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Warm Desert Chic Fall Korakia Wedding

September 5, 2024 | kailey

Eleni and Daniel wanted their wedding to be anything but ordinary; they aimed for a celebration of everything they loved. With the venue and November’s ambiance setting the stage, they embraced a moody color scheme and a desert-chic style. Every detail was carefully planned with the help of Junebug vendor The Walk Down The Aisle, from the dark florals and candles to the unique decor and furniture, all coming together to make their Korakia wedding vision a reality.

They couldn’t have chosen a more perfect setting for their big day than the historic 1920s Moroccan hideaway. Surrounded by lush gardens, a serene fountain, and a Moorish archway serving as their altar, the courtyard offered a stunning backdrop for their vows. After the ceremony, they moved poolside for the reception, where guests were welcomed by beautiful tables adorned with lush floral arrangements and Edison bulb chandeliers hanging above each one. The setup seamlessly blended with the natural surroundings, adding to the enchantment of the event.

If you love the desert landscape and moody, sensual tones, then this is the perfect inspiration for you. Luckily, Let’s Frolic Together captured every detail and moment so you can swoon over it and pin it to your mood board.

The Couple:

Eleni and Daniel

The Wedding:

Korakia, Palm Springs, California, United States 

Incorporating Personal Style into Their Big Day

I saw the Berta dress of my dreams, and nothing even came close. Everything was planned around the dress. I knew I wanted boots to bring in that desert vibe, and I came across these white Chanel boots that completed the look. Dan’s suit was timeless, and the accessories were special to him, making the look different from a typical wedding look. We both love fashion, and our styles came together for this day.

Two Highlights of Their Korakia Wedding: The Emotional First Look and a Cozy Retreat

We have two memorable moments. The first look was incredible; after postponing our wedding four times due to the pandemic and restrictions, it was the moment when everything finally felt real and exciting, like “we made it.” We were both so happy to see each other that we each got teary-eyed. Another special moment was before the first dance when we sneaked back to our room to share a cocktail and some small bites. We highly recommend this private moment amidst the exciting chaos of the day.

Keeping It Short and Sweet with a 20-minute Ceremony That Wowed

We wrote our own vows from scratch, and our officiant made his part truly unique to us by incorporating our families, dogs, and friends—it was incredibly special. We also knew that no one wanted to sit through a long ceremony, so we kept it to 20 minutes, which was the perfect length.

How Clear Communication with Loved Ones Can Simplify Wedding Planning

Set expectations with family and friends from the start. Share your goals for the day, where you’d like them to be involved, and where you’d prefer them to take a backseat. Doing this from the beginning ensured a drama-free planning process and allowed us to focus on what we wanted rather than what was expected.

Celebrating Their Korakia Wedding Their Way with Every Small Touch

We’re proud that we truly made the day our own. Having attended weddings that felt very traditional, we knew that wasn’t the right path for us. Despite family questioning many of our choices around decor, music, and more, we embraced our vision. The amazing thing about Korakia was that we worked with every vendor to perfect even the smallest details. We handpicked every element, from the music and food to the drinks, decor, and even the utensils. It may sound trivial, but each tiny detail came together perfectly to realize our vision. When we walked into the reception, it was exactly what we wanted. Our photographer even captured guests with their mouths dropped open at the sight of our celebration.

Palm Springs Charm and the Unique Appeal of Korakia

My husband and I love Palm Springs for its retro aesthetic, friendly locals, and beautiful homes—it’s such a cool place. Korakia Pensione was the first location on our list, and we put down the deposit within hours of seeing it. It’s such a special place; you’re transported out of California and into a Mediterranean locale. I didn’t get that “feeling” from any other venue.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Let’s Frolic Together
Event Planning – The Walk Down the Aisle
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Korakia
Floral Design – Layered Vintage
Catering – F10 Creative
Officiant – Randy Lioz
DJ – Dart Collective
Invitation Design – Wildhouse Ink
Wedding Dress – L’Fay Bridal
Bridal Accessories – Cartier + Chanel
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – Baltic Born
Groom’s Apparel – The Kooples
Rings – Kristin Coffin + Cartier
Rentals – Signature Party Rentals + Planks & Patina + Archive Rentals

 

Congratulations to Eleni and Daniel on their warm, desert-chic fall Korakia wedding. A big thank you goes out to Let’s Frolic Together for capturing all the special memories and stunning elements that this couple will cherish for the rest of their lives. And of course, a special shout out to The Walk Down The Aisle for helping the couple bring to life this unforgettable celebration. To see more of their work, check out their profile in our directory of the best wedding planners from around the world.

This wedding beautifully demonstrates how the location and tones can set the tone and bring everything together. If you’re starting to plan your big day and need more ideas, visit our venue and color palette guides to build a solid foundation for the wedding of your dreams.

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Cozy “Boland Banquet” Diamant Estate Wedding

September 3, 2024 | justine

For Lara and Rohan, “When you know, you know” perfectly describes their Diamant Estate wedding. The moment they first saw the venue, they knew it was the right place for their big day. Despite the hall being in disarray from a previous event—red and gold chairs stacked up, scattered leaves, burnt-out candles, and confetti on the floor—they loved its abandoned, vintage charm. This sparked the theme “Boland Banquet,” which they brought to life with a royal color palette, sparkly decor, and vintage touches. Impressively, they DIYed everything themselves!

The ceremony took place in a stunning 1700s wine cellar converted into a chapel. It was beautiful on its own, with just a unique floral installation at the altar and petals along the aisle. For the reception, two long tables were decorated with gold accents, perfectly complementing the Cape Dutch-style interior. A unique touch was the couple blowing out candles instead of cutting a cake to mark the “birthday of their marriage.” For a fun midnight snack, McDonald’s Happy Meals were served on silver platters, with the toys used as decor.

If you want ideas on adding your personal touch to every part of your celebration for a unique theme, check out this wedding. The beautiful photos by Basque Imagery perfectly show their love story and the special day they designed.

The Couple:

Lara and Rohan

The Wedding:

Diamant Estate, Paarl, South Africa

Discovering the Boland Banquet Theme for Their Diamant Estate Wedding

The look came together when we first viewed the venue. After a wedding the night before, the staff were busy clearing everything. As we entered the hall, we saw red and gold movie-theater-like chairs stacked on top of each other (these chairs actually come with cream covers, so this was their bare form), a few fallen leaves, burnt-out candles, and scattered confetti on the floor. It looked like an abandoned show, and I loved it—lived-in, homely, a little vintage, and almost royal. That’s when the theme “Boland Banquet” was born. Paarl is located in Boland, and the “banquet” perfectly captured the elaborate feast we wanted for our wedding.

Childhood Tunes and a Magical Tango Moment During the Ceremony

When I walked into the ceremony, our live pianist played the wedding march on Rohan’s grandmother’s organ, wearing bright red shoes! We transported this special organ all the way to Diamant (it was quite a mission) because it was so sentimental. The musicians played soundtracks from our favorite childhood movies while the guests entered the chapel. The most unforgettable moment came when the musicians unexpectedly started playing the chorus of my favorite piece, “The Scent of a Woman Tango” by Itzhak Perlman, right after our kiss. It was one of the most profound moments of my life.

Celebrating Love, Not Putting on a Show

Remember, there’s no set recipe for this. It’s not a show; you don’t need to impress your guests or make the day run like a production. It’s a celebration of your love and your new life together. Just embrace it and go with the flow. Your guests are there because they love you, so don’t pressure yourself to create a picture-perfect event. Simply enjoy the best day of your life.

How Their Village Made Their Diamant Estate Wedding Extra Special

We DIYed EVERYTHING. We foraged, painted, glued, stitched, polished, tied, cut, pasted, and baked. To name a few: I made all the stationery, our family foraged the golden flowers, my mom baked the cake, our grandmothers sewed the napkins, and we crafted the boutonnieres from old fabric we found at home. Knowing the story behind every decor item and detail made the wedding even more special since we did it all ourselves. It was woven together by hands that I know and love. It truly takes a village, and I have one magnificent village.

Recommended Reading: Wedding Reception Table Ideas + Tips For Deciding What’s Best For Your Big Day

Blowing Out Candles and Reliving Happy Meal Nostalgia

Instead of cutting a cake, we blew out candles to celebrate the “birthday” of our marriage! For our midnight snack, we had classic McDonald’s Happy Meals. Rohan and I served them on silver platters, using all our old McDonald’s toys from when we were kids as “decor” (yes, our moms saved them!).

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Basque Imagery
Venue – Diamant Estate
Floral Design – Blomlief
Catering – Red Pepper Catering
Cake – Giezela de Bruijn
Officiant – Tilana Meyer-Morkel
DJ – DJ Pepe
Live Music – Laurinda Hofmeyr
Makeup + Hair Styling – Visual Artistry
Wedding Dress – Once Worn Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – The Tux Tailor
Rings – Daleen Bruwer
Rentals – Something Borrowed

 

Congratulations to Lara and Rohan on their cozy “Boland Banquet” Diamant Estate wedding. Thank you to Basque Imagery for capturing every detail that couples can use as inspiration.

For this couple, it wasn’t about creating a flawless event but about celebrating their union in a way that was authentically theirs. If you’re planning your own special day, check out this guide for unique ideas that you can incorporate into your own celebration.

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Maximalist Tropical Disco Millwick Wedding

September 1, 2024 | justine

Sarah and Gian’s wedding was a celebration like no other. With a “go big or go home” attitude, the bride, who loves maximalist design, wanted the decor to be bright and eye-catching. Instead of a traditional wedding, they envisioned a day that felt more like a big, fun party. Their “tropical disco” theme became a stunning reality at their disco Millwick wedding, featuring a bold color palette, tropical touches, and sparkles everywhere!

Blending organic and industrial elements, the couple chose the perfect venue to bring their theme to life. Their outdoor ceremony set a fun and lively tone with a unique altar—a round arch adorned with silver streamers and vibrant flowers. For the reception, they went all out, featuring tables with bold, colorful arrangements and plenty of disco installations to signal the party was just getting started.

When you think mixing two completely different styles won’t work, this celebration proves otherwise. If you’re searching for ideas to add fun and personal touches to your own event, look no further! Every detail of their special day was masterfully executed, and The Shalom Initiative captured it all in stunning detail. 

The Couple:

Sarah and Gian

The Wedding:

Millwick, Los Angeles, California, United States

Recommended Reading: Ceremony Backdrops to Wow Your Guests  

The Inspiration Behind This Maximalist Tropical Disco Millwick Wedding

When we first talked to our wedding planner, “tropical disco” was one of my original descriptors for our wedding vision. I also love maximalist design, so I wanted the decor to be really bright and in-your-face. We also wanted the whole day to be more like a big party than a traditional wedding, which drove many bold color choices and sparkly accents.

Recommended Reading: Wedding Reception Table Ideas + Tips For Deciding What’s Best For Your Big Day

The Wedding Team:

Photography – The Shalom Initiative
Event Planning – Kari Dirksen at Feathered Arrow Studio
Venue – Millwick
Floral Design + Decor – Inessa Nichols Design
Catering – Todo Verde
Cake – Baskin Robbins
Officiant – Kristen Schofield
Music – Tessa Young
Invitation + Program Design – The Bride
Makeup + Hair Styling – Samantha Bates
Wedding Dress + Veil – Paula Knorr
Bridal Accessories – Maison Margiela + Jennifer Behr
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Groom’s Shoes – Allen Edmonds
Bartending – Mint Bartending
Rentals – MTB Rentals
Hotel  – Ace Hotel DTLA

 

Congratulations to Sarah and Gian on their bold, maximalist tropical disco Millwick wedding. Thank you to The Shalom Initiative for capturing every stunning detail and offering inspiration to soon-to-be-wed couples.

If you’re considering blending two seemingly different themes, take a cue from this couple and go for it. The result will be a distinctive vibe that’s uniquely yours. The secret to a seamless fusion is having a reliable team of vendors who grasp your vision. With the right partners, your big day can become the extraordinary celebration you’ve always imagined.

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This Blanc Wedding Was Complete With a Trip to a Dive Bar, Homemade Wedding Cake, & Floral Wedding Dress

August 30, 2024 | justine

When Lindsey and Caleb started planning their wedding, they wanted it to reflect their personalities and passions. They aimed for a vibe that mixed fun with timeless elegance, capturing the shift from summer to fall. The outcome was a Blanc wedding that perfectly celebrated their love and all that is special to them.

They kicked off their wedding day with things they love—Caleb went biking at North Table, and Lindsey had a cozy brunch with the women in her family. To fully enjoy the moment, they took a nostalgic stroll to their favorite bar, where they could just relax. They chose a former machinery factory for their wedding venue and transformed it into a stunning setting. Their outdoor ceremony featured a romantic petal-lined aisle leading to an altar flanked by lush floral pillars, while the reception gallery inside was adorned with rich, colorful arrangements that perfectly complemented the industrial space.

If you’re curious about how to bring your own style and interests into every part of your celebration for a unified and stylish look, you need to check out this wedding. The stunning photos by Junebug vendor Kate Merrill perfectly capture the heart of their love story and the beautiful day they created.

The Couple:

Lindsey and Caleb

The Wedding:

Blanc, Denver, Colorado, United States

How They Merged Fun and Classic Styles To Create a Blanc Wedding Vibe That Reflected Them

Our vibe reflected who we are: fun, grateful, and classic. We combined a playful yet timeless style with the seasonal shift from summer to fall. Once we decided on this theme, we chose vendors who understood our vision. To stay within budget, we focused on key elements: flowers for me, a DJ for him, and a well-stocked bar for my parents.

A Day Filled with Personal Touches and Cherished Moments

We started our wedding day with activities we love—he biked at North Table, and I enjoyed brunch with the women in my family. Getting ready with my bridesmaids and family was extra special, especially since a friend did my hair and makeup. We took a nostalgic stroll to Don’s, our favorite bar, to relax and soak in the moment. Our friend officiated the ceremony, weaving in stories we shared about ourselves and from our friends. Instead of traditional vows, we made toasts over a table set with family china. Our first dance was a highlight, thanks to the dance lessons we took beforehand. A friend baked our delicious wedding cake, and I surprised my husband with a special song. We wrapped up the night dancing with friends and family, finishing with an energetic last song and a jump around before heading to Improper City for a final, relaxed evening.

Balancing Advice and Personal Happiness in Wedding Planning

Hire a planner, even if it’s just for part of the process. Choose vendors you like, and try not to stress too much. Focus on what matters to you as a couple rather than what others expect. Listen to advice from others, but prioritize your own happiness. While it’s important to consider others’ opinions, make decisions that best sustain your happiness and well-being, and stay true to those choices.

Celebrating Their Love and Commitment Beyond the Wedding

We’re most proud of having each other for life, which would have been true no matter the wedding, but the celebration definitely added a special touch to our love and commitment. Beyond that, flowers were incredibly important to me, and RLYRLY Studio created arrangements that exceeded my wildest dreams. We’re also proud of how great we looked on our big day.

DIY Wedding Details: From Paper Goods to Personal Touches

We handled all the paper goods ourselves, including save-the-dates, invitations, signage, coozie designs, and table numbers. A friend baked our cake, while another friend crafted framed pressed flowers for the seating chart.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Kate Merrill
Event Planning – MELISSA FLOWERDEW
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Blanc
Floral Design – RLY RLY Studio
Catering – Biscuits & Berries
DJ – TH Entertainment
Makeup + Hair Styling – Brushes & Braids
Wedding Dress – The Sentimentalist
Groom’s Apparel – Suit Supply
Rings – Shane Co. + Tiffany
Rentals – Colorado Party Rentals

 

Congratulations to Lindsey and Caleb on their Blanc wedding, which included a trip to a dive bar, a homemade wedding cake, and a floral wedding dress. Thanks to Junebug vendor Kate Merrill for capturing their big day’s beautiful moments. To see more of her stunning work, check out her profile in our directory of wedding photographers from around the world.

As you plan your wedding, embrace your individuality and let your personal style lead the way. Choose a unique venue or put a fresh twist on traditional details to create a celebration that truly represents your love story. Browse our guide for inventive ideas to help you design a wedding that’s unforgettable.

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This Hotel Xcaret Wedding Was as Chic as It Was Romantic

August 27, 2024 | justine

Alisha and Haley chose a destination wedding because most of their friends and family live out of state. Mexico was the first international place they visited together, so it felt special to go back. They wanted their guests to have an unforgettable time. Inspired by the stunning tropical scenery, their Hotel Xcaret wedding allowed everyone to enjoy a lovely vacation while celebrating their big day.

On a sandy spot by the inlet, the couple exchanged vows beneath an altar framed by bold floral pillars. The magic continued at their beach cave reception, where they dined on tables filled with lush arrangements and candles and danced the night away, surrounded by striking rock formations and under a canopy of stars. Oh, and did we mention that all of this took place on the same day as a solar eclipse? If that’s not good luck, we don’t know what is!

Their special day was truly a wedding like no other. Just take a look at these stunning images captured by Junebug vendor Arte Visual MF, and you’ll see why we guarantee you’ll agree.

The Couple:

Alisha and Haley

The Wedding:

Hotel Xcaret, Playa del Carmen

The Value of Professional Help in Destination Wedding Planning

If you also have a scenario where many of your guests live scattered across the country, a destination wedding is a great solution. When guests have to travel to attend your wedding, picking a fun location makes it more enjoyable for everyone. Plus, choosing a destination wedding means you typically get to spend multiple days with your guests. For anyone having a destination wedding, we advise working with a travel agent who specializes in wedding groups. Our travel agent was beneficial in securing our wedding contract and hotel room block and working with all our guests to plan their travel. You have so much to think about when planning a destination wedding, and having a great travel agent alleviates so much stress. One regret we have from the wedding is not hiring a wedding planner or at least a day-of coordinator. We had the help of our friends and designated support staff from the resort. We love hosting events as a couple, but even if you are “Type A” and think you can handle it all to save money as we did, we’d still say, “Hire someone!” Our day would have been more seamless and stress-free had we had an extra person to oversee all the details.

Crafting a Unique Hotel Xcaret Wedding by Combining Deep Jewel Tones and Tropical Touches

We first chose our wedding venue, Hotel Xcaret Mexico, and built our wedding style around it. We wanted the design to draw inspiration from the beautiful tropical landscape while reflecting our desire for a romantic, chic, and moody atmosphere representing us as a couple. We aimed for the day to feel stylish and special, unlike any other. We settled on deep jewel tones for our décor and floral arrangements, incorporating tropical touches like palm leaves and seashells. Additionally, a solar eclipse occurred on our wedding day, adding a unique and exciting energy to the celebration.

Creating a Cohesive and Complementary Look By Going Wedding Dress Shopping Together

As a two-woman couple, we had to ensure that our wedding day looks were cohesive and complementary. In an unconventional twist, we went wedding dress shopping together. At our very first bridal shop, Haley found a slim-fitting dress adorned with feminine lace and beading, while I discovered a minimal and chic dress that perfectly matched her style. Our accessories completed our looks: Haley handcrafted tropical-inspired earrings, and I chose a unique floral cape, custom-made from an Etsy shop, instead of a veil. Additional special touches included a vintage robe from a local Tucson flea market, which Alisha wore while getting ready, and Haley’s perfume named “Tucson” by Astier de Villatte, adding a touch of home.

Honoring African American Traditions and Family During Their Ceremony

One of our favorite ways to personalize our ceremony was by involving our family members in special roles. Haley’s grandmother served as our flower girl, while her 13-year-old brother acted as our ring bearer and “bubble boy,” delighting the crowd with a bubble gun during the recessional. From our hiding spot before walking down the aisle, we could hear the cheers and laughter as Nana tossed rose petals. We also had each of our siblings perform a reading during the ceremony, including Maya Angelou’s poem “Touched by an Angel.” To make the ceremony even more personal, we flew our pastor from Tucson to officiate, featured a live harpist on the beach, had our photographers capture a group photo with all our guests immediately after the ceremony, and honored the African American tradition of jumping the broom.

Making Their Hotel Xcaret Wedding Truly Authentic with a Choreographed First Dance and Heartfelt Toasts

Our wedding felt like an authentic expression of us as a couple. The small details made all the difference. We are proud of how we pulled off our choreographed first dance. When Beyonce’s new album, Cowboy Carter, was released just a week before our wedding, we decided to change our first dance song to “II Most Wanted” because it resonated with us deeply as a same-sex couple. Three days before our wedding, we started choreographing a dance to the song and pulled off the performance on our wedding day. All of our siblings in attendance gave toasts during dinner—Haley’s three brothers and Alisha’s sister and brother. There was laughter at inside jokes, tears at heartfelt words, and so much love in the room.

 

Managing Stress and Distractions by Staying Focused on What Matters Most

As a same-sex couple, we faced challenges throughout our relationship, and we wanted our wedding to celebrate the joy and beauty of our love. From the supportive guests we invited to the meaningful readings in our ceremony, we carefully designed a genuinely celebratory day. We focused on keeping the main thing: our marriage and being present with each other. This required intentional choices and preparation, especially since a destination wedding can bring many distractions. By centering on the day’s purpose, we made planning decisions that helped us manage stress and stay focused on what mattered. We were determined not to let anything pull us away from the essence of why we were there.

Staying Under Budget by Making Smart Financial Choices

Our budget was $40,000, which included travel and a resort stay for us and our officiant. We splurged on our photography and videography. The wedding day goes by so fast. We wanted to capture all the memories to look back on and to see parts of the day we might have missed. We initially didn’t have videography in our budget but decided to add it a couple of months before the wedding because we heard it’s a top regret of many couples. We are so glad we did. One trick that helped us stay under budget was opening a travel credit card before we started wedding planning. We put all of our big purchases on the card and were able to use travel points to purchase our flights to Mexico, as well as the flight for our officiant. We also saved by making digital invitations, designing our signage and paper goods, having family and friends do our hair and makeup, and not having an official bridal party.

Enhancing the Experience with Resort Activities and Excursions for Guests at Their Hotel Xcaret Wedding

We are proud of creating a fantastic travel experience for our guests. We picked a beautiful all-inclusive resort, designed a complete travel guide that was sent to guests before arrival, passed out welcome bags with travel necessities, and planned fun events for everyone to enjoy (like a group excursion to Xplor Park for ziplining, a welcome cocktail party the night before the wedding, and a “Newlywed Fiesta” at Xoximilco the night after the wedding). Our guests enjoyed a wonderful vacation while attending our wedding and creating lasting memories with us. Many even joked that we should plan a trip to all return to the resort together in a year for our first anniversary.

Easy-to-Transport Handcrafted Favors and Accessories

We DIYed wedding elements that were easy to take with us on the airplane. Haley designed all of our paper goods on Canva, including our dinner menu, bar and guest book signage, wedding weekend itinerary, and a wedding day newspaper. We also had a friend calligraph our guests’ names on natural capiz shells for our seating chart and name tags, adding a tropical touch to our decor. Haley, who loves making jewelry as a hobby, spent the weeks leading up to the wedding handcrafting bracelets as gifts for each guest’s welcome bag. She also created her wedding earrings.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Arte Visual MF
Venue + Catering + Live Music  – Hotel Xcaret
Floral Design – Corazon Luxury Weddings
Officiant – Alison Harrington
DJ – EventPros Riviera Maya
Wedding Dresses – Maya Palace
Bridal Accessories – Lamnhi Bridal
Travel Agent – Hola Weddings

 

Congratulations to Alisha and Haley on their Hotel Xcaret wedding that was as chic as it was romantic. A big thank you to Junebug vendor Arte Visual MF for expertly capturing every breathtaking detail and cherished moment of our enchanting celebration. Be sure to check out their profile in our directory of the world’s best wedding photographers.

Are you considering a destination wedding? It’s the perfect opportunity for a close-knit celebration with your favorite people and to create lasting memories. For an exceptional experience, partner with experienced vendors who can elevate your special day.

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This Paliku Gardens Wedding Offered Incredible Views of Hawaii

August 18, 2024 | justine

Tammy and Moonyoung dreamed of a cozy garden wedding with incredible views of the Koolau Mountains. They chose Hawaii to make their big day even more magical, surrounded by mountains and water. After months of planning, hunting for wedding ideas on Instagram, and creating a mood board, their vision came to life beautifully. Their Paliku Gardens wedding boasted a sunset-inspired color scheme, breathtaking flowers and decor, and views that left everyone in awe.

They couldn’t have picked a more stunning spot for their ceremony. The couple exchanged vows with the sea, mountains, and horizon, creating a perfect backdrop. The magic continued at their tented garden reception, where candlelit tables adorned with lush flowers and greenery set a romantic tone. The highlight of the evening was the beautiful floral and lighting installation above the dance floor, adding an extra touch of enchantment to their special day.

Their wedding day was like a fairy tale brought to life, full of breathtaking details that are sure to inspire your own special day. Thankfully every moment of this beautiful celebration was captured by the talented Junebug vendor Derek Wong. 

The Couple:

Tammy and Moonyoung

The Wedding:

Paliku Garden, Hawaii, United States

Cherishing a Quiet Moment Before their Paliku Gardens Wedding Ceremony

The most memorable part of the day was definitely the private first look that Moon and I shared at the Halekulani Hotel before heading to our ceremony and reception at Paliku Gardens at Kualoa Ranch. It was a special moment just for the two of us before the whirlwind of the day began. It allowed us to truly be present with one another, and it felt like we were the only ones in the world—except for our photographer, videographer, and wedding content creator, who were there to capture the moment.

How to Balance Joy and Budget on Your Wedding Day

Make decisions that will make you happy as a couple. Your wedding day is a time to celebrate your love and the beginning of the next chapter in your lives. Your guests are there to celebrate you, so do what brings you joy. Sticking to a budget can be challenging, but my one piece of advice is to splurge on things that will make an impact or are important to you. Create a prioritization list to help you decide where you might need to stay under budget so you can splurge on the things that matter most.

Choosing the Right Wedding Vendors by Trusting Their Gut

We’re most proud of two things when reflecting on our wedding and the entire planning process. First, we trusted our instincts and chose the right vendors with whom we connected and truly vibed. Living in Boston and planning a destination wedding in Hawaii meant we had to make the right choices with our vendors. With so much happening behind the scenes, their guidance and support made the 1.5 years of planning and the actual day feel seamless. Second, we’re glad we prioritized our happiness and made decisions based on what would bring us joy on our wedding day.

Why a Paliku Gardens Wedding Was the Perfect Choice for Them

When we decided on a destination wedding, there was no doubt we wanted it to be in Hawaii. After all, it was the first place we vacationed together. Initially, we explored resort and hotel options because we thought it would be easier to coordinate with fewer vendors, but it didn’t feel right for us. We ultimately chose Paliku Gardens at Kualoa Ranch (where many movies, like Jurassic Park, have been filmed) because it truly captured the essence of Hawaii. An outdoor wedding overlooking the Koolau Mountains—absolutely breathtaking. We couldn’t see the venue in person until our wedding day, and it was more than I could have ever imagined. It was definitely worth coordinating with multiple vendors to pull off such a beautiful and perfect wedding day.

The Creative Journey Behind Their DIY Paliku Gardens Wedding Signs

We DIYed our menu and small wedding signage, including the bar menu, table numbers, gifts and cards sign, guestbook sign, dinner menu, and table name cards. I invested in a Cricut machine during the wedding planning process because I’ve always had a creative side and knew I wanted to make something special for our big day. The signs were all acrylic, hand-painted with vinyl lettering that I cut using the Cricut machine.

Creating Instagram-Worthy Moments with a Bubble Gun

We brought a bubble gun machine for our grand entrance and used it on the dance floor throughout the night. It was a huge hit with our guests and created some truly amazing photos and videos for Instagram reels.

Honoring The Bride’s Father with a Special Pasta Dish During Their Paliku Gardens Wedding Reception

The wedding day menu featured a special off-menu item created by Memoirs to honor my late father. Since Moon and I love pasta, we knew we needed to include a pasta dish alongside the braised short rib and coconut macadamia nut-crusted catch of the day. We added garlic shrimp with linguine pasta to pay tribute to my father. The wedding day menu was family-style, reflecting our cultural tradition of sharing meals with our closest family and friends.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Derek Wong
Event Planning – Fred and Kate Events
Venue – Paliku Gardens
Floral Design – Marie Blooms Floral
Catering – Memoirs Catering
Cake – A Cake Life
Officiant – Grant Gomes
DJ – DJ Troy Michael
Videography – Redefined Weddings
Invitation Design – Momental Designs
Makeup + Hair Styling – Face Art Beauty
Wedding Dress – Ines by Ines Di Santo
Bridal Accessories – Kleinfelds +  L’elite Bridal
Groom’s Apparel – SuitSupply
Groomsmen’s Apparel – the Black Tux
Rings – Van Cleef & Arpels
Rentals – Aloha Artisans + Accel Rentals + Hawaii Fine Linen Rentals
Transportation – AMT Hawaii + Oahu Party Bus
Photo Lounge – Redefined Weddings
Wedding Content Creator – Iniki Leialoha of Leialohasocials
Gelato Cart – Via Gelato
Cold Sparks – Fro Baby Productions
Welcome + Seating Chart Sign – C’est Calligraphy

 

Congratulations to Tammy and Moonyoung on their Paliku Gardens wedding, which featured incredible views of Hawaii. A heartfelt thank you goes to Junebug vendor Derek Wong for capturing every stunning moment for us to enjoy. If this celebration has inspired you, don’t miss the chance to check out his profile in our directory of the world’s top wedding photographers.

This wedding truly highlights the impact a venue can have on the entire celebration. As you plan your special day, remember just how crucial the right venue is. If you’re looking for tips on finding the perfect location, be sure to check out our guide. Choosing the right backdrop is the first step in bringing your dream celebration to life.

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This Casa Adela Wedding Highlighted Mexico’s Natural Beauty

August 14, 2024 | justine

When Nina and Ryan envisioned their wedding, they imagined elegance, candles, and natural beauty. While Mexico often brings vibrant, loud colors to mind, they wanted a sleek, modern look that felt warm and inviting. With a neutral color palette, dreamy florals, and personal touches, their Casa Adela wedding created a timeless, classic, and romantic atmosphere. This blend of elegance and relaxation made their wedding weekend everything they could have hoped for and more.

The couple aimed to highlight the authentic beauty of Mexican architecture, using its neutral tones as a backdrop for their elegant touches. Their ceremony, held on top of a glass-covered pool with an altar adorned with lush white florals, perfectly complemented the beautiful natural surroundings. The following reception featured show-stopping florals, a hand-painted dance floor, and floating candles above, creating a stunning and memorable celebration.

With the help of a powerhouse team of pros led by Junebug vendor Bougainvillea Weddings, they brought their vision to life. If you’re looking for inspiration for a wedding that blends modern style with stunning views, this has everything you need. Check out these lovely photos by Junebug vendor EFEGE to see all the details.

The Couple:

Nina and Ryan

The Wedding:

Casa Adela, Mexico

Creating an Inviting Atmosphere at Their Casa Adela Wedding

With its inherent charm and neutral palette, Casa Adela in San Miguel De Allende was the perfect venue to achieve a sophisticated yet inviting ambiance. To keep things fun and laid-back, we wanted guests to feel as comfortable and entertained as they would at an intimate gathering in our own home, avoiding the feel of a stuffy, orchestrated evening. Guests could barely sit to eat because everyone was hyped up, wanting to talk and dance. At the end of the night, people were dancing on top of chairs like we were at a nightclub, and a bounce house appeared, accompanied by street tacos. Though we included many personalized elements and plenty of tequila, the ambiance was unmatched. The warm tones of the venue, hand-painted dance floor, hundreds of hanging candles, and a floral runner longer than my house, combined with a stunning setting, created a breathtaking scene. This blend of elegance and relaxation made our wedding everything we could have hoped for and more.

The Unexpected Journey to Finding the Perfect Dress Last Minute

I have always believed that if there’s one time to go out with your wardrobe, it’s during your wedding. So, I chose styles I had been eager to wear but never had the chance before. My wedding dress story is a whirlwind. My original dress, long story short, was a total disaster. It arrived just a month before the wedding with several issues, so I scrambled to find something last minute. Incredibly, the dress I wore, which was perfect, was bought a little over a week before the wedding. My seamstress closed the whole store for alterations two days before I left on my flight. Finding it just a week before the wedding was nothing short of miraculous. Crazy enough, every outfit I wore was secondhand, and I purchased it from other brides. Each of those girls who I bought them from was indeed a fairy godmother, modern-day Cinderella style.

How Their Ceremony Became the Highlight of Their Casa Adela Wedding

I wish I could perfectly capture and share the feeling of our ceremony with you. Honestly, there are no words that fully describe that moment. Bliss? Pure happiness? An out-of-body experience? It’s all that and more. Initially, we thought the ceremony was just one of those obligatory parts of the day—we were excited about the reception (and it was epic!). But the ceremony was simply magical. As the sun set over the wine regions of San Miguel De Allende, with our guests finishing their welcome cocktails, the instrumental version of “Here Comes the Sun” started playing. Ryan took his place at the start of the aisle, and as he walked down, all 80 guests clapped and cheered. It might sound a bit much, but it felt like everyone who loved us was rooting for us. It was incredible. My grandmother, acting as the flower girl, family strutting down the aisle, and the bridesmaids, each holding a single giant stem rose, followed. The cheers continued when my father met me at the end of the aisle. Everyone was affirming, “Finally, Nina and Ryan are doing it!” Our best friend officiated, adding a special and personalized touch that made the ceremony intimate, genuine, and beautiful. If I could bottle up one moment of joy to relive, it would be this one. As cheesy as it sounds, the world stood still, and it was just our world, filled with the 80 people who mean the most to us. I could have walked away from the ceremony feeling fulfilled, genuinely declaring that it was the best day of my life.

Turning Wedding Woes Into Wonders

Wedding planning is truly a lot. It will test you. You might find yourself agonizing over the tiniest details, like the exact shade of your flowers, while wondering why your partner can’t pretend to care about the details. Take it from a bride who was dressless just three days before her destination wedding, dealing with her vendors’ lost luggage, health hiccups, and guests dropping out at the last minute—yes, it’s a whole saga. But believe me, amidst all that mayhem, it somehow turns into the best day of your life. When you lock eyes with your partner, surrounded by everyone you love, you realize you’ve thrown the most epic celebration ever—one that’s irreplaceably yours. Things have a way of working themselves out in the most wonderfully unexpected ways. And hey, if your partner isn’t beaming with excitement about choosing napkin colors, just let that slide. So, embrace the imperfections, make the day your own, find things to incorporate that scream, “Oh, this is so them,” and focus on what truly resonates with you both. Strap in, enjoy the ride, and once it’s all said and done, you’ll have the most epic day to look back on.

The Challenge and Triumph of Hosting a Wedding in a Lesser-Known Locale

I’m incredibly proud of how we managed to bring 80 people to a charming, lesser-known town in Mexico for our wedding. Most of our guests were initially puzzled, asking, “Why here?” But I kept reassuring them, “You’ll see.” Understanding our guests’ commitment to join us, especially with an 8-hour travel day involved, I knew we had to make it worthwhile. Organizing a three-day weekend full of events was no small task, but it was essential for us to give an experience that was authentically “us.” I’m genuinely proud of ensuring every detail reflected our personalities and gave our guests an unforgettable experience.

Blending Personal Favorites with Local Flavors for a Unique Wedding Menu

With our wedding menu, we wanted it to reflect our tastes, especially when it came to dessert. Our absolute favorite dessert is a pazookie, or “pizza cookie,” so naturally, we served paozookies topped with a dollop of ice cream to all our guests. Since the celebration was in Mexico, incorporating local flavors was a must, so churros it was. As the speeches continued, each guest received a personalized-sized wooden cutting board featuring the cookie, ice cream, and warm churro. This blend of local charm and personal favorites made the dessert course memorable when it was usually the one that gets overlooked.

Adding Personal Flair at Their Casa Adela Wedding Through Personalized Letters and Custom Favors

We put a personal touch on everything during our wedding weekend, and a couple of highlights stand out. First, Ryan and I took the time to write an individual letter to each couple attending. These weren’t just letters; we had a calligraphist beautifully script each envelope, doubling as the escort cards at the tables. The reactions were unforgettable—tears, laughter, and pure joy as our guests read the heartfelt notes Ryan and I had written. It was a massive undertaking, but seeing how excited everyone was about them made it all worth it. The second special touch was when we handed out custom-made merchandise at the end of the night. We had designed bucket hats, trucker hats, and tote bags for everyone. It was a hit! The next day, at brunch and all around town, it was remarkable to see everyone sporting their hats and totes.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – EFEGE
Event Planning + Floral Design – Bougainvillea Weddings
Venue – Casa Adela
Catering – Maye Cordova
Videography – Tan Weddings
Makeup Artist – Lauren Rushh
Hair Styling – Vanessa Ospina
Wedding Dress – Reem Acra
Bridal Accessories – Aquazzura
Bridesmaids’ Apparel – V. Chapman
Groom’s Apparel – MDO Miami
Groom’s Accessories – Ferragamo
Rings – JR Dunn
Rentals – Warehouse Guanajuato

 

Congratulations to Nina and Ryan on their Casa Adela wedding that beautifully highlighted Mexico’s natural beauty. A special thank you to Junebug vendors Bougainvillea Weddings for planning their big day, Tan Weddings for immortalizing all the memorable moments on video, and EFEGE for capturing the stunning details for us to see. Check out their profiles in our directory of the world’s best wedding vendors.

If you and your partner want to craft a stunning wedding atmosphere, starting with your venue’s design elements is a fantastic idea. You’ll create a harmonious blend with the natural surroundings by reflecting the colors, textures, and ambiance in your decor and floral arrangements.

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This Intimate RubyJune Inn Wedding Was Inspired by a Monet Painting

August 10, 2024 | justine

Hannah and Andrew wanted their wedding to feel like a cozy dinner party at home. They aimed for it to be relaxed, comfortable, and full of purpose, focusing on good food, wine, and meaningful connections. They kept saying it would be a dinner party where two people just happened to get married, and that’s exactly what they created at their RubyJune Inn wedding.

With the inspiration for their wedding design built around the Monet painting “The Artist’s Garden in Argenteuil,” which they viewed at The National Art Gallery shortly after their engagement, the couple playfully described the atmosphere of their big day as “pastoral chic.” For their intimate ceremony on the venue’s veranda, they promised a lifetime of love surrounded by their loved ones. This was followed by a backyard reception that continued the theme, creating a warm and charming celebration.

To make it even more special, the couple ensured that everything was sustainable—from the florals to the countless candles. Their commitment and creativity truly shone on their big day. Luckily, Junebug vendor Elissa Deline captured all the memorable details for everyone to see.

The Couple:

Hannah and Andrew

The Wedding:

RubyJune Inn, Washington, United States

Bringing Monet’s Garden to Life at Their RubyJune Inn Wedding

The inspiration for the design was built around the Monet painting “The Artist’s Garden in Argenteuil,” which we viewed at The National Art Gallery shortly after our engagement. The impressionist garden in the foreground of a small white house reminded me of our venue, RubyJune Inn, which we had already decided on, and the ethereal, pastoral feel of Monet paintings is the vibe I wanted to create for our wedding day. I landed on the term “pastoral chic” (half-jokingly) to describe the mood we were going for. I was inspired by the combination of light blue with pops of dark red. The light blue felt angelic and ethereal, while including pops of dark red felt romantic and powerful. The color inspiration was best represented on the day through the florals selected and picked up from a local farm and the bow detail on my bouquet. A local company, Madre Linen, became the perfect choice for linens, given their signature red hem.

A Poetic Morning Before the Big Day

It was really important to have a relaxing and restful morning to soak it all in before getting caught up in the rush of the day. Andrew and I slept in and shared private vows over breakfast in RubyJune Inn’s icehouse, an old icehouse converted into a cozy lounge. There was something poetic about having a private moment within the ice house, where hours later, we would marry in front of our family and friends just outside the icehouse’s external frame. It was important for us to go about the entire day in a way that felt organic, so leading up to our first look, we talked about how the moment could be the most authentic for us. Our first look was cute because it took place right outside our room where I was getting ready, and it felt like I was getting picked up for Prom. Andrew knocked on the door, and we could see each other through the little window as I walked out to him. Our breakfast cake also made it feel special. After our vows, my friend Ellery taught a yoga class in the field, and it was grounding but kept me present. I had such a great day so far that I delayed getting ready to join a few friends in a spontaneous jump into the Husum River just across the street from the property.

The Sacred Ritual of Getting Ready with Friends

Getting ready for a big event with my friends is always a special and sacred time. I did my hair and makeup and drank champagne leisurely until I wore my dress. My friends Ellery and Jojo were there to help me get dressed and do the last touches. Andrew only had to wait around 15 minutes past the curtain call for our first look.

Adding Personal Touches to Their Ceremony

The ceremony was very special. I was anti-walking down an aisle because of stage fright. We both came out from the suite I got ready in; then, we casually and joyfully walked over to where our guests were waiting. Our guests stood staggered in two rows on either side, with our officiant beside us. It was short and sweet; each of us shared a poem we had written to the other in the first weeks of dating, exchanged a few vows, and sealed it with a special champagne toast in coupe glasses (my favorite glassware by far).

Reducing Footprint Through Sustainable Wedding Decor

I work in sustainability and strive to be a responsible consumer, so our wedding was no different. I made all possible efforts to source second-hand and local goods for all the details. Florals were picked up from a local farm called Vibrant Valley Farm and turned into arrangements by our officiant/florist, one of our closest friends. They sat in thrifted vessels along our tablescapes. The too-many-to-count candles were bought from Facebook Marketplace and Goodwill over time. Our ceremony featured an old bell positioned like mistletoe, which Andrew grabbed from an antique store just down the street from the venue the day before our wedding. The tablecloth and napkin linens were rented from Madre Linen, a Portland company and one of my favorite brands.

Why They Chose to Have a RubyJune Inn Wedding

We briefly looked at renting a house or an estate somewhere near the ocean but soon were struck with memories from a birthday trip to a little inn on the Columbia River Gorge. We contacted Chris and Gretchen of RubyJune Inn about hosting our wedding before we were officially engaged. Serendipitously, they had just reopened their books to host weddings the following year after a pandemic break. RubyJune Inn is a cozy inn and wine lounge with six bedrooms on the property, lovely gardens, and a fantastic chef’s kitchen. Most importantly, it is run and hosted by the loveliest couple. It is the perfect location to gather with a small group and celebrate something special.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Elissa Deline
Ceremony + Reception Venue + Catering – RubyJune Inn
Flowers – Vibrant Valley Farm
Wedding Dress – Kamperett
Groom’s Accessories – Second hand from The Real Real
Rings – OKO
Rentals – Madre Linens

 

Congratulations to Hannah and Andrew on their intimate RubyJune Inn wedding. And a big thank you goes out to Junebug vendor Elissa Deline for skillfully capturing every special moment of their joyous day. To see more beautiful celebrations, check out her profile in our directory of talented photographers from around the world.

More couples now say they want “smaller, more meaningful” celebrations like this one. Planning a sustainable wedding doesn’t have to be more complicated than a traditional one. Check out our guide to help you navigate green wedding planning and create the sustainable wedding of your dreams.

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This Whimsical Chatelherault Country Park Wedding Was Put Together by an All-Women Team & We Couldn’t Love it More

August 2, 2024 | justine

A whimsical theme adds magic to any celebration, and this Chatelherault Country Park wedding inspiration shows exactly that. Featuring real-life couple Kelly and Ula as the glowing brides, the historic 17th-century building in the peaceful Scottish countryside sets the perfect scene for timeless luxury. It was a beautiful mix of elegance and romance, put together by an all-women team, and we couldn’t love it more.

The florals, in particular, were a highlight, with breathtaking arrangements adorning every corner. The ceremony beautifully incorporated Scottish traditions, including moments of handfasting and toasting cups. A standout moment was the stunning cake display, where wild florals cascaded from the drawers of a vintage dresser, adding a whimsical touch to the opulent setting.  To top it all off, the wedding gowns continued the floral theme with exquisite attention to detail. Intricate appliqué and rich textures mirrored the enchanting flowers adorning the venue, adding another layer of romance and allure to this editorial shoot.

The beautiful photos taken by photographer Bernadeta Kupiec Photography will amaze you with their careful details and creativity. They perfectly show how old traditions and fresh ideas can blend to create something timeless and unforgettable.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Bernadeta Kupiec Photography
Styling – Little Dressing Co
Ceremony + Reception Venue – Chatelherault Country Park
Floral Design – Wildflower & Willow
Cake – Copper Rose Wedding Cakes
Officiant – Niki Smith
Videography – Fern & Heather
Content Creator – Social Brides Club
Makeup Artist – Jenny Ross Makeup Artistry
Hair Styling – Rebecca J Hair Bridal
Wedding Dress – Lorelle Atara Bridal
Veil – Ellie Donaldson
Bridal Accessories – Di Hassall
Ribbons – Cfleurs Design
Rentals – Alba Tableware + Get Knotted

 

A big thank you to photographer Bernadeta Kupiec Photography for sharing this whimsical Chatelherault Country Park wedding inspiration shoot with us and for capturing every lovely detail. The lush florals and magical setting can easily inspire couples planning their weddings.

Combining old traditions with fresh ideas creates a stylish fusion that never goes out of style. Explore our guide for practical tips to make your wedding truly timeless. Discover how to blend classic elements with modern twists, ensuring your celebration is both memorable and uniquely yours.

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This Carnegie Museum Wedding Was a Medieval Dream Come to Life

July 31, 2024 | justine

Rachel and Ben didn’t stick to just one style for their wedding. Instead, they chose different looks they loved and combined them all. The challenge was making everything fit together nicely. But with the help of their visionary team of vendors, they managed to successfully pull off a renaissance, glam, metal, medieval Carnegie Museum wedding!

The couple chose a truly unique venue for their big day. Their dreamy ceremony took place in the Hall of Sculpture, featuring gold chairs, an altar adorned with flowers, and a flowing drapery backdrop. Meanwhile, the scene was set for a lavish reception at the Music Hall Foyer. Inspired by the Red Wedding feast from Game of Thrones, they showcased lush tablescapes draped in sprawling florals and greenery, with candles and gold accents perfectly complementing the ornate interiors.

Their special day was truly “a wedding like no other.” Just one glance at the photos taken by Rachel Rowland, and you’ll see why. If you and your partner are searching for unique wedding ideas, look no further.

The Couple:

Rachel and Ben

The Wedding:

Carnegie Museum, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

Successfully Pulling Off Their Carnegie Museum Wedding Through Multiple Inspirations

We drew inspiration from multiple aesthetics, which posed the challenge of blending them seamlessly. The venue itself evoked medieval and Renaissance vibes, setting the tone for our celebration. Inspired by the Game of Thrones Red Wedding feast, our head table captured a similar ambiance. Our goal was to create a wedding that reflected us, our style, and our journey together. To personalize the experience, we named each table after bars from our hometown, with our head table honoring where we first met. Ultimately, the best advice I received was to choose what I love rather than stick to one style. This approach led us to our unique blend of Renaissance, glam, metal, and medieval elements for our wedding day.

Wedding Attire Style Inspirations and Personal Touches

I had many style inspirations: Bridget Bardot for my hair and Vivienne Westwood for my overall look. Buying the boots was a bit impulsive, but as a boot lover, I couldn’t resist. I left Ben to choose his outfit entirely on his own—I wanted him to feel confident and in control. It helped that all the groomsmen wore black; his only rule was no navy blue. I’m not a fan of bow ties or neckties. If I were a man, I’d never wear one. They look uncomfortable. So, I found chains and button covers on Etsy as alternatives, which perfectly matched our vibe, and the groomsmen loved them. I faced a challenge in making the bridesmaids stand out from the guests since they were also in black. My Maid of Honor suggested they wear black gloves to match mine, which was a perfect solution. As a bridesmaid gift, I got each of them Vivienne Westwood earrings to match mine, which they wore on the day. It was just perfect.

Personalizing Their Ceremony by Having Brothers as Officiants, Curated Music, and Heartfelt Vows

Having my brothers officiate the wedding was a bit nerve-wracking since I wasn’t sure what they would say—I am their little sister, after all. But it turned out to be incredibly sweet and perfect. We also curated the music for the string quartet, which was amazing. I highly recommend writing and reading your own vows for the ceremony; it made everything so much more personal and allowed our guests to learn more about us and our journey together. Despite our nerves, exchanging our vows was a highlight. Every guest we spoke to afterward told us how special it was.

Breaking the Mold by Embracing Personal Style Over Pinterest Trends

Here’s some advice for other couples: Don’t limit yourselves to a Pinterest board aesthetic! Embrace the things you love that don’t fit into a specific “box.” Everything came together perfectly because it was about what we genuinely liked and resonated with. Also, don’t hesitate to give your guests a dress code. We opted for all-black attire, which looked amazing and made it simpler for everyone to choose what to wear. Plus, let’s face it—everyone looks fabulous in black! I’m incredibly proud of how everything turned out. Planning from a distance, away from our home in Pittsburgh, required a lot of imagination to envision the final look, but it all came together beautifully in the end.

The Perfect Wedding Venue that Ticked All the Right Boxes

Our most important elements were the venue, attire, and food. We were set on having everything indoors, leading us to choose a venue in a city we had never visited. When we discovered the Carnegie Museum Music Hall Foyer through photos, we initially thought it was in Europe—it had that charm. To our surprise, it was just three hours away in Pittsburgh! When we visited in person, we were overwhelmed and even shed a few tears seeing its stunning beauty firsthand. It was perfect for our wedding.

Simple and Meaningful Thank-You Gifts at Their Carnegie Museum Wedding

We opted not to give gifts with our names on them or something guests might not use. Instead, we gave everyone a thank-you card and a $1 scratcher. It was a simple gesture that we hoped would bring some fun and appreciation to our guests.

Personalizing Carnegie Museum Wedding Decor with Professional Flair

I designed our thank-you cards, save-the-dates, and custom cocktail signage myself—I’m a designer by profession, so this was a joyful task. I advise anyone considering DIY projects to choose something you genuinely enjoy doing. For our cocktail sign, I hand-drew our pets on my iPad and then created the sign using Canva. I found frames on Amazon to display them beautifully. I also used Canva for the rest of our designs, which I disliked, but I’ve come to appreciate its affordability, ease of use, and versatility. It’s an excellent software for creative projects.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Rachel Rowland 
Venue + Catering + Cake – Carnegie Museum
Floral Design – The Farmers Daughter
DJ – Alex Nepa
Live Music – Drella String Quartet
Videography – Valcinema
Invitation Design – Ivory and Fine Co
Makeup + Hair Styling – Glam To Go
Wedding Dress – Kleinfeld
Accessories – Vivienne Westwood + Cornelia James + Fendi
Groom’s Apparel – Lanieri
Groomsmen’s Apparel –
Rings – Colonial Jewelers

 

Congratulations to Rachel and Ben on their Carnegie Museum wedding, which truly was a medieval dream come to life. Thank you to Rachel Rowland for capturing all the unique details that unconventional couples can use as inspiration.

Planning an unforgettable celebration begins with a clear vision and a stellar team. Start by exploring our comprehensive planning and budget guides to kickstart your journey. Then, assemble your dream team of expert vendors from our trusted selection. Together, you can create an event that exceeds all expectations and leaves a lasting impression.

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