Merci New York: Real New Jersey Wedding | Valerie + Paul at Willowwood Arboretrum

Everyone loves to add their own personal flare to their wedding {perhaps with their own written vows}. But this couple went above and beyond making this day, their day. Without the help of a planner, this bride and groom made their own invitations, purchased their favors, and used their own car {which the bride's father built...seriously}! Daniel J Photography captured these fantasy-filled photos as well as a ton of fun! Take a peek!

Valerie knew exactly what she wanted in a dress, in fact she never even tried on a gown before ordering her BHLDN dress online {did anyone else just have a minor panic attack}? This one shoulder, sweartheart neckline, silk gown looked beautiful on Valerie! And her Bottega Veneta "Pollock" shoes were just the right pop of color and fun she was looking for!

The groom, Paul {and his groomsmen}, wore J. Crew pants and vests along with their own shirts and ties in a orange/blue scheme. This goes to show you that you don't always need a suit or tux to look handsome! A vest and tie combo is just as dapper and often looks more organic. We love it!

Valerie and Paul chose the Willowwood Arboretum for its natural beauty and the fact that every picture would have a perfect backdrop! {We love the not-so-posed shots that Daniel J Photography captured...very Alice in Wonderland, no}?

Valerie was driven by her father in his 1940s street rod Plymouth that he built himself! {We're obsessed with this car}!

The bridesmaids were able to pick their own deep blue J. Crew dresses ~ ensuring they'd be able to wear them again! "The entire wedding had a mismatched yet cohesive {sort of Anthropologie} feel, so keeping the dresses the same was not what I was looking for," said Valerie.

The reception, {a Mexican pig roast!}was decorated with cool blues, pink, fuchsia, and orange warm tones. Guests had access to a tequila and candy bar with old time treats and tiny Patron and Kahlua bottles!