Brandon Chesbro is serving up a southern soiree this morning that is just the perfect combination of sweet and spunk. Think darling DIY details meets old jailhouse reception wrapped up with a couple that has southern style down to a science. It’s bow tie-wearing ring bearers and flower girls in tutus. It’s a classic gown with a touch of turquoise. It’s all of that and then some, and it’s all sitting pretty right here.
From the Bride… On the day Adam proposed, I knew I wanted to get married in Nashville. Adam grew up there, I fell in love on my first visit — not only with the city, but more deeply with the man who is now my husband. I initially thought I wanted a farm wedding, completely rustic with lots of handmade details. Upon visiting numerous venues, however, my vision took new shape — we ended up getting married in a Gothic chapel, and our reception took place in what was once the town jailhouse! Despite this shift in vision, and despite living in Orlando, the planning process was stress-free and a true treat. I kept some of my initial inspiration to bring warmth to both of our venues. The textures found in the chapel and reception site are rich and elegant, including slate, brick and wood. With that, I chose details of burlap, lavender, mint green and gold glitter to add personality and a bit of fun to our wedding. Serving southern fare and locally-sourced drinks helped our guests feel at home at the reception.
Both the ceremony and reception had many DIY elements, and I love the personal touch they added to this special occasion. I made my bridesmaids’ jewelry and added lace to their dresses that matched mine! The ceremony featured felt mustaches for our guests to hold while my dad walked me down the aisle to ensure my mascara didn’t run! For the reception, I wrapped mason jars in yarn and twine and covered some in gold glitter. My mom made burlap table runners that I topped with vintage doilies. For the guest favors, I made splatter paint paper cones to scoop up “Jordan Almonds” and “Adam’s Apple Chips,” and the accompanying coffee cups had been stamped with our J&A logo. I also made banners out of nine-inch, turquoise fringe with gold, glittery letters. I re-purposed frames, windows and mirrors as chalkboards and scattered them throughout the house to direct our guests. These elements, along with our wonderful family and friends, made the wedding completely “us” and a day we’ll never forget!
In addition to a traditional guest book, we asked our guests to bookmark our Bible. We made little tags that each guest could write their chosen scripture and names on, then place in the appropriate spot in the Bible provided. It has been such a blessing to read these together and glean wisdom from the people who witnessed our commitment to one another! The BEST decision I made was to bring a pair of heels specifically for the reception. I ordered them from a ballroom dancing website, so they’re actually meant to be danced in. They were a comfortable, flexible, covered in gold glitter and an overall lifesaver! And I didn’t know it when I picked it out, but choosing a wedding gown that is durable is key if you’re a bride who likes to boogie! My gown was made of taffeta, which allowed it to be stepped on during dances and dragged through tall grass during photos without a single worry. I even had my bridesmaids cut the innermost layer out of it when we got to the reception. Hey, I was hot and didn’t want that unnecessary layer bringin’ me down!
Wedding Photography: Brandon Chesbro / Ceremony: Wightman Chapel at the Scarritt-Bennett Center in Nashville, Tennessee / Reception: McConnell House in Nashville, Tennessee / Floral Design: Lauren Atkinson / Catering: Red Pony Catering / Cupcakes: The Cupcake Collection / Topper Cake: Whole Foods / Wedding Invitation + Program Design: Greg Perkins of The RAM Project / Letterpress Printing: Mama’s Sauce / Wedding Dress: Watters / Hair + Makeup: Dion’s South / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Banana Republic / Groom’s Suit: Banana Republic / Groomsmen’s Attire: J.Crew