When Tiff and Elle decided to tie the knot, they knew they wanted a wild, intimate celebration that matched their fun personalities. No stuffy traditions for this dynamic duo! Instead, they chose an Altar Electric elopement that promised a whirlwind of excitement. Their wedding day? It was like a rock ‘n’ roll symphony of joy, a love party for the ages, and a glittery reminder that sometimes, all it takes is a touch of rock star magic to make your special day shine.
In classic Vegas fashion, their ceremony was a whirlwind of love and excitement. With an over-the-top heart-shaped backdrop, the couple exchanged their forever vows in a flash. After a wild adventure through the city, capturing memories at every turn, the fun was just beginning. Their first dance took place beneath dazzling disco balls enveloped in shimmering streamers.
With a venue that’s as unique as it is iconic, chic fashion that added a touch of sophistication to the fun vibe, and a romance that’s as wild as the dazzling city lights, this Altar Electric elopement might just be the spark of inspiration you’ve been looking for. Keep scrolling to witness the love from every angle beautifully captured by Marie-Luise Skibbe.
We wanted an intimate and fun wedding vibe, and The Altar Electric ticked those boxes. The Altar Electric brings a Las Vegas style wedding to Melbourne, and their team organizes as much or as little as you want. After deciding on this venue, everything else just felt so easy as we picked things that we loved. We didn’t want anything overly traditional as that is simply not the type of people we are, and there had to be a dance floor and oysters on the menu.
Wedding Planning Priorities for an Easier and Memorable Journey
When planning your wedding, consider the three most important things to make your day memorable. Remember these as you plan. Enjoy and treasure the moments with your partner on your wedding day, as it can be a wonderfully overwhelming experience. If you don’t have a wedding planner, consider hiring one to help you stay organized and remember everything important. With these in mind, your wedding planning journey will be easier and more memorable.
Why The Couple Feels Proud and Grateful for Crafting an Authentic Day
When we think of our wedding, we feel so proud and grateful that all of our guests comment that it was such a fun day and that we literally had the best day of our lives. We stayed true to ourselves and still can’t believe how pawfect our dog Oslo was on the day.
Congratulations to Tiff and Elle on their unique Las Vegas-inspired Altar Electric elopement. Marie-Luise Skibbe did an amazing job capturing all the memorable moments, from the fun and playful to the dramatic and romantic.
By focusing on what truly meant the most to them instead of following traditional rules, they created a real and genuine day. Choosing a venue they loved right from the start made everything else fit perfectly, setting a fun tone for the day. If you’re ready to start planning your own special celebration for two, explore our elopement planning checklist and our guide to finding a place that’s just as unique as your love story.
Sofia and Adam are all about going big or going home, and when it came to their wedding plans, they aimed for the stars! Their goal was to throw an iconic New Year’s Eve extravaganza that was more than just a wedding. It was a grand black-tie gala and a dance party rolled into one, with all their favorite people in the mix. To turn this wild Weylin wedding dream into reality, they assembled a dream team of wedding pros who could make miracles happen. And let’s just say calling it a success would be the understatement of the century.
The couple’s choice of the former Williamsburg Savings Bank embodied the Gilded Age glamor, featuring towering 80-foot hand-painted ceilings and intricate baroque details. It was the perfect place to exchange their vows. After their ceremony under the ornate dome, a speakeasy-inspired cocktail hour followed. For the reception, the same space was transformed with a mix of long and round tables, vibrant centerpieces, and expert lighting to accentuate the venue’s grandeur. Aerialists added a unique touch by pouring champagne, and the night reached its peak as disco balls descended during the New Year’s countdown, with cannons shooting gold and silver streamers at midnight. A truly grand way to ring in the New Year!
The couple redefined the idea of “you only get married once, so go all the way.” From the 360-degree photo booth and the personalized temporary tattoos to the glittery streamer cannons, they went all out to make sure their guests had an amazing time, and they did it in a truly fabulous way. Keep scrolling to see every aspect of their extravagant celebration, all thoughtfully documented through the lens of Junebug member The Drakes.
The Couple:
Sofia and Adam
The Wedding:
Weylin, Broadway, Brooklyn, New York, United States
Kicking Off their Weylin Wedding Weekend With a Lowkey Gathering
Our wedding weekend began with a lovely gathering at our penthouse suite in Hotel Indigo, located on the Lower East Side. This massive suite had two floors, high ceilings, three terraces, and oversized windows that let us see the New York City skyline. After the welcome drinks, we walked a short distance to Katz’s Delicatessen for our rehearsal dinner. It’s a famous place in New York. A super long line was outside, but our guests got special treatment. We went right in, past all the people waiting, which felt amazing. Inside, we saw the floor was covered in sawdust. They gave us paper menus and platters of food like hot dogs, knishes, pickles, and sandwiches. It was a fun contrast to what we planned for the next night—a fancy black-tie event.
Why They Chose to Get Married at the Weylin
When planning our wedding day, Adam and I decided to celebrate our love at the Weylin in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This incredible venue, originally established in 1875, used to be the Williamsburg Savings Bank. It’s like a time capsule from the Gilded Age, with ceilings that stretch up to 80 feet high, two stunning rotundas adorned with hand-painted ceilings, and more intricate and ornate details than you’d find in a 17th-century French cathedral. Being in this space made us feel like we were part of a rich history that existed long before our love story even began. We knew that, just like the Weylin, our love would stand the test of time. It was the perfect place to celebrate the beginning of our journey together.
Personalizing Their Weylin Wedding Ceremony by Having Their Best Friends Officiate
We did things a bit differently at our wedding and asked two of our close friends to be in charge instead of a traditional officiant. We had two simple wishes for them. One, to use the traditional wedding vows because we found them very romantic. And two, to say these promises to each other, showing how our lives were coming together. It was a special way to start our marriage journey.
The Bride’s Personal Take on a Beloved Tradition
I followed an old tradition for good luck on our wedding day: “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” For my “something old,” I used two brooches that belonged to my grandmother, Tanya, and had them incorporated into my beautiful wedding dress. My “something new” was a custom wedding dress created by the talented designer Mark Ingram. I borrowed a tennis bracelet and a pair of diamond stud earrings from the same jeweler who worked with Adam to design my unique engagement ring and our wedding bands. And, to fulfill the “something blue” part, I had the words “I love you!” written in Adam’s handwriting sewn into the fabric of my dress, which came from one of his cherished blue chambray shirts.
Adding Hollywood Glamor to Their Cocktail Hour by Making It a Red Carpet Event
After a touching ceremony that left everyone emotional, we guided our guests downstairs to a cool, speakeasy-style bar for cocktail hour. There, we rolled out a red carpet and set up a step-and-repeat backdrop. Adding a touch of Hollywood glamor to the event. The bar offered special drinks, like the Fernet and Citrus Old Fashion. And a grapefruit-infused sparkling Paloma, named after our beloved dogs, Old Rumba and Poppy Paloma. It was fun to see the drinks served on black cocktail napkins with cute silver silhouettes of our dogs that said, “Drinks on us!” Everyone had a good laugh.
Setting the Party Tone With an Aerialist and a Champagne Wall
We brought our guests back upstairs for our reception, and what a transformation it was! The room had changed entirely, and when they walked in, they were greeted by an aerialist performing to Rihanna’s “Diamonds.” This performance set the tone for the entire night—the dance party had officially begun. We had a cool champagne wall against one of the stunning bank backdrops. It displayed a collection of vintage glassware, each with a guest’s name and table assignment beautifully written in calligraphy. The aerialist reappeared while we were having dinner, impressing our guests again by pouring champagne from above.
Over-The-Top Weylin Wedding Entertainment Extras to Enhance the Guest Experience
Our commitment to details continued as the night progressed towards midnight. We had some delightful surprises in store for our guests. They had a blast in a 360-degree photo booth, set against the backdrop of a massive 16-foot colorful open arched floral wall. Instead of the usual guest book, we offered an old-fashioned phone where guests could record personalized audio messages for us, which was a perfect match for the building’s history. We didn’t overlook a single detail. We even arranged for an Italian espresso bar to keep the energy high throughout the evening. Ensuring our guests had their caffeine fix whenever needed.
Adding an Extra Layer of Fun Through Personalized Tattoos and Face Gems
Inside the bank’s vault, a surprise awaited our guests: a neon tattoo sign inviting them to “get inked! the bride and groom have a special message for you.” Before the big day, Adam and I had taken the time to craft personalized messages for each guest. We brought in a skilled calligrapher for the day to temporarily tattoo these secret messages onto our guests. The room filled with excitement and delight as each person uncovered their unique message. For my incredible mother, the renowned editor-in-chief Bonnie Fuller, we chose “matriarch” as her secret tattoo. Another dear friend, a nurse who had bravely faced the challenges of the pandemic, received the word “healer.” To keep the party going, we offered face gems to guests while they waited for their tattoos. Adding a touch of extra sparkle to the night.
Disco Balls, Lemon Drop Shots, and Streamer Showers: Welcoming the New Year with a Bang
As the countdown began, Adam and I knew this was our moment to make a big impact. We wanted to go all out. The staff handed out the usual New Year’s Eve decorations to everyone. And they even served lemon drop shots on the dance floor to get everyone in a festive mood. But the best surprise was when two disco balls descended from above. Two women appeared and held signs with numbers. Like in a boxing match, counting down the last ten seconds of 2022. Then, when the clock struck midnight, cannons shot out a shower of gold and silver confetti, covering the entire scene in a dazzling display. It was a magical way to welcome the new year.
Welcoming the New Year in Classic New York Style at Their Iconic Weylin Wedding
Following Dick Clark’s New Year’s Eve tradition. “Auld Lang Syne” played as Adam and I shared our first kiss as a married couple. We were all swept up in the moment. It was followed by Frank Sinatra’s rendition of “New York, New York.” Everyone joined hands and swayed to the music in classic New York style. The energy in the room was electric, with hugs, kisses, high-fives, and cheers exchanged among friends and strangers alike. It truly felt like a quintessential New York New Year’s Eve wedding. Then, the lights went wild, and Avicii’s “Levels” blasted through the speakers. I had one more surprise in store, revealing a high-low dress perfect for dancing the night away as the celebration continued. Guests of all ages hit the dance floor, and we partied until the early morning hours, creating countless unforgettable moments filled with laughter and joy.
Congratulations to Sofia and Adam on their black-tie New Year’s Eve Weylin wedding. And a big thank you to The Drakes for capturing all the well-thought-out details and memorable moments on film. Check out their profile for more grand celebrations like this one in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.
Deciding to have your wedding on a holiday isn’t easy. It means thinking about your budget, who’s coming, and if your preferred vendors are available. To ensure everything goes off without a hitch, having an experienced team is absolutely essential. So, if you’re planning a holiday soiree as intricate as Sofia and Adam’s, consider assembling your dream team by exploring our directory of skilled wedding professionals from all over the world.
Debrina and Ardo’s Hotel Majapahit wedding was a dream come true. They spent two years planning, and the wait was totally worth it! Surrounded by their closest loved ones, they created a celebration that was a perfect mix of classic elegance and modern vintage charm. Picture a timeless color palette, stunning florals and decor, and fashion that radiates sophistication. Their special day was a seamless blend of old-world luxury and a touch of modern allure.
There was one thing Debrina wanted more than anything: to have her wedding at one of Surabaya’s most historic and beautiful venues. With the help of their trusted vendor team, they brought that dream to life in the most spectacular way. The enchanting ceremony was adorned with lush arrangements of delicate white flowers along the aisle and at the altar. The reception was a true showstopper, highlighted by the gorgeous waterfall chandelier that hung above their exquisite tablescape overflowing with blooms.
To add the finishing touch, the wedding fashion was in perfect harmony with the theme. The groom looked dashing in a classic suit, and the bride was a vision of beauty in not one but two stunning gowns. This wedding is filled with inspiration that can be added to your vision board. Take a look at these beautiful photos captured by Alinea Pictures to see more!
Creating the Perfect Wedding Look to Complement Their Timeless Hotel Majapahit Wedding Theme
My dress had a classic and ethereal look for the ceremony, and I kept my makeup natural. For the evening reception, I opted for a vintage and elegant dress with a modern classic touch, and I went for bolder makeup compared to the ceremony. The dapper jazz men of the 1950s and 1960s inspired the groom’s suit.
Modern Meets Classic at Their Hotel Majapahit Wedding
For the morning ceremony, our goal was to create a white theme to symbolize our marriage’s magical and sacred nature. However, when it came to the evening reception, we decided on a blend of modern and classical elements that harmonized perfectly with our historic venue. The reception exuded a magical ambiance, with a rich midnight color palette that beautifully contrasted against the ornate walls of Hotel Majapahit.
Making Their Wedding Dreams Come True Required Team Effort
Every minute of our wedding was filled with magic and unforgettable moments. We had been eagerly anticipating our wedding for over two years, enduring numerous postponements due to COVID-19 and the geographical distance between us, as we lived separately in Indonesia and New Zealand. We are immensely grateful to the entire team that played a pivotal role in making our wedding a reality, including our florist, planner, photographer, and all the other crew members, even though we can’t mention each individually. Everything felt magical as if our dreams had come true.
Smart Wedding Budgeting Tips: Planning for the Unexpected
It’s crucial to have open discussions with your partner about how much you want to spend on your wedding. Additionally, preparing extra money is a good idea in case unexpected expenses arise. Once you’ve set your budget, you can talk to your florist and planner about your desired style. Check if it aligns with your budget, and if not, explore alternative options that match your style but still fit your budget. We were pleasantly surprised by the cost of lighting, which turned out to be a bit higher than expected, but the results were absolutely worth it.
Advice for a Stress-Free Wedding Planning Experience
Since your wedding is an exceptional and sacred occasion, it’s important to planit carefully. Try not to get overly stressed about it. Remember to communicate openly with your partner and the people helping you, and it’s a good idea to have a backup plan in case things don’t go as expected. This way, you can enjoy your big day with peace of mind.
Congratulations to Debrina and Ardo on their magical and modern Hotel Majapahit. And a big thank you to Alinea Pictures for preserving all those special moments that’ll hold a cherished place in this couple’s hearts for a lifetime.
This wedding has taught us that a stunning location, beautiful florals, and unique personal touches are always in fashion. Pair these timeless elements with a trusted vendor team, and you have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable celebration. Get started with making your dream wedding a reality with our planning and budget guides. And explore our vendor directory to find the best professionals for your big day.
Cameron and Sean chose a Clay Theater wedding for a truly special reason. Their love story had some meaningful milestones at drive-in movies. It was where they shared important moments as a couple. So, when they wanted their big day to have that extra “wow” factor, the Clay Theater was the perfect choice. This historic venue oozed timeless art deco vibes, and with everyone dressed to the nines in black-tie attire, their wedding felt like a glamorous movie premiere. It was a beautiful way to honor their unique journey as a couple and turn it into a memorable blockbuster event.
Despite the timeless touches throughout their wedding, the pair made sure to add their personal twist. Instead of doing a first look, they read heartfelt letters to each other hidden behind a pillar. During their courtyard ceremony, they had a lovely and fun surprise with flower grannies. But the real showstopper was the wedding fashion. Sean looked dashing in a classic black suit, while Cameron surprised everyone by rocking a white suit jacket paired with a whopping 12-foot cathedral train. Now that’s what you call a fashion statement!
As they wrapped up their special day, they kept things stylish and sleek at their main hall reception. They added the perfect finishing touches with towering candle centerpieces, a chic black balloon installation, and marquee letter lights. If you’re looking to infuse a bit of retro flair into your modern love story, take notes from this Clay Theater wedding—it’s the ideal inspiration for you. Keep scrolling to take in all the stunning details beautifully captured by Celeste Burns.
Breaking Boundaries by Embracing a Unique and Authentic Wedding Style
Our gay wedding differed from most, and we’re proud of that. Many same-sex couples usually wear matching suits, but I wanted to be unique. I typically wear black, so even I was surprised when I chose white. I wanted to be called the “bride,” and I thought about how to mix a classic wedding look with something special for a gay wedding. Keeping my aisle look a secret was hard, but when I walked out in a 12-foot long train as a man, it felt just right, like being a bride. The gasps from our guests when they saw me made it all worth it. I loved my outfit, and it took a long time to put it all together.
Sharing Letters Instead of a First Look
Instead of doing a first look, Sean and I chose to do something really special on the morning of our wedding. We sat down and wrote heartfelt letters to each other. Then, as we held hands on opposite sides of a pillar, we shared these letters. In those letters, we poured out our thoughts about that morning, our memories of the past, and our hopes for the future once we said our “I do’s.” It was a beautiful way to connect before our big moment.
A Clay Theater Wedding That Defied Norms and Traditions
We didn’t feel the need to stick to the old-fashioned way of splitting people into wedding parties based on gender. Our wedding was mainly for adults, so we decided to do something unique—we had flower grannies! Another break from tradition was having both of our parents walk us down the aisle, and that turned out to be one of my favorite moments of the entire ceremony. We chose Miley Cyrus songs for our ceremony music to make it even more personal. “The Climb” (which was Sean’s song), “Adore You” (for the wedding party), and even “Wrecking Ball” played by the Midnite String Quartet (my bridal song) made our ceremony feel incredibly special and authentic to us.
The Special Reason Why Picking a Venue First Was So Important To Them
For us, the venue was the very first and most crucial choice. Our story began at the Silver Moon Drive-In, where we had our very first date. And it’s also where Sean asked me to be his boyfriend officially. So, when we stumbled upon the Clay Theater, we instantly knew it was where we wanted to say our vows. It was the very first venue we visited, and when we arrived, the team was incredibly warm and welcoming, and the venue itself was jaw-dropping. It was exactly what I had dreamt of for our wedding. It was stunning and held a special connection to our first date, as it’s a historic 1937 renovated movie theater. This connection made choosing the Clay Theater an easy and heartfelt decision for us.
Bridging Dreams and Budget: How Their Perfect Venue Became a Reality
Our journey started with finding the perfect venue, and everything else fell into place around it. The venue was our top priority. Initially, we set our wedding budget at $20,000, but we soon realized that wouldn’t quite cut it. Ultimately, we more than doubled our budget, landing around $42,000. You only get married once, right? As two gay men who grew up never expecting to find love or have a grand wedding, this was a dream come true. Knowing how much I longed for a big wedding, Sean wholeheartedly supported my creative vision as we built our perfect day together. Love knows no limits, and neither did our celebration.
Streamlining the Wedding Experience Through Tech-Savvy Seating
We decided to take matters into our own hands and built a custom seating chart with a QR code link. Our guests quickly scanned it during the cocktail hour, saving space in the lobby and allowing us to focus on enhancing the lobby experience with some exciting features.
A Tasty Twist on Wedding Favors and Wedding Cake
Tired of seeing wedding favors go to waste, we took a different approach. Sean, the groom with a sweet tooth, selected a delectable sweet snack, while Cameron, the bride with a taste for savory treats, chose a salty one. These treats provided our guests with a delightful late-night snack after a night of dancing, ensuring that our favors were memorable and satisfying. Regarding dessert, we veered away from a traditional large cake and opted for eight personal Bundt cake flavors from Nothing Bundt Cakes. The servers delivered this sweet assortment to each table, delighting our guests with a flavorful ending to our special day.
Setting the Dance Floor Ablaze Throughout Their Clay Theater Wedding Reception
Without a doubt, our first dance stole the show. The moment we stepped onto the dance floor, surrounded by the cheering of our loved ones, with a captivating fog blanketing the ground and cold sparks shooting up, it sent shivers down our spines. It’s also one of our cherished moments captured by Celeste Burns. We didn’t want traditional line dancing or “older” music at our wedding. Being young at 24, when we tied the knot, we wanted our reception to feel more like a lively club scene. And that’s precisely what it became. Everyone hit the dance floor, regardless of age, and we all had an absolute blast, creating unforgettable memories together.
Congratulations to Cameron and Sean on their beautiful black and white art deco Clay Theater wedding. And many thanks to Celeste Burns for capturing every moment and detail that made their celebration a memorable one.
Your wedding venue can set the mood, especially if it has a special meaning to your love story. This wedding is your proof. And if you’re starting your search for the perfect venue, take a look at our carefully selected options. Once you’ve found the right place, add some extra flair by getting creative with your fashion choices and gathering inspiration from unique ideas. These simple steps can make your wedding day truly special.
When Elizabeth and Josh decided to tie the knot, they wanted to keep things cozy and invited just 30 of their nearest and dearest to party with them. But they added a personal twist to their big day. They tossed aside the rulebook and went for a wild and colorful vibe with an explosion of flowers. It was like a rainbow had a dance-off with a garden. Their goal was simple. To make their 1212 Germantown wedding feel more like a nontraditional bash than a stuffy wedding. And they absolutely nailed it.
The pair hit a little bump in the road when their first wedding venue bailed on them, but they lucked out and found a new spot just a block away. With their awesome planner by their side, they turned this unexpected twist into a fabulous success story. Picture this: a historic front porch transformed into a colorful floral wonderland with color-blocked arrangements as the ceremony backdrop. And the fun didn’t stop there! For the reception, they mixed and matched textures and patterns, covering the tables in blue plaid linen and filling them with vibrant centerpieces and candles. To top it all off, they brought a touch of the outdoors inside with a window pane greenery backdrop.
Their wedding was a fun and carefree affair, filled with color and great style. If you want to dive into all the nitty-gritty details, scroll through these fantastic snapshots captured by the talented Sarah Bill. Whether you’re planning your own garden wedding or just seeking some fresh inspiration, these creative ideas will surely add that extra sprinkle of magic to your big day.
The Inspiration Behind Their Colorful Dinner Party Inspired 1212 Germantown Wedding
We kept the guest list to 30 people and went with a wilder, more colorful design for the day. We wanted to throw a fun dinner party that included a wedding. Our goal was to have something nontraditional. The most memorable part of the day was the flowers. There were so many flowers, with so much color everywhere in the venue. Everyone had an “oh wow” moment when they entered the reception. We had bright flowers, an off-white wedding dress with flowers on it, and blue plaid tablecloths. It felt fun. I’m proud that the day was very representative of who we are. It was fun, carefree, and easy.
Tying Everything Together With Floral-Themed Wedding Fashion
I wanted a fun dress. I picked an off-white wedding dress that was sequinned and had bright embroidered flowers on it. We found the perfect matching tie for my husband. He got so many compliments.
A 1212 Germantown Wedding Filled With Personal Touches and Sentiments
Our friend Sam was our officiant. He knew us personally, so his speech was very special to us. We hand-wrote vows to each other and exchanged them when we arrived home from the wedding. We also did a remembrance table with pictures of all our grandparents at their weddings.
A Venue Cancellation That Turned Into a Blessing
We initially chose a small house in the Germantown neighborhood of Nashville, where I had lived for six years. That venue canceled, and we luckily found a new one a block from the original venue. It wasn’t our first choice, but it worked out well. Having a planner saved our entire wedding. She kicked it into overtime, found us a new venue, and redesigned the whole wedding. Everything went perfectly the day of.
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A Balancing Act: How They Navigated Their $20K 1212 Germantown Wedding Budget
We decided how many guests we would have and then set a budget based on that. Our budget was $20K. We went slightly over budget. I definitely splurged on the flowers, but everyone said it was worth it after seeing them. I saved on my dress, which was Before by Sarah Seven, and was $700.
Embracing Pittsburgh Tradition with Cookie Table Favors
Our wedding favors were a cookie table, a Pittsburgh tradition (where I am from). There were champagne bottle cookies, golden retriever cookies, and homemade ones from my best friend. We had to-go bags that said Midnight Snack on them.
Congratulations to Elizabeth and Josh on their colorful dinner party-inspired 1212 Germantown wedding. And many thanks to Sarah Bill for flawlessly capturing each enchanting detail and cherished moment.
When planning a wedding, things sometimes go differently than planned. Which is why having an experienced team of experts is so important. They can handle unexpected changes and challenges, ensuring your big day goes smoothly. To find reliable and trusted pros, take a look at our carefully selected list of the world’s best wedding vendors.
Jodie and Nick had a special vision for their big day. They wanted to blend the charm of a garden cocktail party, the cozy vibes of a cottage core atmosphere, and the relaxation of a yoga retreat at their Ruby Lake Resort wedding. Jodie, who plans retreat weddings, wanted to prove that weddings can be more than just one day, so they stretched their celebration over several days. It was a hit! Their wedding was full of vibrant colors inspired by Diwali, with breathtaking floral arrangements and installations that truly wowed everyone.
Imagine a beautiful forest ceremony, an aisle lined with wildflowers, leading to a mossy tree altar adorned with blooms that appeared to grow from the tree itself. After exchanging heartfelt vows, the newlyweds exited under a shower of flowers, creating a magical moment. The tented reception was equally enchanting, with stunning tablescapes overflowing with colorful blooms and hanging potted flowers above. Meanwhile, the golden glow of candles and string lights set the perfect atmosphere.
While we could go on about this incredible event, we’ll let the amazing photos by Junebug member Sara Rogers speak for themselves. From the sweet first look to the forest portraits and all the beautiful moments in between, this weekend celebration is a must-see.
As a wedding planner specializing in retreat weddings, I aimed to make our special day reflect this unique style. Traditional weddings often feel rushed, leaving little room for genuine connections with guests. Retreat weddings provide a different experience, but they come with their own challenges, like local rules, where everyone stays, meal planning, and getting the right staff. This is why having a wedding planner is crucial. Our chosen venue, Ruby Lake Resort, had everything we needed: places to stay, beautiful spots, excellent catering, and the flexibility we wanted. It allowed us to give our guests something new, where they could spend quality time with us and create lasting friendships. The immersive and experiential aspects made our whole weekend unforgettable.
Prioritizing Comfort and Authenticity for the Bridal Look
When selecting my wedding dress, Nick had one specific request: he wanted to see my curves. So, I chose a dress that showcased my figure and embodied the whimsical and joyful spirit of our floral-themed wedding. To add a personal touch, I customized the dress with shoulder straps instead of a strapless top for comfort and authenticity. With help from my stylist, I also embraced my natural curls to ensure I felt like myself on the big day. My goal was to feel natural and true to who I am.
Incorporating Unique Colors and a Family Heirloom into the Groom’s Attire
Nick was passionate about wearing a suit that incorporated color but didn’t lean into the most common color palettes seen in men’s suits. So, he had a custom suit made through Cardero Clothing that allowed him to select each item. He did so with his gold nugget cufflinks in mind, as these were a family heirloom.
Using Gender-Neutral Language and an ASL Interpreter Made Their Ceremony Especially Meaningful
The ceremony felt deeply personal because someone dear to us officiated it. Making sure the script had no gender expectations and truly represented us was crucial. We worked closely on the script, choosing words and verses carefully. I’ve heard countless ceremonies. This was one of the trickiest parts of planning. I also surprised my sister with an ASL interpreter since she has difficulty hearing. It meant a lot to her because she could enjoy the ceremony without straining to read lips. Our interpreter was Contessa, one of my assistants at Thistle & Thorne.
Their Wedding Theme was Inspired by Their Passion for Gardening and Music Festivals
Our love for gardening, tropical plants, and intimate music festivals inspired our wedding design. We wanted to create a unique atmosphere blending a garden cocktail party, cottage core, and yoga retreat feel. Our florist played a big part in making this happen with her stunning arrangements. We told our vendors from the start that we wanted lots of different colors, taking inspiration from the lively Diwali Festival of Lights. So, our ceremony had warm and cool colors like purple, blue, tangerine, coral, and yellow, while the reception had warmer shades to add energy to our dinner celebration.
How Their Ruby Lake Resort Wedding Weekend Unfolded
Our wedding lasted several days, each with its own special moments. The first day was about the beach and a cozy barbecue dinner for about 40 guests gathered around a warm bonfire. The day before our wedding started with a peaceful yoga class on a floating dock and a delicious brunch. On the wedding day, colorful flowers were the star, and a floral cannon showered us with colors as we walked down the aisle. The night ended with an exciting performance by a lively psychedelic cumbia and salsa 7-piece band. They played past the curfew, and even the venue staff joined in on the fun.
How They Navigated Their Ruby Lake Resort Wedding Budget
I have experience creating budgets for retreat weddings for my clients. Retreat wedding budgets differ from typical ones on Pinterest. Mainly due to the unique spending priorities, especially when providing multiple meals for guests. Unexpectedly, we had to transport the decor to our remote venue, which was only accessible by ferry because there were no local decoration companies. This required renting a U-Haul, an unforeseen expense. Our initial budget was $50,000, but we spent around $65,000. Luckily, some vendor friends provided around $7,000 worth of services. We invested extra in the wedding dress for customization and photography to ensure we had a talented photographer covering both days of the wedding.
Adding a Personal Touch to Their Wedding Through Handmade Details
We created many DIY items out of necessity because finding rentals that matched our color palette was challenging. We crafted all the flower boxes for the reception by cutting wood sheets to the correct size, gluing them with carpenter’s glue, clamping them, and then painting them tangerine or coral. We also hand-painted the terracotta pots, and for the accommodation signs, we painted them by hand and added the lettering with a Cricut machine. Me and my sister-in-law worked together to make the place cards and menus, staying until 1 a.m. the night before heading to the venue. Additionally, we prepared all the ice cubes before the wedding. I grew the edible flowers and froze them into each cube.
One surefire way to make the most of your wedding is to turn it into an extended celebration. Congratulations to Jody and Nick for their unforgettable days-long Ruby Lake Resort wedding, brimming with exquisite details and cherished moments. Many thanks to Junebug member Sara Rogers for beautifully capturing every aspect of their big day. To discover more incredible weddings like this, check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.
By selecting a gorgeous, secluded venue, infusing it with unique details, and crafting an enchanting atmosphere, you can create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. To ensure that every element is expertly handled, assembling a team of professionals is crucial. These experts will work in harmony to seamlessly bring all the elements together and transform your vision into reality. If you and your partner are contemplating a weekend retreat similar to Jody and Nick’s, be sure to explore our guide and use our vendor directory to build your dream team.
Vivian and Daniel dreamt of crafting a woodland wedding that was truly one-of-a-kind. Pulling inspiration from the whimsical world of Studio Ghibli, their wedding was far from ordinary. It was all about fun, enchantment, and crafting lasting memories. Picture this: tying the knot among towering trees, surrounded by moss-covered rocks, in a secluded, fantasy-like setting. This is the story of how they turned their dream of an Emerald Forest treehouse theater wedding into a beautiful reality.
In the heart of the forest, their ceremony was a fairytale come to life. A wooden arch adorned with colorful florals and lanterns added vibrant flair to the lush surroundings. After the pair exchanged heartfelt vows, bubbles filled the air, creating a whimsical exit. But the enchantment didn’t stop there. The reception was equally magical, set in a dreamy movie theater beneath towering trees. Golden string lights and starry skies illuminated the scene, while popcorn, cozy blankets, and a crackling fire pit made the night truly unforgettable.
Their wedding was filled with love, and the beautiful pictures taken by Junebug member TMInspired tell the whole story. Keep scrolling to see every special moment. We’re confident that after seeing these photos, you’ll want to pin them to your wedding mood board.
Creating a Whimsical Studio Ghibli-Inspired Emerald Forest Treehouse Theater Wedding
We wanted a forest wedding where I could create a fairytale, whimsical wedding. We also wanted a smaller wedding due to our budget and what we wanted for the wedding. We found the venue by googling unique wedding venues in the US, and it was the first result! We were going for a jewel-toned, colorful, fairytale wedding with a hint of Studio Ghibli. Since we were in nature and the forest, we wanted to have a lot of flowers to create a whimsical feel, which was also in the wedding dress. We focused on making the wedding fun, cozy, and relaxing/chill, with many activities, movies, snacks, a fire pit, a tree house, and cozy blankets. Three things made our venue the most memorable one yet. We ziplined into our wedding! And honestly, it was so fun!
Crafting a Fairytale Wedding Look: Embracing Forest Elegance with Studio Ghibli Flair
From the start, I envisioned our wedding as a fairytale unfolding in a forest, much like the whimsical settings in Studio Ghibli films. With this dream in mind, I carefully selected my dress and shoes to match this magical theme. I aimed for simplicity in jewelry, allowing my dress and shoes to take center stage while maintaining an elegant touch. My goal was to veer away from the traditional wedding look, opting for softer colors in my dress and his suit to contrast the vibrant florals and decor. I chose color-coordinated jewelry to complement the dress, including a Sakura flower bracelet and a blue sapphire necklace, which also served as my something blue. For my overall bridal look, I opted for a natural style, considering the natural surroundings, as a glamorous look wouldn’t quite harmonize with the forest setting.
Personalizing Every Aspect of Their Emerald Forest Treehouse Theater Wedding Ceremony
We personalized everything about our ceremony. We had a friend officiate our wedding, and we found old examples of the officiating script that most applied to our forest wedding, edited it, and wrote our stories and our own vows. I built our arch flowers and bought Vietnamese Hoi An lanterns from Vietnam for the arch as a nod to my Vietnamese heritage. We did a rope-tying ceremony to celebrate Daniel’s Irish/Scottish roots, where we tied three ropes into an infinity loop.
Adding Personalized Touches to Their Emerald Forest Treehouse Theater Wedding
I took on a lot of DIY projects to make our wedding uniquely ours. I handled all the floral arrangements except for my bouquet and the boutonniere. Additionally, I created all our signs using a Cricut machine for the mirror welcome sign and Canva for designing some other signs. To bring these signs to life, I had them printed as pictures at Walgreens (by the way, they always have great discounts on picture printing). For our vow books, I found them at TJ Maxx and used the Cricut to add his and her vows to both books. As a final touch, we personalized charcuterie cups with our initials and filled them with various delicious snacks, including dried fruits, nuts, charcuterie meat, and cheese. We found the brown cups on Amazon.
Top Tip For A Stress-Free Wedding Day: Embrace the Moment
As you approach your wedding day, take a deep breath and savor every moment, for the day will pass by in a flash, and you might forget a detail or two as I did with my veil. But what truly matters is that you’re marrying the love of your life, which makes the day perfect, no matter what. To ensure you capture all the photos you desire, create a list and share it with your photographer. This will help you get those coveted shots during the most flattering light. Also, plan your day with photography in mind. On the day itself, don’t let minor hiccups bother you; instead, relish in the moment’s magic. Our wedding day was enchanting, and I still can’t believe we made it happen.
A Unique Wedding Ending: Movie Night, Surprises, and Sweet Treats
Instead of dancing the night away, we chose a different path—we had a movie night that perfectly fit our Spirited Away theme. And let me tell you, the after-dark surprise was the icing on the cake! I won’t give away any spoilers for future brides and grooms, but it’s an incredible way to cap off your night. If it happens to rain, it adds an extra touch of beauty, especially if you bring a bubble machine along. As a sweet treat for our guests, we gave out Seattle chocolates because we find them delicious and because we wanted our guests to enjoy them and share in the delight. After all, who can resist good chocolate?
If you and your partner want your wedding to authentically represent you as a couple, you can make it memorable by being creative with the theme, choosing a unique venue, and adding some surprising touches. For an in-depth guide on planning a wedding that stands out and is personalized to your relationship, be sure to check out our guide on planning a unique wedding.
Gabi and Shanna chose an unconventional way to tie the knot. They picked a beach in Sydney they had never been to before, convinced that any beach would be perfect for their special day. And their intuition proved to be right. Their Bondi Beach elopement was filled with fun, personality, and boho charm that truly captured their love for adventure.
They knew a traditional ceremony was never for them, and their elopement was precisely what they had always dreamt of. It was just the two of them on the beach, with their best friend officiating, creating an incredibly intimate and special atmosphere. They chose attire that reflected their personalities to make it even more unique. Shanna wore a stunning gold and cream jumpsuit with stars, while Gabi chose a short, white sequin dress. Their inspiration? A beach disco party, and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
As if it couldn’t get any better, serendipitously, their elopement coincided with World Pride, filling the sky with rainbows and Pride flags. It felt like fate. Their special day was all about them and their adventurous spirit. See the love from every angle through these stunning photos captured by Martine Payne.
The Couple:
Gabi and Shanna
The Wedding:
Bondi Beach, Australia
Why They Chose to Have a Bondi Beach Elopement
We knew we wanted to elope while traveling because travel has always been a huge part of our relationship. We are both non-traditional people, so we wanted a non-traditional elopement. We didn’t wear the typical white dresses or have the usual ceremony. We wanted something fun, unique, and boho that felt exactly like us, and that’s what our elopement was. We are most proud of doing our wedding our way! It was exactly what we always dreamed of—just the two of us on the beach. And it felt so intimate and special.
Making Their Love Story More Personal By Having Their Best Friend Officiate
The most memorable part of the day was the speech of our officiant. Our best friend, Ravi, talked about our relationship and what it meant to have a happy and loving same-sex couple in his life. He put so much thought and creativity into the ceremony and even changed the lyrics to “Love Story” by Taylor Swift to be about our relationship. We always knew we wanted him to marry us, and when we realized we would all be in Australia at the same time, we knew it would be the perfect place to elope.
Destination Elopement Tip: Work with Local Experts
We planned our whole elopement only one month before it happened. But our best advice would be if you are looking to elope, try and find an elopement company in the destination you’re elopement is happening in. We researched many different elopement companies in Sydney, and we’re so happy we ended up with Weekday Wedded Bliss. They made sure our day ran smoothly and were great at recommending local a photographer, videographer, florist, and other vendors for our special day.
Ditching Tradition with Unconventional Wedding Attire
We knew we didn’t want to wear the traditional white dresses, so we went with looks that were way more us. Shanna rocked a gold and cream jumpsuit with stars all over it, and I wore a short, white sequin dress. Our inspiration was a disco party at the beach, and we definitely used Pinterest to gather some inspiration for our wedding day fashion.
Congratulations to Gabi and Shanna on their unconventional Bondi Beach elopement. And a big thank you to Martine Payne for beautifully capturing these cherished, intimate moments serving as inspiration for couples starting on their own wedding planning journey.
Love the idea of an adventure celebration for two like this one? Be sure to check out our elopement guide for ideas on infusing your personality into every part of your special day!
Planning a wedding can be a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, as Stephanie and Alexander discovered in their quest for the perfect celebration. Their plans took an unexpected detour when Alex’s suit colors clashed with their original vision. But this sudden change ultimately led them to their modern Cape Hotel wedding. Inspired by their Caribbean roots and love for wine, their choice reflected their refined tastes and paid homage to their shared experiences and passions. And it turned out to be an amazing decision!
With its unparalleled views of the sea and the surrounding tropical landscape, the luxury resort became the ideal venue for their special day. With asymmetrical floral pillars framing the ocean backdrop, the terrace was ready for a romantic waterfront ceremony. The following reception seamlessly combined modern architecture, minimalist decor, and natural elements. To achieve a vineyard-like vibe, they completed the look with an installation of greenery and candles in glass baubles hanging above a tablescape covered with gauzy linen, white blooms, and more candles.
And to top it all off, the couple filled their day with personal touches—from handwritten thank-you notes for each guest to heartfelt tributes for absent loved ones. They made sure every detail had meaning and purpose, and you can see all these special moments in the stunning photos taken by Junebug member Daniela Ortiz.
We’ve been together for eight years, so our tastes are similar. We both love a clean, modern style. When we picked our wedding colors, we went for classic seasonal greens, whites, and a touch of gold. Since we both lived in Europe and enjoyed wine, we wanted our reception to feel like a vineyard, honoring the beautiful venue. It was just the right size and matched our vision perfectly. We’re both from the Caribbean and wanted to include our heritage in our wedding. We had Caribbean-inspired drinks and played mostly Caribbean music. We aimed to give our guests an unforgettable experience rather than just a typical event.
How They Found Their Dream Wedding Location
We decided to hire a wedding planner who took us to visit three potential venues. All of them were beautiful, but the third and final one truly took our breath away. When we approached the entrance of the Cape Hotel, we exchanged glances and instantly felt that this was where we wanted to exchange our vows. The stunning views, delightful fragrances, warm hospitality, and outstanding cuisine won us over completely. Our priority was staying true to ourselves amidst the overwhelming array of options on social media. The key was choosing a venue that authentically represented who we were.
Making Their Cape Hotel Wedding Ceremony Special and Unique With Personal Touches
Our most cherished wedding moment was when we exchanged our vows. Being naturally private and reserved, we read our vows to each other privately before the ceremony, accompanied by our pastor. This allowed us to truly absorb each other’s words without the pressure of an audience. During the ceremony, we shared traditional vows with our guests. We also added personal touches to our wedding, crafting custom programs that told our love story and other details about us. To honor our Caribbean heritage, we conducted a sand ceremony, symbolizing our eternal union by blending two vases of sand. Our sister-in-law read 1 Corinthians 13:4–8a, one of our favorite Bible verses, and our pastor, a close family friend, played a unique role in the ceremony.
Navigating the Challenges of Planning a Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding was challenging, especially when choosing the right venue in Mexico. We knew we wanted to marry there but struggled to pick a city. We considered Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, and Cabo San Lucas, and after visiting them all, we decided Cabo was the perfect fit for the atmosphere we wanted. It was a proud moment because we come from a small Caribbean island, the Cayman Islands, where many people choose to get married. We wanted something unique and had always admired Mexico. We overcame language barriers with the help of our amazing wedding planners. They made everything turn out as we’d imagined, sometimes even better. We were grateful to our guests for making the not-so-easy trip to Mexico, and seeing our friends and family come together to celebrate our special day brought us immense joy.
Incorporating Special Tributes and Creative Keepsakes Throughout Their Cape Hotel Wedding
Our wedding date is a special combination of our parents’ anniversary dates, a tribute to the strong marriages that inspire us. We thanked each guest with handwritten thank-you notes during the reception, making them feel loved and appreciated. These notes differed from the usual post-wedding thank-yous and lifted everyone’s spirits. We included unique decorations like candles with their names and a photo of Steph’s mom on her bouquet to honor absent family members. We also created a photo book showcasing the day we got engaged for our guests to enjoy. To capture heartfelt messages, we had an audio guest book for guests to leave phone messages. Despite the challenges of traveling with luggage, we added personal touches like designing wedding programs and bar signs for the cocktail hour and reception.
Wedding planning comes with its ups and downs. You can plan everything perfectly, but something may still go wrong. Alex and I agreed that what truly mattered was getting married and having a great day, which we did. It’s easy to get caught up in the details and others’ opinions, especially with Pinterest around, but honestly, none of that truly matters in the end. Don’t let the downs overshadow this once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s okay to feel all the emotions, but remember to have fun, too. On the day, everyone told us it would go by in a blur, and we wouldn’t remember much. So, we made sure to have special moments just for us, like reading our private vows and taking a few minutes together before entering our reception, to make the day even more meaningful and unforgettable.
Congratulations to Stephanie and Alexander on their modern Cape Hotel wedding, with nods to their favorite people and things. A special thank you to Junebug member Daniela Ortiz for capturing all the special moments that made their celebration one for the books. To see more of her exceptional work, check out her profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.
Take inspiration from this couple’s story. If your wedding isn’t exactly how you imagined it, don’t hesitate to make adjustments. It’s perfectly fine to pivot and find a new path that aligns better with your vision. Plan a day that authentically celebrates your unique love using our guide as a starting point.
Planning a wedding is an exciting and personal journey, allowing couples to express their unique love story and values. As we progress as a society, more and more couples are opting to ditch tradition and celebrate equality when tying the knot. We know that this can be daunting, though. Where do you even begin? What aspects of weddings are rooted in patriarchy in the first place?
If you want a feminist wedding that celebrates you and your partner as equals, look no further. We’re breaking down the steps you can take and what to leave out to ensure that your day supports women’s rights as much as possible.
How to Have A Feminist Wedding
Get Both Parents Blessing
Once it comes time to get engaged, you may find yourself uncomfortable with your fiancee asking your father for permission. Women aren’t property, and you shouldn’t be treated as such. If you’re old enough to be getting married, you’re probably old enough to make your own decisions–whether your parents agree or not.
However, if this is a tradition that your fiancee isn’t willing to give up, consider having them ask your parents as well as their own. This implies that they respect all opinions and see it more as a blessing of the marriage than a dad passing his daughter off to someone else.
Start with Open Communication
Begin the wedding planning process by having open and honest conversations with your partner about what feminism means to both of you and how you want to incorporate these values into your wedding. If you’re getting married, there’s a good chance you’ve already had these conversations in some way, shape, or form–but you may not have thought about applying them to your big day. It’s important to listen to and try to understand each other’s perspectives, values, and expectations to ensure you’re on the same page.
Challenge Traditional Roles
Feminist weddings often challenge traditional gender roles. Consider how you want to present yourselves beyond the customary bride-groom dichotomy. Some ideas include:
Attire – Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident. This might include unconventional attire, such as a suit or jumpsuit instead of a wedding gown (or vice versa), or opting for something colorful
Wedding party – Long gone are the days where you have to choose your wedding party based on their gender. Choose friends and family based on their significance in your lives–whether this means having a bridesman or a groomswoman. Let your wedding party be a reflection of those closest to you
Getting ready together – While this one is more superstition than anything, if you want to stay the night with your significant other and/or get ready with them the morning of, do it. It can be a great way to settle nerves
Walking down the aisle – If you don’t want your father to walk you down the aisle, consider walking together with your fiancee, your mother, both of your parents, or someone else significant in your life
No bouquet or garter toss – These are some of the easiest traditions to nix when planning a feminist wedding. Your single friends may never want to get married (or at the very least don’t want to be called out in front of everyone), and your significant other biting the garter down your leg can be uncomfortable for you and your family. There are plenty of other entertainment options for your reception that your guests will find far more interesting
Joint bachelor/bachelorette party – When you and your significant other are best friends, you become close with their friends. So why not have a joint bachelor and bachelorette party so you can celebrate with everyone you love?
In the past, the bride’s family was expected to pay for the wedding–almost like a modern dowry, if you will. Not only is this thought process unfair to the bride’s parents, but it’s also outdated. According to Zola, the average couple spends about $29,000 on their big day. That’s no small ask for anyone. Allowing both sets of parents to contribute or paying for it yourself not only adds a feminist touch to your day, but it also gives you more control.
Inclusive Language in Your Ceremony
Your wedding ceremony is the perfect opportunity to promote feminist values. Work with your officiant to craft a ceremony that uses inclusive language and emphasizes equality. You might also want to include readings, quotes, or rituals that highlight the importance of mutual respect and partnership.
The same goes for your vows. Highlight your commitment to supporting each other’s dreams, aspirations, and personal goals. You two are a team, and making this clear in your written words is a small yet simple way to showcase your equality.
Vendor Selection
Your feminist wedding doesn’t have to stop at what traditions you do and do not uphold. It can also apply to your vendor selection. Support businesses and vendors that align with your values. Look for inclusive and diverse vendors who understand and respect your vision–those committed to equal treatment and representation.
Consider a registry that supports gender equality and social justice causes. This could be by including women-owned brands or encouraging your guests to donate to feminist organizations in lieu of traditional gifts, helping to create a positive impact beyond your wedding day.
Encourage Speeches
Traditionally, women were not handed the microphone to make speeches. Luckily, that old-fashioned mindset is quickly disappearing, but if you want to ensure everyone gets to speak, encourage your bridesmaids to give a speech or toast. The same goes for you as the bride as well. If you want to say a word of thanks to your guests, don’t be afraid to grab that mic. Not into speeches at all? Then don’t have them! That’s the best part about it being your wedding–you get to do what you want.
Changing Your Last Name
A feminist wedding isn’t just about the big day–it continues after, too. More people all over the world are choosing to forgo their significant other’s last name, keeping their maiden name. You may choose to do this for countless reasons, but there’s no denying that it makes life easier. You don’t have to spend hours getting all the necessary paperwork ready to legally change it.
If you decide to keep your maiden name, it’s important to have this conversation with your significant other early on. If this is something important to you, hopefully they understand. If they’re uncomfortable with the idea, it may be wise to have a deeper conversation.
Remember, your wedding day is an expression of your beliefs, and it has the potential to inspire others to consider the values that matter most to them. If you’re ready to host a feminist wedding, these steps are just the beginning. Here are seven ways to have an anti-bride wedding that will help you create a wedding tailored to you.
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