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This VanDusen Botanical Garden Wedding Was Inspired by a Summer Sunset

February 26, 2024 | justine

Taryn and Brad envisioned a wedding filled with creativity, unique touches, and vibrant colors. Their goal was to create a joyful celebration of love infused with contemporary flair and plenty of fun! Drawing inspiration from the stunning colors of a summer sunset, they transformed their VanDusen Botanical Garden wedding into a kaleidoscope of hues. Every aspect, from attire to flowers and decor, reflected the warmth and beauty of a summer evening sky.

Their enchanting outdoor ceremony was beneath a majestic willow tree, surrounded by natural beauty. Opting for simple decor that complemented the picturesque setting, they added vibrant, grounded floral arrangements to enhance the serene ambiance. Upon entering the reception, guests were greeted with a burst of confetti, setting the tone for a joyous celebration. Inside, meticulously curated tablescapes with color-blocked centerpieces added a touch of modern elegance to the festivities.

The couple poured their hearts into every detail, ensuring each aspect reflected their personalities and style. Their meticulous planning and personal touches resulted in a breathtaking celebration that perfectly captured their love. With the help of Junebug member Hennygraphy, every cherished moment was beautifully preserved in exquisite images. Scroll down to witness the magic of their special day unfold.

The Couple:

Taryn and Brad

The Wedding:

VanDusen Botanical Garden, Vancouver, British Colombia, Canada

Embracing a Summer Sky Sunset Gradient Color Palette

Brad and I, both artists in our own right, were determined to make our wedding a blend of creativity, uniqueness, and, above all, fun! Taking cues from the mesmerizing colors of a summer sunset, shifting from warm oranges to soft purples with a touch of green, we knew we had found our inspiration. We wanted our celebration to radiate joy, so we decided on a color theme that would reflect the happiness of the occasion. We infused this gradient of colors into every detail of our wedding, from the attire to the decorations. Each bridesmaid embodied a different shade from the gradient, carrying matching bouquets, while the groomsmen coordinated with ties, pocket squares, and boutonnieres in complementary hues.

Personalized Touches at Their VanDusen Botanical Garden Wedding Ceremony

For our outdoor ceremony under the magnificent willow tree, we aimed for a minimalist approach to highlight the natural beauty around us. Our talented florist created stunning ground-level arrangements that perfectly matched our gradient color scheme, adding a pop of color to the setting. Personal touches were essential to us, so we wrote our own vows and worked closely with our officiant to design the entire ceremony, ensuring our unique story took center stage. As we entered and exited, bubbles and confetti filled the air, setting a joyful tone for the celebration. Our first dance beneath a giant disco ball marked the perfect end to a truly unforgettable day filled with love, laughter, and endless happiness.

Transforming the Reception Space into a Gradient of Hues

For our reception, we wanted to create a mesmerizing spectrum of color throughout the entire space. Each table was carefully adorned with matching napkins, candles, and candle holders, blending seamlessly from one hue to the next. The floral arrangements and bud vases were thoughtfully chosen to complement the color theme of each table, uniting everything in a beautifully intentional way. We kept the linens and chairs neutral white to ensure the colors popped, while black plates added a grounding touch to each place setting. Although incorporating so many vibrant elements felt daunting, meticulous planning and color mockups helped us strike the perfect balance and prevent clashing. When everything came together on the big day, it surpassed our wildest expectations. 

Tips for a Meaningful Wedding Experience

Our advice for couples starting their wedding planning journey is simple: stay focused on what truly matters to you both. Embrace the excitement and challenges that come your way, and always stay true to yourselves. Remember, your wedding is about celebrating your love with your closest family and friends. Create a day that reflects your bond and personalities and will be a success. We found it helpful to stay organized with a task board, like Trello, to avoid any last-minute surprises. Writing your own vows is a special touch that allows you to express your love uniquely and meaningfully, deepening the connection between you and your loved ones.

Why They Chose to Tie the Knot at the VanDusen Botanical Garden

For our wedding in July, we wanted to make the most of the beautiful summer weather by creating an indoor/outdoor atmosphere. Choosing a well-known tourist spot as our venue meant we could invite all our out-of-town guests to a special location. The botanical gardens provided a magical backdrop for our ceremony, while the indoor reception area was filled with natural light and had a modern charm. With a lovely patio, our guests could move around as they pleased. With its contemporary design and stunning views of the gardens through floor-to-ceiling windows, the reception venue allowed us to personalize the space exactly how we wanted. It was the perfect combination of indoor coziness and outdoor beauty, making our day truly unforgettable.

Personalized Perfection: Homemade Favors and Customized Newspapers

For our wedding favors, we wanted to give our guests something unique and heartfelt. We decided on two special gifts: a personalized wedding newspaper and homemade bean-to-bar dark chocolate bars. We poured our hearts into making each of the 95 chocolate bars from scratch, starting with roasting the cacao beans and carefully tempering the chocolate. To add a personal touch, we designed custom labels for each bar, using them as place cards for our guests. We also created our wedding newspapers at home, filling them with photos, fun facts about us, tips for visiting Vancouver, sweet messages from our parents, a cocktail hour drink menu, and even games like a crossword puzzle. It was a labor of love, and we were excited to share these meaningful keepsakes with our loved ones on our big day.

A VanDusen Botanical Garden Wedding Filled with Personal Touches

In the year leading up to our wedding, we got fully into DIY projects as an artist and a designer. We were surprised to count a total of 28! Some highlights include making 95 chocolate bars as unique place cards, hand-painting 85 concrete candle holders, and handling everything from save-the-dates to our wedding website. Adding personal touches like sparkly disco letters, a fancy gin cocktail with butterfly pea flowers, and a shiny welcome sign made the day extra special. I even sewed the sleeves for my dress and veil myself, adding delicate embroidered pearls. We ensured everything, even the napkins we ordered and dyed by hand, matched perfectly. One of our favorite DIY projects was creating our wedding bands. With Brad’s design skills, we worked together to craft the perfect rings, tweaking designs until they were just right. The final gold bands turned out stunning, representing our love and creativity.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Hennygraphy
Event Planning – Beth Barr
Venue – VanDusen Botanical Garden
Floral Design – Emma Scheurwater
Catering – Nuba
Cake – Lalolipop
Officiant – Vancouver Officiant
DJ – Simon Bridgefoot
Invitation Design – Taryn Coulson
Makeup Artist – Danielle Grad
Hair Styling – Renee Lalonde
Wedding Dress – Truvelle
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rentals – Bespoke Decor + A+B Party Rentals

 

Congratulations to Taryn and Brad on their VanDusen Botanical Garden wedding. A huge shoutout goes to Junebug member Hennygraphy for skillfully capturing every standout detail and heartfelt moment from start to finish. For more stunning celebrations to spark inspiration, be sure to explore her profile in our highly-vetted directory of the world’s top wedding photographers.

This wedding proves that colors and flowers can truly transform any celebration into something breathtaking. They add depth, texture, and vibrancy to every aspect of the wedding, from the ceremony to the reception. The result is an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression on everyone who attends.

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This Cozy Presidio Yacht Club Wedding Was Full of Views, Good Food, and Music

February 24, 2024 | justine

Christina and Andy envisioned a wedding that was a cozy, authentic, and unforgettable gathering, like hosting the ultimate dinner party in their own space. They aimed for an atmosphere that exuded warmth and joy, complete with exceptional food, drinks, and music. With this in mind, they meticulously infused elements of their personalities into every facet of their Presidio Yacht Club wedding. The result was nothing short of extraordinary—a celebration that beautifully captured their love and cherished values.

They knew they wanted a unique venue, a place not typically considered for weddings. They got creative and made it a spectacular event by having the ceremony on the dock, with the city and bay as a backdrop. Flowers played a big role, with whimsical and airy meadow-style installations behind the altar. The reception took place in the old boat house, where they hung old sails for a rustic touch, strung lights across the ceiling, and candles on the tables added a warm glow. To cap off the evening, they danced in an old-school, wood-paneled dive bar upstairs.

If you’ve ever pondered about infusing your individuality into every detail of your special day for a cohesive and elegant theme, then this wedding is a must-see. These stunning photos by Junebug member Teri B perfectly capture the spirit of their love tale and the remarkable day they curated. Explore all the imaginative ideas that will add a personal touch to your big day, making it feel even more intimate and special.

The Couple:

Christina and Andy

The Wedding:

Presidio Yacht Club, San Fransisco, California

Creating Meaningful Moments During the Ceremony

We had a good friend officiate, and to architect her words, she did short interviews with our parents. It was beautiful to hear how she wove all of their inputs together. We also asked two friends to do readings, nothing religious, and we gave them pretty loose guidelines to read a passage, song lyrics, poem, or article that represents love and long-term partnership to them. We wrote our own vows, and Andy surprised me with song lyrics at the end of his. We were smiling ear to ear and laughing the whole time. I’m shocked I didn’t cry!

Creating a Unique SF Experience: Why They Chose a Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

We knew we wanted a venue with some character, a space you might not even think of for a wedding. And because we decided to host our wedding in SF, where we met seven years ago, we wanted to ensure our guests had a “very SF” experience. We started with the venue search. We knew Presidio Yacht Club was the one! It has a lot of character and grit, with some of the best possible views of San Francisco. We could host the ceremony on the dock, with the city and the Bay behind us, have dinner in the old, rustic boat house, and finish the evening dancing in the old school, wood-paneled dive bar upstairs. Andy always joked he wanted to get married in a dive bar, which was as close as it would get! The venue was a big part of setting the vibe, but it was a space that needed a lot of work to bring it to life, so a lot went into curating all the decor and flowers to bring it to life. The venue also had a perfect setup for each portion of the evening, which made it easy to contain the whole wedding and reception in the same place while still offering a change of scenery from ceremony to dinner to dancing.

How They Curated Their Dream Wedding Without Overspending

San Fransisco is an expensive place to get married, and we only had a limited budget, so we curated creative inspo that we loved and then shopped around to find vendors who could achieve our vision while matching our budget and being able to execute our vision without breaking the bank. We found creative ways to achieve a pretty stunning evening. Because food was so important to us, that was the first vendor we booked, Katie Powers, who is known for delicious family-style meals made from locally sourced ingredients. We wanted florals to play a big part in decor and wanted something whimsical, airy, abstract, and unexpected. We found a local flower farmer who grows some of the most gorgeous flowers in the Bay and was game to take on our vision (she crushed it!). A good friend of ours is a horticulturist and has been making biophilic art for years—she offered to make us some meadow-style installations to go behind us at the altar and behind where we sat at dinner. We hung old sails across one of the boathouse’s walls, adding to the rustic vibe, and lights were strung across the ceiling. Candles on the tables helped create a warm glow.  

Setting the Mood Through a Thoughtfully Curated Playlist for Their Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

We had a DJ playing music throughout the wedding, and we spent hours, I mean hours, curating playlists to serve as guides for him. He played vinyl during the dancing, which was a total vibe with the disco ball spinning above and red lights, making the room feel perfectly moody and cool. Our guests played a massive role in the overall feel of the wedding, too! We have a really fun crew of friends, and they absolutely brought the energy that night.

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

Top Tips for Stress-Free Wedding Planning: Stay Organized and Communicative

Start early, stay organized with spreadsheets and Google Docs, keep a close tally of expenses (and expect to spend more than you want to!), and have clear communication with your vendors. Don’t be afraid to give very clear instructions and feedback to vendors. It’s so important that they clearly understand your vision and what you like and don’t like—block time to work on wedding stuff together as a couple. Do as much as possible as far in advance as possible because a million tiny little things will come up in the final weeks, and the last thing you want is to be stressed out. We created a master spreadsheet with different categories and then line items for each expense. We researched costs and put in projected costs, which we updated with actuals once we had final expenses. We kept this updated close to real-time and shared it with all our parents for full transparency.

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

Presidio Yacht Club Wedding

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Teri B
Ceremony Venue – Presidio Yacht Club
Floral Design – Hayley from Blue House Farm Flowers
Catering – Katie Powers
Cake – Francesca Hodges
DJ – Dart Collective
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Lee from Artists by Sherrie Long
Wedding Dress – Danielle Frankel
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rings – Abel Objects
Rentals – Golden Gate Special Events

 

Congratulations to Christina and Andy on their intimate and scenic Presidio Yacht Club wedding, filled with delicious food, captivating views, and great music. A heartfelt thank you to Junebug member Teri B for beautifully capturing all the intricate details that reflect their unique love story. To see more incredible celebrations, check out Teri’s profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Your love story is unique and deserves to be celebrated on your big day, just like this couple did. Whether you’re considering an unconventional venue or adding a personal twist to traditional wedding elements, strive for a wedding that reflects the distinctiveness of your love story. Dive into our guide for creative ideas to make sure your special day is truly unforgettable.

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This Colorful Intercontinental Da Nang Sun Vow Renewal Paid Homage to Vietnamese Culture

February 21, 2024 | justine

Minh and Billy decided it was time to reaffirm their love for each other and cherish their marriage once more, so they chose to renew their vows in a place that held deep meaning for them. With their loved ones surrounding them, they celebrated this special moment in an  Intercontinental Da Nang Sun vow renewal, honoring Minh’s Vietnamese heritage and the journey of their relationship. It was a heartfelt occasion where they focused solely on each other, expressing the profound significance of their bond.

The stunning setting provided the ideal canvas for their declaration of love. Describing it as beautiful hardly does it justice. With its breathtaking view of the property, their terrace ceremony served as a picturesque backdrop. The asymmetrical pillars adorned with vibrant tropical flowers and lush greenery beautifully framed their heartfelt vows and gave the ceremony a pop of color. Following the ceremony, the couple captured this significant milestone with portraits to immortalize the moment.

If you and your partner envision an intimate celebration in a tropical paradise, this is the perfect inspiration for you! With every incredible detail beautifully captured by Junebug member Kailash, we’re confident you’ll want to save these images to your wedding mood board.

The Couple:

Minh and Billy

The Wedding:

Intercontinental Da Nang Sun, Vietnam

Recommended Reading: Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Dress Shopping

Why They Chose to Have an Intercontinental Da Nang Sun Vow Renewal

We’ve always loved vacationing at Intercontinental Da Nang Sun. We really enjoy traveling, and out of all the places we’ve visited together, this place brings us the most peace. When it came to making decisions about our destination, there was one thing we were sure about: we wanted my best friend to be the officiant. Our ceremony was special because it was written and directed by one of our closest friends. We had an open invitation for anyone who could make it. We sent them a video for those who couldn’t be there in person. Our vows were deeply personal. After four years and nine rounds of IVF, we felt it was important to focus on each other and express how much our marriage meant to us. It was a meaningful moment just for us.

Recommended Reading: Should I  Have a First Look at My Wedding?

Recommended Reading: Ceremony Backdrops to Wow Your Guests

How They Managed Costs and Stayed Within Their $20k Budget

We had a specific budget that we didn’t want to exceed. Once we made our vision boards, we concentrated on where we could cut costs. Our total budget was $20,000. We decided to splurge on video and photography because capturing those memories was really important to us. We managed to spend less on decorations, staying under budget in that area.

Recommended Reading: Get Inspired By These 30 Wedding Vows Examples

Recommended Reading: Fun Wedding Confetti Alternatives for Your Ceremony Recessional and Grand Exit

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Kailash
Event Planning – The Planners
Venue – Intercontinental Da Nang Sun

 

Congratulations to Minh and Billy on their vibrant Intercontinental Da Nang Sun vow renewal. They did such a beautiful job honoring Vietnamese culture in such a colorful way! A heartfelt thank you goes out to Junebug member Kailash for skillfully capturing each and every cherished moment. For more of their incredible work, be sure to visit their profile in our highly-vetted directory of wedding photographers from around the world.

After browsing through these captivating photos, you might find yourself longing to jet off to a stunning destination like this one! If you’re convinced that an intimate destination celebration is right for you, begin your planning journey by exploring our destination wedding guide. Packed with helpful advice and inspiring ideas, it’s sure to provide you with all the guidance you need.

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Funky and Intimate Dive Motel Micro Wedding

February 17, 2024 | justine

Andi and Emily set out to find the perfect wedding location, and guess what? Instagram led them to it! It felt like destiny had stepped in just for them. They were determined to find a venue whose existing features matched their vibe. The hidden gem they discovered was a dream come true—it had everything they wanted! With its funky disco vibes, it turned out to be the ideal choice. Who wouldn’t want to exchange vows in such an awesome atmosphere? Their Dive Motel micro wedding was exactly what they had hoped for—packed with personal touches and unforgettable moments.

They started the day by gathering all their nearest and dearest out on the deck, still rocking their PJs. Their outdoor ceremony was cozy and personal, with their closest friend doubling as the officiant, even settling some decisions with a round of rock, paper, scissors. Afterward, they headed out for some delicious pizza, followed by chocolate chip cookies for dessert. They DIYed most of the day, adding their personal touch to every detail to make it truly feel like them.

If you’ve ever wondered how to infuse your own personality into every part of your celebration, then you absolutely must check out this wedding. The photos by childhood friend Just Jess Photography perfectly capture the essence of their love story and the incredible day they created together.

The Couple:

Andi and Emily

The Wedding:

Dive Motel, Tennessee, United States

Letting Their Venue Set the Stage for Their Wedding Day

We didn’t feel connected to any particular place enough to pick a location based on sentiment. We also wanted something reasonably priced and close for our loved ones to travel. Andi had been following the Dive Motel on Instagram for a while, and it just came to her one day. It just made sense. It was within a couple of hours’ drive, and people could choose to stay there or nearby, and several people ended up using it as an excuse to make it a multi-day trip and get a little vacation out of it. And also, it’s just a cool motel! Why wouldn’t you want to get married there? The venue paved the way for everything. We picked somewhere that would allow us to not worry about decor much. We traveled, so we wanted to keep things minimal. The Dive Motel is so fun and funky that it didn’t need our help at all.

Personal Touches and Shared Talents on Their Dive Hotel Micro Wedding

Waking up the day of and meeting all our loved ones out on the deck in our pjs. We all spent the day pitching in wherever needed to prepare for the big night. We were surrounded by so much love and talent. Everything done in the ceremony and leading up to it was done by friends and family! Andi’s closest friend officiated, and my best friends did readings. We did rock, paper, and scissors to decide whose name would be taken (that’s typically how we make decisions). Caroline Zemlin, a friend of Andi’s, did the hair and makeup.

Thrifted Treasures and Homemade Elegance: Putting the DIY in Their Dive Hotel Micro Wedding

We DIYed most of it. Andi’s bouquet was put together by Flower Boys, and then we got flowers from them to make my pocket flowers. We got more from Kroger to make all the centerpieces that friends arranged before the ceremony. All the dishes and vases were thrifted from our house.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Just Jess Photography
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Dive Motel
Floral Design – Flower Boys
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Caroline Zemlin

 

Congratulations to Andi and Emily on their funky and intimate Dive Motel micro wedding. Huge thanks to Just Jess Photography for capturing all the unforgettable moments that showcase their love story.

When planning your special day, don’t hesitate to let your personality and vision shine bright. Whether you’re opting for a quirky venue or adding a twist to classic wedding traditions, dare to create a wedding that reflects the uniqueness of your love story. Take a look at our guide for some creative inspiration to make your big day truly unforgettable.

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This Three-Day Ca Marcello Wedding Has All The Bridgerton and Great Gatsby Vibes

February 13, 2024 | justine

Whitney and Jack’s vision for their Ca Marcello wedding was to craft a remarkable three-day celebration, aiming to make every moment unforgettable for their guests, many of whom were experiencing Italy and Europe for the first time. They recognized the significance of this journey and were determined to make it truly special. With meticulous attention to detail, they achieved their goal with flying colors! Their wedding in Venice unfolded like a dream, seamlessly blending the city’s rich history with the timeless charm of the Bridgerton era and the opulence reminiscent of the Great Gatsby. 

On the big day, the pair’s group traveled in true Venetian style, with water taxis ferrying them to the historic church nestled in the heart of the city. After exchanging heartfelt vows, they all made their way to the villa, arriving in a scene straight out of a Bridgerton novel. Regency-inspired details adorned the affair–from delicate lace umbrellas and fans to flowing ballgowns and glistening gold jewelry–setting a tone of elegance and romance. As the evening progressed into the Great Gatsby-themed celebration, the atmosphere transformed with opulent decor and extravagant floral arrangements. The festivities were nothing short of spectacular, featuring show-stopping entertainment, two wedding cakes, a never-ending flow of drinks, and dancing that lasted well into the night.

Continue scrolling to indulge in every luxurious detail, each flawlessly captured by Andrew Bayda. We promise you’ll be enchanted, wanting to spend endless hours scrolling through these breathtaking photos and pinning them to your wedding mood board.

The Couple:

Whitney and Jack

The Wedding:

Ca Marcello, Venice, Italy

Setting the Stage With a Welcome Party Featuring the Unique Vibe of Venice

The festivities started with a welcome party at the Venice Hotel by the Grand Canal. The venue’s vintage charm and stylish atmosphere set the mood for the event. Choosing this famous spot by the water aimed to give our guests a real taste of Venice, with every detail reflecting the city’s special vibe. We served authentic Venetian dishes that delighted everyone’s taste buds. Adding to the ambiance, an accordion trio played classic Italian tunes as the sun went down. Then, we moved to the Ca’ Sagredo Hotel for a private opera. Walking through Venice’s narrow streets, guests soaked in the historic surroundings. The intimate opera setting made it feel like stepping back in time. This elegance carried through the rest of the celebration, along with plenty of champagne and drinks.

Kicking Off the Festivities in True Venetian Fashion With Water Taxis and a Historic Church Ceremony

The wedding day itself was a mix of Italian Bridgerton and Great Gatsby vibes. The wedding party and immediate family stayed at a beautiful Villa on the Grand Canal. The men got ready in one part of the house while the women buzzed around, ensuring we didn’t see each other. Venetian water taxis waited below, ready to take the wedding party through the canals to the ancient church. The church, which dates back to 900 AD and is filled with candles, has a romantic, historic feel. The priest, Don Luigi, entertained the guests as we exchanged vows and kissed despite the hot summer weather. After the ceremony, we had a private photo shoot while guests enjoyed drinks at a local bar, waiting for transportation.

Showcasing Bridgerton Vibes In Every Detail at Their Ca Marcello Wedding

At the Ca Marcello villa in the countryside, the reception flawlessly embraced the Bridgerton theme. Guests lined the driveway to welcome us as we arrived in a classic car. I stepped out with a new hairstyle, revealing the stunning back of my Mark Ingram gown adorned with a black velvet bow in my hair. The elegant charm of the Bridgerton era shone through with Venetian-lace umbrellas and fans, flowing ball gowns, and shimmering gold jewelry, creating a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. The cocktail hour featured an oyster bar, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and refreshing Aperol Spritz cocktails. A quartet serenaded the guests with classic songs, many of which were heard in the Bridgerton soundtrack.

A Spectacular Transition to a Great Gatsby-Themed Affair at Their Ca Marcello Wedding Reception

As the day unfolded, the transition to our Great Gatsby-themed party was marked by a lavish 5+ course dinner, heartfelt toasts, and a beautiful serenade from the quartet and saxophone player. Each guest found a hand-painted portrait of themselves at their seat, a unique wedding souvenir we had prepared. The extravagance reached new heights with a personalized firework show, two stunning wedding cakes, and a towering champagne tower. Our black-and-white checkered dance floor was surrounded by hanging lights and chic sofas and candelabras, allowing our guests to enjoy an intimate experience as they desired. The party continued with live music, a cigar bar, endless drinks, and dancing. Our guests were enthralled by the custom video projection on the backside of the villa, lighting up the unique venue and adding to the whimsical and enchanted nature of the evening. Our deliberate choice to make everything over the top, yet intimate and delicate in different ways, aimed to evoke the feeling of the Great Gatsby: a feeling of love and longing. We danced to “Young and Beautiful” by Lana Del Rey for our first dance, truly capturing the emotion of the evening.

 

Ending the Festivities With a Bang With a Venetian Island Excursion

On the third day, despite our minimal rest, the celebration continued with a private boat trip to the Venetian Islands, promising a charming and picturesque experience. Our guests eagerly joined in, relishing the tour of Burano and the wine tasting on Mazzorbo Island at the Venissa Estate, accompanied by cichetti, classic Venetian tapas. This day, we added a cultural touch to our overall celebration, ensuring that every moment was carefully planned and that Venice’s true beauty was showcased to everyone. In the end, our three-day celebration in Venice was hailed by our guests as the wedding of the century—a true testament to the seamless blend of timeless Venetian charm, Bridgerton elegance, and Great Gatsby opulence that defined our festivities. We are deeply grateful to everyone who helped bring this dream to life.

Cake Cutting and Fireworks: A Movie-Worthy Scene at Their Ca Marcello Wedding

The absolute highlight of the day had to be the cake cutting and the subsequent firework display—a scene straight from a movie. The show, lasting a good five or six minutes, left all of us standing there, gazing at the sky in sheer disbelief. Sharing that moment with my husband, a profound realization set in: “We did it. We’re married. All the hard work and planning have paid off. We did it!” At that moment, I felt like I could breathe again and enjoy the night with our friends and family. And that’s precisely what we did. It was the best night of our lives.

Sharing the Load and Finding Support During Wedding Planning

Embarking on the journey of wedding planning is a big deal, and the best advice I can give is to rely on your partner and the support of your family and friends. It’s tempting to do everything yourself, thinking you can handle it all. But the truth is, planning a wedding is a tremendous job, and it’s okay to ask for help. Your partner is there to share the load, and your loved ones are happy to lend a hand. Don’t be afraid to split the tasks and ask for assistance. Doing this will reduce some of the stress and create a chance for shared joy and teamwork as you work together to make your dream wedding a reality. Remember, you don’t have to go through this journey alone, and having support from those around you can make the whole process not only doable but also fulfilling.

 

Starting Off With a Warm Welcome Through Themed Welcome Bags

We went all out with welcome bags for our guests at the welcome party. Each guest received a jute tote featuring our wedding crest on the front and a personal tag and thank-you from us, the bride and groom. Inside the totes were mini Aperol Spritz, custom-labeled shots of limoncello, hand-painted Venetian masks, a box of authentic Italian spaghetti, sweet treats from Italy, and a custom wedding magazine detailing every aspect of our celebration. We wanted our guests to feel the love and effort we put into these bags, so we included stories about how we met, introduced our family and wedding party, shared details about each event, paid tribute to cherished family members who had passed, provided a map of all the festivities, and much more. It was our way of expressing gratitude and making them feel a part of our unique journey. And judging by the feedback, the guests absolutely loved it.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Andrew Bayda
Event Planning + Favors – Angel Lion
Ceremony Venue – Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista at the Scuola Grande San Giovanni Evangelista di Venezia
Reception Venue – Ca Marcello
Floral Design – La Dogaressa Flowers
Cake – Pasticceria Racca
Officiant – Don Luigi Ramazzoti
DJ + Live Music – Slipstream
Videography – Whites Film
Invitation Design – Every Little Something
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Vera Osminina
Wedding Dress – Mark Ingram + Vera Wang
Bridal Accessories – Warron Barron Bridal
Wedding Party Apparel – V. Chapman Studio + Vera Wang
Rings – James Allen
Rentals – Latini Design
Wedding Menu + Ceremony Pamphlet – Dodo Design
Painted Portraits – Ansofie Van Rafelghem
Quartet/Saxophone – The Italy String Quartet
Event Lighting + Video Projection + Dance Floor + Chandeliers – Rava

 

Congratulations to Whitney and Jack on their spectacular three-day Ca Marcello wedding, brimming with Bridgerton and Great Gatsby vibes. Thank you to Andrew Bayda for flawlessly capturing every meticulously planned detail.

Planning a destination wedding of this caliber involves a lot of logistics and groundwork. However, with a trusted vendor team, you can relax knowing that every detail will be handled seamlessly. If you’re in the early stages of assembling your dream team, consider using our specially curated directory of the world’s best professionals to help make your wedding dreams a reality.

Sponsors
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This Panama Dining Room Wedding Was the Epitome of Romantic

February 1, 2024 | justine

Love blossomed in simplicity on Kate and Jack’s special day. Their dreamy Panama Dining Room wedding was a delightful blend of ease and joy. The couple’s goal was clear: to keep things relaxed and enjoyable. Imagine a gorgeous venue adorned with vibrant spring flowers, setting the stage for a day filled with laughter and warmth. Surrounded by their favorite people, the celebration was a feast for the senses, featuring delicious food and unforgettable moments. It was a day that unfolded just as they had envisioned.

The floor-to-ceiling florals gracefully framing the large arch windows, created an enchanting atmosphere within the loft-style interior. This picturesque setting served as the backdrop for the most romantic moment of the day, the exchange of vows. After the heartfelt union, the celebration continued with a classic restaurant reception that centered around two essential elements: delicious food and pure fun. It was a seamless transition from the heartfelt ceremony to an evening filled with culinary delights and joyous festivities.

Check out these incredible images captured by Nikki McCrone, that have  “timeless” written all over them. If you’re a laid-back couple, this wedding is your go-to inspiration.

The Couple:

Kate and Jack

The Wedding:

Panama Dining Room, Melbourne, Australia

How Their Relaxed Panama Dining Room Wedding Day Unfolded

Our focus for the day was for it to be relaxed and fun. We wanted to enjoy great food, drinks, and music with our favorite people, and the day definitely delivered on that. In terms of the style, we didn’t overthink it too much. Neither of us has the most artistic eye, so we thought it would be hard to go wrong if you kept things pretty classic. The venue itself was beautiful as it was so we chose bright spring flowers to complement it.  

From Fitzroy Streets to Dance Floor Beats: Their Wedding Day Highlights

We enjoyed getting photos of our wedding party before the ceremony. We roamed the streets of Fitzroy and grabbed a margarita (thank you to our photographer for that idea!). Neither of us loves being the center of attention, so it definitely took us by surprise that the ceremony was also one of our highlights, thanks to our celebrant, who kept things light and fun. And, of course, the dance floor is up there as well.

Crafting a Relaxed Day Focused on Food and Fun

It’s easy to get carried away when planning a wedding, so with each decision we made, we asked ourselves, “Will this make the day less stressful and more enjoyable?” and if the answer was yes, we went for it. This meant we chose an indoor venue (to avoid any obsessing over the weather) and skimped on other things so we could do after-dinner cocktails. At the end of our night, we gave out Stubbie coolers with photos of our beloved dogs and cats on them (they had to be part of the day somehow).

The Simple Path to Their Celebration: Fun Over Stress

We kept things very “us,” I would also like to think our guests enjoyed themselves! It was a spontaneous decision to have our wedding in Melbourne as we aren’t locals. It’s just where we love to go for a weekend away. So we were very grateful to our guests for traveling to celebrate with us and wanted them to have a great time. Most of our decisions were based on more fun and less stress. I knew trying to do anything DIY would stress me out because I’m an absolute procrastinator, so we outsourced what we could and kept things simple. We didn’t DIY anything, but my talented mum made the wedding cake herself.

How They Fell In Love With the Panama Dining Room 

We stumbled across The Panama Dining Room on a wedding website and loved the venue so much that we ended up having our wedding in Melbourne. The space is beautiful, with huge floor-to-ceiling arched windows and plenty of space for the ceremony, canapés, dinner, and dancing in one spot. Plus, it had a late curfew, which was essential to us as we knew we wouldn’t want the party to end.

Creating a Personal Ceremony with the Help of Their Officiant

We left personalizing the ceremony up to our lovely celebrant. We each filled out her questionnaire individually and left what the other had said to be a surprise on the day, which was so fun. We had a crack writing our vows, but it just wasn’t for us, so we let Wendy tell our story, and it was perfect. We signed our wedding certificate at the bar after the ceremony to get straight into the celebration.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Nikki McCrone
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Panama Dining Room
Floral Design – Pomp and Splendor
Officiant – Wendy Does Weddings
DJ – Logan Entertainment
Invitation Design – Mila and May
Makeup Artist – Tash via Tonic Agency
Hair Styling – Olivia via Tonic Agency
Wedding Dress – Savannah Miller Bridal
Bridal Accessories – Karen Willis Holmes + Forever Soles
Groom’s Apparel – Institchu

 

Congratulations to Kate and Jack on their Panama Dining Room wedding. It was truly the epitome of romance. And a big thank you to Nikki McCrone for capturing their big day’s highlights.

Opting for a relaxed wedding like this one is a one-of-a-kind way to say “I do,” but don’t let the easygoing vibes fool you—it still requires some logistical finesse. Entrust your team of pros with their expertise to make sure your celebration is not just stress-free but also an unforgettable chapter in your love story.

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This Colorful South Carolina Backyard Wedding Was All About Family

January 30, 2024 | justine

Abby and Aidan were clear from the beginning—they wanted their wedding to reflect who they were in every way possible. They kicked things off by choosing a meaningful venue: Aidan’s grandparents’ family home, a place rooted in family history since the 60s. The backyard, overlooking a serene neighborhood lake, held a special significance as Aidan’s parents, aunt, and uncle had tied the knot in the exact spot on the gazebo where they would later exchange vows. Drawn by the sweet love stories and countless memories created there, the couple felt compelled to continue the tradition, leading them to celebrate their special day with a heartfelt South Carolina backyard wedding.

Imagine a picturesque waterside gazebo ceremony with lovely floral pillars, the perfect spot for the couple to tie the knot. The celebration carried on with a lively backyard reception where tables were adorned with vibrant setups—picture pink runners, colorful glassware, and the inviting glow of candles. Above, string lights and disco balls sprinkled a touch of magic. The dance floor, featuring a delightful pastel checkered pattern, welcomed guests to kick off their shoes and revel in an all-night party filled with joy and celebration.

If you’re looking to add some flair to your wedding fashion or searching for creative ways to turn your backyard into a dreamy reception venue, the images captured by Payton Urueta Photography have all the inspiration you need. Explore the stunning visuals that tell the story of a unique celebration, showcasing the beauty of breaking away from tradition.

The Couple:

Abby and Aidan

The Wedding:

South Carolina, United States

Navigating the Logistics and Design for Creating the Perfect South Carolina Backyard Wedding

There were a lot of logistics to figure out in planning a backyard wedding, but we also knew that we had a relatively blank canvas design-wise. We wanted it to feel fun and energetic yet cozy and inviting. We wanted lots of string lights and candles but colors that felt like us. Disco balls were a must. Funky shapes and textures were important. We wanted little details that nodded to our family. Aidan’s family was very tight-knit growing up, and they gathered weekly for dinner. They called these weekly gatherings “pasta nights, ” and they were always a delight to attend together when we were dating and engaged. We decided to share this tradition with our guests and host a larger-format pasta night at our reception.

 

Why They Opted to Split Their Wedding Into Two Special Days

We split our ceremony and reception into two days so that we could slow down and enjoy the weekend on our own time and our own terms. We invited only our close family, bridesmaids, and groomsmen to the ceremony to make it more intimate and special. I have been to several weddings where you start getting ready at 7:00 AM and go all day until 10:00 PM. I knew myself and knew that I would not enjoy it as much if it was done this way. I’ve also heard from many friends who have gotten married that it goes by so fast you barely have time to eat or talk to your people, so we just wanted to slow it down and take it all in. I cannot recommend splitting your wedding into two days enough.

From Witness Roulette During the Ceremony to Beer Gardens After

The most memorable part of our ceremony day was when we took the boat for a joy ride after eating brunch with our closest family and friends. It was this moment of realization that we were married and had finally reached the day we put so much work in to arrive at. We also loved witness roulette and watching everyone’s reactions when we announced that we had put everyone into a drawing to sign our marriage license as our witness. Seeing everyone on their toes waiting to hear who it would be as the spinner turned was so funny to me. My aunt from out of town ended up being the winner. She was so excited to sign our marriage license. One last ceremony day memory that I loved. Since we did our ceremony Friday morning, we had all evening Friday night to do whatever we wanted. So we went with our bridesmaids and groomsmen to the place where we had our first date, a local Biergarten. It was so fun to relax and have a beer with our people while wearing our husband and wife sweatshirts out. 

Celebrating the Fruits of Their Labor With a Dance Party

For the reception day, the most memorable part was the time we spent on the dance floor. We had all put in so much work, our families included, and it was so fun to finally let loose and celebrate the day that we had labored so hard to experience. Our family talked about that feeling for weeks after and even now. We could all agree that months of DIY projects and literal renovations that we did ourselves paid off, and we left it all on the dance floor. Watching videos and seeing pictures of us going crazy dancing is one of our favorite things nowadays.

Their DIY Projects: From Tables to Chandeliers

We DIYed almost everything. We hand-built all of the tables, the seating chart, the dance floor, and the gazebo. My Grammy sewed all of the table runners and did alterations to my dress. We sourced the candlesticks and vases from thrift stores all across the Upstate. Our family made insanely good home-cooked pasta dishes for dinner at the reception. We formed the candlesticks into funky shapes and put our Cricut to work, making all the signage. Including a sketch by Aidan’s amazing and talented sister, we designed our save the dates, which we later used as a wedding logo. We DIYed all the florals to meet a specific vision of dimension, color, and particular flowers I’d dreamed of in my bouquet for years. Aidan’s mom DIYed the floral arch used on the gazebo. We carefully constructed fringe chandeliers to hang over the dance floor. Our parents, siblings, cousins, and best friends showed up for us to make these DIY dreams happen. And that’s truly what we are the proudest of.

Navigating the Unseen Costs of Their South Carolina Backyard Wedding

We had assumed that a backyard wedding would be significantly cheaper, so we created our budget around that. But we were wrong! We didn’t think about the fact that venues offer so much and that we’d essentially have to rent a venue that would be transported to the backyard. Don’t let the rental stuff sneak up on you for a backyard wedding. You have to rent many things you don’t even think about, like linen trash can covers. We were naive when we made the first draft of our budget. We went over budget because we did not hire a wedding planner to tell us these things; we just figured it out ourselves. Even if you’re type A like me and want everything done a specific way, having a wedding planner will still benefit you. To be very transparent, we had initially said we’d try to stay under $10,000. Since we’d be DIYing everything and wouldn’t be paying for a venue. But we still spent around $20,000. 

Their Splurges That Made Their South Carolina Backyard Wedding That Much More Special 

The most significant change that occurred to exceed our budget was the clear top tent rental. We initially said we would not rent a tent, but it felt stupid to have no rain plan, so we spent a lot on a tent as a backup plan. But it ended up being beautiful weather, thankfully. I spent more on my wedding dress than I had initially budgeted for, but it was so worth it. We splurged on our photographer. We also added a photo booth, a mobile bartending service for the reception, and a mobile coffee bar for the ceremony. Initially, we hadn’t planned on videography, so we splurged on our videographer.

The Budget-Friendly Solutions They Incorporated

Since we wanted our family to recreate our pasta night that we convene for every week, we saved a lot of money on a caterer (though I wouldn’t recommend this since it was a lot of hard work for our family). Since we bought them wholesale, we saved money on florals. We saved money by renting my reception outfit through Nuuly. Another thing we overspent on was the table situation. We knew renting tables would be expensive and that building our own would be similar. But we figured we could sell them afterward. The most remarkable thing about the tables is that we sold them all to our family and close friends. A piece of our wedding is now part of their homes and lives. My boss took four of them for her new therapy clinic that I’ll work at as well. And it’s been so cool to see them in action there.

How Mini Disco Balls Became Unique Escort Cards

Wedding favors were part of our escort cards and seating chart. We had 130 little disco balls hanging with tags that indicated the table number where our guests would sit. Guests have sent me pictures of their mini disco balls in various places. Some on their Christmas tree, some hanging from their car’s rearview mirror. It felt like a touch of our day that people could take with them.

The Undeniable Value of Hiring a Wedding Planner

Splurge and hire a wedding planner. Everyone told us this. We thought we could do it all on our own because we were so specific on how we wanted everything done. But I’m so serious—no matter what, hire a wedding planner. It’s worth the time, energy, stress, etc. If you think it’s outside your budget, make room! And most of all, trust that your day will be perfect and memorable if you let it be. I was so stressed out for a while about the wedding and all the projects we had, but my best friend kept telling me that what helped ease my stress was that the point of it all was to get married. At the end of it all, we would be together forever, and that was all that mattered. It sounds so simple, but it greatly impacted how we viewed our wedding. 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Payton Urueta Photography
Floral Design – Fifty Flowers
Mobile Bartending – Neon Moon Mobile Bartending
Cake – Little Peanut Pastries
Officiant – Dr. Emily Kofoed
Videography – Candace Gillespie
Invitation Design – Truly Engaging
Wedding Dress – Opal Bride
Bridal Accessories – Etsy
Bridesmaids’ Apparel –
Groom’s Apparel – Suit City
Groom’s Accessories – Fossil
Groomsmen’s Apparel – Men’s Wearhouse
Rings – Olive Ave
Rentals – Event Rentals + Upstate Event Services
Transportation – Top Hat Limousine Transportation
Favors – Beans & Bookmarks

 

Congratulations to Abby and Aidan on their colorful South Carolina backyard wedding. Thank you to Payton Urueta Photography for skillfully capturing the essence of this inspiration-filled event, demonstrating that unconventional outdoor venue spaces genuinely pay off.

DIY creativity, family involvement, and thoughtful details made this big day truly special. Take notes from the couple’s experience, and don’t underestimate the expert guidance of a wedding planner by exploring our curated list of the best wedding planners worldwide. Don’t forget to check out our wedding planning and budget guides to make your dream day a reality!

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This Matanuska Glacier Wedding Featured Two Stunning Ceremonies

January 28, 2024 | justine

Laura and Jordan aimed to make every aspect of their big day a reflection of who they are as a couple and the breathtaking place they call home.  The goal of their Matanuska Glacier wedding was clear: to capture the essence of Alaska in an elegant, romantic, and timeless manner, whether through the glacier, helicopter ride, airplane hangar, flowers, dress, or any other detail. With the help of Junebug planner AKHappenings, they achieved their vision and surpassed it with flying colors!

The day started with a delightful surprise—an intimate glacier ceremony surrounded by snowy white landscapes adorned with ground arrangements. It set the perfect tone for the day. The journey continued with a second meadow ceremony, where a floral arch framed the majestic mountain backdrop, and benches provided a cozy spot for the celebration. The all-white hangar reception stole the spotlight, showcasing a stunning floral and draping installation. However, the night’s highlight was the all-out dance party that lasted until the early hours. Colorful wigs and LED foam sticks added excitement, making it a memorable celebration.

While we could share more details, we’ll let these incredible images, captured by the talented Megan Freeman, do the talking. 

The Couple:

Laura and Jordan

The Wedding:

Matanuska Glacier, Alaska, United States

 

Bridging Tradition and Personal Style Through Wedding Fashion

I had a vision from the start. I wanted options. But I wanted to buy only one dress. Something romantic yet flowy and sexy. I love sleeves but wanted the ability to take them off.  And a fitted and flowy skirt.  I tried to make all my wedding memories in one dress. My vision was a fitted dress with a detachable skirt and sleeves. I needed a dress that fit the “Alaskan” adventure bride I was going for yet had my favorite aspects in a dress. My jewelry was a classic pearl set of earrings and a necklace my father gave my mother on their wedding day. It was only fitting to wear them on our wedding day.

Starting Their Matanuska Glacier Wedding Day With a Surprise First Look

Laura: Walking up to Jordan for our first look at Matanuska Glacier was my most memorable moment. I hadn’t told him nor showed him my dress. It was one of the hardest things not to share with him through the wedding planning process. It was custom that took many fittings and was ready at 11:30 pm the night before the wedding and it felt like a major weight was finally lifted. We were finally doing it, and it was very real.
Jordan: My most memorable moment was when we had our first look, and I saw Laura for the first time in her gorgeous dress. It was a surreal moment, and it all finally came together at that moment. We also shared our vows before our wedding party while standing on the glacier with the most fantastic backdrop imaginable.

Letting Loose on the Dance Floor and Surprises During Their Matanuska Glacier Wedding Reception

Laura: I loved cutting loose with our people on the dance floor, busting out all the props, and kicking off the fun night we have waited six years for. We also snuck away to sign our marriage certificate on the tail of Jordan’s airplane.
Jordan: Dancing and partying the night away with our closest people was unforgettable. We were so skeptical about the wigs at first, but they were one of the funniest and best parts of the day. We also accidentally cut ourselves while attempting to cut our ice cream wedding cake, too.

Advice: Focus on the Marriage Over the Wedding

Never lose sight of the fact that the marriage, not the wedding, is the reason behind your big day. Decision fatigue is a real thing. Take it easy on yourself and always lean into your partner, because it’s your partner and you at the end of the day. Never lose sight of the fact that anything is possible to achieve as a team. Also, this process will teach you so much about each other, family, and friends. The people who care for and love you will show up. Try to hold space, be patient, and know it takes work. It’ll be worth it.

Choosing a Venue With Future Ties and a Personal Connection

We chose our wedding venue for a couple of reasons. For one, it’s in the neighborhood where we will soon build our “forever home.” We wanted to share a part of our future with the people closest to us. Additionally, the airplane hanger is owned by our good friends, and Jordan helped them build it a couple of summers back. They were both members of our wedding party! The insane view was hard to pass up, as well as the ability to let the party go on as late as we wanted.

Photobooth Polaroids and Koozies as Thoughtful Keepsakes for Their Matanuska Glacier Wedding

We ensured that we provided a fun photo booth for our guests to cut loose and have fun and take a memory to keep after. The koozies are a nod to the Wallace family. They have the most extensive koozie collection, so it was only fitting for all guests to take a piece of our wedding home. We opted to ensure that they kept in theme with the rest of the wedding and were not overly done with our names or wedding details.

Custom Cricut Wedding Invites and Personalized Wedding Signage

Special shout out to one of my bridesmaids, Emily Holman. She is a saint for hearing my vision and making it a reality for me. I will forever be in debt to her patience and efforts to ensure my vision came to life. The first significant project was our custom Cricut wedding invites that feature cutouts of the two of us and our two Australian Shepherds, the background of mountains that double as the information cards. We then wrapped the invite and wax sealed them shut with a custom wax seal. All envelopes were addressed with the Cricut. This project was a LOT and so worth it. They were 100% us and truly fit our wedding vibe. All the signage for the wedding: welcome sign, seating chart, bar menu sign, audible guest book, table numbers, thank you note from us to our guests, instructions for our online wedding photo album, disposable camera instructions signs, custom menu for the evening with wax sealed names for each guest, was a labor of love.

 

Handcrafted Birch Log Benches and Budget-Friendly Touches

Jordan wanted to contribute to the wedding with his skilled craft and built us a custom rolling bar from which the bartender served drinks. In addition, he made the wedding sign stands and birch log benches for the ceremony, which we later used for seats around the fire, as well as the frame for the arch. We rented some more oversized items (tables, chairs, linens, outdoor tent), but otherwise, we bought most of our plates, cups, silverware, cookware, candles, vases, etc. It ended up being less expensive at the end of the day. We didn’t have to rush to get them cleaned for pickup the next day. We also borrowed several outdoor decor pieces from friends, such as fire pits, outdoor furniture, and propane heaters.

A Floral Labor of Love by the Bride’s Mom

My mother, Colleen, did all the florals for our wedding with one of her lifelong best friends, Gail Gibson. They have done florals together for forty-plus years and truly knocked it out of the park. As we referenced throughout the wedding planning, this was “Colleen’s Super Bowl.” If you ask us, they knocked it out of the park by going above and beyond. Our wedding party and I did all the decor inside and outside the hangar, and then Colleen did the finishing touches with flowers.

A Homemade Wedding Spread Put Together by Their Loved Ones

Catering was done with our very close friends, Kevin and Kimberly Burgess, along with a core group of close friends that we consider a part of our Alaska family. We shopped for all food items in advance from Costco. They set up a cooking tent at the hangar and prepped and cooked all the food on site. Shout out to Jaclyn Hernandez–she put together the most beautiful charcuterie board, even creating a meat “W” to honor our last name. It was incredible. For dessert, we had close friends make brownies and cookies. 

Personalized Wedding Beer at Their Matanuska Glacier Wedding

Through a friend, we connected with a local beer enthusiast. Jason was so fun to chat and connect about learning the types of beer we liked. He took our flavor pallets and created the two most fantastic wedding beers to serve at the wedding. It was even entered into the state fair and won several categories. We are savoring the last few bottles. Incredible, and it was less expensive than getting a local craft beer option. Jason even bartended for us at the wedding, which was also excellent.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Megan Freeman
Event Planning – AKHappenings
Ceremony Venue – Glacier Tours on Matanuska Glacier
Floral Design – Colleen Morgan
Officiant – Dave Dye
DJ – Ondago DJ
Videography – Haley Jay Media
Makeup Artist – Elizabeth Embry
Hair Styling – Mariah Bolinder
Wedding Dress – Essence of Australia
Bridal Accessories – Celestial Design
Rings – 5th Avenue Jewelers
Rentals – Special Events Alaska

 

Congratulations to Laura and Jordan for pulling off a Matanuska Glacier wedding featuring two ceremonies and many personal touches. Thank you to Megan Freeman for capturing all the lovely details and memorable moments. And lastly, a special shout-out goes to Junebug member AKHappenings for planning the entire event. To see more celebrations they’ve planned, check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding planners.

This wedding teaches us that incorporating personal touches, collaborating with friends and family, and being mindful of practicality can result in a memorable and meaningful celebration. From custom decor to unique beer brewing, the couple’s choices reflected their values, making the event special and cost-effective. 

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This Ebell Long Beach Wedding is a Gothic Forest Come to Life

January 26, 2024 | justine

One of the most exciting aspects of wedding planning is figuring out your unique style. Take inspiration from Sheena and Steven, self-proclaimed metalheads with a deep love for historical and gothic styles. They ditched tradition for a wedding theme that was 100% them:  a mystical gothic forest. They teamed up with talented vendors to bring this vision to life, adding lush greenery and a moody feel. From the bold black dress with a veil and crown to coordinating colors, flowers, and a photographer who nails moody vibes, each element effortlessly fell into place for an Ebell Long Beach wedding that reflected their unique style and love story.

Selecting a venue steeped in a century-long legacy, the couple chose a historic gem that highlighted the elegance of Spanish-Revival design from the 1920s. It provided the ideal backdrop for their special day. For their courtyard ceremony, they elevated the ornate setting with black bistro chairs and an arch adorned with lush greenery. The reception, hosted in the Grand Hall, radiated timeless elegance, with tables adorned by low arrangements of greenery complemented by chic black settings and candles, crafting a captivating ambiance for their celebration.

If you and your partner find yourself drawn to the allure of a gothic wedding but feel a bit hesitant about fully embracing it, consider this your sign to go all out. Keep scrolling because Junebug member Ashley Vandevelde skillfully captured every meticulously planned detail.

The Couple:

Sheena and Steven

The Wedding:

Ebell Long Beach, California, United States

Why a Gothic Forest Ebell Long Beach Wedding

My husband and I are metalheads and love historical and gothic styles. Our overall theme was a Gothic forest. Once we had our theme, we found vendors that could bring our vision to life, incorporating the greenery and moody aesthetic we loved. I knew I wanted to wear a black dress with a veil and crown. Once I had the dress, color themes, floral ideas, and a photographer with expertise in moody vibes, everything else fell into place. Music was also important for our wedding. We were happy we found a DJ that was easy to work with and played all the music we loved.

Blending Edgy Vibes with Greenery and Historical Flair

I chose a black wedding dress with lace details and a crown for historical royal vibes. Our wedding was not just one style. We wanted a goth alternative that included lots of greenery and historical touches.

Beyond the Black Dress: A Unique Ceremony Soundtrack and Personal Vows

As if wearing a black dress was not enough. We wanted our style to be expressed during our ceremony, so I walked down the aisle to “Carrion Flowers” by Chelsea Wolf, which was so fitting. In addition, we wrote our vows to include some memories from the beginning of our relationship that we hold close to our hearts.

Embracing the Ebell for Its Historical Beauty

We wanted a unique and local venue for us to make it easy for family to travel to. We looked up historical venues in our area, and the Ebell Long Beach came up in our research. It is such a beautiful location and so close to home. It was perfect for what we were looking for.

The Benefits of Starting Wedding Planning a Year in Advance

Start at least a year in advance to plan and book vendors one step at a time without feeling too overwhelmed. The time will also help you find the vendors you like and get on their calendars before they are booked with other events.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Ashley Vandevelde
Event Planning – Carolyn Reese
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Ebell Long Beach
Floral Design – Marie Lewis
Catering – Tres LA
Cake – Rossmoor Pastries
Officiant – Chris Robinson
DJ – Kaleb Brand
Makeup Artist + Hair Styling – Fairytale Hair and Makeup
Wedding Dress + Bridal Accessories – Coco Melody
Rings – Point No Point Studio

 

Congratulations to Sheena and Steven on their Ebell Long Beach wedding that’s a Gothic forest come to life. And a special thank you to photographer  Ashley Vandevelde for beautifully capturing every detail. 

Sometimes, taking the plunge into the unconventional can lead to a celebration that is as unforgettable as it is authentically you.  Adding a touch of boldness by choosing black as the central theme can infuse your special day with a distinctive edge. If planning a wedding with a dark and edgy vibe appeals to you, explore our guide for insights into crafting a moody wedding, covering everything from attire choices to decor details.

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21 Unique Wedding Ideas You’ve Probably Never Heard of Before

January 24, 2024 | riley
unique wedding ideas hero image

Image by Kelsey Justice Photography. Keep scrolling for unique wedding ideas you’re going to want for your big day

The days of tradition have come and gone. As the years go by, more engaged couples are throwing out the wedding planning “rule book” and doing things their own way–and we’ve never been more excited about it. Although there’s nothing with sticking to tradition, we love seeing newlyweds plan the wedding of their dreams. So, if you’re looking for unique wedding ideas that you have not seen all over the internet, you’re in luck. We’ve seen some pretty special additions in our years and now we’re sharing them with you!

21 Unique Wedding Ideas

1. Leave The First Row Open For Wedding Party

While the tradition is for your wedding party to stand beside you, you can switch it up by leaving the first rows open for them to sit and enjoy the ceremony with your other guests. This allows them to relax, get off their feet, and get a better view of you exchanging your vows.

2. Stand On Opposite Sides

If you want your wedding parties to stand up with you, try this instead. Typically, you stand on the same side as your wedding party as well as your family members. While there’s nothing wrong with this, if you want your wedding party and family members to see your face throughout your ceremony, consider swapping sides. For example, a groom would stand by the bridesmaids, and the bride would stand by the groomsmen. This gives your loved ones a chance to see your face rather than your back.

3. Send a Mood Board With the Color Palette in the Wedding Invitation

Want all of your guests to dress in a specific color palette? Send them a mood board with the color palette of your choice in their wedding invitation. This way they can take the mood board with them while they are shopping for an outfit. Just think about how cohesive your photos will look! Share your mood board with Lovebird, an innovative platform streamlining wedding guest communication, allowing you to share all the important details and seamlessly collect information from guests with elegance, grace, and ease.

4. Flower Grandma

While we absolutely love little flower girls, assigning the role to your grandmother is an adorable way to include her in your ceremony. She’ll feel honored that you asked to her be a part of your special day and your guests will get a kick out of seeing her walk down the aisle with her basket of flowers.

flower grandma wedding

Image by Stephanie Velez Photography. See more of this real wedding here

5. Wedding Day Scent

You’ve probably heard about choosing a specific perfume or cologne for your wedding day (which we are all for), but have you considered incorporating a wedding day scent through candles or diffusers? That’s right. Having scented candles on your reception table and lighting them during dinner is an easy way to encapsulate your special day. When you’re in the mood to be reminded of your wedding years later, you can simply light a candle with that scent and be taken back to one of the most cherished days of your life.

6. Monobloom Wedding Party Bouquets

More often than not, a bridal bouquet is made up of multiple different flowers. And, in the past, bridesmaids typically carried bouquets that were very similar to the bride’s bouquet (aka also made up of the same different flowers). However, if you’re looking for something unique, consider having each member of your bridal party carry a bouquet of one singular flower type that makes up your bouquet. For example, one bridesmaid may carry a bouquet of sprayed roses, while another carries rununculas.

@xxmrsbunnxx A GENIUS wedding idea! One ive never seen before 😱 We’re about to change the game for Bridesmaid’s bouquets! 💐 Wedding ideas and wedding inspo ♥️ A unique wedding idea ♥️ #weddingtiktok #weddingtok #weddinginspo #fyp #weddinginspiration #weddingtips #weddingtipsfromabride #weddingtok💍 #2024brides #2025bride #bridesmaids #weddingbouquet ♬ original sound – summer songs&lt333

7. Incorporating Love Notes

Do you and your significant other share love notes with one another? Share these notes with your guests as wedding decor. Whether you use them as signage or put them on cocktail napkins like this couple did, it’s a great way to showcase your love story in a unique way. And your guests will love getting a glimpse of your love story leading up to your big day.

@meganjfrederick so many people were keeping them & taking photos! #weddingtiktok #weddingdetails #weddingplanning #bridetobe #2023bride #2023wedding #cocktailnapkins #customnapkins #2023weddingtrends #aestheticwedding #weddingdaytips ♬ original sound – grace *ੈ✩‧₊˚

8. Have An “In Memorial” Table

If you have family members who have passed, put together an “in memorial” table comprised of photos, memorabilia, and some of their favorite foods and beverages. It’s a unique way to honor them and the life they lived.

9. Unity Shot or Drink

Get the party started early with a unity shot or cocktail/beer during the ceremony. If you want your guests to be included, doing so at the very end before sealing the deal with a kiss is a great way to get everyone involved. If you want it to be just you and your partner, incorporate it into your readings.

Not a fan of a drink or shot? That’s okay. We’ve rounded up 15 other unique unity ceremony ideas!

wedding unity shot

Image by Paige Nelson

10. Create a QR Code + Shared Album

There’s a good chance that your guests are going to be taking lots of photos during your special day. There’s also a good chance that you never get to see these photos or they’re added to an Instagram story for a short 24 hours. If you want your guests to share their photos with you, create a Google shared album and a QR code that links to said album and place it throughout the wedding decor. This gives people the chance to quickly upload their pictures so that you can have them forever.

If you’re worried that guests will forget because they’re partying too hard, you can also include the code on your thank-you notes. This allows them to upload when they’re not focused on dancing and celebrating your love.

11. Photo Scavenger Hunt

Speaking of photos, if you’re looking for another way to gather photos from your guests (while keeping them entertained), host a photo scavenger hunt. Create a list of specific photos to take, and then encourage them to upload them to a shared album. To up the anty, put a prize on the line.

12. Walk Down The Aisle Together

Whether your parents have passed or they’re not going to be attending, walking down the aisle together is a memorable way to begin your new life as newlyweds. You get to walk hand-in-hand with your partner in life as you embark on your new journey.

13. Walk Towards Your Guests

Typically, whoever is walking down the aisle toward their partner walks through their guests. Guests then typically have to shift their attention back to see you. To keep everyone facing forward (allow your partner to be the first one to see you walking down the aisle, thus putting an emphasis on your love), consider walking towards your guests.

Alex Cooper wedding

Image via Vogue

14. Have A Social Media Minute

You’ve most likely heard of an unplugged ceremony, but have you heard of a social media minute? While we’re sure you’d love your guests to stay off their phones, they often don’t listen–even when you specifically let them know it’s unplugged. To give them the chance to capture the footage and photos they want, host a social media minute where they’re allowed to take their phones out and take as many photos and videos as they want. The easiest way to do this is to have your officiant announce it towards the end of your ceremony.

15. Have a Cocktail Wall or Self Serve Bar

We’ll always be a fan of regular reception bars. But if you’re looking to take things up a notch and stand out, consider creating a cocktail wall or self-serve bar. This could include staff passing out drinks when the bell is rung or beer or wine that guests can pour with a handle.

wedding bar truck

Image by Emily Klarer. See more of this real wedding here

16. Custom Pizza Boxes

Are you and your fiancee pizza lovers? Considering having pizza served as a late-night snack? Although this is a small detail, it makes for some killer photos that you’re going to love. Use custom pizza boxes and add a message to the top of the pizza using ricotta or pepperoni.

 

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17. Rent a Bouncy House

Jump back into the past with a bouncy house during your reception, and we promise all of your guests will feel like children again–just be mindful if you have an open bar!

18. Print a Wedding Newspaper

If you’re hosting a wedding weekend and you want to share your itinerary in a unique way, consider a wedding newspaper. You can include everything from your love story to a schedule to recommendations for food and things to do (especially if it’s a destination wedding).

 

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A post shared by THE CEREMONY CLUB (@theceremonyclub)

19. A Coffee Truck

As more and more couples opt for an alcohol-free or brunch wedding, we’re seeing more couples in search of other fun drink options for their guests. Whether you and your partner are huge coffee lovers or you just want to help guests get a little pick-me-up, a coffee truck or station is the perfect way to keep the party going without drinking. Still want alcohol, too? Do both!

20. Create a Time Capsule

Instead of a guest book, create a time capsule where your guests can write messages or predictions for the future. Seal them in the “capsule” of your choice, pick a time to open it, and read them years later. It will be the perfect way to reminisce on your big day and create new memories with your loved ones.

21. Guess the First Dance

You can never have too many ways to entertain your guests. To get them involved, create a “guess the first dance” game, with the chance of winning a bottle of champagne or another prize of your choice.

Now that you’ve got some unique wedding ideas planned for your special day, check out our ultimate guide on planning unique “I do’s” for even more inspiration!

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