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Whimsical Summer Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm Wedding

February 17, 2023 | Junebug Weddings

Seaside vows, whimsical florals, and the sweetest DIY decor—Priscilla and Chris’s  summer Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm wedding was like a daydream. Every detail was packed with personality, thanks to the help of their talented team of wedding vendors. 

The couple kicked off their day with a cliffside ceremony framed by a stunning asymmetrical floral installation by The Flower Boutique. After tying the knot with serene ocean views as the backdrop, guests were led to an all-glass greenhouse dressed with whimsy lavender and blush blooms, lush greenery, and twinkling lights. On top of the lavish decor, the high school sweethearts told their love story through sentimental details like their handmade Tetris seating chart and their favorite song lyrics used as table cards. 

One look at these heart-warming “I do’s” just may inspire you to tell your love story in your own unique way. Scroll through these gorgeous photos by the talented Beatrice Howell for more DIY wedding ideas. 

The Couple:

Priscilla and Chris

The Wedding:

Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm, California, United States

The Most Memorable Details of Their Wedding Day

It’s tough to choose between the private reading of our vows and the last song at the end of the night. The private reading of the vows we’ve written to each other allowed us to share an intimate moment before all the festivities. The last song at the end of the night felt like a scene out of a movie. Everyone formed a circle around us and swayed as we slow danced to “Never Had a Dream Come True” by S Club 7. If you aren’t familiar, it’s a song that is reminiscent of our high school proms and Xanga days.

How They Personalized Their Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm Wedding

It was important to us to have our wedding represent our relationship and our history and so we are most proud of the personal aspects we incorporated into the wedding. Our table cards were based on images and quotes from some of our favorite movies and songs. Featured on the cocktail menu were our dogs as the face of our his and her drinks and our seating chart was an ode to how we met.

Wedding Planning Advice from the Couple

1. Both opinions matter when it comes to decision-making, but to actually make progress, it’s helpful when one person offers the other limited choices to pick from (i.e. color themes, table settings, menu templates). 2. Sit down and agree on what aspects of your wedding matter the most to both of you. This should dictate where your budget goes. For us, it was food, florals, and making sure we had the right people to capture memories of our day for us.

Unique Favors for Guests

We met through an online Tetris match, so our welcome board was a large board with individual Tetris pieces interlocked. Each piece had a guest’s name on it, with their table number on the back. It doubled as a magnet favor for people to put their photobooth pictures on their fridge. 

The Wedding Team:
Photography – Beatrice Howell
Event Planning – Valentina Nguyen
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm
Floral Design – The Flower Boutique
Catering – Savoir Faire
DJ – DJ Sandok
Videography – Redmond Digital Media
Makeup Artist + Hair Stylist – Chiali Meng
Wedding Dress – NEWHITE
Bridal Accessories – Jennifer Behr
Bride’s Party Apparel – Birdy Grey
Groom’s Apparel – Enzo Custom
Groom’s Party Apparel – The Black Tux
Rings – KATKIM
Rentals – Bright
Coffee Cart + Mini Doughnuts – The Cappuccino Express
Photobooth – Piks & Giggles

 

Congratulations to Priscilla and Chris on their dreamy summer Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm wedding. We’re so grateful Beatrice Howell was there to capture every unique DIY detail that wedding planning couples can use as inspo for their own wedding. 

Are you dreaming of a unique celebration infused with creative DIY details like Priscilla and Chris? Check out our DIY wedding inspiration round-up to kickstart your creative wedding planning. 

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Intentional North Carolina Forest Wedding

January 30, 2023 | justine

Amber and Finnegan’s wedding vision was to create an intentional and inclusive celebration– and that’s precisely what they did. From the thoughtful pronoun pins and rainbow flags to supporting inclusive vendors, their North Carolina forest wedding reflected their values and showcased their queer love. They incorporated everything they held dear into the details.

As much as their big day was meaningful, it was picturesque as well. They exchanged their vows along the river with stunning forest and mountain views in the background, while a rustic driftwood arch adorned with wild ground florals framed the moment they said, “I do.” And in an unexpected turn of events, they wrapped things up by jumping into the river–talk about splashing your way into being newlyweds!

After all that excitement, they returned to their cabin for a cozy and fun reception. Complete with a rainbow wedding cake, a drag queen performance, and a sparkler exit, it was the perfect way to end their big day. Everything about their wedding was full of love, and these beautiful photos captured by Folk and Wayfarer tell the whole story. So keep scrolling to see every magical moment.

The Couple:

Amber and Finnegan

The Wedding:

Lenoir, North Carolina, United States

Why A North Carolina Forest Wedding

We wanted to create a day and space that spoke to us. And not surprisingly, the vibe that spoke to us was queer forest fairy. Full disclosure? We never looked at another venue. This was also the hallmark of our planning process. Once we saw something we liked, we just picked it. We tried hard to have only a few options in the mix since that can cause too much overanalyzing.

Advice: Have Several Ceremonies To Take The Pressure Off

Our advice is to get married before you get married. What we mean by that is to have your own ceremony before you do the big one. We got married three times that week–once with our family and two friends, one with mushy romantic vows in the spot we got engaged, and then the big day with all the incredible people we know. Getting married before the big day took all of the pressure off. Nothing had to be perfect or go exactly as planned. Everything could be a big wonderful mess, and it was beautiful. We would recommend this to everyone!

Creating A Ceremony That Reflected Their Values

Our stellar officiant Wendy started with queerly beloved and did a fantastic job personalizing our ceremony. We chose romantic roommates for life instead of the traditional husband and wife. We also removed every piece of misogynistic/patriarchal wording. And  replaced it with things like we promise to be on each other’s team and assume that the other person is doing the best they can with the tools and resources they have at the time.

Supporting Queer Vendors And Donating To Their Charity Of Choice

I am proud that our wedding was a safe, inclusive space that celebrated queer love and that we got to be surrounded by incredible people. Additionally, we wanted to be able to support queer vendors, which we did, and we used our wedding funds to donate to the Carolina Abortion fund.

How They Created Their North Carolina Forest Wedding Budget

We talked for a long time about what was most important to us versus what was not quite as necessary and weighted more funds on more substantial items. For instance, my dresses were inexpensive, and we opted out of having a wedding party.

Recommended Reading: How To Create The Perfect Wedding Lounge Area

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The Wedding Team:

Photography – Folk and Wayfarer
Event Planning – Plain with Sprinkles
Floral Design – The Edgemont Garden
Catering + Cake –Verbena Events
DJ – Mixwire Productions
Invitation Design – Milestones by Maddie
Hair Styling – Brushes & Braids
Wedding Dress – BHLDN
Groom’s Apparel – ProjectTransAction
Groom’s Accessories – MyLittleItch

 

Congratulations to Amber and Finnegan on their intentional North Carolina forest wedding. We are grateful to Folk and Wayfarer for capturing every beautiful and heartfelt moment of their special day. 

Following the example of this couple, if you want a wedding day that celebrates your love and does good at the same time, all you need is a little creativity to give back throughout the planning process. From hosting a sustainable celebration to planning a bachelorette party focused on volunteering—we’ve put together a list of thoughtful and ethical ideas to get you motivated to use your wedding for the greater philanthropic good.

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Earthy Crook Point Wedding Full of Florals

January 21, 2023 | justine

After seeing the breathtaking cliffside ocean views, tall pines, and natural beauty of the Oregon coast, Kelly and Jessie immediately knew they found the perfect place to say “I do.” The childhood sweethearts envisioned tying the knot beneath towering trees surrounded by loved ones, and that’s precisely what they did. With the stunning landscapes and inviting family-style dinner underneath warm cafe string lights, this Crook Point wedding was an absolute dream! 

The pair kicked off their day with a sweet first look on the beach where both donned beautiful bridal gowns accessorized with a jaw-dropping bridal cape and dramatic train. Their intimate forest ceremony was decorated with gorgeous avant-garde florals featuring blush and dusty rose blooms. Following their intimate vows, guests were treated to a cozy picnic-style dinner with tablescapes set with terracotta details and whimsy flowers in bud vases. To elevate the celebration even more, the couple requested a fog machine to give the effect of “dancing on the clouds” with loved ones throughout the night. 

If you’re thinking of ditching tradition for an adventurous celebration, let Kelly and Jessie’s day serve as your inspiration to just go for it! Keep scrolling through to see all of the pretty details of their day beautifully captured by the talented Henry Tieu. 

The Couple:

Jess and Kell

The Wedding:

Crook Point, Oregon, United States

Choosing An Earthy Crook Point Wedding

This was a part of wedding planning that we went back and forth on a lot. We had seen a few beautiful weddings at Crook Point, on the southern Oregon coast, and for some time, it felt like too much of an impossible dream. But after we contemplated over and over again, we knew that to get married anywhere but Crook Point would be a disservice to what felt most like us. Crook Point is a venue that offers you a space to be married on a cliffside overlooking the coast, surrounded by pine trees, and nature—everything we love and could dream of. We’re so happy we followed our hearts. We’d recommend their team and their venue to everyone if we could.

Wedding Advice From The Couple: Do What You Want, Not What Anyone Else Wants

Our number one advice would absolutely be: do what feels the most you. Don’t do anything for “tradition” or for family preferences. We changed our minds a few times throughout the planning process, veering from what we truly wanted, at first, to avoid making things too “difficult.” In the end, though, we went with what we wanted and what resonated with us the most. Now we can look back knowing we wouldn’t change a thing. Invest in yourselves and the memories of your day.

Getting Married On The Day That They Met, 17 Years Later

One of the first things you do when planning a wedding is choosing a date, and we picked the one that would best tell our story. We first met sitting next to each other on the sixth-grade school bus on 8/8/2005. So coming together at the altar on the anniversary of when it all began, 17 years later, felt like beautiful symmetry. 

What It’s Like Working With Henry Tieu

As a queer couple, it was extremely important for us that our love be photographed by someone who’d see us for who we are. Even before meeting Henry, we knew he was the photographer for us. His work is so beyond stunning and his adventure elopements/weddings/shoots was one aspect that really inspired us to go after what we wanted, which was to have a wedding on the southern Oregon coast. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Henry Tieu
Event Planning – Mae&Co Creative
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Crook Point
Floral Design – Good Seed Floral
Catering + Cake – Heartfull Catering
DJ – Accurate Productions
Invitation Design – Fielding Milligan
Makeup Artist – Kate Hana Artistry
Hair Styling – K and Co Bridal
Wedding Dresses – English Department + Ania Bridal
Rings – Mia Donna
Mobile Bar – Roam The Bar

 

Congratulations to Kelly and Jessie on their stunning Crook Point wedding. And a big thank you to legendary photographer Henry Tieu for capturing all the inspo-worthy details that make this destination wedding one for the books. 

After catching one glimpse of these images, you just might be dreaming of an outdoor celebration. An outdoor wedding allows for endless decor and floral design possibilities. Whether you choose an epic elopement or to have a backyard celebration, you’ll want to check out our full guide of outdoor wedding styling ideas.

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Everything You Need To Know About Planning A Bridal Shower

January 19, 2023 | riley

Image by Meraki Weddings. Keep scrolling for our tips on planning a bridal shower

There are countless events that take place before a wedding. From the engagement party to the bachelorette party to the rehearsal dinner, a wedding is far more than just one day. While a bachelorette party is a great way to celebrate your bride-to-be, a bridal shower is a more lowkey party involving the bridal party and the bride’s family members, which acts as an opportunity to show her how much you love and appreciate her. 

Between the gifts, food and drinks, and decorations, there’s a lot to think about when planning a bridal shower. You may be asking yourself, “who pays for this?” or “am I supposed to be planning this all by myself?” Rest assured; we’re answering your questions and helping you plan the party that your bride-to-be deserves!

What Is A Bridal Shower?

A bridal shower is a celebration honoring the soon-to-be-bride. It’s one of the first pre-wedding events to take place and is a great way for wedding guests to get to know each other. They typically include decorations, snacks, and gifts. Essentially it is a way for wedding guests to shower the bride with warm wishes, congratulations, and presents.

Everything To Know About Planning A Bridal Shower

Create A Budget

Just like with a wedding, creating a bridal shower budget is essential. To help you crunch the numbers, you’ll want to factor in everything from food, drinks, decorations, venue, any rentals you may need (such as chairs and tables), and flowers. While we all want to spoil our loved ones, you don’t want to break the bank putting together the celebration.

Set A Date

When organizing a bridal shower, you want to consult the bride on a date that works best for her. However, we recommend it is at least 3-4 months before the big day. Because there are other pre-wedding activities (such as the bachelorette party), you don’t want to stack events too close to one another. This will help your wallet get a little break too. 

Put Together A Guest List

After choosing a date, it’s time to think about the guest list. This can determine where the party is held. Sit down with the bride and ask for a list of must-have invites and their addresses so you can be ready to send out invitations when the time comes. Ideally, you’ll want anywhere from 10-50 people. However, it’s entirely up to the bride. Just be mindful that anyone invited to the bridal shower should also be invited to the wedding.

Choose A Venue and Theme

Traditionally the host offers to hold the bridal shower at their home, though this isn’t the only option. Other venue options include the bride’s favorite restaurant, an Airbnb, a winery, or a hotel. It’s just important that the space can accommodate every guest invited (even if they are unable to join). To ensure that it’s easy for everyone to attend, you may also want to consider the location and the parking situation.

Once you have chosen the venue, you can think about the bridal shower theme. Some brides opt out of them, while others enjoy having one. The venue can dictate the theme depending on the type (i.e., a champagne brunch at a restaurant or a garden tea party in your backyard). And while this isn’t necessary, having a theme helps dictate the decor, menu, and games, which makes planning much easier.

Image by Hellen Oliveira

Send Out Invitations

When sending out invitations, you want to give guests ample time to check their calendars, save the date, and purchase gifts. Ideally, this is four to six weeks before the shower. Along with an RSVP line, it may also be helpful to include a space for them to specify if they have any dietary restrictions.

Buy Decorations

Now we get to the fun stuff–buying bridal shower decorations! If you’ve got a theme picked out, shopping will be a piece of cake. But even if you don’t, you can include decor personal to the bride. This can be using her favorite colors as the color palette or covering the venue in her favorite flowers. Whatever you do, just don’t forget to create an Instagram-worthy photo backdrop! 

Put Together A Fun Playlist and Games

This is another fun step in the bridal shower planning process. Although you likely won’t really hear the music over guests’ chatter, you still want to set the mood with an upbeat playlist. To tailor it to your bride-to-be, ask her to send you some of her favorite songs.

Once the music is picked out, it’s time to think about games. We’ve all likely been to a bridal shower and played the games that we may deem “silly,” but they are a great way to break the ice and get guests mingling. Some classics that won’t cost you a penny include bingo, trivia about the bride, and the newlywed game. Etsy is also another great place to look for fun wedding shower games, too.

Image by Kami Olavarria

FAQs About Bridal Showers

Who pays and plans for the shower?

The bridal shower is typically planned and paid for by the maid of honor, bridesmaids, or closest friends. It’s important to talk to the bride and other bridesmaids early on, so there are no questions about who is doing the hosting. If you’re the maid of honor and doing all the planning, don’t hesitate to reach out to the other bridesmaids or family of the bride to ask for help. We know that planning can be overwhelming, and there’s no reason for you to struggle with it all by yourself.

How much does a shower typically cost?

Unfortunately, we can’t give you a straightforward answer to this question because every bridal shower is different. The price varies depending on the venue, the number of guests, the decorations you choose, and the food and drinks served. However, CostHelper.com found that a typical shower can cost anywhere from $15 to $150 per person. We understand that’s a large range, which is why we can’t recommend putting together a budget enough.

How long are bridal showers?

Bridal showers usually take place in the mornings and last about two to four hours. It’s usually the same length as a brunch or lunch with your friends. As long as there’s enough time for eating, drinking, mingling, gifts, and a few games, you’ll be in good shape.

What is the dress code?

The dress code for a bridal shower is what you make it–whether that be as formal or as casual as you’d like. If you want guests in a specific attire, don’t forget to make a note of this on the invitations. The same goes for choosing a particular color palette for guests to wear.

Now that you know everything there is to know about planning a bridal shower, it’s time to think about decorations. There are so many decorations out there that it can be hard to choose the best ones. Luckily, we’ve done the shopping for you in our stylish bridal shower decorations round-up!

Image by Elvira Kalviste

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English Garden Party Wedding At Howe Garden

January 9, 2023 | justine

Lush florals, exquisite vintage decor, and lots of sentimental touches made Sidney and Tom’s English garden party wedding truly unforgettable. Every element was meticulously planned and hand-picked, from the decadent invitation suite to their classic three-tier piped cake. Old-world beauty, heirloom details, and romantic blooms—sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?

Famous for its extensive stonework and secret garden paths, the couple’s ceremony was set perfectly at the Howe Garden. With the beauty of the garden-scape as a stunning backdrop, the couple exchanged heartfelt vows surrounded by their loved ones. Meanwhile, cascading greenery and textured arrangements brought the outdoors in and softened the contemporary aesthetic of their reception space. And tying it all together were tablescapes featuring antique candelabras and gilded settings.

If you and your partner are drawn to this whimsical and ethereal vibe, prepare to be blown away. Scroll through to see all the swoon-worthy details captured by Laklin Brooke Photography. By the time you’re finished, you’ll be bursting with ideas you’re definitely going to want to share with your team of vendors.

The Couple:

Sidney and Tom

The Wedding:

Nashville, Tennessee, United States

Setting The Tone With Their DIY’d Stationery

Flowers and gardening are among my greatest joys, so I was elated to be married at the Howe Garden. The vibes were very “English garden party.” I’m a graphic designer by trade and wanted to set the event’s tone with our stationery suite. Decadent handmade paper with a deckled (torn) edge in muted blue and rose tones paired with an elegant gold foil script reminiscent of 19th-century calligraphy struck a balance between ease and elegance. The vintage floral etchings I sourced for the stationery suite were a thread throughout the printed materials and signage.

How Their English Garden Wedding Party Came To Be

Our main goal was to stay focused on why Tom and I were getting married and not get too wrapped up in being a perfectionist about everything. We wanted our design decisions–from florals to decor–to feel inspired and intentional. We kept rolling with the English garden party theme and covered the ceremony and reception spaces in garden roses, wisteria, snapdragons, delphinium, ranunculus, hydrangea, and tons of wispy greenery. We were resourceful in sourcing everything from vintage china and glassware to incorporating my grandmother’s and even great-grandmother’s antique linens for the napkins. I got feedback from guests that every wedding detail felt “touched.” That was a great compliment because it was important that everyone felt special and immersed in the experience we were creating.

Thrifting A Year Ahead To Find Vintage Decor For This Garden Party Wedding

There were three things I knew for sure we wanted for the wedding: vintage brass candlesticks and pastel candles, multicolor stemmed glassware, and mismatched floral china for the reception. Already avid thrifters, my mom and I started scouring thrift stores and yard sales more than a year before the wedding date to ensure we could find a unique and authentic collection of vintage wares. We even took a pair of thrifted floral chintz drapes and upholstered mine and Tom’s chairs at the head table with them.

Getting Help From The Bride’s Mother Who Happens To Do Wedding Styling

Mansion & Marsh, which happens to be owned by my mother, absolutely dedicated herself to this event for over a year (almost two) to make it so special and meaningful for us. She puts her whole heart and soul into the experiences she creates, whether the client is her own daughter or otherwise. She’s truly a gem that strikes the perfect balance between exquisite taste and gritty resourcefulness. No one throws a party as she does.

Advice From The Newlyweds: Take Portraits Before Their Garden Party Wedding

Lean into the joy of it all and do your best to stay present. I kept hearing people say they could hardly remember their wedding days. For me, focusing on staying grounded helped the actual day feel less of a blur. Also, the wedding day is so jam-packed there’s only a little time to spend getting portraits of just you. Doing it a few weeks beforehand gives you a chance to do a hair and makeup trial. Try on your whole look and make a mental note of anything you need to get before the wedding day. I had mine taken in my grandparent’s formal sitting room on my great-grandmother’s vintage settee. They turned out beautifully, and they will always be sentimental to me.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Laklin Brooke Photography
Second Photographer – Maiden & Moon Photo Co. 
Event Planning + Floral Designer – Teri Shackelford of Mansion and Marsh
Ceremony Venue – Howe Garden at Cheekwood Botanical Garden 
Reception Venue – Ozari
Officiant – Libby Lovejoy
Videography – Huckleberry Films
Invitation Design – Sidney Lane Creative
Hair Styling – Trae Howard

 

Congratulations to Sidney and Tom on their English garden party wedding at Howe Garden. And a big thank you to Laklin Brooke Photography for capturing the magic and beauty of their special day from every angle. 

Whether you have your perfect garden venue already picked out or you’ve chosen to tie the knot in the lush green corner of your backyard, check out our guide to help you plan your own outdoor fete. With these ideas in your back pocket and a talented team of vendors, you can achieve the garden soiree of your dreams!

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Groovy 70s Gardens Wedding Center Wedding

January 9, 2023 | justine

Drawing inspiration from the Victorian fashion revival during the 1970s, Megan and Andrew were set on creating an event that oozed with old-world charm, a groovy color palette, and a Wes Anderson-level attention to detail. And the result was as stunning as it was eclectic. Their Gardens Wedding Center wedding was loaded with authentic vintage elements, which were all integral in setting the vibe they envisioned—from the stationery and decor down to their fashion. 

For their garden ceremony, they transformed the space with vintage aisle rugs leading to an altar with a carved teak room divider adorned with dried blooms and Victorian chairs. For the marquee reception that followed, the standout features were the lace-covered tablescapes with vintage books, oil lamps, amber glassware, and gilded mirrors that served as centerpieces.

The couple put a lot of love into how they wanted their wedding to look and feel, and it all turned out beautifully. Junebug member Simply Finn captured every last fabulous and well-thought-out detail. If you’re an unconventional couple looking for something quirky and unique, this wedding is the perfect inspo for you.

The Couple:

Megan and Andrew

The Wedding:

Gardens Wedding Center, Allenton, Wisconsin, United States

Junebug Member Simply Finn’s Thoughts On This 70s Gardens Wedding Center Wedding

Megan and Andrew’s wedding day was the culmination of two years of planning, endless hours of DIY’ing, and an obsession with curating the perfect, most “Megan and Andrew” vibe the couple could have within their budget. The bride works as an interior designer and sells vintage goods on the side. So collecting all these elements was a process that came naturally. Many of the items integrated into the wedding design were already a part of the couple’s home. It was a testament to how true their big day was to their style. All their signage included classic rock lyrics, an homage to their shared love of the classics. They had such a joy-filled, incredible day thanks to the help of talented vendors and a team of genuinely unmatched family and friends.

How Their Long Engagement Allowed Them To Bring Their 70s Gardens Wedding Center Wedding To Life

Our long engagement allowed for some grace periods where we could completely forget about wedding planning for certain periods and come back refreshed and ready to get more done. We had plenty of time to procure many vintage items. From antique mirrors and 70s amber glassware to brass incense holders and an aisle’s worth of vintage rugs. Our vision came together beautifully, and everything felt so “us,” which was exactly what we were hoping for. This meant hyper-focusing on details and not settling for things that didn’t feel perfect for our day. And our day far surpassed our expectations. We are lucky to have a great support system and incredible vendors. We are also proud that we planned the whole thing ourselves and DIY’d all of the decor. 

Adding A Special Time Capsule Ceremony As A Personal Touch

During the ceremony, we asked our parents to the altar to partake in a special time capsule ceremony. Both sets of our parents have been married for over 40 years. So we asked them to place marriage advice in a box with a bottle of wine. We all took turns nailing the box shut. We will open this box on an anniversary to relive all the joy of our wedding day. After our kiss, we walked up the aisle, arms linked, to “The Man in Me” by Bob Dylan. A song Andrew covered and recorded for me as an anniversary present.

70s Themed Wedding Fashion That Included A Dress That Paid Homage To The Bride’s Mom

We were incredibly inspired by the 1970s, specifically the Victorian revival. I wore an all-lace gown from Needle & Thread that was altered by my sister to include billowy bishop sleeves, an homage to our mother’s 1970s wedding dress. Andrew wore a 70s-inspired floral shirt and a velvet blazer with caramel-colored chinos. We both opted to wear lace-up leather boots instead of traditional wedding shoes.

A Cocktail Hour Inspired By The Bar Where They Began Dating

We designed our cocktail hour to feel like a hang sesh at our favorite bar, Shaker’s Cigar Bar, where we became “official.” Vintage brass incense burners billowed with the sweet aroma of bourbon and brown sugar as guests filled their glasses and lit their cigars. We had Shaker’s house band, Professor Pinkerton’s Irrelevant Orchestra, kick off the cocktail hour with their six-piece jazz band. Also a cigar bar and some incredible signature cocktails—Fig Gin & Jams and Spiced Pear Moscow Mules. We had to be dragged away from the band and cigar bar because we were having so much fun.

Why They Chose The Gardens Wedding Center As Their Venue

We always envisioned an outdoor wedding, so when we came across a venue with several outdoor spaces available for use and the backdrop of an 1800s church and schoolhouse in Milwaukee’s famous Cream City Brick, we were sold. We loved that even with a plan for an outdoor wedding, The Gardens had a built-in rain plan through the chapel. Luckily, we had a gorgeous day, 75° and sunny. So we were able to have an entirely outdoor wedding as planned.

Wedding Planning Advice: Write Down Your Priorities & Ask For Help

We started the wedding planning by each writing down our top three priorities and seeing where the overlap was. We focused our energy on those common priorities. Returning to those priorities in times when we were freaking out was very helpful. Communication throughout the whole process is also key. There was a time when Andrew thought everything was totally fine and under control. Until I came to him and said, “Hey, I am really stressed out! Can you take on some tasks?” Your partner won’t know what you need help with unless you communicate. So save yourself some stress and do regular check-ins.

How They Handled Going Over Their Wedding Budget

In the words of Andrew, “Write down what you feel comfortable spending, then double that number.” We did end up spending more than we initially thought we would, but no more than we could realistically afford. We didn’t want to go into debt for our wedding day, so we spent our two-year engagement saving up. Paying things off over those two years was extremely helpful. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Simply Finn
Venue + Catering – The Gardens Wedding Center
Floral Design – Reflections of You
Cake – Miss Molly’s
Officiant – Paul Costanzo
DJ – Midwest Sound
Live Music – Professor Pinkerton’s Irrelevant Orchestra
Invitation Design – Oak House
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling- Marie & Ebe
Wedding Dress – Needle & Thread +Silversark
Bridal Accessories – Christy Dawn
Bride’s Party Apparel –  Baltic Born + Lulu’s + Nordstrom
Groom’s Apparel – Banana Republic + Onsloe
Groom’s Accessories – Art of the Gentleman + Thursday Boot Company
Groom’s Party Apparel – Gap + Art of the Gentleman + Banana Republic
Rings – Filigree + Emi Conner + Etsy
Favors – Leccare Lollipops
Photobooth – Big Foot Foto
Tin Type Bridal Portraits – Silvergraphic

 

Congratulations to Megan and Andrew on their groovy 70s Gardens Wedding Center wedding. And a special thank you to Junebug member Simply Finn for capturing every gorgeous detail and heartfelt moment throughout their special day.  To see more unique celebrations like this, be sure to check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers. 

If the vision you and your partner have is far from cookie-cutter, start with an unconventional theme–like this wedding–or an unexpected venue. However you decide to put your own stamp on your big day, choose a style you love. And the rest will fall into place.

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Black-Owned Wedding Brands to Shop for Your Day

January 9, 2023 | Junebug Weddings

Image by Light as Gold. Keep scrolling for our fave Black-owned wedding brands to shop for your day.

When it comes to shopping for your wedding day, we know you have lots of options. We love to scour the internet and, of course, the ‘gram to find the best brands that are sure to become your favorites. If you’re looking for some amazing businesses to support when shopping for your day, look no further! From bridal fashion to beauty, swoon-worthy stationary, unique jewelry, and more, we’ve rounded up a selection of incredible black-owned wedding brands to shop for your day.

Black-Owned Wedding Brands To Shop For Your Day

Bridal Fashion

Dreamers & Lovers

From the brand: Dreamers & Lovers is a brand where every dress made is an art form. A dress crafted from passion, crafted for that individual bride, and so the bride wearing it will feel the soul of the dress and realize like her story, her dress is extraordinary. She never designs common styles, but instead, her dresses evoke an emotion, spark a conversation and transport the bride to a place where she feels something, where she can be free to dream, free to look her best self. Each dress sold has some “extras” that Yanique and the team obsess over. Every dress is designed and handmade in our Torrance, California studio and showroom, and always made to the bride’s measurements.

Savannah Rustic Lace Wedding Dress via Dreamers & Lovers

Amsale

From the brand: A reflection of Amsale Aberra’s founding philosophy of elegant simplicity, each design is delicately handcrafted with couture dressmaking techniques in Amsale’s New York City Atelier. With an understated glamour, and unwavering attention to detail, each and every Amsale design exudes modern femininity, and becomes a true reflection of the wearer’s distinct, and unique, personal style. Our philosophy today honors Amsale’s lifelong pursuit of enduring style that evokes feeling and connection—an indelible legacy that is felt in every design.


Soleil via Amsale

Pantora Bridal

From the brand: At Pantora Bridal we understand the complexities of looking for the perfect wedding dress. It’s tied to a once in a life time experience. Our mission is to not just provide amazing fashion forward bridal options but to pair it with a feel good experience. It is our sincere belief  that luxury does not need to be delivered with a pinky up but can also be packaged in a friendly and inviting way. Each bride gets to shine,  we are inclusive in our mission to deliver the service and understanding that has traditionally been lacking within the bridal industry.

Charnel via Pantora Bridal

Rita Colson

From the brand: Rita Colson is a London based fashion designer in the heart of West London, specialising in Bridal Couture and Eveningwear. Her unique style uses vintage lace and silk to create contemporary and bespoke pieces with an ethical twist. All materials are sourced ethically and sustainably, creating pieces fit for a variety of occasions. Over the years, Rita has worked for a number of private clients and her freelance and consultancy work has seen her style and design bespoke pieces for a number of high profile clients. Through her work, she has developed a contemporary aesthetic that effortlessly reflects the elegance and style and grace of the fashion forward bride. Inspired by her love of art, music, dance and theatre her designs have a life of their own.

Carla Suit via Rita Colson

CARLY CUSHNIE

From the brand: Known for her masterful tailoring and artful draping, Carly Cushnie is a New York-based designer and creative director. With the eye of an artist and the technique of a Parsons grad, Carly approaches bridal design with the same ecelctic-yet-refined aesthetic that has earned her ready-to-wear collection a devoted, celebrity following.  Back with an unprecedented collaboration with BHLDN, Carly’s capsule collection features unforgettable gowns, fashion-forward-bridal-occasion-dresses, and modern bridesmaid looks.

Lynne Gown via BHLDN by Carly Cushnie

Felisiti Greis

From the brand: Felisiti Greis designs and creates exquisite bespoke garments and bridal wear with a luxury finish. We fuse creativity, style and modern aesthetics to give you an exquisite finish with a timeless look. We take on board your vision, along with your unique individuality and infuse it with our own design aesthetics to create a custom gown just for you. We design and create for discerning women and girls, who cherish individuality and prefer the luxurious exclusivity of a custom-made garment.

photo via Felisiti Greis

Curvaceous Couture

From the brand: Curvaceous Couture believes every woman deserves a joyful and fulfilling experience when shopping for her wedding dress, but the curvier bride too often faces disheartening challenges. Not Anymore! Located in the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, just a short drive from BWI airport, Curvaceous Couture is the first designer bridal boutique to feature a complete collection of full-figured and one-of-a-kind wedding gowns from all over the world in sizes 16-32W. Our bridal stylists are committed to personalized service and attention to detail, giving our brides the very best experience. We treat everyone like family!

 

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Plus Size Bridal Salon – Columbia, MD (@curvaceouscouturebridal) • Instagram photos and videos

Jean-Ralph Thurin

From the brand: A graduate of the prestigious Parsons School of Design, Jean-Ralph Thurin became enthralled by the fashion history of top Haute Couture Houses of Dior, Givenchy and Oscar De La Renta. Growing up, Jean-Ralph learned to sew by watching his grandmother. He was fascinated by her ability to make clothes with little more than fabric remnants and thread. In high school, although he was not yet formally trained, Jean-Ralph followed in his grandmother’s footsteps as he fulfilled the multiple requests from classmates to make their prom dresses and so began his career in fashion.

photo via Jean-Ralph Thurin

Naomi Deru Bridal

From the brand: Naomi Deru Bridal was created for the contemporary and fashion forward bride. I am dedicated to providing an exception customer experience and every single piece bearing the Naomi Deru label is handcrafted from scratch using high quality laces and silks in my design atelier in Rochester, Kent. Each wedding gown is impeccably tailored, showcasing a flattering fit, perfectly executed hand embroideries, shimmering embellishments, and beautiful details.

 

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Naomi Deru Bridal | Kent (@naomiderubridal) • Instagram photos and videos

Julie Harris Designs

From the brand: Julie Harris Designs helps brides-to-be express their personal style with classic, romantic and whimsical bridal veils & accessories. I want your guests to ooh and aah as you glide down the aisle. The veil creates the magic!

Serengeti Princess via Julie Harris Designs​

Men’s Fashion

Kabiru Abu

From the brand: We tailor exquisite bespoke suits that are perfect for every need and occasion. From weddings suits and tuxedos to everyday casual blazers, shirts and work suits, we strive to work with you to make all of your Kabiru Abu masterpieces tailored to fit every occasion.

photo via Kabiru Abu

Kingsley Leather

From the brand: What inspired me to take up leatherworking in particular was that I have always admired leather goods and how they gain character as they age, think old leather suitcases and satchels etc. However the cheap mass-produced imports never seemed to last as long as I expected – I was changing my wallet every 6 months for example! I decided that I could kill 2 birds with 1 stone: create the quality leather goods that I desired for myself and pursue a new non-computer based hobby.

After a couple of months of practicing, my work began to get noticed by friends and family and this led to my first set of ‘commissions’. After creating a leather satchel for my girlfriend, a wallet for my brother, and plenty of belts, I soon decided to begin accepting orders from the wider (and paying!) public. I now run Kingsley Leather full-time and have never looked back – follow me as my journey continues.


Personalized Leather Cufflinks via Kingsley Leather

Jewelery

Valerie Madison

From the brand: Valerie is the sole designer who founded her company is 2014. As a Black Latina woman in the fine jewelry industry, she’s proud to be changing the scene. She earned her degree in Environmental Science & Resource Management from the University of Washington before discovering her love of jewelry design and has found ways of applying environmental responsibility on this new path.

Our vision is to create beautiful jewelry that quietly listens to modern trends but more importantly, feels classic and is well-made to become future heirlooms.

Diamond Nova Band via Valerie Madison

OMA The Label

From the brand: OMA the label is a brand focused on challenging homogenous industry standards, while creating quality and affordable pieces for the everyday woman.

The brand was created by Neumi Anekhe, a new york based fashion stylist that started the brand in 2018, because she saw a need for more brands representing people of color. She wanted to help diversify the markets, change the imagery and predominant representation that we see in fashion today.

OMA the label, creates pieces for the woman that is intentional about the choices she makes and wants to wear pieces that make her feel empowered and confident.


OBI HOOP via OMA The Label

Stationery + Signage

Amanda Reid Designs

From the brand: Amanda Reid Designs is a design studio offering calligraphy services for the modern bride, luxury brands, and businesses in Austin, Texas. ARD specializes in custom wedding/event signage and banners, and on-site calligraphy for businesses and brands. Amanda Reid Designs also hosts a variety of fun, interactive workshops to teach others the unique skill of lettering and modern calligraphy.

 

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Amanda Reid | Austin Calligrapher (@amandareiddesigns) • Instagram photos and videos

Chloe Ainsley Creative

From the brand: Chloe Ainsley Creative is a modern, design studio based in Kent. All artwork is designed and hand finished by me. The Studio was birthed out of my love of being experimental and desire to break out of the mould of working within the confines of a set of brand guidelines every now and again! My passion lies in abstract art and the narratives that can be created through the use of layers, colours, shapes, textures and patterns.


photo via Chloe Ainsley Creative 

Ivelisse Designs

From the brand: I am a calligrapher and artist locally based in Austin, TX but serving nationwide. I started calligraphy as a hobby and slowly became captivated by it. After 3 weeks of practicing every day, I decided to open a business. I created Ivelisse Designs as a way to allow myself to live more creatively. For many who know me, this art business came of no surprise.

photo by Ivelisse Designs

Lepenn Designs

From the brand: Lepenn Designs is an award winning, full service Invitation and stationery design studio that offers the creativity, knowledge and skills necessary to create the perfect invitation or design.  Based in Metro Detroit, Michigan we work with clients locally, throughout the United States and Internationally. We believe that catering your design to your individuality, vision and desires is key to a successful design experience and final product.  Our most important goal is to help you express your distinct style by providing you with our knowledge of the printing and paper industry and helpful planning advice for your stationery and design needs.

photo via Lepenn Designs

Robbin’s Nest Design Studio

From the brand: Robbin’s Nest Design Studio is a full-service stationery Atelier, specializing in the “All Things Paper.” Robbin Henley, founder and creative director is an Award-winning designer and innovator in both the Apparel & Graphic Design industries. “For us, it’s all about the detail & design elements. Whether choosing a traditional or contemporary invitation suite, this collection is sure to make a lasting first impression with your guests and set the tone for an unforgettable event.” says Henley.

photo via Robbin’s Nest Design Studio

Morning Joy Co

From the brand: The inspiration and heartbeat of our shop comes from a place of sorrow turned into joy. After learning that we couldn’t have birth children, we had a deep desire to make something beautiful, together. And so we started Morning Joy Co.! And we’ve been making signs and home decor together ever since!

Custom Bread Board via Morning Joy Co

Beauty

Mented Cosmetics

From the brand: We created Mented Cosmetics because we believe every woman should be able to find herself in the world of beauty, no matter her skin tone. We know you’ll love being put first – because when it comes to beauty, no one deserves to be an afterthought. From our original nude lipsticks to eyeshadow palettes to blushes, each of our makeup products is perfectly pigMented to match your skin tones. We want all women, from light to tan to dark skin tones, to feel like they have makeup that actually works for their complexions, so we’ve created the shades to help accomplish that.

Gloss for Grown Ups Collection via Mented

KNC Beauty

From the brand: Kristen Noel Crawley was strolling through Don Quijote in Tokyo, when….BAM, love at first sight. A wall of lip masks caught her eye, and she became OBSESSED with the idea of perfect, kissable lips. When she discovered there were no natural lip masks on the market, the solution was obvious: she had to create her own. Two years and countless trials later, Kristen created the first all-natural, collagen-infused lip mask.

All-Natural Collagen Infused Lip Mask via KNC Beauty

Beauty Bakerie

From the brand: A near-death experience taught me that nothing is more important in this life than the moments that are gone too fast. Having long-lasting, smudge-free makeup may seem like a simple novelty to one person, but to me, the 8-15 times I would have spent touching up my makeup today are now the 8-15 opportunities I have to be in the moment. There is no more conflict about kissing my loved one or protecting the 55 minutes of makeup I worked on. I don’t have to choose any longer between my looks and the precious moments that pass us by. I can have my cake and eat it too.

 

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Beauty Bakerie Cosmetics Brand (@beautybakeriemakeup) • Instagram photos and videos

The Lip Bar

From the brand: The Lip Bar is a vegan and cruelty-free beauty brand that exists to help change the way you think about beauty.  Every day people are being told how to be beautiful – so we’re here to remind you that you don’t have to change. You Are Enough!

Easy Ombré Trio via The Lip Bar

Juvia’s Place

From the brand: Africa is not only the birthplace of humanity, it’s the birthplace of all beauty. Juvia’s Place was created to celebrate the rebels, rulers and queens of the African kingdoms of long ago, who emulated and honored beauty through their soulful and innovative techniques that the top beauty gurus still use today. Inspired by the queens before us, Juvia’s Place offers the richest, most vibrantly-pigmented essentials for the eyes, face and lips to take you from the office, to the Caribbean islands, and everywhere inbetween!


Shade Sticks via Juvia’s Place

Know more black-owned wedding brands? We’d love to hear from you! Read about our commitment to inclusive representation and showcasing Black love.

Image by Light as Gold

 

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Black And White Modern Piedmont Room Wedding

December 28, 2022 | kailey

The couple’s vision was “date night doubling as a wedding,” and their vendor team definitely understood the assignment. With the help of wedding planner Bri Williams Events, Alex and Marcus created a sophisticated celebration that’s proof nothing–not even a hurricane–can get in the way of true love. 

Due to Hurricane Ian, the couple was forced to move their nuptial inside at the last minute, and the original wedding design had to be completely reimagined. Sticking with the timeless black-and-white color palette, they transformed the Piedmont Room into an enchanting indoor venue. They dressed the historic 1920s space with dramatic drapery, a runway-style aisle, and monochromatic florals by Navy & Jay—completely outshining their “plan A.”

Photographer McKenzie McNeil captured all the unique details that made this celebration one for the books. We’re talking about everything from the jaw-dropping florals to the bride’s three epic outfit changes. And after one glimpse of these inspo-rich images, we guarantee that any fear you had of bad weather on your big day will be cured.

The Couple:

Alex and Marcus

The Wedding:

Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Unique Ideas The Couple’s Most Proud Of At Their Piedmont Room Wedding

We are really proud of the small details we included in the wedding. The runway aisle was a fresh idea that we hadn’t seen done too many times, and it really highlighted the ceremony space. As food lovers, we knew that a standard dinner wasn’t us. Instead of a traditional sit-down meal, we chose to have four different food stations (ranging from southern favorites to a sushi station), a dessert grazing table, and a macaron display.

A Memorable Walk Down The Aisle Full of Cheering

The most memorable part of our day was walking down the aisle. We had decided against doing a first look, so the anticipation of seeing each other really heightened the moment. We also decided to arrange guest seating to create a runway, which helped create an atmosphere of excitement among our guests. When Marcus walked down the aisle, guests began to cheer. The cheering continued as our parents, MOH, and best man walked down the aisle. We chose Godspeed by James Blake as our “down the aisle” song. When the song began to play, and we were finally able to see each other, a wave of emotion hit both of us. We couldn’t take our eyes off each other. One of the best moments of our lives.

The Importance Of Hiring Trusted Vendors 

Neither of us had planned so much as a birthday party before our wedding. With that in mind, we knew that we wanted trusted vendors we could rely on to not only execute our vision but make the planning process painless and stress-free. In order to achieve that, the first step is hiring vendors who have demonstrated that they can achieve your aesthetic. They don’t have to have previously worked on the wedding of your dreams, but they should consistently produce work you are a fan of. Remember to be thorough, as you are trusting them with one of the most important days of your life.

Working With Their Photographer and Videographer at Their Piedmont Room Wedding

Our photographer McKenzie McNeil and videographer Jimmy Nugent were amazing to work with. We cannot sing their praises enough. Since we are both camera shy, the prospect of taking wedding and engagement pictures seemed daunting, but after our first session with them, we felt so at ease. On the wedding day, they both ended up feeling like extended members of the wedding party. They were able to wrangle family members into place and pose us for our portraits on a tight timeline, all while capturing beautiful moments without us even noticing. Also, on our first phone call, we expressed how much we love Super8 Film and flash film photography, though they didn’t offer it at that time. By our wedding, they had managed to implement both services! We were ecstatic. After watching our wedding video, we can say with full confidence that we couldn’t have chosen anyone better.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – McKenzie McNeil
Event Planning – Bri Williams
Ceremony + Reception Venue – The Piedmont Room
Floral Design – Navy & Jay
Cake – Gingerspice Bakery
Dessert Grazing Table – Cheese Me
DJ – Jonathan Allen
Videography – Jimmy Nugent
Makeup Artist – Chelsea Cotton
Wedding Party Makeup Artist – Makayla Webb
Hair Styling – Star Carter + Sharory Reid
Wedding Dress – Luce Sposa + Rara Avis + Liudmyla Deneha
Groom’s Apparel – WELTHE NYC
Photobooth – Modern Luxury Booth

 

Congratulations to Alex and Marcus on their stunning Piedmont Room wedding. And big thanks to photographer McKenzie McNeil for preserving all the eye-catching details that wedding planning couples can use as inspiration for their own big day. 

If this couple’s sophisticated, black-and-white celebration has taught us anything, it’s having a “plan B” is crucial. This is especially true when planning an outdoor celebration. Whether you think there could be a chance of rain or not, having a backup plan will save you from unnecessary stress on your wedding day. 

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Cozy and Rustic Lucas Confectionery Wedding

December 26, 2022 | justine

With everything from a 1940s-style confectionery venue and rustic autumn decor to fantastic fall fashion and meaningful handmade details—Brian and Brian’s Lucas Confectionery wedding had it all. Sharing a deep love of nature and the magical ambiance of the season, the pair brought their dream autumnal theme to life by setting a stunning scene using warm tones and rich textures. 

Playing off the exposed brick and industrial features of the space, an eye-catching chuppah covered in overgrown fall foliage and fresh blooms was the statement piece of the ceremony. For the reception that followed, long wooden tables were adorned with moody centerpieces, moss table numbers, and candles for a moody woodland feel. Meanwhile, overhead string lights gave a warm glow to the cozy affair. 

With the help of their fantastic team of vendors, the couple pulled off a gorgeous and relaxed celebration, allowing them to enjoy every moment with their loved ones and each other. To see how the two grooms infused their big day with their own unique styles and combined it with the spectacular details of fall, scroll through these images captured by Natasha Shapiro. 

The Couple:

Brian and Brian

The Wedding:

Lucas Confectionery, Troy, New York, United States

Why They Wanted A Fall Inspired Lucas Confectionery Wedding

There was no question that our wedding would have an autumnal forest vibe, as we’re both autumn and nature lovers. We went for a color palette with various tones of green, burgundy, burnt orange, and pops of metallic copper to give a tasteful but not overly themed feel. Our chuppah and table arrangements were where the forest vibe shone through with an explosion of fall foliage, stunning florals, velvet mushrooms, and candle-lit lanterns with a tree branch motif to give a moody, magical ambiance to our venue. It can be challenging to see the big picture when all the bits and pieces come from different vendors, websites, and stores. But everything worked together beautifully to create the vision that we had in our heads.

Choosing Wedding Attire That Reflected Their Individual Style But Kept With The Theme

For our outfits, we went with suits that fit our vibe and personal aesthetics. I wore a forest green suit with a stag’s head neck piece in place of a bowtie. Brian L. wore a fitted burnt orange plaid suit with an oak leaf collar chain in place of a bowtie. We also had an incredible dried floral artist from Etsy create two unique boutonnieres that tied the whole look together. Topping it off were two matching white kippahs with a tree branch and leaf motif. For our wedding party, we continued the theme with velvet dresses in varied shades of fall foliage for the ladies and ginger-colored pants with coordinating leather suspenders and velvet bowties for the gentlemen. 

Mixing Jewish And Irish Traditions To Create A Blended Lucas Confectionery Ceremony

For our ceremony, we had our lovely friend, Karen, officiate. We worked with her for two months, crafting our dream ceremony. I am Jewish, so we wanted to have many Jewish wedding elements in the ceremony. These included a ketubah, a chuppah, a wine blessing, and smashing the glass at the end of the ceremony. Brian L. is Irish, so we also wanted to include many elements from his heritage. These included the tree of life and other symbols and doing a handfasting portion in our ceremony. We each wrote our vows, and rather than doing the typical Seven Blessings, common in Jewish weddings, we had eight of our friends and family write their blessings for us and our new lives together. And lastly, we had our corgi, Merlin, as one of our attendants.

Having An Intentional Moment Alone To Take It All In

The most memorable part of the day was right after the ceremony. In Jewish weddings, couples often have a yichud, which stems from the Hebrew word for “together.” This is when the couple comes together and spends time alone before the reception. We enjoyed doing this because it allowed us to take a moment alone to breathe and enjoy each other’s company as a newly married couple.

Autumn-Inspired Personalized Lucas ConfectioneryWedding Favors

Brian L. owns a candle company called Puck’s Offending Shadows, so we gifted each of our guests with an 8-ounce candle. We worked together to design the unique scent, which featured notes of black amber, plum, apple, cinnamon, and cedarwood. Each candle was in a matte green jar with a copper lid and a label we designed ourselves. The end product was simply stunning.

Personalized DIY Autumn-Themed Lucas Confectionery Wedding Details

We created several decor and accessory pieces to enhance the autumnal forest vibe, including flower girl mossy birch bark baskets, complete with metallic copper skeleton leaves. We also designed and crafted several signs for our donut flavors, signature cocktails, gift area, and guestbook. These signs were enhanced with pressed floral stickers to give them an antique botanical print look. Our guestbook was also DIY’d. Our guests wrote their well wishes on large river rocks with a copper pen. We laid these in a hammered copper bowl on a bed of moss. It was really quite beautiful.

Advice From The Couple: Carve Some Time To Relax Before The Wedding

As simple (or unrealistic) as it may sound: relax. With all of the stressful planning and work that goes into the wedding process, it’s essential to take a step back and appreciate everything that’s going on. To help us relax for the big day, we did a spa day a few days before the wedding. It really helped us chill out and enjoy each other’s company before our guests came to town.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Natasha Shapiro
Venue – Lucas Confectionery
Floral Design – Poet Floral
Catering – Clark House Hospitality
Cake – Cider Belly Donuts
DJ – Upbeat Occasions
Grooms’ Apparel – Via Roma Fashion + Hollo Men
Grooms’ Accessories – Arsimus Creations + Fluffy Racoon
Grooms’ Party Apparel – London Jae Apparel + Baltic Born
Rings – Organic Jewelry Craft
Boutonnieres – Westerwisp
Ketubah – Sweet Ketubah
Favors – Puck’s Offending Shadows

 

Congratulations to Brian and Brian on their cozy and rustic Lucas Confectionery wedding. And, of course, a special shout out to Natasha Shapiro for capturing the magic of their special day. 

If you and your partner are drawn to the rich hues, falling leaves, and magical transformation that autumn brings, elevate your own big day with these ideas for a stunning fall affair. 

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You Won’t Believe This Chateau de Ninis Wedding Didn’t Take Place In France

November 20, 2022 | justine

Set on the grounds of a French-inspired chateau with immaculate stone architecture and manicured gardens, Jobina and Bradley had the most breathtaking backdrop at their Chateau de Ninis wedding. Wanting their venue and their love to stand out, the couple elevated the natural beauty of the setting with simple, elegant details and deeply meaningful touches. Best of all, they didn’t have to travel all the way to France for their exquisite celebration! 

At their poolside ceremony, whimsical floral pillars framed the beautiful vineyards and rolling countryside in the background while the couple exchanged heartfelt vows. After their sweet “I dos,” a stunning reception unfolded within the chateau’s courtyard. They dined on long tables draped in crisp white linen adorned with arrangements of greenery, white blooms, and candles. 

Not only was their big day about their union and spending time with their loved ones, but the pair also took the opportunity to further their advocacy by supporting BIPOC vendors. It truly was a beautiful day created in kindness and thoughtfulness. Junebug member Vivian Chen captured every element and memorable moment, so keep scrolling to learn more about their wedding journey. 

The Couple:

Jobina and Bradley

The Wedding:

Chateau de Ninis, Sonoma, California, United States

The Bride Went For Practical Wedding Attire And Natural Makeup And Hair

I am huge on sustainable fashion and preventing clothing waste. For my look, I went with a Kate Halfpenny London set. The pieces are modern, fun, and can be worn again. I wore the top on the first night of our honeymoon in South Africa. I love natural hair and saw Tracee Ellis Ross wear this amazing ponytail. My hairstylist did her own twist on me and the ponytail was giving main character energy! Also, I wore sheer bridal gloves with “Mrs. Evans,” written in my handwriting, embroidered on the left hand. My bridesmaids all wore Fame and Partners gowns and were able to score them through the site’s sample sale or on Poshmark. I didn’t want them to spend a lot for the day.

The Groom Chose A Classic Look That Complemented The Bride

After seeing the venue and its luxurious vibe, I decided to go for a classic, black-tie look. The groomsmen and I rocked slim-fit black tuxes with black bow ties. I went with a butterfly bow tie for a more sleek, modern look and included a vest. The pocket square was champagne, matching the bridal party’s color theme. Everyone in our wedding party were coordinated and looked amazing.

How They Pulled Off Their Stunning And Intimate Chateau De Ninis Wedding

Right from the start, we decided to clearly communicate what each of us was hoping to get out of our wedding and established a realistic budget for what we wanted up front. We leaned into the beauty of the Chateau de Ninis and wine country and had our entire wedding outdoors. We didn’t go over the top with decor, florals, or color but instead allowed the stunning venue to be the focal point. It was also a great “home base” throughout the wedding weekend. We are blessed to have so many amazing people in our lives, but when it came to our wedding, we only wanted our closest family and friends there. Although it wasn’t easy bringing down our numbers, the intimacy of our wedding ended up being perfect. 

Working With BIPOC-Owned Vendors To Bring Their Chateau de Ninis Wedding To Life

As a Black couple that values our community and diversity, we wanted to ensure that we supported BIPOC-owned businesses. Our caterer, florist, hair and makeup, cake designer, and planner are all owned by Black creatives. Our photographer, videographer, and wedding day director were all people of color as well. 

Their Festive And Practical Favors Got The Party Started

Our wedding favors were mini champagne bottles engraved with a gold “J&B 9/3/2022” within a heart and they were a hit. Some didn’t open the bottles and kept them as souvenirs, but many guests popped them for the reception to get the party started. And then, Bradley’s mom helped by handling the wedding favors, which made them even more special to us.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Vivian Chen
Event Planning – A Monique Affair
Venue – Chateau de Ninis
Floral Design – Esscents of Flowers
Catering – Pleasure Principle Supperclub
Cake – Cupcakin Bake Shop
DJ – DJ Justin
Videography – Slow Fall Cinema
Invitation Design – Minted
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Keli Jenee
Wedding Dress – Kate Halfpenny London
Bridal Accessories – Etsy
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Fame and Partners
Groom’s + Groomsmen’s Apparel – Menguin
Rentals – Standard Event Rentals
Transportation – California Wine Tour

 

Congratulations to Jobina and Bradley on their beautiful Chateau de Ninis wedding. Many thanks to Junebug members Vivian Chen for beautifully capturing their special day and to A Monique Affair for helping this couple bring their dream wedding to life. Want to start the search and assemble a team of expert vendors? Lucky for you, you’re just one click away. So be sure to check out our directory of planners and photographers from around the world.

With a bit of creative thinking and a pro team of like-minded vendors, there are endless ways you and your partner can celebrate your love and do good in the process. For more ideas on spreading the love a little further, check out how you can give back on your wedding day.

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