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Eight Guests, One Saxophonist, and the Mediterranean Sea: Inside an Intimate and Nontraditional Greece Elopement

March 27, 2025 | justine

Planning a wedding is never easy, but for Adam and Tosha, making their dream of a Greece elopement a reality was worth every challenge. With just eight guests, a soulful saxophonist, and the breathtaking Mediterranean Sea as their backdrop, they crafted a celebration that was deeply personal, stylish, and unforgettable.

Adam and Tosha’s love story began in 2016 when they connected on OkCupid while attending Washington State University. Their first date at Airway Hills Golf Course lasted three hours, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. “Adam’s kind heart won me over, and my energy reinvigorated him,” Tosha recalls. They spent every day together that summer, sharing coffee breaks and late-night sweets, building a foundation that would lead them to their ultimate adventure: a wedding halfway across the world.

What We Love About This Greece Elopement:

Featured Vendor:

tmInspired Photography

Booking a Venue Sight Unseen and Choosing the Right Vendors

Their dream was clear—a wedding that felt intimate, effortless, and organic, set against Santorini’s stunning cliffside. “We wanted our wedding to feel fun, intimate, and heartfelt, set against the breathtaking backdrop of a garden on a cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.”

To create this seamless experience, they combined the best of both worlds—bringing trusted vendors from Washington State while also supporting local Santorini businesses. “Being in the industry, I already knew a few vendors I needed to bring with me. For the others, we wanted to support island life and give back to their industry as well.”

Their approach to planning was meticulous yet flexible. They researched venues extensively, narrowed down their options, and finally selected the perfect location—without ever seeing it in person. “We committed to our venue sight unseen, which was surreal when we finally arrived,” Tosha says.

A Celebration Inspired by Greece’s Beauty and Spirit

The wedding design was inspired by the natural beauty of Santorini. “We took inspiration from the local plants, food, and infrastructure, as well as the spirit of Greek life,” Tosha explains. They ensured their guests’ comfort with parasols and fans, and selected seating that blended seamlessly with the scenery.

Their intimate ceremony was perfectly complemented by a unique musical choice—a saxophonist instead of a DJ, creating a soulful, romantic atmosphere. And to kick off the celebration, they hosted their rehearsal dinner on a 50-foot sailing yacht. “It felt like a movie—sailing on the sea, jumping into warm water, eating the best dinner while watching the sunset, and listening to the Mamma Mia! soundtrack. I tear up just thinking about it.”

Greece Elopement Style

Every detail of their Greece elopement was a reflection of their personalities and priorities. Tosha’s gown was a shimmering masterpiece—three layers of tulle that sparkled with every movement, weighing an impressive nine pounds. Adam embraced effortless style, pairing a tan suit with dark brown suede shoes and custom dog cufflinks, a heartfelt nod to their beloved pets back home.

For her signature bridal look, Tosha chose Chanel’s #48, a soft rose lipstick, and Gucci Bloom Acqua di Fiori as her wedding day fragrance. Adam, true to his nature-loving spirit, kept his hair down and skipped neckwear, embodying a relaxed, organic style that felt perfectly him.

A Serendipitous Ceremony Twist

Their wedding day began with a peaceful first look at Nimbus Santorini, a boutique hotel in Oia that set the perfect tone for the intimate celebration ahead. The cliffside ceremony space, designed for just eight guests, felt both cozy and breathtaking—exactly what they had envisioned.

“We just loved being able to commit our handwritten vows to one another at a venue we picked without seeing it in person. We worked so hard to stay true to what we wanted, and standing there together made it all feel so surreal.”

No wedding is complete without an unexpected twist. In a rush to the venue, Tosha forgot her bouquet at the hotel. While the staff rushed to deliver it, their officiant—who had another wedding scheduled—had to leave. “Luckily, our lead bartender stepped up to officiate,” Tosha laughs. “His first language is Greek, so there were some funny moments reading the script in English, but honestly, it felt more heartfelt and personal than the original officiant would have.”

It was an unplanned but perfect moment—one that made their ceremony even more unforgettable.

A Greece Elopement Reception Under Arches and Starlight

After exchanging vows, they explored the charming town of Oia, capturing stunning photos, sipping champagne, and sharing their first dance before cutting their cake. “We took dance classes for a year, and it paid off—it made for such a memorable moment that gave everyone something to talk about during dinner.” As cold sparklers lit up the cliffside, the moment felt straight out of a dream.

Their reception took place beneath elegant arches that perfectly reflected their style, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully curated three-course dinner featuring authentic local dishes, setting the stage for a magical evening. 

Later that night, after the last toast had been made and the final song had played, they stripped off their wedding attire and jumped into their private pool together—an intimate, carefree ending to a day they’d never forget.

Advice for Future Couples

For couples dreaming of a Greece elopement, Tosha shares one key piece of advice: “Give yourself plenty of time to plan an international wedding. Trying to rush it only leads to stress.”

For Adam and Tosha, their wedding wasn’t just about the ceremony—it was about crafting an entire experience that felt authentic, joyful, and uniquely theirs. And with Santorini’s cliffs, the Mediterranean breeze, and their closest loved ones by their side, they created a love story that will be cherished for a lifetime.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – tmInspired Photography
Event Planning – Elevated Events by Tosha
Venue + Catering – Canaves Oia Suites
Coordinator  – Melanie Papadopoulou of Canaves Oia Suites
Floral Design – Red Box Days
Officiant Consulting – Another One Ties The Knot
Live Music – Fotinos Tsakopoulos
Videography – Ochoa Films
Invitation Design – Scripted Sketches
Makeup Artist – Makeup Santorini Renia
Hair Styling – Wedding Hair by Rhianna
Wedding Dress – The Wedding Bell Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – Mens Wearhouse
Cuff Links – Anavia Design
Flat Lay Accessories – Champagne and Grit + Chasing Stone 
Rentals – Spark Event Rentals
Sparklers – Skylight Santorini
Dance Instructor – Arthur Murray Dance Studio

 

Sponsors
Email [email protected] to advertise on Junebug Weddings

The Power of Scentscaping: A Wedding Fragrance is the New Way To Anchor Your Memories

March 26, 2025 | justine

Scentscape your big day by diffusing your signature wedding fragrance to set the perfect mood throughout your special day.  Image by Laning Photography

No other sense is as strongly linked to memory as smell. A familiar scent can instantly transport you back to a specific moment, like the smell of fresh-baked cookies from childhood or the ocean breeze from a favorite vacation. That’s why scentscaping—adding a signature scent to your wedding—is becoming such a popular trend. By weaving fragrance into different parts of your day, you create a powerful connection between your wedding and the memories it holds.

But the beauty of scentscaping isn’t just for you, it enhances the experience for your guests as well. A thoughtfully chosen fragrance can set the mood, create an immersive atmosphere, and leave a lasting impression. Whether it’s a light floral aroma drifting through the ceremony or a warm, cozy scent filling the reception, your signature scent makes every moment feel even more special.

Picture this: years from now, you catch a familiar scent in the air, and suddenly, you’re right back at your wedding—the moment you said “I do,” your first dance, the laughter of loved ones. That’s the power of scentscaping. A signature fragrance doesn’t just set the mood on your big day. It keeps the memories alive forever.

How To Choose Your Wedding Fragrance

Let Your Everyday Scent Inspire Your Wedding Fragrance

You don’t have to look far for your wedding fragrance if you already have a favorite perfume or cologne. You want to feel like yourself on your big day, so go with something familiar—but consider adding a twist.  Layer it with a complementary scent, choose a richer or lighter version, or find a fragrance with similar notes that feels special for the occasion.

Work with a Fragrance Expert

Consider working with a fragrance expert to design a custom wedding scent. You can create a fragrance that reflects your personality, wedding theme, or even the season of your big day. Brands like Jo Malone even offer scent layering, allowing you to blend different notes for a personalized touch.

Collaborate on a Signature Scent as a Couple

Some couples choose to blend their favorite scents to create something that represents them both. This could mean designing custom perfumes for each other or picking a shared scent to wear throughout the day. Olfactory NYC offers a way to create a custom scent from home.

Match Your Wedding Theme or Location

Your wedding scent should complement your venue’s atmosphere. Think about the natural scents around you—like salty ocean air, fresh flowers, or warm wood—and choose a fragrance that enhances them. The goal is to create a seamless, immersive experience that feels natural to your setting.

Pair Your Wedding Fragrance With Your Flowers

Your flowers naturally add fragrance to your wedding, so your perfume should complement, not compete. Identify the main scents in your bouquet—are they light and fresh, rich and floral, or warm and spicy? Choose a fragrance with similar or harmonizing notes for a balanced effect. If your flowers are strongly scented, go for something soft and subtle. If they’re mild, you can introduce bolder perfume notes without overpowering the space.

Junebug Tip: Test your fragrance before the big day to see how it evolves over time. Scents change as they wear, reacting to your body chemistry, temperature, and even the fabrics you’re wearing. Fragrance can also behave differently in various settings—what feels light and airy outdoors may be more intense in an enclosed space. If that’s the case,  opt for soft diffusers to maintain  a balanced scent. 

Ways to Infuse Wedding Fragrance into Your Celebration

Scentscape Your Invitations

Give guests a preview of your wedding by adding a light fragrance to your invitations. It’s an elegant touch that builds anticipation for the big day. Just remember to keep it subtle—no one wants an overwhelming scent when they open their mail!

Use Diffusers or Room Sprays

Have you ever entered a building and instantly noticed its scent? Many hotels,venues, and retail stores  use scent diffusers to create a welcoming and memorable atmosphere. You can do the same by placing small diffusers in key areas, like the ceremony entrance, restrooms, or lounge spaces. Room sprays are another great option for dressing rooms or the bridal suite.

Set Up a Fragrance Bar

Want to give guests a fun, interactive experience? A fragrance bar lets them mix their own custom scents to take home as a keepsake. It’s a unique alternative to traditional wedding favors and adds a personal touch to your reception.

Provide Aromatic Favors

Send guests home with a scented reminder of your wedding. Mini perfume samples, scented candles, or essential oil blends make thoughtful favors that they’ll actually use—and every time they do, they’ll think of your special day.

Choosing the Right Scent for Your Wedding Style

Floral

A garden or spring wedding feels even more romantic with scents like rose, peony, jasmine, lavender, and lilac. These delicate florals enhance the beauty of blooming flowers and create a dreamy, timeless atmosphere.

 

Fresh & Aquatic

Ideal for beachside or summer celebrations, light and airy scents such as citrus, green tea, ocean breeze, white tea, and mint bring a refreshing, uplifting feel. These fragrances mimic the crispness of a seaside breeze or a sunlit garden.

 

Woody & Earthy

Rustic venues like barns, forests, or fall weddings pair beautifully with warm, grounding scents like sandalwood, cedar, vetiver, fig, and sage. These rich, natural notes complement the organic charm of outdoor settings and autumnal palettes.

 

Warm & Spicy

Winter weddings or intimate evening celebrations feel even cozier with inviting scents such as vanilla, amber, musk, cinnamon, and honey. These warm fragrances create a sense of nostalgia and romance, perfect for candlelit receptions and cold-weather gatherings.

 

Modern & Chypre

City weddings or sleek, modern venues call for clean, sophisticated fragrances like white musk, bergamot, black pepper, and violet leaf. These scents add an effortlessly elegant and refined touch.

 

Crisp & Herbal

Adventurous celebrations in the mountains or remote destinations are enhanced by invigorating scents such as pine, eucalyptus, leather, and fresh air notes. These fragrances capture the wild, untamed beauty of the outdoors.

 

Gourmand & Sweet

For a touch of decadence, rich and dessert-like scents—vanilla, caramel, tonka bean, chocolate, and almond—create a warm, inviting atmosphere. These fragrances are perfect for winter weddings, ballroom receptions, or celebrations with a playful, indulgent feel.

 

Where to Find Your Signature Wedding Fragrance

Jo Malone London 

If you love the idea of scent layering and a completely personalized fragrance experience, Jo Malone London is a must. Their signature scents are designed for mixing, allowing you to create a well-balanced, custom blend. With fresh, sophisticated options like Peony & Blush Suede or Wood Sage & Sea Salt, you can craft a wedding fragrance that feels uniquely you.

Le Labo 

For those who love artisan, handcrafted scents, Le Labo is all about personalized perfume blending and high-quality, small-batch fragrances. Their unisex scents, like Santal 33 and Another 13, have a cult following for a reason—rich, unique, and long-lasting. They also offer body care, home fragrance, and gift sets, making it easy to extend your wedding scent beyond just perfume.

Diptyque 

Diptyque is a French luxury fragrance house known for its artistic and sophisticated compositions, captivating celebrities and beauty lovers alike. Their perfumes, home fragrances, and candles feature complex, memorable notes, with bestsellers like Philosykos, a fresh, woody fig scent, and Do Son, a dreamy blend of creamy white florals. Plus, their commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients makes them a great choice for eco-conscious couples.

Byredo

For a modern and sleek fragrance, Byredo offers minimalist yet design-forward perfumes that range from fresh and clean to deep and musky. Their scents—like Gypsy Water and Mojave Ghost—are elegant yet effortless, making them ideal for couples who want something chic and understated. In addition to perfumes, they provide home fragrances and body care products to help you scent your entire wedding experience.

Maison Francis Kurkdjian 

For timeless elegance, Maison Francis Kurkdjian is a go-to for luxury, high-end fragrances. Their best-selling Baccarat Rouge 540 is a statement scent—sophisticated, rich, and unforgettable. Beyond perfumes, they provide an array of refined home fragrances, perfect for subtly infusing your venue with a touch of luxury.

Additional Tips for Scentscaping Your Wedding

  • Be mindful of guests with allergies or sensitivities. Some people are sensitive to strong scents, so keep it subtle and balanced.
  • Check with your venue about open flames. If they don’t allow candles, opt for diffusers or scented sachets instead.
  • Refresh the scent throughout the day. Fragrances can fade over time, so have a plan for reapplying—whether it’s lighting new candles, refreshing diffusers, or spritzing a light mist in key areas.
  • Incorporate scent into unexpected details. Lightly fragrance your welcome bags, place settings, or even ribbon-tied napkins to create subtle, delightful scent moments throughout the day.
  • Less is more. The goal is to create a subtle, inviting atmosphere—not to overwhelm your guests. Test your fragrance in different areas of the venue to make sure it’s just right.

Ultimately, scentscaping is a personal choice. If you love the idea of tying your wedding memories to a signature scent, it’s definitely worth considering. Whether you go all out with a custom wedding fragrance or simply light a few scented candles, adding a thoughtful scent to your big day can make it even more special and unforgettable.

Image by Lynn Shapiro Photography. See more of this real wedding here.

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Bridgerton Elegance Meets Coastal New England Charm at This White Elephant Nantucket Wedding

March 25, 2025 | justine

Gabriella and Eric’s love story began in 2018 when they met at a bar and talked all night. Life took them in different directions, and they lost touch, but fate had other plans. A year later, they reconnected at a graduation party for a mutual friend. “We didn’t remember how we’d met before, but the connection was immediate,” Gabriella shared. As they got to know each other, they realized they had unknowingly crossed paths many times before. “It was like the universe had been quietly nudging us together all along.”

Their White Elephant Nantucket wedding was a vibrant, floral-filled affair that perfectly blended the elegant aesthetic of Bridgerton with the laid-back charm of coastal New England. Gabriella, who planned the wedding herself while studying for the bar exam, infused every detail with personal touches. From the invitations to a weekend-long celebration, every moment reflected the couple’s love story and style.

What We Love About This White Elephant Nantucket Wedding: 

  • Gabriella planned every detail of the wedding herself while studying for the bar exam
  • Choosing a private first look and personal vows gave the couple more time to enjoy cocktail hour with their guests
  • The festivities spanned four unforgettable days, featuring gourmet meals, lively parties, and coastal charm
  • A live artist captured guests in beautiful sketches and watercolor paintings, creating unique, one-of-a-kind mementos

A Bridesmaids Brunch, Tapas-Style Rehearsal, and Nautical Welcome Party Kicked Off Their White Elephant Nantucket Wedding Weekend

The wedding festivities began long before the ceremony. Gabriella hosted a brunch for her bridesmaids as a heartfelt thank-you for their support. “It was a really fun way to enjoy each other’s company before the wedding,” she said.

On Thursday, the couple held an intimate rehearsal dinner at The Proprietors, a tapas-style restaurant in Nantucket. The evening featured vibrant farmers’ market florals, delicious food, and cocktails with their closest friends and family. The next night, they welcomed all their guests at the famous Cru Oyster Bar, setting the tone for the celebration ahead. “It was fantastic to be surrounded by everyone we love.” The night ended with spontaneous bar hopping in downtown Nantucket, adding to the weekend’s fun atmosphere.

Featured Vendors:

SAE Photo Film

Boston Common Band + DJ Combos

A Wardrobe Fit for a Wedding Weekend: Custom Suits, Dream Dresses, and Statement Shoes

With a four-day wedding weekend came multiple outfit changes. Gabriella had so many ensembles that she and her mother had to bring a second car onto the island just for her wardrobe!

“I knew I wanted my dress to be unique. I didn’t want a plain white dress, but I also didn’t want anything too colorful,” she explained. She found her dream gown at Lelite Bridal in Boston, a stunning piece adorned with handmade florals. To complement it, she wore custom-made shoes from Bella Bridal Shoes, intricately designed with beaded fabric butterflies.

Eric, who is 6’5”, struggles with off-the-rack suits, so he opted for custom attire. “Because of the garden party aesthetic and bright colors, he wore a navy suit to the rehearsal, a tan suit to the welcome party, and a blue and black tuxedo to the wedding,” Gabriella said. All his looks were tailor-made in Boston.

The bridesmaids embraced a mismatched lilac theme, selecting dresses they felt beautiful in, while the groomsmen sported classic black tuxedos, allowing Eric’s bold blue tux to stand out.

A First Look, Private Vows, and More Time for Cocktails

Gabriella and Eric decided on a first look to maximize their time with guests. “We’re big foodies, so when we heard that doing a first look meant we’d have more time to enjoy our cocktail hour, we were sold!” she laughed. The moment was emotional, and private vows made it even more intimate. “I was worried it would take away from the aisle moment, but it absolutely didn’t. If anything, it added to the anticipation and excitement.”

Gabriella also shared a first look with her father, a moment she cherished deeply. “He made the entire wedding happen and never asked me to contribute anything. Having a quiet moment with him away from the chaos was incredibly special.”

A Private Church Ceremony and a Childhood Dream Wedding Come True

Before their wedding, Gabriella and Eric had a small church ceremony near their hometown with just immediate family. They followed it with a big Italian dinner at her parents’ house.

The White Elephant Nantucket had always held a special place in Gabriella’s heart. “I had been visiting for years and distinctly remember eating there with my father. He once told me he hoped I’d get married there one day.”

With their love for the beach and many guests flying in regardless, a destination wedding on the island was the perfect choice. The stunning natural beauty of Nantucket, especially the White Elephant, made for an unforgettable setting.

 

Handcrafted Invitations, Live Art, and a Feast to Remember at Their White Elephant Nantucket Wedding

Every detail of the wedding was thoughtfully designed, including their invitations and save-the-dates. “We worked with a fantastic artist who collaborated with us every step of the way,” Gabriella said. The final designs included custom illustrations of their favorite island spots.

To incorporate her love of art into the wedding day, Gabriella hired an artist to create live sketches of guests, giving them a one-of-a-kind watercolor keepsake. Another artist painted on oyster shells, which doubled as table decor.

The couple put equal effort into curating the menu. “We love to eat, so making sure we had an amazing dinner was really important to us.” They opted for a large head table instead of a sweetheart table. “Some of my favorite moments were sitting there, surrounded by our best friends,” Gabriella shared.

Their celebration drew loved ones from around the world, with guests traveling from 12 states, as well as Australia and Italy. The party lasted well past midnight, thanks to the incredible Boston Common Band. “We were supposed to leave by 12, but we kept dancing until 1:30 a.m.!”

The festivities wrapped up with a Sunday brunch, a final opportunity to spend time with guests before they headed home. “It was such a beautiful way to end the weekend.”

Finding the Perfect Vendors,  Balancing Budget, and Embracing Wedding Day Surprises with Grace

Planning their White Elephant Nantucket wedding came with its challenges, including hidden import fees and island costs. “I knew I wanted to focus the budget on the venue and florals. Once that was set, everything else fell into place,” Gabriella explained.

She found most of her vendors through Instagram and Zola, choosing those whose work resonated with her. “I spent so much time looking through portfolios to find people who could make our dream day come to life.”

The morning of the wedding, unexpected guests meant there weren’t enough of the gold chairs Gabriella had rented to match the tablescape. “My vendor swapped them out on the spot, and now I can’t imagine the wedding without them. Everything worked out as it was supposed to.”

Her biggest piece of advice? “I had so much anxiety the morning of my wedding. I wish I had trusted that everything would be perfect and just enjoyed the moment. Eventually, the stress faded, and we had the most incredible day.”

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – SAE Photography
Venue – The White Elephant
Floral Design + Catering – American Stems
Cake – PPX Events
Officiant – Father Patrick
Live Music + DJ – Boston Common Band + DJ Combos
Invitation Design – Ink+Nibs Studio
Wedding Dress – Lelite Bridal
Bridal Shoes – Bella Bridal Shoes
Groom’s Apparel – Sordillo Custom Made Clothing
Rentals – Event Rental Co + Placesetters Nantucket
Favors – Sip and Sea Boutique

 

Sponsors
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