Project Wedding Blog

This week’s Real Wedding is just. so. darn. gorgeous.  Brittany and Bryan held their luxe-vintage, autumn wedding at Hackberry Hill Farm in a small town between Austin and Houston, Texas.  An organic fall palette of mocha, olive, beige, and brilliant vermillion was woven throughout, leaving us thoroughly inspired.  Many thanks to the awesomely talented Rebekah Westover for sharing this album with us!The bride wore a classic, A-line gown by couture designer, Romona Keveza.  She looked positively angelic on her wedding day.. with soft gold curls falling on her shoulders.
After the outdoor ceremony in front of a romantic, woodsy backdrop, there was a place for relaxing and chatting in the vintage outdoor lounge!The reception was indoor/outdoor… guests could gather at log tables on the patio or inside the fancied-up Silver Oak Hall.  We’re particularly fond of the way colored glass and mini floral arrangements were used on the tabletops. 

Wishing newlywed bliss to Brittany + Bryan!

Catch the full story and more photos {here}.

Photos by Utah-based photographer, Rebekah Westover

Coordination by Deborah Bradley Events

Venue: Hackberry Hill Farm

Bridal Gown by Romona Keveza

Bride’s Makeup by Kandy Glass

Florals by Melanie Tipton of Last Petal

Catering by Bistro 108

Tags: earthy palette, fall, farm wedding, luxe, neutral, Rebekah Westover, Romona Keveza, Texas, vintage.

Today, a little handmade prettiness from the heartland.

Josh and Heather married in Oakland, Iowa this past October.  It’s not often that we feature weddings from Iowa… Not for any reason of course, we just don’t hear much from the Iowan folks… so it’s such a treat to have come across this gem of a wedding, photographed by our friends Jonny and Michelle of Paper Antler.

The bride is an artist and she created nearly all of the cute little details and things shown below!  She-so kindly- sent over all of her DIY instructions too, so that you can see how she pieced everything together!

DIY Whimsical Signs
Supplies: Old wood (both flat & in stick form), paint, wood glue.
Paint a white background almost to edges on flat wood. When dry, add letters (J + H) or words
(Wedding with an arrow or Just Married or Mr. & Mrs.) using a bright color (I used teal). Glue stick to
sign with wood glue and allow it to dry. Dig hole and secure in ground or nail signs to trees.

DIY Invitations
Supplies: Card stock, bird punch, edge punch, silver thread, computer, RSVP template, glue stick.
Print invitation information on card stock for RSVP cards and wedding invites. Punch edges to give them a classy, professional look (I used Martha Steward brand for edges and the birds). Punch out 2 birds on
invites. Wrap thread around top of invites. Add a fun scrapbook paper under the bird cutout using a glue stick. I made postal stamps using my artwork (bird-themed) at Zazzle.com- easy and affordable.

DIY Happy Tears Table
Supplies: Old table, old picture frame, paper, hankies, sweet little bin, spray paint.
Find an old table, sand it down and spray paint it a color you like (I used robin’s egg blue). Make a sign
that says, “Happy Tears, Please Take One” and frame it. Arranged old and new hankies in a bin you
enjoy and place on table for guests to use during the ceremony.

DIY Treats Table
Supplies: Old-fashioned or favorite candies and treats, vintage bowls, decorative take-away bags, cloth.
Collect candy and treats (I made white/dark chocolate covered apples) and arrange them neatly in vintage, decorative dishes. Cover table with a vibrant cloth. Have guests take away candy using fun bags. If you
desire, make a fun sign to hang above table (mine said, ‘sweets’  and I used leftover paper and glue).

How lucky we are to get a peek into this DIY maven’s planning process.. Thanks, Heather!

All the best to You and Josh!

Photographs by Paper Antler Photography

Ceremony & Reception Site: Big Grove Country Inn

Paper Goods & Décor by the bride- Heather McDonald- of Wildflowers & Grace

See her etsy shop too!

From the Bride: Riding home on the airplane from San Juan, Puerto Rico, I was elated after accepting Josh’s sweet proposal to me in a garita at Castillo de San Cristóbal, a fortress built by the Spanish in 1783. We opened up my journal that I take everywhere and penned our autumn, vintage-themed wedding, “Elegantly Antique.”

We excitedly planned October 8th, 2011 and hoped this wedding would be enchanting- boy was it ever! We wanted to showcase who we are as people while making everyone who would attend feel relaxed and at home.  Joshua is a brilliant writer and I am an artist who finds creating to be my therapy, so much so that I am studying to be an art therapist; we had ideas aplenty. We put our love-struck minds together and let our creative energies flow in hopes of making the vision of our dream wedding a reality. We scoured many antique shops in Wisconsin, where I am from and in Nebraska, where Josh is from, collecting trinkets and unique finds until we ran out of space to store them. I was busy designing wedding invitations, wedding programs and much of the décor that would grace the wedding site.

We stumbled upon an adorably perfect, four acre, rustic Iowan wedding site which included a Bed and Breakfast, a 100 year old chapel, a one-room school, a quaint reception hall, horseshoes and a merry-go-round, and an outdoor patio with a fire pit and scenic cornfields as far as these excited eyes could see.

Being a lover of nature, I found myself drawn to white birch trees, whimsical birds and various shades of goldenrod and aqua. I envisioned a palate of these colors on my bridesmaids and groomsmen as they stood in the charming country chapel.

Josh’s sister was busy making yellow antique rosettes for my maids’ hair and one for me made out of a blue antique flower pin and fabric from Josh’s grandmother’s wedding dress. We gathered old-fashioned candy for our loved ones to nibble on and mason jars to make hanging lanterns out of. The summer flew by as we made paper and pom-pom garland. I printed beautiful framed 4”x6” prints of my artwork to hang from twine with clothespins that would be parting gifts for our guests- to take a small piece of us with them when they went.

The wedding plans started to come together and finally the day arrived. Everything was lovely and even the weather decided to cooperate. My favorite part of the day was the beauty of love bringing all this together, that and, after the ceremony, a vibrant rainbow appeared in the sky over the Iowa corn and we ran out in the misting rain to capture shots of the glorious moment.

Tags: autumn, country, DIY, fall, gold, Iowa, teal, vintage.

These photos are so fresh and very sweet…

(Just love that Paper Antler).

Jen and Charlie married at Quivey’s Grove in Madison, Wisconsin; it was a rustic, homespun fall wedding.

The couple met in Thailand while he was learning to become a scuba diving instructor and she was teaching English.  Charlie is from the Southwest of England and Jen is from Wisconsin. After having enough of the tropical heat, they moved to New Zealand where Charlie proposed!

The bridesmaids looked pretty in mix and match turquoise dresses by J. Crew and Jen was completely lovely in a dress by David’s Bridal.   Furnished with dark wood chairs, exposed beams, and rustic lighting, the ceremony took place in the stable at Quivey’s Grove.  Connie Engmann officiated.

They spent hours and hours making all of the decorations for the wedding. Jen and her mom crocheted and sewed all of the bunting used behind the alter and for the reception. Charlie painted and sewed all of the buttons for the table numbers (Jen felt like the luckiest bride)!

For dessert, there was a spread of pies from Hubbard Street Diner in Middleton.  There were ten in all: fall classics like pumpkin, apple and pecan and then some of their favorites - French silk, peanut butter silk, and black forest- YUM! A friend of the bride made a small cake for cutting. There’s more from the bride, just below!

Thanks to Charlie + Jen and Jonny + Michelle for sharing this wedding with us!

Photos by Paper Antler Photography

(psst. if you haven’t heard Paper Antler is traveling around the country ALL of 2012 photographing weddings.  Double bonus is that they’re donating $1,000 from each wedding towards an amazing nonprofit that works to rescue children who are victims of human trafficking.  There are a few dates left, so check out their route and schedule and book ‘em)!

Ceremony & Reception Venue: Quivey’s Grove

Florals by Abundance Acres

Bridal Gown by David’s Bridal

Bridesmaid’s Dresses by J. Crew

Bride’s Hair by Holly’s Salon Studio

Officiant: Connie Engmann

Ceremony & Reception Music by Krause Family Band

Cranberry Chutney Favors by Quince & Apple

Pies by Hubbard Street Diner

From the Bride: I was never one of those girls that knew what sort of wedding she wanted from a young age, but when we started planning the wedding we quickly decided we wanted a wedding that reflected us as a couple, so we wanted something rustic, crafty, colorful and intimate. Since we were living in New Zealand and weren’t able to look at very many venues, we chose somewhere we were familiar with. Once we had decided on Quivey’s Grove- so many things fell into place. The venue was beautiful - dark wood, a charming old home and very eclectic décor. - - I love food, all kinds of food, but it was really important that we sourced everything for our wedding as locally and sustainably as possible (food, flowers, services) and supported small businesses.

We didn’t have any particular color scheme - I love color, all colors and so we tried to incorporate lots of colors - especially into the table decorations. Even though we had a fall wedding we wanted to stay
away from typical fall colors - red, orange, browns… For the ceremony we used mainly white and pinks and all colors for the rest.

The weather wasn’t perfect - it sprinkled on and off during the day, but I don’t think anyone noticed - and in the evening we had a lightening storm, which I think everyone enjoyed. We had originally planned a late summer wedding - but we pushed the wedding back and decided to have an indoor wedding and I’m glad we did - I would have been worrying about the weather for weeks before the day.

Tags: crafty, fall, homespun, Madison, Paper Antler Photography, pies, pink, rustic, Wisconsin.

Dani and John have a love for the great outdoors…

their wedding was centered around mountain fun and the natural beauty of Park City, Utah.

Here is their story in photos by Gideon Photography

(love that b&w shot… so sexy, don’t you think?!)

The tall pines of Deer Valley Ski Resort provided the backdrop for the outdoor ceremony.  Dani and her bridesmaids carried a palette of wildflowers.  The picturesque ceremony was followed by dinner, drinks and dancing across the lawn at the Empire Canyon Lodge.  Natural, wild florals, mixed with vibrant shades of blue and pink decorated the lively evening. 

For the honeymoon, this adventurous couple headed out to Idaho and Wyoming for a whitewater rafting trip down the snake river… what fun!  Congratulations Dani and John!

Photos by Gideon Photography

Invitations by Sami Rose and Rachel Deitsch

Bridal Gown by Nicole Miller

Bride’s Hair by David Colvin

Bridesmaid’s Dresses by Urban Outfitters

Ceremony & Reception at Deer Valley Resort

Flowers by Branches Floral

DJ: High Mountain Music

Photobooth by Shutterbooth

Cake by Martin’s Fine Desserts

Jeweler: Lulu Frost

Videography by Kale Fitch Productions

Tags: DIY, fall, jimmy gideon, mountain wedding, rustic, wildflowers.

We’re sort of in awe that it is already Thanksgiving this Thursday (and a new engagement season is upon us)!  What better way to start off the week than with Allison and Peter’s fall harvest party at one of our favorite venues: Bear Flag Farm?!  A special thanks to Shelly Kroeger for capturing these delicious photographs! Allison and Peter met in Miami, while Allison was finishing up her third year of medical school.  The pair shares a love for the outdoors and fabulous food. Their vision was to create a food-centric celebration using as much from the farm’s fields and orchards as possible.Shades of lavender, peach, apricot, tangerine, amethyst, grey, and lilac came together to create the central color palette of the day.
The reception décor was made from greenery, fruits, and flowers straight from the field!  A vibrant, abundant harvest filled the tabletops. 

Oh, but there is lots more… see the full feature by {clicking here}!

Photographs by Shelly Kroeger

Venue: Bear Flag Farm

Event Design by Tina Reikes of Bear Flag Farm

Florals by the  Bear Flag Farm Team

Bride’s Hair & Makeup by Sarah Hyde

Catering by Living Room Events

Cake by Freeport Bakery

Tags: apricot, bear flag farm, fall, lavender, orange, Thanksgiving.

With Thanksgiving just a week away, we thought Audra and Cory’s fall, country-chic wedding at the Cedarwood Mansion would be just the thing for you… We’re sort of swirling in the all the Southern charm and romance, glued to the gorgeous imagery by David & Tammy, and hanging on Audra’s every word in the story she tells below!  But first, this photo of Audra on the swing…? Come on… a total dream…

Congratulations Audra & Cory!

♥

Photos by David & Tammy

Venue, Flowers, Cake, & Event Design by The Historic Cedarwood Mansion

Bride’s Makeup by Lisa Proctor

Bride’s Hair by Mary Malone

From the Bride: If someone were to ask, “Were you raised in a barn?” I’ve always been able to answer with a proud “Yes Sir!” My dad was a quarter horse trainer on a 200 acre East Texas Ranch. I couldn’t have dreamed up a better childhood.  My dad was also a romantic cowboy, who became an avid rose grower to express his ever-growing love for my mother, and eventually me, his only daughter. Thus, I define my heritage as “country elegance” and I knew I wanted my wedding to reflect that.

After moving to Nashville and falling in love with Cory…my charming South Carolina gentleman…we knew Music City would be the best place for the wedding, as families could meet halfway. When I discovered the Historic Cedarwood Mansion, I knew that it was the perfect place for our ceremony. It effortlessly embodied our crock-pot of Southern roots. A stately antebellum plantation house on the historic registry, Mason jar candles and vintage chandeliers dripping from oak trees, sprawling rose gardens, and a big red barn. I was home. What better place for Texas to marry South Carolina, with Tennessee as a witness?

Luckily, this dream venue, also happened to be an oasis of wedding planning. Cedarwood was all-inclusive and has recently become the belle of the Southern wedding ball and I found that their reviews were as spectacular as the property. Flowers, Cake, Catering, Ceremony Musicians, Reception, Invitations, Programs. It was all a one stop shop…and the ladies in charge served up timeless elegance laced with burlap. Cedarwood made my country chic imaginations come to life in just two short planning sessions.

When I arrived on the property the day of the wedding, I ran my fingers lightly across stunning vintage decorations and breathtaking floral arrangements while whispering “This is so beautiful.” I felt as if I were sneaking upon someone else’s wedding (thus the need to whisper).  It was as if they plucked a scene straight from one of my farm-raised dreams….and improved upon it.

My husband and I chose to see each other before the ceremony. I’d do it that way a million times over. I remember him standing at the end of a cobblestone walkway that lead from the side door that I snuck out of.  He had his back to me. He was framed on his right by a charming little swing,  that was all dressed in ribbons for our day–and on his left was a kiss from the perfect amount of sunshine. I was nervous as I approached him, as though I hadn’t sought out that face a million times in our two years of courting. When I finally arrived close enough to brush my hand around his right arm, he turned and tears welled up in his gentle blue eyes, just as quickly as his hands popped out from the pockets to embrace me. “You look amazing,” he managed to squeak out. After letting him soak me in like a vision that could disappear at any moment, I lifted up the dainty lace pattern that danced around the bottom edge of my dress, to reveal: cowboy boots. We both laughed at how oddly fitting they seemed to be, under such a feminine dress.

It wasn’t long before my dad was walking me down the aisle in those boots, with 22 bridal party members and countless trees smiling on me on as I walked towards the love of my life. We read our handwritten vows under a canopy of nature. It was the most fitting cathedral for us.

Tags: country-chic, david & tammy photography, fall, rustic, Southern, tennessee, the historic cedarwood mansion.

We have so many new projects to share, and we just didn’t want you to miss a one.  The best part is that they’re all simple enough to accomplish even if you’re not a master crafter, and they’re easy on the budget!

Here goes!

Crocheted Heart Table Runner

Project by Victoria Hudgins, Photo by Carly Taylor {see more…}

Cute Chocolate Monogram Favors

Project Styling & Photo by Oh Happy Day {see more…}

Hop Vine Centerpieces + Mini Pumpkin Favors

Project Styling and Photo by Chelsea Fuss {see more…}

Mini Loaf and Butter Drizzle Favors

Project Styling and Photo by Victoria Hudgins {see more…}

Giant Confetti

Project Styling and Photo by Oh Happy Day {see more…}

Pretty Personalized Vases

Project Styling and Photo by Oh Happy Day {see more…}

Sailor Knot Accents

Project Styling and Photo by Mary Swenson {see more…}

….Hope that leaves you inspired and busy for just a lil while… xo

Tags: confetti, DIY favors, Escort Cards, fall.

Colleen and Nick’s love story is one for the books… and their fall wedding, filled with personal touches. The couple met when Nick, a member of the Geek Squad, was sent out on a routine visit to repair Colleen’s computer.  As soon as Nick saw her, he conveniently prolonged a five minute quick fix into a multiple hour visit.

They married on an October day in Madison, Wisconsin, with falling leaves painting the backdrop. The reception was held at Sardine, a trendy bistro that overlooks Lake Monona.  This is where Nick had proposed. 

It was a day of sweet celebration and love.

Happy (almost) One Year Anniversary to Colleen & Nick!

A super special thanks to Jonny and Michelle of Paper Antler for sending these photos over!  If you don’t already know this, I really love the folks over at Paper Antler… not only do they take beautiful, timeless photographs (with that subtle hint of vintage)… but they are also changing the world with their work.

In 2012, Paper Antler will set out to photograph fifty weddings in fifty states, donating $1,000 from each wedding to She Dances, an ‘anti-human trafficking’ organization.  They’re calling it the Fifty Nifty and they’re booking now.  SO, if you’re getting married in 2012 in one of the fifty states.. and you’d like to support this extraordinary effort you can find out more…

Sweet weekend to ya…

xo

Tags: fall, Fifty Nifty, Madison, Paper Antler.

Snag this trend for a steal by DIYing your very own velvet and feather headbands!  These make fabulous bridesmaid gifts, and the best part is you can color coordinate as needed for the perfect wedding day accessory.  Victoria Hudgins brings in rich textures and whimsical accents for the upcoming wedding season with this fall-friendly project.

Materials needed for each headband:

*Cheap crafting headband mold (find at craft stores or dollar stores)
*1/8 yard fabric in a rich textured velvet
*A couple of whimsical feathers that coordinate with your bridal party attire. (These can be found at craft stores, thrift stores, and quite cheaply online).
*Fabric glue (or hot glue if you are careful!).Step One: Measure the headband to the fabric and cut a line double the width of your band.

Step Two: Starting at one end carefully glue this strip around the band being sure to straighten out any gaps or bumps in the fabric along the way.  Secure with a very small glue line around the inside of the band.

To make the side bow: Cut a piece of fabric 2 inches long by 1/2 inch wide. Fold in thirds and secure along the back with glue. Cut another piece 1/4 inch wide by 1 inch long and run it down the middle of the bow front, gluing in back to create the shape. To finish the headband: Place between 1-3 feathers in a pleasing combination along the side of the band, starting about 1/3 of the way up (you may want to use a mirror to figure out what placement will work with your custom sized feathers). Once in place, use a dab of glue to secure the feathers and top with your velvet bow.  Let the band dry overnight before presenting to your wedding party.

Wrap the headbands in pretty tissue, attach a sweet “thank you” tag and watch your favorite girls walk down the aisle in a very pretty bespoke style.

Project Styling by Victoria Hudgins

Photography by Prokopets Studios

Tags: bridesmaid gift, DIY headband, fall, feathers, velvet, victoria hudgins.

And this wedding… with all of its end of summer loveliness…totally put me in the mood!  From the DIY lavender bouquets to the pheasant feather and moss décor accents, Angela and Carson (the blissful bride and groom), had a blast planning many of the elements of their eco-friendly wedding day.  The focal point of the ceremony was a beautiful old maple tree in the groom’s backyard.  Florals hung from the branches and seventy five guests watched from hay bail seating as the couple exchanged vows.  Tennessee-based photographer, Amelia J. Moore, captured this backyard Lousiana celebration.

Photos by Amelia J. Moore

Event Design by Breathe Easy Event Planning

Venue: Private Residence

Enjoy this last August-of-2011-weekend!

♥

Tags: backyard, beige, fall, lavender, moss décor, outdoor, rustic, taupe.