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Elegant and Laid-Back Janeiro de Cima Wedding

April 18, 2023 | justine

From the get-go, Mipa and Helder wanted their wedding to be about celebrating their love with loved ones rather than just following traditions. The couple made sure to plan every aspect thoughtfully, taking into account the experience of each and every guest who came to celebrate with them. And with the help of their visionary vendor team, they pulled off an elegant and laid-back Janeiro de Cima wedding filled with beautiful details. 

The couple had their hearts set on a picturesque river beach nestled near the bride’s childhood village–and it was the perfect spot for their big day. With breathtaking lakeside views as the backdrop, the bride and groom exchanged heartfelt vows, surrounded by the beauty of Mother Nature. And let us tell you, their reception was just as awe-inspiring. Under a clear tent, guests were treated to a tablescape adorned with cascading florals and whimsical lamps, creating a dreamy and romantic atmosphere.

With a warm color palette, one-of-a-kind decor, gorgeous arrangements, and a picturesque setting, trust us when we say this Janeiro de Cima wedding is a must-see! Scroll through these incredible photos captured by João Almeida for steal-worthy ideas and see their special day in motion through the lens of Junebug member and videographer Native Birds.

The Couple:

Mipa and Helder

The Wedding:

Janeiro de Cima, Portugal

How Their Janeiro De Cima Wedding Came To Be

We immediately knew we wanted to tie the knot somewhere special to me–close to my childhood home. And what could be more idyllic than a river beach surrounded by breathtaking scenery? To make things even better, most of our guests arrived in the village a day before the wedding and stayed an extra day after, making it a mini-vacation for everyone. The best part was that the village and river beach was just a short walk away from each other, so no one had to miss a moment of the festivities. We arranged for our families and friends to stay at the village and organized a chill party throughout the weekend. We always envisioned our wedding to be laid-back yet classy, with love, laughter, and revelry as the driving forces of the day.

Setting The Tone To Their Celebration With Music

One of the most memorable parts of our day was our entrance into the tent, where we had our reception. Following the ceremony, at the start of the evening, we were greeted by our friends and family with the sounds of Florence + The Machine, accompanied by the beat of two large drums. It was the perfect beginning, setting a fantastic mood for an unforgettable party. Throughout the day, we received incredible feedback from our family and friends. Seeing everyone having fun on our special day was very rewarding. The positive energy, joy, and satisfaction we saw in our guests were incredible.

Trusting Their Wedding Planner To Bring To Life The Wedding They’ve Envisioned

Planning, creating, and organizing our wedding was a challenging task! The village where we tied the knot had no specific infrastructure or resources dedicated to weddings, so we had to start from scratch. It was overwhelming, so we decided to enlist the help of a wedding planner. After careful consideration, we chose Bouquet De Liz—and we’re happy we did! They were incredible, assisting us with everything from invitations to decorations, catering, entertainment, and more. They were a lifesaver, and we couldn’t have done it without them. They’re the perfect choice for anyone who wants their dream wedding to come true. Plus, they took the time to understand our needs and vision from the beginning. 

The Importance Of Choosing The Right Photographer And Videographer

Selecting the photographer and videographer was a crucial decision from the start. While we wanted to live in the moment, we also wanted to preserve the best memories for the future. To that end, we chose two fantastic teams, and they did an excellent job. We aimed to capture moments throughout the day and avoid the traditional pauses for photos and videos. Working with them was a breeze; they were incredibly discreet and captured every moment. The final result was nothing short of incredible. We wouldn’t trade these teams for anything and highly recommend them as the best in Portugal.

Making Their Big Day Even More Special With Sentimental Gifts

On the morning of our wedding day, I gave Helder a watch with a heartfelt message. As a return gesture, Hélder surprised me with a trip with no fixed destination, which would make a long-standing dream a reality. And the cherry on top? The destination he picked was São Tomé and Príncipe, where I’ll go on a volunteer mission alone. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – João Almeida
Event Planning + Floral Design + Invitation Design – Bouquet De Liz
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Janeiro de Cima
Catering – Encontrus
Cake – Flor de Aveiro
DJ – Party Sound by Renato Mota
Live Music – Grupo Toque Social
Videography – Native Birds
Wedding Dress – Andreia Lobato
Bridal Accessories – Carolina Curado
Rings – MIL Jewellery

 

Congratulations to Mipa and Helder on their elegant and laid-back Janeiro de Cima wedding. A big thank you to João Almeida and a special shoutout to Junebug member and videographer Native Birds for capturing all the memories they will remember for the rest of their lives. To see more of their talent, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding videographers.

Whether it’s the photographer, wedding planner, or caterer, each vendor plays a significant role in making your day memorable. Remember, it’s not just about the product or service. It’s about the people you work with and the experience they provide. With the right team by your side, you can trust that your wedding day will be everything you’ve ever imagined and more.

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25 of the Best Outdoor Wedding Venues Around The U.S.

April 17, 2023 | riley

Image by  SASs Photography. Keep scrolling for our favorite outdoor wedding venues

Now that the weather is warming up, we can’t help but want to spend all of our time outdoors. And there’s something extra special about getting married outside. No matter where you are in the world, there is an abundance of incredible outdoor venues. In fact, there are so many that we’d never be able to list them all. So rather than list the countless options that could potentially overwhelm you, we’re rounding up 25 of our favorite wedding venues around the United States! 

Best Outdoor Wedding Venues In The US

West Coast 

L’Auberge de Sedona 

Why we love it: Sedona is known for its red rocks and breathtaking scenery. And L’Auberge de Sedona is nestled between the mountains and Oak Creek, giving you incredible views as you say, “I do.” Whether you tie the knot at the Spiritsong Terrace, the Creekhouse, or the Monet Ballroom and garden lawn, this is the perfect venue for anyone looking to become one with nature.

Crook Point 

Why we love it: If you’ve always dreamed of a beach wedding but don’t want to deal with the travel expenses and effort of a destination wedding, consider Crook Point. From elopements to micro weddings to weddings with 300 guests, this seaside venue is ideal for those looking for stunning views of the Oregon coast. 

Pecan Springs Ranch 

Why we love it: If you’re looking for a rustic-meets-city vibe, you’ll love Pecan Springs Ranch. Located just 10 minutes outside of Austin, this venue is easy to get to and acts as a neutral backdrop that you can customize to fit your wedding vision. And because it can accommodate up to 300 guests, you can invite all of your friends and family to celebrate with you all night long.

Bella Luna Farms 

Why we love it: With local chefs and farmstead artisans, everything about Bella Luna Farms is sustainable–all without sacrificing the elegance. With extensive gardens and European-inspired buildings, the grounds can only be described as romantic. And the best part is that you can exchange vows outside and move indoors into the greenhouse-esque space for a reception. We call that the best of both worlds.

Ventana Inn 

Why we love it: We’re big fans of elopements and intimate weddings. And Ventana Inn is a beautiful spot to do just that. Surrounded by the towering redwoods and rugged coast of the Pacific Ocean, this luxury resort showcases just how charming Big Sur can be. With three different packages for up to 40 guests, it is better for smaller weddings. However, it is possible to book the entire property for bigger celebrations. 

Twin Palms Estate 

Why we love it: Take a step back in time at the Twin Palms Estate in Palm Springs–aka Frank Sinatra’s former home. Though this home is ideal for smaller weddings, it can hold up to 150 guests. Enjoy martinis with your friends and family while the Rat Pack serenades you around the piano-shaped pool. It doesn’t get much cooler than that.

Devil’s Thumb Ranch 

 

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Why we love it: Surrounded by 6,500 acres of gorgeous mountains and wilderness, Devil’s Thumb Ranch allows you to become partners for life amongst the Rocky Mountains. Although the ranch is plenty large, the property is home to High Lonesome Lodge–a private wedding party lodge–which gives your guests a chance to stay closer for your wedding weekend.  

The Neon Museum 

Why we love it: For those who want a more unique experience, there’s only one answer–Las Vegas. And what’s more unique than tying the knot at the Neon Museum? The non-profit organization is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting iconic Las Vegas signs. It makes for some seriously epic photos and gives you a chance to head to The Strip afterward for some late-night celebrations.

Midwest Outdoor Wedding Venues

Oak Hill Farm 

 

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Why we love it: Nestled on a secluded estate near Galena, Illinois, Oak Hill Farm combines elegance and vintage touches perfectly. With a barn, chapel, schoolhouse, path of pines, woodland forest, and twin oaks, there is an abundance of ceremony, reception, and photo space options. And because it’s been family owned since the very beginning, they pay close attention to detail.

Jorgensen Farms 

 

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Why we love it: Set in central Ohio, Jorgensen Farms sits on 100 spectacular pastoral acres. While the grounds can’t be beat, the highlight of the property is the Oak Grove–a one-of-a-kind greenhouse that gives you a magical open-air experience. It’s the best of both worlds for those who want an outdoor experience without actually being outside. However, if you want a garden wedding, don’t fret. They offer that too.

Zingerman’s Cornman Farms 

Why we love it: Sitting moments away from Ann Arbor, Zingerman’s Cornman Farms is a historic venue that offers a variety of spaces to tie the knot. With different packages for the different seasons, the farm really shines during the summer and winter. And with packages for weddings of all sizes, they work with you to give you the wedding of your dreams.

Garfield Park Conservatory 

Why we love it: Alright, so this one may not technically be outdoors, but when you get married surrounded by an abundance of plants and flowers, it counts, right? The Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago is a lush, romantic venue for those looking for an outdoor feel while being inside. And the best part is that they offer a wide range of catering and rental services, all for a wide range of pricing. Planning doesn’t get much easier than that.

Southern Outdoor Wedding Venues

Playa Largo Resort & Spa 

Why we love it: Ranked as the number two resort in the Florida Keys by Condé Nast, Playa Largo Resort & Spa offers a view of white sandy shorelines and unbeatable sunsets while you exchange vows. Whether you’re looking to say “I do” with the waves crashing behind you on the beach or you love the idea of promising forever under a gazebo overlooking the ocean, your options are endless. And the best part is that there are 177 luxury rooms and suites where your guests can stay for your weekend-long celebration.

Race & Religious 

Why we love it: If you’ve been looking at getting married in New Orleans, there’s a very good chance that you’ve already heard of Race & Religious. It’s arguably one of the most popular wedding venues in the city–and for a good reason. It’s been used in Anthropologie catalogs, Coca-Cola commercials, famous cookbooks, and more. With 4,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor event space, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the rich culture of NOLA. 

Magnolia Plantation

 

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Why we love it: Nothing screams Southern more than getting married under giant sweeping oaks. And you can do just that at Magnolia Plantation in Charleston. The outdoor pavilion is open year-round and is ideal for weddings of any size. Or you can choose the Piazza, a historic Magnolia House with a stunning lawn and covered porch. There’s no wrong place to tie the knot here. When you take a look at it, you’ll understand what we mean.

Blackberry Farm 

Why we love it: Is there anything more romantic than the sun setting amongst the Great Smoky Mountains? We don’t think so. This is why we think Blackberry Farm is an incredible venue for those looking for a quaint, intimate celebration. We can picture it now–a quiet ceremony amidst the greenery, a reception with delicious farm-to-table food, and ending the night with bonfires with your loved ones.

Cheekwood

Why we love it: Who says you have to go to Italy to enjoy the beautiful architecture and vineyard-esque backdrops? Cheekwood makes all of this possible in Nashville. With gardens, a reflection pool, and the arbor (our favorite spot on the property), there are 12 different locations to choose from depending on your wedding vision. They also offer all catering, rentals, and staffing needed to make your day come to life.

East Coast

Blue Hill Farm 

 

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Why we love it: Nestled in the Pocantico Hills of New York, Blue Hill Farm perfectly balances elegance and nature. The 2 Michelin Star restaurant has been named one of the top restaurants in the world, so you know that you’re going to enjoy some incredible food after exchanging vows in the stunning outdoor courtyard.

Wheatleigh

 

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Why we love it: In 1893, Henry H. Cook purchased estate land in the Berkshires, where he built an Italianate country home. In 1982, what is now known as the Wheatleigh Hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Today, you can tie the knot in the historic building. Enjoy the two restaurants, private wine cellar, heated outdoor pool, and 22 acres of beautiful lawn after you tie the knot.

Chatham Bars Inn 

Why we love it: One look at the Chatham Bars Inn website, and you will notice the countless awards they have won over the years. It’s not hard to see why, either. The Atlantic Ocean acts as your backdrop thanks to the hotel’s private stretch of beach. Though if you’re not one to want to get your feet dirty in the sand, there’s also the wedding lawn which offers uninterrupted views of the sea.

Mayflower Inn & Spa 

Why we love it: Located less than two hours from New York City, the Mayflower Inn and & Spa is situated on 58 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland. Tie the knot in the Shakespeare Garden and party under the stars, or enjoy an intimate brunch wedding in the Garden Room. There are so many ways to make your big day at the Mayflower as unique as you.

Hawaii Outdoor Wedding Venues

Olowalu Plantation House

Why we love it: Olowalu Plantation House is by far one of Maui’s most popular wedding venues. Tall palms and postcard-worthy views surround the charming ocean-facing home. Celebrate your love for one another on the lawn before exploring the island for some seriously epic wedding portraits.

The Beach House

 

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Why we love it: Hugging the Poipu beach coastline, The Beach House offers dazzling views of the ocean along with some incredible eats that your guests will be dreaming about for months after your big day. We’d say it doesn’t get much better than that when in Hawaii.

Kualoa Ranch 

Why we love it: Want to get married where they filmed Jurassic Park, King Kong, and 50 First Dates? Well, you can at Kauloa Ranch! The 4,000-acre private ranch prides itself on sustainability by providing everything from local fruits and veggies to grass-fed meats. Choose from one of their two outdoor venue options, both of which offer views that people dream about.

Holualoa Inn

Why we love it: Although The Big Island is visited less than the other Hawaiian islands, it’s home to breathtaking views, delicious food, friendly locals, and some of the most unique landscaping out there. And if you’re ready to embrace all that it has to offer for your big day, consider the Holualoa Inn. The bed and breakfast sits in the heart of the Kona Coffee belt and has an inviting air of Polynesian authenticity. You can even rent the entire property for a long weekend.

Choosing your venue is by far one of the hardest choices when it comes to wedding planning. But now that you’ve seen some of our favorite outdoor wedding venues all around the US, hopefully, the decision is at least a little bit easier. Once you’ve got a location nailed down, it’s time to start thinking vendors. Lucky for you, Junebug has a directory of wedding vendors from around the world.

Image by Emily Klarer

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Elegant Cortal Gran Destination Wedding

April 16, 2023 | justine

Ade and Tome’s search for the perfect wedding venue throughout Europe finally ended when they stumbled upon Cortal Gran. The 15th-century medieval castle surrounded by sprawling apple tree fields stole their hearts at first sight. With the help of their trusted vendor team, they brought their wedding vision to life and created a spectacular event. Featuring a neutral color palette with pops of red, sleek decor and florals, and chic wedding fashion— their Cortal Gran destination wedding was a stunning blend of natural and elegant elements.

Set in a picture-perfect and shaded spot in the estate, the couple exchanged vows under a canopy of trees. They showcased the natural beauty of their surroundings by keeping the decor simple, with only a square arch adorned with thoughtfully placed arrangements and a leather couch at the altar as a focal point of their ceremony. The reception area, however, was a surprise for the guests as they were greeted with an incredible ceiling installation of cascading led lights and a sleek white tablescape with gold accents and candles. 

The couple poured their hearts into every detail and added personal touches, making it one for the books. You’re in for a treat when you see all the gorgeous details captured by Andrea Ferrara. So keep scrolling and get ready to be in awe!

The Couple:

Ade and Tome

The Wedding:

Cortal Gran, Sant Pere Pescador, Girona, Spain

Bridal Makeup Trends We Can’t Get Enough OfRecommended Reading:

How Their Cortal Gran Destination Wedding Came To Be

My partner and I fell in love with Cortal Gran the moment we saw it, and we immediately contacted Un Dia Unico to make our dream wedding a reality. They created an incredible plan for organizing and decorating the event with excellent attention to detail. Our guests came from all over the world, so our wedding planner coordinated their arrival, threw a great pre-wedding event, and managed everything on the big day. And we also had a traditional Nigerian wedding in London a week before the main event in Spain. It was an absolute blast!

Recommended Reading: Ceremony Backdrops To Wow Your Guests

Designing The Wedding Decor To Create A Cohesive Guest Experience

Our top priority was creating an elegant atmosphere through well-thought-out decor that followed a consistent color scheme. We designed the signage to match this aesthetic, including the beautiful welcome sign that led guests to the stunning forest ceremony area. To make sure everyone stayed cool during the ceremony, we provided pai-pai fans for our guests to use. The cocktail area was surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, offering a breathtaking view of the Cortal Gran castle. The reception area was a delightful surprise for our guests, with a seating chart matching the wedding’s design and color scheme. The tables were adorned with beautiful golden plates, floral centerpieces, and candles, and the cascading led light curtains on the ceiling created a magical atmosphere.

Wedding Advice: Working With A Wedding Planner Is A Must

We highly recommend couples hire a wedding planner when planning their big day. It was absolutely essential for us. Our wedding planners guided us through every step leading up to the wedding. This allowed us to fully enjoy the months of preparation without any stress or worries. On the wedding day, we could relax and enjoy ourselves completely. They made everything run smoothly, and we enjoyed our special day to the fullest without any hiccups or stress. Our guests had a fantastic time.

Adding Personalized Touches Throughout Their Cortal Gran Destination Wedding Through Readings and Music

Throughout our celebration, our friends and family had the opportunity to share their favorite readings during the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. It was heartwarming to have our loved ones contribute to our special day in this way. As we exchanged our vows, we were serenaded by a talented saxophonist who played a customized set of songs that truly captured the essence of our relationship. The live music created an intimate and unforgettable atmosphere we will always treasure. For the rest of the wedding, a DJ kept everyone on the dance floor, playing an eclectic mix of tunes that kept the party going all night long.

Recommended Reading: Unique Wedding Seating Chart and Escort Card Ideas

Recommended Reading: 80 First Dance Songs You Haven’t Thought Of Yet

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Andrea Ferrara
Event Planning – Un Dia Unico
Venue – Cortal Gran
Floral Design – Maite Mach
Catering – Aroma Catering
Live Music – Saxonara
Videography – Urko Wedding Films
Rentals – Opera Lloger
Favors – Momento 280

 

Congratulations to Ade and Tome on their elegant Cortal Gran destination wedding. And a big thank you to Andrea Ferrara for capturing all the beautiful details and special memories they will cherish for the rest of their lives.

Your special day can be absolutely flawless with the right team on board. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to go far to find the best wedding vendors from around the world. They’re just a click away! And if you’re feeling overwhelmed and need help figuring out where to start, don’t fret. We’re here to help. Our planning and budget guides are packed with top tips and creative ideas that will guide you in crafting a celebration that’s meaningful and unique to you. So, let’s dive right in and make the wedding of your dreams come true.

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