Etsy Weddings: Handmade Object Of The Week
Since Etsy.com launched in 2005, the online marketplace featuring over 800,00 vendors selling their handmade wares has become a go-to resource for couples looking to elevate their nuptials with one-of-kind, DIY touches (there's even a dedicated section of the site just for weddings).
Below, we present a curated selection of our favorite wedding objects from Etsy sellers. We'll be bringing you a new object, and its unique story, every week, so check back frequently.
Succulent Bouquet
This luscious succulent bouquet from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ATouchofSucculents" target="_hplink">A Touch of Succulents</a> offers just the right amount of glamour and polish. Says the designer, "Many of our brides return from their honeymoon and are able to easily disassemble and replant their bouquets. They are then able to transform that special element from the big day into a planted arrangement that they can reflect on with each other and share with friends and family for years to come."
'Hello, Beautiful!' Pocket Mirror
This sweet little pocket mirror from <a href="http://Buttonlandia.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Buttonlandia</a> is emblazoned with the words "Hello, beautiful!" -- what a great way to thank your bridesmaids! Says the designer, "This pocket mirror is set apart from others because each one is handwritten by me, it adds a uniqueness because each one is different (just like people are). I also wanted to include some cuteness by using notebook paper."
Handmade Love Quote Sign
This sweet chalkboard print by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/LilyandVal" target="_hplink">Lily And Val</a> features an amorous quote by Edgar Allan Poe. Perfect for a newlywed couple! Says the designer, "This piece is entirely hand lettered on a chalkboard surface. I then took a photograph of the artwork to produce the print. This method truly provides a realistic chalkboard appearance minus the dust. I absolutely love offering a temporary medium like chalk in a form that is lasting and permanent."
Mr. & Mrs. Pillow Cases
These adorable pillow cases from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dustysandlulu?ref=seller_info" target="_hplink">Dustys and Lulu</a> are the perfect gift for newlyweds from friends, or a sweet present from one spouse to the other. Say "Good Night" in style!
Customized Wedding Bands
These customizable wedding bands from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/monkeysalwayslook" target="_hplink">Monkeys Always Look</a> can be stamped with the latitude and longitude of where you and your spouse first met, or any other text or quote that's meaningful to you. Says the designer, "Couples thank us for creating such a unique piece. Only the husband and wife would know exactly the meaning behind each latitude/longitude."
Custom Engraved Cutting Board
The perfect gift for newlyweds, this cutting board by <a href="http://WoodInk.etsy.com" target="_hplink">WoodInk</a> is custom engraved with the couple's new names. Says the designer, "Our cutting boards are the "triple threat" of wedding gifts. They're beautiful and expensive looking (while remaining affordable), very personal, and also unique. Gifting one of our boards says to your newlyweds, 'I took the time to find something that would really mean something to you.'"
Gold Foil Invitation
This gorgeous 1920s-inspired gold foil invitation is hand crafted by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hellotenfold" target="_hplink">Hello Tenfold</a>. Says the designer, "They are letterpress printed on cotton paper in either matte or shiny gold foil, so they are wonderful to the touch."
Handcrafted Bridal Belt
This gorgeous embellished belt is handcrafted using Austrian crystals by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SomethingTreasured8?ref=seller_info" target="_hplink">Something Treasured</a>. Says the designer, "The Something Treasured bride is a fashion forward gal that appreciates various designers, but has made the decision to fork out the money on her dress and not her accessories. She's also the kind of gal that wants a hand in tying together her whole bridal look. She has a vision, and we want to fulfill that for her."
Necktie Boquet
This upcycled necktie bouquet by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/louellaroseshop" target="_hplink">Louella Rose</a> is modeled after a bouquet of long-stem red roses. Says the designer, "Brides have the option to use neckties from a loved one to make their wedding flowers even more memorable."
Custom Wood Guestbook
These custom guestbooks are handcrafted by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/lorgie" target="_hplink">Lorgie</a>, and made from timber and vegan leather. Says the designer, "The custom messages on these timber books are carefully designed in collaboration with clients before being laser engraved. The timber covers are sanded and coated with an eco varnish and the paper inserts are hand torn and cut to size before being bound together with coloured vegan leather strips and quality hardware."
Bridal Necklace
This upcycled necklace from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ecofinery" target="_hplink">Ecofinery</a> adds just the right amount of excitement to a bridal look. Says designer Breeze Romain, "[The] Deco Dazzle necklace draws inspiration from style and design of bygone eras; the whimsy, asymmetry and lux of 1920s, 1980s and 2010s fashion ... This necklace expresses nostalgia for the important fashion junctions of the past while re-inventing their aesthetic."
Tea Length Wedding Dress
This beautiful tea-length wedding dress is made-to-order by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SilverSixpenceBridal?ref=seller_info" target="_hplink">Silver Sixpence Bridal</a>. The dress was inspired by Audrey Hepburn in "Funny Face."
Twig Ring Set
This engagement and wedding ring set by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/kristincoffin" target="_hplink">Kristin Coffin Jewelry</a> is handcrafted from recycled gold and a conflict-free sapphire. Says the designer, "The ethically-sourced gold is the perfect representation of marriage. Marriage is about lasting love, happiness, dedication, and problem-solving. Rings are meant to symbolize these enduring sentiments. What better way to show your commitment than through rings which exemplify a sustainable and loving future?"
Felt Bouquet
This unique bouquet is handcrafted by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/munclefredart" target="_hplink">Muncle Fred Art</a> and made of wool felt. Says the designer, "Brides with a unique style tend to pick this bouquet for their bridesmaids. It makes a statement for the alternative bride."
Gold Ring Set
This ring set by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/daniellejewelry?ref=top_trail" target="_hplink">Danielle Miller Jewelry</a> is made from hand-chiseled 14k gold. Says the designer, "Because each is hand carved and no two rings are alike, they are symbolic of a couple's individuality...allowing them to express the many the facets of their love!"
Personalized Clutches
These personalized clutches by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/allisajacobs?ref=seller_info" target="_hplink">Allisa Jacobs</a> are the perfect gift for your bridesmaids. Says the designer, "These bags are excellent for weddings because I'm able to customize the colors to a bride's request, monogram each bag, and even include an individualized message printed on the fabric inside - creating a one of a kind, handmade, personalized gift."
Lavender Confetti
This lavender confetti by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Flowerfetti?ref=si_shop" target="_hplink">Flowerfetti</a> is a fragrant and eco-friendly alternative to throwing rice or blowing bubbles at a wedding. Says the designer, "Since olden days, herbs have been used in weddings to add fragrance, beauty and symbolism. I was inspired to take this tradition and create modern, beautiful confetti of petals and herbs."
Caricature Save-The-Dates
These custom caricature save-the-dates are individually hand-drawn by artist <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/devhunt1" target="_hplink">Devin Hunt</a>. Says Hunt, "I incorporate unique details into the illustration, so the couple can really have fun with their drawing. Many of my clients want their pets to be included in the drawing. Other popular requests include favorite hobbies, sports teams, references to alma mater, drawings with the wedding venue in the background. I have had a couple of clients come up with some creative uses for their illustration, including a banner for the side of the trolley car that was taking guests to the reception, and for labels on their wedding favors."
Rose Gold Shrug
Turn heads at your fall wedding in this rose gold sequined shrug by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/hollystalder" target="_hplink">Holly Stalder</a>. Says the designer, "A bride told me once that she wears her shrug every year to her anniversary dinner as a sentimental reminder of her wedding outfit."
Wedding Table Numbers
These freestanding table numbers from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/milkdustcreations" target="_hplink">Milkdust Creations</a> are handmade and cost just $5.75 each. Says the designer, "Brides, grooms, and event planners have enjoyed the versatility of this table number, [especially] the ability to customize it to their liking. The table numbers have a reputation of disappearing with the guests, so I am happy to include a complimentary card for the happy couple to keep all to themselves."
Coral Flowered Garter Set
These silk garters from <a href="http://Previously.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Previously</a> are true to the style of those worn in the 1920s. Says the designer, "This garter set is my personal favorite, it was inspired by a 1920s Boue Soeurs dress at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The dress features a multitude of cascading silk flowers and is a stunning example of early 20th century craftsmanship."
Juliet Cap Bridal Headpiece
This Swarovski crystal-encrusted Juliet cap from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dolorispetunia" target="_hplink">Doloris Petunia</a> is perfect for the bride who longs for a veil alternative. Says the designer, "After getting married myself, I wanted to create pieces for the bride who wanted to do away with the fussiness of a veil, yet have their own take on a classic style of a bridal head dress that they could wear with even the most simple dress. My goal was to create something that was both modern and timeless."
White Rose Bouquet Necklace
This tiny bouquet pendant sits gingerly on the neck, and at just an inch high, makes the perfect necklace for a delicate, romantic bride. "It features tiny pink hand-wrapped roses bunched in a mini glass vial hung from a delicate sterling silver chain. Each flower measures less than 0.25" and is made of high quality dyed mulberry paper and wire," says <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/doodlebirdie" target="_hplink">Doodle Bird</a> designer Patricia Buzo. "The full rose bouquet consists of about 10 white stems and includes 2 realistic leaf sprigs. The vial is made of glass and the roses sit in a crystal clear "water" base."
Wedding Cake Stand
This vintage-inspired wedding cake stand from <a href="http://TheRocheStudio.etsy.com" target="_hplink">The Roche Studio</a> features blue milk glass and ornate scroll detailing, gorgeous for your Big Day or any day after! Says the designer, "It's a great wedding gift because the couple can use this during and after the wedding -- and not just display them in their cabinets."
Bridesmaid Clutches
These personalized bridesmaid clutches by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mamableudesigns" target="_hplink">Mama Bleu Designs</a> are the perfect way to say "Thanks" to the women who stand beside you as you say "I do." Says the designer, "I often have brides coming back to my shop after their wedding to tell me that their bridesmaids and flower girls love their clutches and they want to purchase more for other women who made their wedding day special."
Silk Hair Wreath
This silk hair wreath from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mignonnehandmade" target="_hplink">Mignonne Handmade</a> is "perfect for a vintage- or nature-inspired wedding," says the designer. "This piece was inspired by the works of Art Nouveau artists, and the fashions and styling of that time period. [It is] handmade completely from scratch, hand dyed, cut, pressed and sewn."
Antique Diamond Ring
This antique, asscher cut diamond ring from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ErstwhileJewelry" target="_hplink">Erstwhile Jewelry</a> is one-of-kind. Says the jeweler, "We always choose rings with wearability and comfort in mind. While this diamond is on the bigger side the setting lays elegantly low. Which allows this brilliant ring to be comfortably worn daily."
Succulent Centerpiece
For the book-loving couple, this unique centerpiece from <a href="http://RootedInSucculents.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Rooted in Succulents</a> is the perfect choice. "Reusing an old worn book and [adding] succulents equals a long-lasting centerpiece," says the designer.
Mirrored Bead Bouquet
This brooch-inspired bouquet by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BridalBouquetsbyKy" target="_hplink">Kampfeld</a> is handmade using dozens of mirrored beads. Says the designer, "I really love that the beads in this bouquet are mirror-backed, so they have this tremendous reflection and sparkle that you just can't get with other beads, even crystal. It's classy bling, and I really love it."
'Holy Matrimony' Sign
This hand-crafted 'Holy Matrimony' sign by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/yesdearstudio" target="_hplink">Yes, Dear Studios</a> adds personality to any wedding venue. "We had chosen a very simple wedding chapel to get married in so we wanted a center piece that was simple yet matched the wood stain of the spanish architecture," says the designer. "Typography is something we have always enjoyed, so we chose a typeface we liked that was carried throughout our wedding."
LOVE Sequined Letters
Etsy vendor <a href="http://twistedtwig.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Twisted Twig</a> handmakes each and every one of these decorative sequined letters. "I place and line each individual sequin by hand with glue and rushing is simply not an option," says the designer. "The sequins literally pick up every source of light wherever they are placed, so they are perfect for both indoor and outdoor weddings."
'Happily Ever After' Cake Topper
This cake topper by <a href="http://ByMadelineTrait.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Madeline Trait</a> is laser cut and offers a unique alternative to the traditional plastic bride and groom. Says the designer, "People have used my toppers for a variety of styles such as a 70's themed wedding to something more traditional."
Rose Gold Engagement Ring
This conflict free, cushion cut moissanite stone is set in a recycled 14K rose gold band. Says the designer, <a href="http://onegarnetgirl.etsy.com " target="_hplink">One Garnet Girl</a>, "For a couple looking for a high quality alternative to a diamond, this is a great fit. My hands carved this setting, set the stone, and the finished result is a heirloom piece of jewelry that stands apart from the production line."
'Cootie Catcher' Invites
These adorable 'cootie catcher' invites from <a href="http://oneLittleM.etsy.com" target="_hplink">One Little M</a> are a throwback to childhood and a unique way to invite your guests to your Big Day. Says the designer, "The Cootie is designed as an invite, but could also be a centerpiece or flipped upside down to hold candies or favors. It's an instantly recognizable piece that brings us back to childhood. I think we love to identify with this kind of nostalgia."
Fabric, Paper and Lace Bouquet
This handmade bouquet from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FrenchKnotWeddings" target="_hplink">French Knot Weddings</a> is crafted from fabric, paper and lace. Says the designer, " I've used lace from the Mother of the Groom's veil, antique buttons, a grandmother's brooch, feathers, shells, rhinestones, burlap, vintage millinery pieces, tiny pictures of family and friends, wooden flowers and any other ideas a bride might have. Every bouquet is one of a kind, and I love using broken jewelry pieces and fabric scraps to stay green."
Custom Wedding Utensils
These eco-friendly wedding utensils from <a href="http://AproposRoasters.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Apropos Roasters</a> are made from sustainable wood and come with a custom monogram stamp that you can use on other design elements at your wedding. Says the designer, "I wanted to offer custom table settings but don't like to use plastic. Brides tell me later that they get lots of compliments on the tableware, and, when it's time to write thank-you cards, they get to use their custom stamp for a finishing touch."
Silk Garter Set
These silk garters from <a href="http://Previously.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Previously</a> are handcrafted and modeled after vintage garters from the 1920s. Says the designer, "The garters come as a boxed set with a matching silk handkerchief (which the groom can use as a pocket square) and make a beautiful heirloom gift. I have found that my garters are perfect for brides looking to channel their inner Zelda Fitzgerald!"
Heart-Shaped Shoe Clips
These ivory pearl, heart-shaped shoe clips from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/finkshop" target="_hplink">Fink Shop</a> are the perfect addition to any wedding shoe. Not only that, the clips are versatile: "What's special about my design is that they can be used as shoe clips as well as hair clips," says the designer.
Wedding Guestbook
This handmade basswood guestbook by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/quotesandnotes" target="_hplink">Quotes & Notes</a> lends a warm, woodsy feel to your wedding decor. Says the designer: "I had a customer who asked to have a poem added to the inside of the front cover of the guest book, asking guests to take a photo of themselves using a polaroid camera, post the photo onto a page of the guest book, and write down a piece of advice, memory, or well-wishes next to it. I thought that was quite cute!"
Edwardian Diamond Ring
This Edwardian diamond engagement ring from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sitfinejewelry" target="_hplink">Somewhere In Time Fne Jewelry</a> is perfect for the vintage-loving Indie Bride. The platinum and 18 karat yellow gold ring is a one-of-a-kind antique. Says the shop owner, "This ring could have been handmade for a royal youth in the late 19th or early 20th century. The ring is in superb original condition."
Hand-Painted Cake Toppers
These hand-painted wooden cake toppers from <a href="http://goosegrease.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Goose Grease</a> can be personalized to look like any bride and groom. Says the designer, "We are currently working with a Colombian carpenter who is making some of our doll bodies on a Fair Trade agreement. We can consequently now offer new doll bodies of different sizes and shapes, knowing the artisans who make them by name and personally having shaken their hands."
Birch Bark Vases
These handmade birch bark vases from <a href="http://jadenraifelt.etsy.com " target="_hplink">Jaden Rai Inspired </a>incorporate heart cutouts and stamping, and they're perfect for couples hosting rustic-themed weddings. Says the designer, "I enjoy mid-century decor and minimalism so that is why I work with the birch bark it provides that neutral color palette that I enjoy. My birch bark is sourced right where I live in British Columbia, we have an abundance of fallen birch and I love the fact that I get to see it through from start to finish."
Flowered Organza Veil
The 'Lucy' veil from Etsy seller <a href="http://austie.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Austie</a> offers a unique twist on a classic wedding headpiece. Says the designer, " I can actually customize the Lucy so that the large flower at the crown of the head can detach from the veil and and be worn alone without the veiling for the reception."
'Mrs.' Earrings
These hand-stamped earrings from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/minusone" target="_hplink">minusOne</a> are perfect for the newlywed who wants to announce her marital status change in style. Says the designer, "The custom hand-stamped name lets the bride know they were made just for her. They memorialize her wedding but are easy-to-wear earrings that will be loved beyond a single day. They're affordable, but the ear wires are high-quality 14K gold fill."
Monogrammed Burlap Runner
This monogrammed burlap runner is custom-made by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/asouthernbucket" target="_hplink">A Southern Bucket</a>. Says the designer, "Brides love to see their new wedding monogram in print as excitement builds for their upcoming wedding day. Our personalized burlap runners make great decorations for wedding showers and receptions."
Unique Diamond Solitaire
This unique engagement ring is made using a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herkimer_diamond" target="_hplink">Herkimer diamond</a>, a type of stone found in Herkimer County, New York. Designer <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bezaleljewels" target="_hplink">Bezalel Jewels</a> says, "They are a great alternative to diamonds. You can wear them in good conscience knowing they are not blood diamonds and are mined in the USA ... I am so honored to make something that will create memories for a couple for a lifetime."
'Reserved' Signs
These custom-made 'reserved' signs will make your VIP wedding guests feel extra special. Says designer Christine Srivongse Collins, "My husband and I created these reserved signs for our own handmade wedding and decided to share this design for others to use in their weddings. My grandma was so honored that she had her own seat and loved it so much that she stashed it in her purse when "no one" was looking ... Buyers have become creative with these signs and we've customized them to use for food/drink signs, guestbook signs and other fun signs to use as decorations in their weddings."
Unique Engagement Ring
This 14K gold engagement ring by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/doronmerav" target="_hplink">D.M. Designs</a> is set with 21 clear diamonds and perfect for the indie bride. Says the designer, "This ring is a great engagement ring for those who are looking for something a little different. There are hundreds of designs out there of traditional solitaire rings and they sometimes look too similar. An engagement ring is suppose to be something special, there is no reason to get a "standard" engagement ring."
Felted Corsage
This handmade wool felt corsage from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/handmadecolectibles" target="_hplink">Handmade Colectibles</a> will last a lifetime. Says the designer: "Each rose is made out of wool felt which makes it long-lasting and something that they won't have to worry about it wilting the next day. Because of the longevity you can save your wedding flowers and treasure them forever. There are hundreds of felt colors to choose from so you can customize your roses any way you like."
Polaroid Invitations
These Polaroid-inspired invitations from <a href="http://ellothere.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Ello There</a> are the perfect way to showcase your engagement photos (or a gorgeous photo of you and your beloved) while sharing crucial information with your wedding guests. Says the designer: "We've wanted to do a polaroid invitation for a while, but we wanted it to feel interactive, like when you're shooting with a real polaroid camera, and that's why came up with the idea to have the invitation inside the polaroid."
'Alice' Button Bouquet
Etsy designer <a href="http://LILLYBUDSBOUQUETS.etsy.com" target="_hplink">Lilybuds Bouquets</a> was asked by a bride to custom-design an "Alice in Wonderland"-themed bouquet. Lilybuds created this beautiful button bouquet, which any "Alice"-loving bride can now purchase. Says the designer, "There are many "Alice" items on the bouquet; 'Drink Me' bottles filled with glitter, black top hats, silver keys, vintage hand-spun cotton mushrooms, worded charms that say 'Off with their heads!', 'Tea party' and 'Drink me', miniature porcelain tea sets with tiny doilies, crowns and much more."
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First Posted: 10/02/2011 2:41 pm EDT Updated: 05/24/2013 11:38 am EDT