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A True, Charming, Southern Wedding For These Childhood Sweethearts!

OK….this story completely melted my heart, when I read it; from the fact that the groom asked the bride to be his girlfriend when they were just 13 years old, to the utterly romantic proposal story! And, it just kept going once the wedding planning started! Meredith and John had THE most charming, Southern wedding at The Capital City Club with overflowing florals by Jackson Durham and a variety of perfectly paired linens by La Tavola! Chancey Charm Wedding Planning & Design brought the bride’s vision to life and Dear Elouise created the dream, custom invitation to set the tone for the day! To top it all off, Amy Arrington Photography was behind the lens, capturing every special moment from details to dancing! Check it out below, and be sure to read their story!

From the Bride…Our story began when I was thirteen years old and John asked me to be his girlfriend. His mom loves to tell the story of when he came home one day from school and told her “I am going to marry her one day”. Fast forward to Christmas Eve 2017. We were up at Lake Burton with my family and everyone was getting ready to go to dinner at the Waterfall Club (little did I know that the club was actually closed for the holidays). We pull up and there were rose petals and candles everywhere leading to the entrance of the club. I remember thinking to myself “this is very romantic for a Christmas dinner”. We open the front doors to the biggest Christmas tree, a band and all of our family members anxiously waiting for our arrival. John got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. I was so excited I started hugging and kissing him and all of our family before I could even remember to put the ring on! We went on to have a beautiful dinner with our families and danced the night away. 

Growing up I loved looking through my mother’s wedding album. I knew that I wanted to have a wedding that would never go out of style and that would be classic. I immediately started searching for the venue and the perfect planner. Thankfully I found Shelley Legg for Chancey Charm Weddings who helped me bring my vision to life flawlessly. Picking a planner was one of the hardest decisions for me to make and the second I talked to her I knew she was the perfect fit! It took a little while to find our venue but we landed on Capital City Club in Brookhaven. We decided to have a sailcloth tent out on the driving range lit up with twinkle lights. Green is my favorite color so I incorporated that as much as I could and stuck to neutral colors. One of my favorite parts about planning our wedding was designing all of our paper goods. Brent Fraim at Dear Elouise completely made all of my invitation dreams come true. You think about your wedding day since you were a little girl and being able to hold your invitation in your hand is one of the coolest parts leading up to your big day.

Our dogs mean everything to us and because we couldn’t have them there with us we decided to have Dear Elouise design specialty cocktails after them. We also wanted to have something different than a place card so we wrote everyone’s names on the leaf of a pear. We wanted to make the entrance a statement so we hired Jackson Durham to build a beautiful arch of flowers around the entrance of the tent. They also designed a beautiful champagne display. Sitting in each champagne flute was an acrylic table assignment. We really enjoyed The SlowMotion Booth. We decided to have them there instead of your typical photo booth and it was such a hit! Our guests couldn’t stay away and it was such a treat to be able to go back and watch everyone’s videos after our wedding day.

One of the most fun parts of our big day was the trolley ride that we took with our wedding party and family from the church to the reception. We popped champagne and laughed until our knees hurt. It was a really special time we got to spend with our best friends. Our wedding planner pulled us aside once we got to our venue and let us have a little meal together just us two before we went into cocktail hour. It was a time I will cherish forever. Looking back on our wedding day we appreciate having all of our friends and family together in one place…because at the end of the day that’s all you have! I cannot stress enough to brides that your wedding day is about you and your husband. Enjoy it, relax, have fun and don’t worry about anything else!

Photography: Amy Arrington Photography | Event Planning: Chancey Charm | Cake: Frosted Pumpkin Gourmet, Inc. | Ceremony Venue: Peachtree Road United Methodist Church | Reception Venue: Capitol City Club, Brookhaven | Catering : Capitol City Club, Brookhaven | Calligraphy: Peach and Valley Designs | Band: Rupert's Orchestra | After Party DJ: DJ q tip | Beauty: The Moore Agency | Bridal Gown: Joan Pillow Bridal | Custom pillows, napkins, aprons: The French Table | Design and Florals: Jackson Durham Events | Host Hotel: The Whitley Hotel | Love Wedding Painter: Love Louise Designs | Paper Goods: Dear Elouise | Photo Booth: The Slow Motion Booth | Rentals - Linens: BBJ La Tavola | Rentals - lounge furniture: Crush Event design | Rentals - tent, flooring, lighting, staging, dining tables, dini: Goodwin Events | Transportation - get away car: Classic Convertible Carriages | Transportation - wedding party: Premier Trolleys | Video: HUD Productions

6 Perfect Places to Incorporate Texture to Your Minimalistic Wedding

If you consider yourself a bride who likes to air on the side of simple, light and minimalistic – we’re big fans. But there lies an often overlooked element that can give your understated wedding vision a major upgrade. Incorporating texture in your wedding is so significant because it keeps your minimalistic dreams safe, while also achieving that “wow” factor! Today we’re sharing a gorgeous shoot that encompasses just that. The creative geniuses behind this design include coordination by RSVP Events, floral perfection from Nicole Chapman Design, and photography by Tenth & Grace. Find out 6 tips for adding texture to your wedding style below!

There are so many points of inspiration for a wedding, and while we talk about colors and florals and other details – we can’t forget texture and how much visual interest it can add to your wedding day! This editorial designed by RSVP Events incorporated texture in a variety of different forms.

The Alexandra Grecco gowns included texture in two forms – a blush dress covered in delicate embroidery and a sleek white number with flutter sleeves. Both options incorporate texture in different ways and both are absolutely stunning! The jewelry by Jennifer Behr and textured hairstyle by Erin Ryser are additional examples of how brides can add texture to their big day.

For the floral design, Nicole Chapman Design went all in on the texture. She crafted bouquets and centerpieces full of different types of blooms, so they were big on texture without resorting to greenery. Tessa Pinner followed a similar route with a cake that was crafted with small and large embellishments to add a ton of visual interest. 

SIX PERFECT PLACES TO INCORPORATE TEXTURE TO YOUR MINIMALISTIC WEDDING

1. Dress. One of our personal favorite places to add a bit of texture to your wedding day is surprisingly unrelated to your décor – it’s actually your wedding dress! There are so many beautiful wedding dress designs that really turn up the texture and transform into works of art. From ethereal 3D applique, to intricate beading, to soft feathers… the possibilities are truly endless. Shopping for your wedding dress can be a little overwhelming, so keeping in mind the texture of the dress might be a great way to narrow down your search.

2. Flowers. Incorporating an element of texture into your floral arrangements will make them stand out and bring that “wow” factor to an already beautiful bouquet. Don’t be afraid to be bold – experiment with the idea of adding unique, non-traditional flowers to your arrangements. Talk to your florist about the various options you may have while staying true to the overall look and feel of your wedding day. A few of our favorite additions include: ranunculus, waxflowers and dusty miller.

3. Cake. A surefire way to make your wedding cake almost too pretty to eat is adding texture to the design. Ruffles edged in gold, a buttercream petal effect, raised piping, and watercolor paint strokes are all amazing ways to make a statement with your wedding cake. Textured cakes can come in various shapes and sizes, so you’re guaranteed to find the perfect fit for your personal style.

4. Linens. What’s the easiest way to make your tablescape look way more expensive than it actually is? Textured linens. Trust us, you won’t believe the difference it can make to an otherwise simple table design. Think subtle sequins, romantic velvet, or feminine tulle. Linens are such a crucial element to your tablescape because they really pull everything together – get inspired by elements from your floral arrangement, votives, or place cards, so the details come together in a seamless fashion.

5. Hairstyle. The most fun way to play with texture on your wedding day is, of course – your hairstyle! It’s impossible to deny the romance of a soft bridal braid or the effortless elegance of a low, messy bun. Whether you’re blonde or brunette, have short hair or long locks… textured hairstyles are beautiful from every angle and can flatter any hair type. Enjoy the process and go with the, ahem… flow!

6. Stationery. Your save the date and invitation are among the first few components of your wedding that guests receive – make sure they’re a great representation of how your wedding will look and feel. For example, thick parchment paper with torn edges, metallic gold calligraphy and a custom wax seal make for a romantic feel. We love the idea of playing on the five senses – so not only will textured invitations give your guests a beautiful visual element, but they also offer an enhanced element of touch.

Photography: Tanya Menoni | Floral Design: Nicole Chapman Design | Cake: Tessa Pinner | Shoes: Bella Belle | Hair and Makeup: Erin Ryser | Wedding Venue: Swan House | Bridal Accessories: jennifer behr | Creative Direction: RSVP Events | Gown Designer: Alexandra Grecco | Gowns: Kelly's Closet | Paper Goods: Shasta Bell Calligraphy | Rentals: Blue Eyed Yonder | Ribbons and textiles: Silk and Willow | Ring and Ring Box: Rough Luxe Fine Jewelry

When it Comes to Love, This is What Really Matters

Today is National Grandparent’s Day. Which is sort of a mixed bag of emotion. Why do we need a day to celebrate the best part of our world? And yet as life gets busier and busier, a day like today is also a simple reminder that we need to slow down, to sit alongside family, to open our hearts to the life well lived of the people who came before us and learn from the lessons that only that life well lived can teach. Today, we have the most beautiful love story – a marriage of 55 years, a love that began with one bridesmaid and a borrowed dress – with photographs by the lovely, lovely Hannah Forsberg. And a lesson that after all of the gifts have been opened, the kisses kissed and the hugs hugged…it’s the marriage that matters most.

From Hannah Forsberg… In a culture that often treats love and marriage as disposable, Judi and Dave are a couple that have a beautiful and rare story of just the opposite. Not only are they such a joy to be around and wonderful mentors, but they are also dear friends. I’ve had the privilege of watching their marriage for years and the way they love each other unconditionally is an inspiration and testament to the popular verse that is so often recited during weddings from 1 Corinthians 13:8 which says, “Love never fails”.

While getting coffee with Judi and hearing her advice on love and marriage, I realized that I needed to share their story with the world. During the wedding planning process, it is so easy in this visually-driven society we live in to become caught up in the things that will pass away – forgetting that your marriage is what matters most and that it is hard work. Love goes beyond the wedding day. You only have your venue for a few hours, your flowers will fade, your wedding dress will go into storage, and your wedding album will be sitting on your living room table. But your marriage? That is what matters most and that is what will have the lasting effect. I hope that these images serve as a reminder that love is a commitment – a commitment of humility, patience, and forgiveness. I hope that that these images inspire you to remember that love is walking hand in-hand together, growing, learning, and striving – that yes, while it is still hard work, true love exists.

Judi and Dave’s joy is infectious and they spent this afternoon wrapped up into each other, whispering secrets and telling stories.  I was left without words after spending that day with them, in awe of how tender and infatuated they are with each other. When Judi walked out in her gorgeous outfit, gorgeous Ginger Rose bouquet, and all made up by Erin Ryser, Dave said: “Wow, will you marry me all over again?” My heart melted. There were so many other moments like this, where he helped her out down a flight of stairs and continuously opening doors for her and knowing just what to say to make her laugh. It’s the days like these where I am left overwhelmed by the fact that it is such a privilege to be a photographer and reminded that it is because of love and stories like this that I became a photographer in the first place.


From Dave, the groom… Judi and I met in Cheyenne, Wyoming where I was serving in the Air Force and where Judi was attending Stewardess Training for United Airlines. I was from Indiana and Judi grew up in Illinois, so we had the mid-west in common. It was a short 4 ½ weeks of getting to know one another and in that short time together, we fell in love and promised to marry each other. The only obstacle was I had an overseas commitment left in my tour of duty.  I was sent to Puerto Rico and we began writing letters to each other every day for the next two years until I finished my tour of duty. After I was able to obtain leave of service, we became engaged over a New Year’s weekend on January 1st 1963 at 12:01am. We married that same year in September after I was discharged.

What was important to both of us was to be together after waiting and being separated by distance for almost 2 years. We had hardly any money so our wedding day was very simple. We loved each other and that is what mattered. Our wedding was one bridesmaid, a borrowed wedding dress, and one best man in a church in Judi’s home town of Downers Grove, Illinois.

My favorite thing about Judi is that she loves learning and is very diligent in her pursuits. She makes wise choices with her gift of creativity, which is shown in every room in our home.  She is always industrious and I love telling others how much of a Proverbs 31 woman she has become in our almost 55 years of marriage. She works hard; plans ahead; respects me greatly; is a wise counselor; and is a wonderful model of a Godly woman.

From Judi, the bride… What I love about Dave is that He is a patient man, asks good questions, is not a rash decision maker. I have learned a lot from him. He is conservative by nature, orderly and thorough at everything he does.  I trust him implicitly.  He is kind and generous and has given me a lot of freedom to develop my interests without demanding anything from me.  Of course, this causes me to want to serve and love him more. The most honest thing that I can say about love is that love is learned behavior.  It can be romantic, but often is just living and serving each other, working together toward healthy living with family, children, parents, in-laws etc. The biggest thing I’ve learned over the years and advise other couples is to accept each other and don’t try to change the person.  Pray for your spouse, ask God to make changes in YOU, and let God move your spouse’s heart.

Photography: Hannah Forsberg | Florist: Ginger Rose | Cake: Gingerspice Bakery | Hair & Makeup: Erin Ryser | Calligraphy: Morphosis Studio | Film Lab: The Find Lab | Lace Top: BHLDN

This Atlanta Ballroom Wedding Has a First Look That Will Make You Melt

This ballroom wedding held at Atlanta’s Georgian Terrace is gorgeous all on its own but cut to the first look and I swear you’ll be a goner. It’s the sweetest moment between the Bride and Groom. And that is followed by glamorous touches designed by My Simply Perfect, with florals by Stylish Stems and the most beautiful images captured by Elle Danielle.

What was your favorite moment about your wedding day? The first look… Definitely the first look. Summer knew ahead of time that this was the most important moment for me. And if there is one detail of that day that I remember vividly, it’s the first look. For those few minutes, it was just about the two of us.

Tell us about your dress. It was the first dress I tried on. I was convinced I wanted a princess style dress but when we got to the boutique, the staff convinced me to try on a straight dress. The first one they brought me was gorgeous and I was sure it was going to be too much but when I tried it on, I fell in love. 

I tried to talk myself out of it and tried on a few other dresses that day but a few hours later, I called and told them I wanted it. After all, I was the bride – when else was I going to get to feel like a princess?

What was your favorite decor element? Everything the florist did – the flowers, my bouquet, and the fabulous seat assignment board. Just stunning!!! Summer had a vision and I allowed her to run with it. Every single decor element was stunning. I couldn’t have asked for more.

 

Photography: Elle Danielle | Videography: T Miller Films | Floral Design: Stylish Stems | Cake: Frosted Pumpkin Gourmet, Inc. | Catering: Georgian Terrace | Makeup: 9 Shades By J | DJ: Dj Eclazz | Venue: Georgian Terrace | Photo Booth: ShutterBooth | Wedding Planner + Designer: Summer McClane - My Simply Perfect Event

This Piedmont Park Wedding Gets an A+ in Our Book

When tying the knot, these two teachers wanted to give their guests a taste of what Atlanta had to offer, so they started with a favorite piece by local artist, Britt Bass. From there, they chose the look for their colorful day, brought to life by Elizabeth Marie Weddings + Events. With the couple’s big smiles, the fabulous florals by Victory Blooms, and photographs that keep us coming back all day long captured by Amy Arrington, this Southern wedding at Piedmont Park gets and A+ in our book.

Colors
Settings
Park
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Whimsical

From the bride… We are both elementary school teachers. Josh and I met when I was moving into my classroom right before my first year of teaching. Another teacher in the building suggested Josh deliver some books to my classroom and introduce himself. So, Josh came by with some books, and we immediately hit it off. We would spend hours walking at the park near our school after work that fall, and two years later at that same park, Josh was down on one knee proposing!

We knew we wanted to get married in a park, and what better park in Atlanta than Piedmont Park? Josh’s family is from Michigan, so we wanted to give them a taste of Atlanta. Our welcome bags were filled with Atlanta goodies, and our accommodations were right in the heart of Midtown.

When planning our wedding, we were very intentional. Our ceremony alone totally reflected us as a couple. When thinking back, we always say, “That was so us!” We asked Josh’s brother, Chad, to perform our ceremony, had a friend read a poem about all of the things you learn in Kindergarten (Josh is a Kindergarten teacher!), and exchanged our own written vows.

My favorite local artist is Britt Bass, so we actually decided to use one of her paintings as our inspiration for all of the colors – lots of reds, pinks, berries, blues, and some hints of gold throughout. We even used the painting as the backdrop for the seating chart. We decided to give guests each a cookie from our favorite local bakery, The Patio, to say thank you. When it came to choosing a guest book, we chose one of our favorite children’s books, How The Grinch Stole Christmas. Our groom’s cake was actually a tower of donuts with Star Wars characters to top it.

My most special memory from the day was walking down the aisle to my groom. I will never forget the feeling I got when the doors opened, squeezing my dad’s arm extra tight while saying, “I love you,” and finally seeing Josh standing at the end of the aisle. We decided not to do a first look, so this was such a special moment for us.

My wedding band was actually custom made using nine of my grandmother’s diamonds. The diamonds were given to her from my grandfather in the form of a necklace. I also wore two pieces of jewelry from my other grandmother – a gorgeous vintage ring that my grandfather had given to her on their 25th wedding anniversary and a beautiful bracelet my dad had given her when I was born.

One of my favorite stories looking back is my dad’s speech right before our father daughter dance. My dad is typically a man of few words, but that night, he shared so many touching words about Josh’s and my relationship and becoming one family. It was beautiful. Of course, we were both too emotional after that to remember all of our practiced moves to our dance!

We absolutely love to dance. Our first dance was to the first song Josh ever sang to me while we were dating, Everything. Our last dance was to one of our favorite songs to dance to in the kitchen, La Vie En Rose. We couldn’t help looking around while we were dancing, talking about how amazing the night was and how lucky we truly were to have each other and all of these amazing people there to celebrate.

If I could offer one piece of wisdom to couples planning a wedding, I would say to choose the right vendors for you and your vision. Throughout the entire process, I had the best vendors that went with my vision for the day so perfectly. I loved getting to think out of the box, and my wedding planner and vendors were so supportive with my ideas. They were the ones who were able to make it all come to life! The colors, the flowers, the calligraphy, the art, the special touches… It was amazing the way they all pieced it together to bring my dream to life!

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Photography: Amy Arrington Photography | Cinematography: BEV Weddings | Event Planning + Design: Elizabeth Marie Weddings And Events | Wedding Dress: Augusta Jones | Cake: Lush Cakery | Bridesmaids' Dresses: BHLDN | Catering: Proof of the Pudding | Hair + Makeup: Jennifer C Nieman | DJ: Jesse Busch | Tent Rental: James Nesmith | Bridal Boutique: The White Magnolia | Ceremony & Reception: Piedmont Park | Floral Design, Decor: Victory Blooms | Furniture, Draping, Lighting, Linens: Crush Event Rentals | Invitations, Signage, Stationery: Ashley Buzzy | Trolley: Marietta Trolley Company

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A Gorgeous Multicultural Celebration: From Start to Finish (A Ballroom Transformed into a Wedding Wonderland!)

I write about weddings day in and day out but sometimes I’m just at a loss. And today is one of those days. But it’s not because I’m not inspired – it’s the opposite in fact. This wedding before me, well, I’m just in awe and obsessed and just want to look through every single one of Joseph Rogero’s pics over and over again. The color palette: perfect. The Bride: beyond beautiful. The ballroom: transformed into a wedding wonderland. I don’t even know what else to say… I’m head over heels. Hop on over to our gallery right this instant and join me in this love fest.

From Joseph Rogero… When the bride wanted a ballroom transformed into her ethereal wedding dream, Emily Claire Events did just that. With timeless imagery by Still55 Photography, gorgeous blooms from Forage Botanical, and a stunning lace BHLDN gown, this celebration can’t be missed!

From Emily Claire Events… It’s not hard to say that Deepak and Annabelle are one of the sweetest couples I have ever worked with. With the pair living out of state, we were unable to meet in person until a few weeks prior to their big day. Most of our collaboration was done over Skype where I spent many hours getting to know this lovely duo. It was obvious after our first conversation that they had a passion for travel, as well as their heritage, and we wanted to incorporate that into their wedding.

Annabelle initially had a vision of a dreamy outdoor wedding, but she already had a ballroom booked for her date because of logistical factors. We worked closely together to bring her vision to life by including loads of lush greenery and florals, setting up wedding party portraits to be captured in the gardens of the stunning historic Swan House, and integrating flowing white drapery and linens to lighten and brighten the venue space.

As for the travel inspiration, one of the couple’s favorite destinations is France, so we included macarons as a tribute in the welcome bags and little French details can be seen throughout the wedding styling. As an ode to the groom’s Indian heritage, the bride and bridesmaids had traditional Indian henna done after the rehearsal dinner. The bride’s family being from Vietnam, we served a delicious Asian ice cream alongside the wedding cake. It was truly enjoyed by all!

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Photography: Joseph Rogero | Videography: Kale Fitch Films | Event Planning: Browne & Towers | Floral Design: Forage Botanical | Wedding Dress: BHLDN | Cake: Sweet Caroline's Cakes | Invitations: Quinn Luu | Invitations: Sarah Ingram | Ceremony Venue: The Westin Atlanta | Reception Venue: The Westin Atlanta | Bride's Shoes: BHLDN | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Jenny Yoo | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Amsale | Catering: The Westin Atlanta | Catering: Bombay Cafe | Hair + Makeup: Jennifer C Nieman | Groomsmen's Attire: The Black Tux | Venue: http://www.aAtlanta History Center: Swan House & Grand Overlook Ballroomtlantahistorycenter.com/ | Decor Rentals: collectioneventfurnishings | Draping: Unique Event Elements | Rentals: We Rent Atlanta

These Vendors are members of our Little Black Book.
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These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
For membership information, click here
Turning a Local Eatery Into the Prettiest Celebration Spot

This Atlanta wedding captured by Tenth and Grace will make you rethink your local eatery. Fave restaurants aren’t just for dinner and drinks; they also make the perfect backdrop for celebrating “I Do’s”. And this location done up with florals by Gold & Bloom proves extra special because it was the site of many a date for this Bride and Groom and also sits right across the street from where they got engaged. So to say JCT Kitchen was written in the stars for these two is a complete understatement.

Nicole and David wanted a wedding that really reflected who they are as a couple – part traditional, part modern and completely Atlanta. Choosing JCT Kitchen as the venue for their wedding was an easy choice – the couple lived nearby while they were dating and often dined at the restaurant. They even got engaged across the street! So the location was so meaningful to them and it was the perfect spot to exchange their vows. Although it poured fifteen minutes before the ceremony, the clouds moved out just in time for Nicole to walk down the aisle and we even enjoyed some sunshine later in the day. It was a beautiful day for this sweet couple!

Photography: Tanya Menoni | Coordinator: JCT Kitchen + Bar | Floral Design: Gold & Bloom | Wedding Invitations: Minted | Wedding Venue: JCT Kitchen + Bar | Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Vow Books: Seniman Calligraphy

Our Fave Places To Tie the Knot In Buckhead

There’s no doubt that Atlanta’s wedding game is strong, especially if you’re looking to take your celebration a little north to the uptown district of Buckhead. But if you find yourself waffling on just where to say “I do” in this historic locale, no worries. We’re counting down four of our faves to help you out.

Photo Courtesy Of: The Westin Buckhead Atlanta 

THE WESTIN BUCKHEAD ATLANTA

Why we love it: With over 30,000 square feet of event space, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta always delivers when it comes to hosting magazine-worthy celebrations. And their talented weddings team, culinary expertise and proximity to all of that fab Buckhead shopping is key to any awesome wedding week or weekend. Plus, we absolutely adore those luxe accommodations. It’s just what you need after dancing the night away with your loved ones.

What you can’t miss: Their reception options. With over 20 venues woven throughout their property, you can celebrate your newlywed status in everything from a grand ballroom to a garden terrace. Urban vibe meets serene green space never looked so awesome.

Photography: Amy Arrington

ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

Why we love it: You know we love a good garden ceremony, and if you’re looking to say “I do” surrounded by lush florals or just steps away from a picturesque pond, you’ve found your winner in the Atlanta Botanical Garden. We’re especially fond of the Alston Overlook with its Midtown skyline views and intimate setting for just 60 of your nearest and dearest. Now that’s romantic.

What you can’t miss: The Rose Garden. It features over 21 varieties of your fave flower and it’s amazing.

Photography: Justin DeMutiis 

THE SWAN HOUSE

Why we love it: Put simply, ceremonies at The Swan House are quintessential southern affairs. They’re grand, they’re classic and they’re all sorts of take your breath away dreamy. So are we obsessed? You betcha. And those gorgeous staircases are literally are everything.

What you can’t miss: The museum tours. Guests aren’t allowed to party inside the mansion, but you can offer them tours of all of the beauty before you say your “I do’s.” We absolutely love that.

Photography: Carla Gates

THE ESTATE

Why we love it: Centered in the heart of Buckhead, once you enter the grounds of The Estate, you’ll feel like you’ve literally into another time and place. That’s because these three acres smack-dab in the center of the city are surrounded by tall trees that cocoon you from all of the outside activities. And with outdoor ceremony options that include a beautiful fountain, you’ll be giving your Big Day that historic charm you wanted.

What you can’t miss: The charm and history. This sweet locale won The Buckhead Beautification Award for a reason.

If you’re ready to tie the knot in Buckhead, be sure to visit each of these amazing locales for more information. And don’t forget to contact The Westin Buckhead Atlanta for all of your reception and accommodation needs for an event that is fabulous from start to finish.

Four Ways to Host the Ultimate Out-of-the-Box Celebration

If you’re a bride that does things a little, well… differently, then you definitely need to host a wedding that matches your unique personality. Because showing off that sassy side will only make your party that much more fun. Need help achieving that dream, out-of-the-box celebration? We’re runnimpong down a list of four steps that are guaranteed to make that happen… and all with the help of the W Atlanta – Buckhead. Dive in below.

ONE: CHOOSE A WEDDING VENUE THAT EMBRACES YOUR VISION

It all starts with the right locale, which means finding a place that will embrace your unique ideas and throw that wedding rule book out the window. We’re thinking a prime spot in the heart of the city like the W Atlanta – Buckhead with its gorgeous venue options and awesome accommodations that your guests will absolutely love. I mean, this is more than just a wedding… this is the party of the century. And you need a location that will totally get on board.

TWO: MAKE IT A WEDDING WEEKEND, NOT JUST AN EVENING

You’ve never been one to do things by the book – and saying “I do” to the one you love is a celebration that should last as long as possible. So instead of just partying for one night, why not turn your wedding into one of the best vacations you’ll ever take, fab friends + family included? Just make sure to fill your itinerary with an endless amount of fun-filled activities, like shopping, entertainment and dining at the best restaurants.

THREE: SURPRISE YOUR GUESTS WITH THOUGHTFUL TOUCHES

Choosing a venue like the W Atlanta – Buckhead? It’s the first step to winning over your guests. The second step? Filling their stay with thoughtful touches that will really make a statement. From welcome bags that celebrate your hosting city to a pre-wedding parties at amazing restaurants to luxe accommodations, you’ll want to make sure they truly enjoy their stay. Oh, and don’t forget to liven things up with crazy cool events, like scavenger hunts around the city and a goodbye brunch. They’ve never been to a party this.

FIVE: HOST THE ULTIMATE AFTER PARTY

Nothing says “outside the box” quite like a fabulous After Party, and when it comes to dancing the night away post-nuptials, the W Atlanta – Buckhead has you totally covered with one of the coolest spots in all of Atlanta. We’re talking the Whiskey Blue Atlanta, an on-site club that is perfect for that party slash reception (#par-ception) you’ve always wanted. I mean, it’s a rooftop bar, you guys. (Enough said.)

Ready to plan that totally fun, totally YOU wedding? Contact the W Atlanta – Buckhead today to get started – and don’t forget to ask about their exclusive Whatever/Whenever® services. Simply push a button on your phone and their team will deliver whatever you want, whenever you want it. (!) You can even earn bonus Starpoints for future getaways. It just doesn’t get any better.

This Biltmore Ballrooms Wedding Film Will Leave You Wanting More

I have a soft spot for elegant, formal weddings, so I was delighted when I came across this Biltmore Ballrooms celebration’s teaser film by Jonathan & Kaye Luxury Wedding Films. Classic, elegant, romantic, and featuring dramatic floral arrangements, it was everything I hoped for and more. Press play below, but be forewarned – it will leave you wanting more!

[iframe http://player.vimeo.com/video/214862773 600 338]

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Styles
Glamorous

From Jonathan & Kaye Luxury Wedding FilmsIntroducing Cameron and Zsofia’s wedding teaser film! We had a wonderful time celebrating over the weekend with them, first at their rehearsal dinner at the Four Seasons, and then at the Biltmore Ballrooms the next day. Thank you Amy DiLoreti for your “flawless” execution of the day’s events! Congratulations to the both of you! 

To see the full film, click here.

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Photography: Anna And Spencer Photography | Cinematography: Jonathan and Kaye | Event Design: Britt Wood Designs | Event Planning: Amy DiLoreti, A Flawless Event | Floral Design: Britt Wood Designs | Wedding Dress: RL Couture Bridal Design & Alterations | Cake: Classic Cakes And Cheesecakes | Catering: Soiree | Hair: Monica Chipman | Band: A-Town A-List | Groomsmen Attire: Jeffrey Rudes | Officiant: Rev. Jim Crews | Ceremony Music: Celebration String Quartet | Transportation: Classy Car Limo | Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Biltmore Ballrooms | Decor: Atlanta Event Decor | Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Four Seasons Atlanta

This Bride Got the Party Started With Gem-Studded Nikes

The luxe velvet linens, statement florals, and romantic blue and gray palette of this Atlanta wedding captured by VUE Photography first caught my eye, but the goodness didn’t stop there. This couple loves a great party, so they made sure their wedding was as fun as it was elegant. From the Bride’s gem-studded Nikes to the boozy milkshakes and an amazing band, they threw a beautiful and unforgettable celebration!

From the Bride… Before the planning began in earnest, while I was still basking in my excitement over my engagement, I spent some time dreaming about how I wanted my wedding to feel and about my overall vision for the day. In the end, I knew I wanted an elevated and refined feel that captured our joy and love through a wonderful celebration. I wanted the wedding to have a balance of both personality and style.

When an architect opens up an event venue, you know that it is going to be stunning. Nestled in the heart of West Midtown, Atlanta, Summerour Studio is a relaxed escape from the city. It is just a stone’s throw from railroad tracks and department stores, however, the moment you step into the cobblestone courtyard, you’re transported miles away. I loved the European feel of the venue, yet the refined industrial touches also complemented the space well! This venue books up fast, and I was thrilled when we secured a date and settled on a late winter wedding.

The aesthetic of the decor and florals played on various hues of blues, grays, and greens. Some of my favorite decor elements were the custom velvet linens we had. The velvet had amazing texture and created such a luxe look. We layered grays and neutrals in the lounge area to reinforce the aesthetic of the wedding, and we had custom seating for our two head tables that was simply to die for. Our specialty rental company custom made two elegant farm tables for us and paired them with stunning linen chairs. Our stationery, featuring a custom monogram, also matched the elegant gray and blue aesthetic of the wedding. The letterpress and gold foil printed invitations felt so rich and refined, I was almost sad to see them go! The gorgeous stationery did, however, make opening RSVP cards that much more fun.

Our floral designer created even more amazing texture with the flowers and greenery. A few highlights of the floral decor included a beautiful garland on our cake table, a greenery halo hanging over the dance floor, and greenery cascading down the stairs from cocktail hour. Our table centerpieces had lamb’s ear, seeded eucalyptus, white roses, hydrangeas, sand dollar eucalyptus, and various other stunning varieties. I loved that there was variation in our centerpieces, however, they all complemented each other well and created a gorgeous flow to the room. I think the best weddings are ones where lots of thoughtful and beautiful details are layered together to create a cohesive event.

While we wanted the night to feel elegant and refined, we also wanted to make sure it was fun! Grant and I like to be the life of the party, and we wanted to create a memorable night for all our friends. After the ceremony, I changed into gem studded, high-heel Nike kicks to get the party started! Our wedding planners gave us a fun idea to pass out some party items later in the evening, so we had custom sweatbands made featuring our hashtag. We both went to Auburn so the headbands were navy and orange, just like Grant’s amazing groom’s cake! In addition to the aforementioned details, we also had a live painter, late night boozy milkshakes, a festive photo booth, and hors d’oeuvres that were absolutely delicious. Our amazing band wrapped up the weekend with a party I will never forget!

My best advice for brides who are in the planning process would be to envision what you want to be true about your wedding day and choose what you want to prioritize in the planning process. By honing in on your vision and staying true to it throughout the planning process, you will achieve the end result you were looking for!

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Photography: VUE photography | Cinematography: Rusticus Films | Event Planning: TOAST | Floral Design: Andy Beach | Cake: Lush Cakery | Stationery: Paper Daisies Stationery | Ceremony Venue: Peachtree Road United Methodist Church | Reception Venue: Summerour Studio | Catering: Bold American Events | Hair and Makeup: The Moore Agency | Calligraphy: MM Ink | Band: Perfect 10 Band | Live Painter: Ronald Bayens | Rentals: Sejour Events

Top 5 Reasons to Say “I do” at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta

When it comes to celebrating your Big Day, being true to yourselves is THE number one priority. Whether that’s keeping your guest list small with just close friends + family or infusing your day with cultural details that are meaningful to you both. And that means finding a locale that can take all of those dreams and run with them; a place like The Westin Buckhead Atlanta. It’s a little slice of wedding heaven that will easily be the best decision you’ll make while planning. Scroll to find out why.

ONE: ROOM FOR WEDDINGS OF ALL SHAPES + SIZES

Whether you plan to say “I do” in front of your immediate family only, want to throw the biggest celebration Atlanta has ever seen or need enough room to host for your stunning cultural affair, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta is THE place to make it all happen. Think a 10,000 square foot Grand Ballroom that can be divided into five different spaces, 20 different venue options and a grand staircase that will make those bridal portraits POP. Even better, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta’s team of event professionals are skilled in coordinating all types of affairs, no matter the size, shape or budget. So that fabulous three-day Indian affair of your dreams? They have you covered.

TWO: PROXIMITY TO FINE DINING + SHOPPING

Your wedding isn’t just a one-day celebration, it’s an entire experience. Which is why we love The Westin Buckhead Atlanta and their close proximity to everything that the city has to offer. Located right smack-dab in the middle of Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, it’s amazing shopping opportunities meets top-rated restaurants meets everything your guests will ever need. Totally convenient.

THREE: Professional Event Planning Services

From breathtaking cultural affairs to small, intimate soirees, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta’s talented staff is here to help you every step of the way. And I mean every step of the way. They’ll even put you in touch with an amazing team of vendors who can bring you vision to reality – from stunning floral arrangements to the perfect lighting. Not to mention that The Westin Buckhead Atlanta will work with outside caterers, so if you have any special dietary needs – absolutely no problem.

FOUR: An Amazing Culinary Team

And speaking of food… The Westin Buckhead Atlanta happens to boast a team of culinary experts that will make your foodie dreams come true with decades+ of experience cooking up tasty meals. (Yes, that’s a lot of experience.) From yummy cocktails to going away brunches to specialty menus, they’ll leave all of your guests talking. And full.

FIVE: LUXURIOUS ACCOMMODATIONS

You can’t talk about The Westin Buckhead Atlanta without mentioning their fabulous accommodations, aka, the most luxurious suites + rooms you AND your guests will ever have the privilege to stay in. Think the Westin Heavenly Bed®, a marble bathroom (with dual showerhead) and a club lounge with daily breakfast service… and that’s just the beginning. Oh, and did I mention the complimentary bridal suite? It honestly can’t get any better.

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Ready to book the wedding of the century at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta? Contact their talented staff today to talk all things wedding, from receptions to rehearsals to golf outings, they’ll take care of your every wish. And the best part? It will scream YOU from start to finish.

Photography: Derek Wintermute Photography

When High-School Sweethearts Tie the Knot

Allie and Matt met when they were babies. And when I say babies, I mean the tender age of 15 and 16 years old as high-school students turned boyfriend and girlfriend. Fast forward many years later and these two decided to spend forever together with a celebration for the books. Think classic with a modern, industrial chic spin and there’s more to see in the gallery photographed by Sawyer Baird.

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From the couple… Matt and Allie met for the first time as high school students at the ages of fifteen (Allie) and sixteen (Matt). After two and a half years of dating in high school, Matt graduated and went on to play baseball at The University of Georgia. With Matt constantly traveling for baseball and Allie still being in high school, they made the extremely tough decision to go their separate ways and told each other- ‘If you love something set it free. If it comes back it was meant to be’. After Allie graduated from high school she went on to attend The University of Alabama and while she frequently thought about Matt and his baseball career, she knew she didn’t want to get in the way of his success, and therefore, decided to keep her longing thoughts to herself.

After four years of college, Matt ran into a family friend at a Mexican restaurant who informed him that Allie was recently in a serious accident. Shortly thereafter, Matt reached out to Allie to check on her well-being and they continued to call and text as if they were never apart. That next weekend, Matt decided to travel to Tuscaloosa to visit Allie after not seeing her for four years. As the weekend approached, Matt stood on the corner of University Avenue near a light pole while he waited for Allie to meet him. Once Allie rounded the corner, they locked eyes, slowly ran towards each other, and hugged for what felt like hours. After attending a concert together, they spent the night reminiscing and catching up on the past four years of each other’s lives. From that moment on, they were inseparable, all over again, just as they were in high school. Five fun-filled years later, Matt proposed on the beach of Lake Michigan near a lighthouse at sunset while his family looked on from the top of a hill.

Upon their arrival back to Georgia, they immediately went venue hunting and knew that The Foundry at Puritan Mill was ‘the one’. After a fourteenth month engagement filled with meticulous planning and an amazing team of vendors, Matt and Allie had the wedding of their dreams while surrounded by close family, friends, beautiful white flowers, and sequins galore. As they were whisked away in their classic 1964 Rolls Royce at the end of the night, they began their very own, happily ever after!

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Photography: Sawyer Baird | Cinematography: Before Your Eyes Cinema | Wedding Planning: We Tie The Knots | Floral Design: Boukates | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Food: Bold American Events | Venue: The Foundry At Puritan Mill | Linens: Bold American Events | Photography - Assistance: Lindsey Eller

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Saturday Morning Movie: Glamorous + Elegant St. Regis Wedding

Within seconds we’re transported into the too sweet for words love story of these two via love notes they wrote and read aloud on the morning of their wedding day. It’s one magical piece of an amazing puzzle, complete with glamour and elegance galore and with Jonathan and Kaye behind the camera, we get to be the lucky witnesses. Sit back and prepare to be dazzled!

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From Jonathan and KayeIf you are looking for one of the most elegant, inspired weddings of the year, look no further – this is it!  From the cherry blossom trees at the ceremony, the beautiful head table and guest tables at the reception, the cherry blossom decal on the dance floor, to BOTH of the bride’s gorgeous gowns – this wedding is as elegant and luxurious as they come.

Jonathan and Clare, having been together for 12 years, have traveled the world together and supported each other through thick and thin.  There is nothing like the love between two people that has truly overcome the test of time.

Their day was stunning from beginning to end.  Mid-way through the reception, the bride re-entered in her new dress with much deserved fanfare.  From there, her and her groom had a surprise choreographed dance planned for their guests, which was executed with perfection.

Jonathan and Clare, your wedding is one for the books!  We will always remember your wedding as one of the most beautiful, yet fun weddings we have ever done.  Congratulations you two!  We wish the best to both of you and what’s yet to come!

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Photography: Anna And Spencer Photography | Cinematography: Jonathan and Kaye | Event Design: Edge Design Group | Event Planning: By Brian Green | Floral Design: Edge Design Group | Wedding Dress: Allure Bridal | Wedding Dress: Lazaro bridal | Stationery: Papered Wonders | DJ: Amp'd Entertainment | Wedding Venue: St. Regis Hotel | Atlanta | Lighting Design: Unique Event Elements | Linens: I Do Linens | Menswear: The Modern Gent | Rentals: Event Rentals Unlimited

Say Hello to the Perfect Atlanta Venue

When it comes to tying the knot in style, finding the right locale is key. And if you happen to be saying “I do” in Atlanta, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta most definitely needs to be on your radar. Think over 30,000 square feet of event space, a talented staff with over 17+ years of service experience and a culinary team that will leave all of your guests talking. It’s the wedding of your dreams.

Whether you’re tying the knot in a small, intimate affair with just your nearest and dearest or planning a more extravagant party with all of your friends and family, The Westin Buckhead Atlanta has everything you’ll ever need for that celebration of a lifetime. From the wow-inducing grand staircase to the two story, glass-encased lobby to the picturesque green space located just outside the hotel, it’s THE perfect place to host everything from your rehearsal dinner to your farewell brunches to, of course, your wedding. And don’t even get us started on the tasty menu options. It’s a foodie paradise… literally.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that is glamorous, chic AND fun, contact the talented staff at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta today to start planning. They’ll walk with you step by step throughout the entire process to guarantee a celebration that is as awesome as you always imagined. They’ll even accommodate dietary restrictions and work with outside catering. You’re going to love them.

A Real Life “Night at the Museum” Wedding!

Matthew and Dawn weren’t about to have your run-of-the-mill wedding day. Not a chance. Instead, they chose The Fernbank Museum (the location of their first date!) and totally embraced the unique venue – dinosaurs and all. Thanks to Kelli Lynn Photography for the images that speak for themselves!

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From Kelli Lynn Photography… This wedding was so unique! The bride & groom own their own photography business, so they had a certain vision in mind for their wedding, and their vision came to life perfectly! The Fernbank Museum is where Matthew & Dawn had their first date, and they wanted to come back to where it all started for their wedding. The museum itself is amazing, with a huge dinosaur sculpture located in the Atrium of the museum. They decided to add to the natural essence of the museum and incorporate dinosaurs into their wedding theme! Not only that, Dawn herself made several of the geometric shapes that were used for centerpieces and for the ceremony decorations herself! One of the highlight features of the wedding decor was the amazing cake that looks like there was geode rock in the cake!

I absolutely LOVE this couple! As photographers themselves, I knew their wedding would be amazing. Not only that, they were the best bride and groom to work with and were a dream to photograph! This wedding definitely promotes taking your wedding vision and running with it. Do not be afraid to step out of the box for your wedding and use decorations and colors that stand out and represent who you are!

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Photography: Kelli Lynn Photography | Event Coordination : Mabry Events | Floral Design: Flowerbuds Florals | Wedding Dress: David's Bridal | Cake: Stephanie Norton | Catering: Bold American Events | Hair + Makeup : Brushworx Hair & Makeup | DJ: SiFi Entertainment, Simon Rimmer | Groom's Attire: Men's Wearhouse | Venue: Fernbank Natural History Museum | Film Processing: PhotoVision Prints | Invite Suite: Peach and Oak | Photobooth: Good Karma Photobooth | Venue Coordinator: Fernbank Natural History Museum

Stunning Hindu Temple Engagement Session in Atlanta

To put it simply, these photographs took my breath away. Photographed by Elle Golden outside of Atlanta, you are instantly transported and the couple holding your hand is as beautiful as the surroundings. Click here to see the entire gorgeous gallery.

From Elle Golden PhotographyYou don’t have to travel all the way to India for stunning views of traditional Hindu temples. Tucked away in an Atlanta suburb is the BAPS Mandir temple where couple Nihar + Pratibha decided to hold part of their engagement session with Elle Golden Photography. The first half of the session was dedicated to their more casual, daily attire at Atlanta’s charming Summerour Studios. The second half was held at the temple and the couple wore traditional south Asian garments, including a floral saree in beautiful pink and gold tones.

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Photography: Elle Golden Photography | Ceremony Venue: Summerour Studio | Venue: BAPS Mandir

Inspiration for the Fashion-Forward Bride

If you’ve never considered wearing a cape on your wedding day, this photo shoot is all the inspiration you’ll ever need. Photographed by Almond Leaf Studios and designed and planned in the hands of Emily Claire Events, it’s a fashion heavy, floral loving slice of pretty guaranteed to find a place on your Pinterest boards. Find even more to love inside The Vault.

From Emily, the planner and designer… We knew that we wanted our inspiration to be the chic Atlanta bride, so we included a mix of classic yet slightly modern details. Fashion is front and center here with the bride wearing a gorgeous Caroline Hayden gown, Oscar de la Renta earrings, and Christian Louboutin heels. We loved how structural the gown was and how the cape gently flowed across the staircase at the venue. If that cape doesn’t make you feel like a queen on your wedding day, then we don’t know what will! 

Ivory satin linens, ghost chairs, and silver details set the stage for the fabulous tones in the flowers to shine through. Peonies, carnations, roses, and ranunculus play together beautifully as they cascade across the table. Every brides favorite shade of blush, peach, and ivory can be seen making an appearance!

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Photography: Almond Leaf Studios | Event Design: Browne & Towers | Event Planning: Browne & Towers | Floral Design: Philosophy Flowers | Wedding Dress: Caroline Hayden | Cake: Sweet Peeps Bakery | Stationery: Flourish Calligraphy | Ceremony Venue: Swan House | Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Ring: Susie Saltzman | Hair + Makeup: Beauty Asylum | Groom's Attire: Generation Tux | Chair Rentals: Sweet Seats | Earrings: Oscar De La Renta | Models: Kristin and Cody | Tabletop Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

A Modern Wedding Designed with Metallics + Greenery

An elegant affair with an industrial feel, this modern day wedding celebration is sure to inspire your upcoming affair. From the greenery-filled reception to the bride’s long sleeve lace gown, it’s the perfect blend of tradition (like those lovely Paper Daisies Stationery programs) paired with totally fresh details and we’ve got it all captured by Amy Arrington Photography in The Vault!

From the Bride…Colton and I met our senior year of college on September 24th 2010, the night before our alma maters met on the football field. I went to the University of South Carolina and was in Auburn, Alabama visiting my best friend. Little did I know that a trip to visit her would lead me to find my husband. Colton and I had an instant connection and were inseparable the rest of the time I was there. On Game day, we got separated from our friends and ended up going into the game together, just the two of us. While in the stands, a girl came up to us and asked how long we had been dating because she said we were an adorable couple. Little did she know we had known each other less than 24 hours. Two weeks later Colton came to visit me in South Carolina and the next weekend I was back in Auburn visiting him. On day 21 we officially started dating and on day 36, Halloween, we said I love you for the first time. From that day on we travelled back and forth between Alabama and South Carolina every weekend until I graduated. In fact, the first 3 years of our relationship we were a long-distance couple. I went away to graduate school and while we didn’t see each other every weekend like we did that first year we came pretty close. After 3 years of long distance the time came for us to finally live in the same city. On October 18th 2014, 3 days after our 4-year anniversary, Colton proposed

Wedding planning started immediately. We knew that we wanted three things. A wedding planner, a neutral color palette, and to honor our strong family ties. We looked to our past to prepare for our future, and make our wedding special. My grandparents who passed away before Colton and I got engaged had a big influence on our day. The center diamond in my engagement ring was my Nana’s diamond, and my grandparents 61st anniversary was the day before our wedding day, which played into the day we chose. We also used the guest book they used at their wedding as our own. Another way that we incorporated family traditions was with the selection of my wedding gown. The women in my family have all worn long sleeve lace gowns and I wanted to carry on that tradition. Colton also carried on a family tradition, his best man was the son of his father’s best man. Both of us had been raised catholic, so it was also very important to both families to have a traditional Catholic wedding.

Colton and I had talked about wanting the venue to have an industrial feel or for it to be a distillery or brewery of some kind. We were so lucky that American Spirit Works, a Whiskey Distillery, and special events venue was opening it’s doors just in time for our special day. It provided the perfect industrial, rustic backdrop for our big day. When Colton and I booked the venue, we had nothing more than a rendering of what the space was going to look like to go off of, but we loved the vision so we booked the venue with complete trust in the events team there. Once we had the venue locked in, the real planning started and our wedding slowly but surely started to come together.

The venue led us to our theme–“industrial glam”. Since we wanted neutral colors we incorporated mixed metals including galvanized tin, silver and copper to make it feel more industrial. In addition to the mixed metals, Crush Event Rentals custom designed a lighting fixture with Edison bulbs to hang in the middle of our dance floor. We also knew that we wanted white flowers and a lot of greenery to add a soft contrast to the space and give it a glamorous/romantic feel. Our amazing florist was able to take our vision to the next level and make everything look breathtaking.

In addition to the custom lighting fixture, we wanted a few statement pieces to bring the design together and to pay homage to the city where we would start our lives together. The head table had long garland down the middle, copper mugs for everyone in the wedding party and a beige love seat for Colton and I to sit at together. Since I am from Atlanta, we incorporated custom made “Share a Coke” bottles, as the table assignments. We encouraged all of our guests to “Share a Coke with the Wilburn’s” as they found their seats. One thing about the venue that we really enjoyed was the main bar area which was a gorgeous wood statement piece with a very large chalkboard mounted on the wall behind it. We were able to create a custom drink menu with personal touches which added to the overall look and feel of the space. We worked with a local artist to design a beautiful pattern that we incorporated onto the chalk board that just set the bar area off.

Our top three favorite moments of the day were fairly easy for us to choose. Walking down the aisle with my dad, seeing Colton for the first time was unforgettable. It was a moment we had been working for and building toward for 5 years all culminating in one look. The next was seeing our venue for the very first time. As I said earlier, the venue itself was a work in progress when we booked it. So, when we finally got to see all of the decorations and little details we stressed over for months come together, was truly special. And finally, the dance floor! Not only our first dance which is, of course, an awesome memory; but dancing with all of our friends and family was outstanding. All of the stress and worry we had leading up to the wedding was forgotten as soon as the music started and everyone cut loose. It was the best night of our lives.

A piece of advice we would give to engaged couples would be to be true to yourself, and to always choose each other every day. Another huge piece of advice I would give, is to find and to hire a wedding planner that understands what you are looking for. We completely trusted Laura to execute our vision and keep our best interests in mind. She made the entire experience much more manageable and enjoyable for a bride who is not extremely organized.

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Photography: Amy Arrington Photography | Event Design: Laura Birney Events | Event Planning: Laura Birney Events | Floral Design: Stylish Stems | Wedding Dress: Berta | Cake: Cake Hag | Invitations: Victoria Austin Designs | Ceremony Venue: Holy Spirit Catholic Church | Reception Venue: The Stave Room At American Spirit Works | Bride's Shoes: Jessica Simpson | Bridesmaids' Dresses: Adrianna Papell | Catering: Bold American Events | Hair + Makeup: Veronica Sitterding | DJ: Black Tie Events | Chalkboard Artist: Kate Turner Studio | Chargers: Event Rentals Unlimited | Event Rentals: Crush Event Rentals | Grand Exit Transportation: Special Day Limos | Linen Rentals: Cover Ups | Photo Booth: Robot Booth | Programs: Paper Daisies Stationery | Wedding Party Transportation: Marietta Trolley Company

These Featured Designers are members of our Look Book.
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A Modern Wedding Planned in 3 Months!

Can we all agree that Ese and Jack deserve some sort of wedding planning medal? I certainly think so. Because these two pulled off one incredible day in just three months, planning the entire celebration from soup to nuts. Their priorities? Beautiful venue, pretty florals, and amazing photography. Check, check and check. More from Sawyer Baird in The Vault.

From The Bride…We wanted a very small, intimate wedding with our closest family and friends. We planned the entire wedding ourselves and started just three months prior to our big day. With so little planning time, we decided to pick a few priorities and trust that everything else would come together. For us those priorities were a beautiful venue, pretty florals, and our amazing photographer- Sawyer Baird.

Our vision for the day centered around a romantic/natural feel and small, beautiful details. It was important to us that the day feel authentically us, so we incorporated personalized details throughout the day. For example, plants are very special to us so we made succulent favors for all of our guests. Also, we met in Atlanta and JCT Kitchen was a restaurant that we frequented prior to choosing it as our venue. We knew their amazing food would be something that our guests would enjoy.

We had also heard from so many couples that the day would go by so fast. Our goal really was to enjoy the day and savor one of the most special days of our journey together. As such, we spent the morning of the wedding getting ready together in our home- just the two of us. This ended up being one of the best parts of our day. Everything truly turned out amazing and we wouldn’t change a thing!

Photography: Sawyer Baird | Coordination: Peachy Keen Planners | Floral Design: Adaptation Floral Design | Wedding Dress: Leanne Marshall | Bride's Shoes: Valentino | DJ: Juniper String Ensemble | Groom's Attire: Sid Mashburn | Harpist: Juniper String Ensemble | Venue: JCT Kitchen + Bar | Bridal Boutique: The Sentimentalist | Drapery: The Rented Event | Groom's Accessories: Billy Reid