in different spots and by the time we came back from photos all the cupcakes were gone. This was pretty funny and I am happy they were eaten. It also led to great photos of my husband walking around with our top cake in his hand, cutting off chunks and handing them to people. But the lesson for future brides: maybe draw a picture of where things go :P 2) The first look. It’s not a big thing in the North of England. My Husband just disappeared and we were meant to do it (nerves perhaps- he likes to walk). And so we had around 1 minute for this before we had to hurry back to our rooms so guests could seat themselves. 3) Our timeline- yeah that went out the window pretty fast and it wasn’t even unrealistic. Oops. 4) Almost forgot family photos and had to do them after dinner. Some family members look a little “happier” than others 5) Favours and guest book were not heavily used/taken. Definitely put them in the wrong spot and really did not need them 6) I made my aisle song WAY too short. It finished before I even started walking (they took forever to fluff my dress). Led to happy photos though. In the silence I cracked a joke. Everyone laughed. I walked to very happy faces!
Additional events: Welcome drinks on the Thursday evening (guests paid themselves, it was a local, cheap country pub). The idea was that we had many guests we hadn’t seen in a while as we all live in different countries. We used the time to introduce all our guests to one another and this was such a good idea. Come wedding day everyone was already friends. Day after breakfast: the main hotel that all our guests stayed in offered complimentary English breakfast, so we had a big table and all had breakfast together Beach walk: for those that didn’t want to leave, we went on a beach walk after breakfast
If you’ve made it this far. Thank you! I have enjoyed being part of these subs and have loved reading everyone’s stories, input and ideas! It has really helped!

Uploading some pictures from the Elden Ring theme birthday party I created for my boyfriend! We all wore shirts with different messages on them and he thought it was the funniest thing. Here's a list of names and foods I used for everything: Cotton candy - soft cotton Honeycomb- lightning grease Ferraro- rejuvenating boluses Rock Candy- Rainbow stones Shabriri grape Pickles- pickled turtled neck Blackguard Big Boggart's boiled prawn- crab boil Cured Meat- jerky Flask Of Wonderpus Physick-sprite and edible gold glitter Cerulean tears - red Mountain Dew Crimson tears- blue Mountain Dew Rot - peanut butter Bleed- red queso Sleep - cream cheese mixture Frost- sour cream ranch mixture Golden dunes- peach rings Torrents snacks- fruit and veggies Blaidd's Royal Greatsword- celery GodFries- fries Onion rings- Elden rings Dung eater- chocolate cupcakes
This was so fun to surprise him with and even even more fun because i had to get extra creative as there is not a ton of Elden Ring party ideas! If something isn’t perfect just know I tried my absolute best lol. Also I have never played this game before but I did a ton of research to try and include small details that he would like.

My wedding was a dumpster fire... literally...
I saw your wedding horror story videos and have one of my own I think a lot of people would get a kick out of. Yes, this entire story is 100% true with no real hyperbole, tall tales, etc. This all actually happened and I have witnesses that will attest to this if asked.
I'd been with my husband for about 2 years, engaged for 1, when we found out I was pregnant. Obvi, we decided to rush the wedding after we had a talk about the surprise and what we wanted to do. Flash forward a little and my original Maid of Honor and I had a falling out because the last time we had been together and gone to the church the wedding was being hosted, she had gotten disrespectful with the elders and asked questions she thought were funny, but were really just rude. The swearing really didn't help matters either. I asked her if she would be able to try to be more respectful of my beliefs and be gentle with the others that would be there. This lead to a fight and the beginning of the end of a 7 year relationship (when we tried to rekindle our relationship later, she said she hoped my son would get unalived by a cop because he is white and no one cared about it. Thank God I cut ties when I did). This was also the beginning of a new friendship between myself and the best man's fiancé (we are still bffs today) when I asked her to take over. Crisis 1 averted.
For the sake of setting some scenes, I worked at a hotel in a podunk town, right off the highway and met with a make up artist that came in for a makeup party gig with housekeeping. We talked and she agreed to work with me and MOH for the wedding. Here comes the beginning of everything going down hill, on fire, in a rickety buggy.
The night before, after the rehearsal dinner, at 11pm the makeup artist gets ahold of me saying she has to cancel because her husband got into a water bottle accident (water bottle is oilfield speak for the giant water trucks they have on site) and was in the hospital. We understood and told her to do what she has to, we can handle things ourselves.
Meanwhile, my husband's uncle was cooking the pig for the reception dinner as it doubled as his wedding gift to us (which we are extremely thankful for btw). It caught on fire. In the parking lot. Of the hotel I was working at, and everyone was staying. Luckily he was able to save it, but I got to hear about it when I got back to work. They printed the security camera image and everything. It was great.
Now it's the morning of the wedding. I realize that I am missing makeup that I need and, living in a map dot myself, needed to drive half an hour away in order to get what we were missing. Thank God for my dad needed to go out that way anyway. He got us breakfast, took us to the store, and we grabbed what we needed and started to take off. The shirt I was wearing, without my knowledge, had popped the button right over my boobs showing God and everybody my goodies and I hadn't realized it until we were on our way to grab the cupcakes and "smash" cake (it was a cheap alternative to a traditional wedding cake and actually save us a TON of money for the "event"[ note for brides on a budget, say event and not wedding to save some extra $]).
We get home and nerves take over, coupled with my already awful morning sickness, leading me to be stuck in the bathroom for a while. I finish up, brush my teeth again for the third time and decide to start getting things around and just get ready at the church. I made a Playlist in order, and wrote down the order for my brother to be able to just press play and not worry about ads or anything. I literally went as far as saying song a-c for while you wait, d for the procession, and e for my enterance with the song titles. This will become a problem apparently.
As MOH and I are getting ready, I start to freak out because the makeup I got is streaky and I can barely get anything to blend how I want it to, so my mom had my dad grab her makeup and bring it down and takes over for us. Her friend, who offered to do pictures for us along with my SIL (and I paid them both for) told my mom to give me fake lashes because it'd make the pictures prettier. I told them I wasn't comfortable with it because it was new and I didn't know if I could handle the glue smell and the glue she uses hurts my eyes as is. Mom basically said to hush and let her do it.
One thing lead to another, and my mother glued my eyes shut. 10 minutes before my wedding was due to start. Even though I had asked for no fake lashes. Hormones kicked in and I started to cry. After about 5 minutes, we are able to get my eyes opened, but still had bits of glue in my lashes that ended up scratching my eyes throughout the wedding. I included a picture where you can see even through the editing how chunky the glue made my lashes and where chunks were pulled out with the glue. My dad came down asking what was taking so long, and my mom snapped at him and told him to go upstairs and wait a second, which made me start to cry again.
I calm myself down rather quickly and get dressed (the dress ended up being too big because the morning sickness had made me lose weight without me realizing it) and we all head upstairs only about 5 minutes or so late. At the doors, I can hear the music playing. It's the wrong songs. My dad, in his usual joking fashion, said "It's not too late to run". I told him I just wanted to get this dumpster fire over with.
Speed up a bit and during the ceremony, the pastor skipped over the marriage cross ceremony (where the newly weds put a cross together as a symbol of our faith in our marriage), and called my husband Durk. Miraculously, we make it through with those being the only things amiss, besides my husband being tired and looking grumpy the entire time (I guess he and Best Man stayed up half the night BSing with his uncle and dad, my FIL, and having a couple drinks).
Now the ceremony is over and we have people heading to the hotel to set up for the reception. Pictures were a cluster, there was yelling, I started to cry again because I just wanted things to be done quickly, and my mom wanted her photographer she had come in take pictures that she promised to pay for. We still haven't gotten any of them from said photographer.
After my parents were done with their part, they took off for the hotel and someone accidentally set some of the mac and cheese on fire, setting off the smoke alarms for the hotel. Can't say I cared too much because it wasn't the recipe I'd given my mom to make that she asked me to send her because I'm a picky eater as it is with my "touch of the tism" coupled with pregnancy making things worse.
Eventually we get there, and things had gotten flip-flopped as to what was going on and when because Mom wanted it to go her way, MIL was trying to stick to the schedule I had made... It was great. Thank God for hubby's "Aunti B" that was able to take charge and be my voice and fix things where as my mom looked at MIL and Aunti B and said "I don't care, she's you're problem now". Honestly wasn't surprising from my mom. So we wait for every one to file in to the room we were supposed to start in, and I have to teach my brother how to press play on my phone for music. 🤦🏽‍♀️ Awesome.
We get the Mother Son dance and the Father Daughter dance, and by then my husband was done with everything so we just had the food blessed and proceeded to the dining area. No newlywed dance for us. Still pretty upset about that.
At this point I'm too upset to eat, but manage to nibble here and there. As things start to come down, Mom's friend (yes eyelash woman) comes up to me upset because I didn't warn her that the hotel had a pool so she didn't bring suits for her girls to swim in while everyone else was prepared. I informed her (and showed her) that on the event page for the wedding I wrote where everything was taking place and that the hotel had a pool they were free to enjoy. The same information everyone else had used before coming. Embarrassed, she left and just had her daughters swim in their underwear and diaper.
At that point, everyone had eaten, we did the cake cutting, cake smash "competition" (hubby and I each had a jar people woukd put money into as a bid to who will get the cake to the face. Hubby lost, but we ended up turning it into a little game anyway. Pictures included) and a lot of the ceremonial stuff was over so I started cleaning up (condition of being able to use the hotel for free for the event as an employee) and everyone started pitching in.
The ceremony was at 3pm, reception around 4pm. We had everything cleaned up by 6:30pm, 7pm at the latest. Everyone that was staying in the hotel hung out for a bit, and my MIL and SIL (bless them) attempted to get the rest of the eyelash glue out of my eyes and managed to get a bit out with only one piece left before I had to stop. I got chewed out about how things went and how bad my parents looked with everything by my mom (OFC) and I decided to say screw it, packed up, and left for home with hubby, MOH and BM. If you thought that was the end of it, you're mistaken.
The next day, after my amazing MOH got the last of the glue out of my eye, we saw everyone off, and we were to take off for our honeymoon (a Civil War town because there was quite a bit of fun there when I went, and Hubby hadn't been, and it was cheap). I convinced my dad to let us take the SUV because I had a bad feeling about my car. Thank God I did because despite the "new" engine, the car died on the highway not even 10 miles from home when I took it to work later on.
Anyway, we make it to the hotel that had amazing reviews online to discover stains everywhere on the bed and stuff (ew), the pool was atrocious, and the water in the shower smelled like chemicals and started to burn my husband's face. So we checked out saying we had an emergency back home and had to leave. I called a nearby hotel in my brand I worked for and managed to get a room that is usually about $170 a night or so, for $60 a night. Thank God for them.
The rest of the honeymoon went on well with almost no morning sickness, and no other issues. The only bout of morning sickness (which reiterates my desire to know why it's called that when it can happen anytime of day) happened when my husband was being sweet and shared some of his food with me he knew I generally liked. The baby decided "I don't like that", sending me to hug a trash can a little while after lunch. In the middle of the section of (Civil War Town). By the (civil war history specific) house. In the middle of afternoon traffic.
The family ahead of us glared and started saying something about drunk people in the day 🙄 and my husband started laughing at the irony of it all. He took off to find me napkins to clean up and a good Samaritan stopped to ask if I was ok. I told him "I'm fine, just pregnant" and they chuckled then left. I managed to get cleaned up when hubby came back with the napkins and we continued on our way.
For those wondering, we now have 2 healthy boys, 2 dogs, 2 cats, and have been happily married for 5 years in August. We still laugh about my eyes getting glued shut on our anniversary with our friends and how my wedding was a prime example of Murphy's Law. If it can go wrong, it will go wrong.

Hi! I'm a lurker of all you guy's beautiful work here, I'm a baker not a florist. I have a question about purchasing ribbon. I wrap my floral cupcake boxes in ribbon (linen style) and the only place in my town that sells it is hobby lobby and the roll isn't even enough to wrap two boxes.
I'm looking for cost effective options to buy in larger quantities, it anyone has any suggestions I would greatly appreciate it! I've checked Amazon, but curious to know if there's anywhere else that would be better cost wise.
Picture is what I'm looking for, doesn't have to be exact, but along those lines. (Please excuse my terrible bow 😅)