An Upscale Garden Party at the Felt Mansion Inspired by the Natural Beauty of Northern Michigan

Lauren Megerdichian
April 3, 2025
Categories: Real Weddings, The Blog, Traditional Elegance

[section title=”The Planning”]

[field title=”Wedding Colors”]Powder blue, eucalyptus green and white.[/field]

[field title=”Design / Vibe / Vision”]Inspired by the natural beauty of northern Michigan, our wedding was

designed as an upscale garden party that blended seamlessly with the outdoor surroundings.

We incorporated soft, airy details throughout the day, with blue floral patterns carried from the

invitations to the table settings and wedding party attire. To keep the look timeless and elegant,

we chose mostly white and natural flowers, allowing the florals to complement the venue without

distracting from the emotion of the day[/field]

[field title=”Proposal Story”]We met at the end of our senior year at the University of Kentucky and hit it off

immediately! With only a few weeks left of school, we discovered we’d both be in Europe after

graduation. After traveling separately, we reunited in Prague and explored Switzerland and Italy

together. Each new place brought unforgettable experiences, and it was during this time we

realized our connection was growing into love. After returning home, we knew our adventure

was just beginning and decided to move to Chicago, close to Jake’s family and only a short

drive from Maddy’s family in Northville, Michigan.

We spent two years living just a few miles apart in downtown Chicago, making the most of the

city—biking along Lake Michigan, enjoying Sunday dinners with Jake’s family, and creating

lasting memories with friends. As we grew closer, we knew we wanted to build a future together.

When Jake received an exciting job offer in Colorado, we jumped at the chance to start our next

chapter together.

Our love for the outdoors flourished in Colorado, where we spend our free time hiking,

snowboarding, and exploring the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. While we are both dedicated

to our careers, we prioritize enjoying life together, whether it's being in the mountains or relaxing

by the pool.

The next big chapter in our journey unfolded on December 17, 2022, during a family trip for

Jake’s sister’s graduation at the Tampa Bay Yacht Club. After an afternoon walk, Jake proposed

in a private moment at the end of the dock, a setting that felt intimate and meaningful. We were

then surprised by an engagement party with both of our families, who flew in and came together

as a surprise to celebrate our love. Surrounded by their support, we knew we were embracing

not only each other but the blending of our two families.

We’re grateful for the chance that brought us together in college and for the many adventures

we’ve shared over the last five years. With a deep connection and a love for one another, we

look forward to what the future holds, wherever it may take us.[/field]

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[board_carousel title=”Getting Ready”]

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[board_carousel title=”Bridal Portraits”]

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[board_carousel title=”Flat Lays”]

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[board_carousel title=”First Look”]

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[section title=”The Fashion”]

[field title=”Wedding Gown”]I wore an Essence of Australia gown, and the experience of finding it was

unforgettable. I was joined by my mom, mother-in-law, maid of honor, and matron of honor as

we spent the day visiting bridal shops around metro Detroit. Though I thought I found my dream

dress at the first location, I decided to wait. This took the pressure off, and I was able to fully

enjoy the rest of the day, trying on dresses that fit my vision. In the end, I fell in love with a gown

that was completely different from my initial choice. The lace appliqué, deep V-neck,

comfortable fit, and detailed train made it perfect for me. I kept the dress a secret from everyone

until the big day, which made the reveal even more special.[/field]

[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]I worked with Bella Bridesmaids in Philadelphia, and they were fantastic.

They provided a detailed, personalized appointment to help narrow down the perfect color and

style for each of my bridesmaids. Many of my bridesmaids lived all over the country, and Bella

Bridesmaids made remote fittings seamless, ensuring everyone could participate no matter

where they were. Their team was incredibly responsive, and professional, and made the entire

process easy. I highly recommend them.[/field]

[field title=”Groomsman Attire”]For the groomsmen, we chose The Black Tux because it was important to

offer both rental and purchase options. Their customer service was excellent—responsive and

welcoming. The groomsmen coordinated everything through an online portal, ensuring all

pieces were accounted for without any hassle.[/field]

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[board_carousel title=”Wedding Party”]

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[board_carousel title=”Ceremony”]

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[board_carousel title=”Cocktail Hour”]

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[section title=”The Details”]

[field title=”Food & Drink”]Given the summer season, we focused on offering light, refreshing options

suited for the Michigan heat. Our signature cocktails included our favorite selections, Moscow

Mules and Old Fashioneds, while the appetizers and dinner showcased Michigan’s local

specialties, featuring cherries, vibrant natural colors, and fresh ingredients that reflected the

beauty of the season.[/field]

[field title=”Florals & Decor”]Our wedding design was inspired by the elegance of a sophisticated garden

party, seamlessly blending with the natural beauty of northern Michigan. We chose white, light,

and summery flowers to maintain an airy, refined ambiance. The table settings featured elegant

china plates in varied blue patterns and matching blue goblets for a cohesive and charming

look.

To create a warm and inviting atmosphere as the evening progressed, we used candles to

provide a soft, natural glow. We enhanced the space further by hanging ivy from the top of the

tent and stringing lights, which added a whimsical touch and a subtle sparkle. Our floral

arrangements included a mix of tall centerpieces, delicate bud vases, and a striking long

arrangement for the 32-person head table, offering visual interest and variety. Flowers were also

thoughtfully used to enhance the chuppah, complementing its beauty while maintaining its

central significance in the ceremony.[/field]

[field title=”Wedding Cake”]To complement our design theme of simplicity and elegance, we chose a two-

tier cake adorned with a subtle hydrangea design. The cake featured a delightful almond vanilla

flavor with a refreshing lemon and raspberry filling, creating the perfect combination for a

memorable treat.[/field]

[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]Our ceremony was designed to reflect our

love story, the blending of our religions, and the merging of our families. We worked closely with

Jake’s childhood Rabbi, Bruce Elder, for a year to create a ceremony that was deeply personal

and meaningful. We invited seven loved ones to offer blessings on various topics, which added

a special and emotional touch.

For the ceremony music, we chose classic pieces that seamlessly blended into the background,

enhancing the atmosphere without drawing attention away from the ceremony’s significance.

As we transitioned to the reception, our band played "The Best Day of Our Lives" by American

Authors. This song perfectly captured our joy and the significance of the day, with its uplifting

lyrics resonating with the emotions we felt.

Our first dance was to "You" by Dan + Shay. The song’s lyrics, "When I look into your eyes, it's

like we're in slow motion, just me and you tonight," symbolized our commitment to each other.

The lyrics reflected how we savored every moment of our wedding day, which felt like it passed

in slow motion amidst the whirlwind of celebrations. This song perfectly encapsulated our sense

of enduring love and togetherness.[/field]

[field title=”Special Detail #1″]First Looks: The first looks were unforgettable highlights of our day.

Seeing my dad’s face light up when he first saw me in my dress was a deeply emotional

moment, reflecting the profound bond we share. It was a cherished memory that captured the

essence of our father-daughter relationship, a mix of pride, love, and joy.

Having my mom help me into my dress and my mother-in-law assist with my jewelry added a

deeply personal touch. There’s nothing stronger than the bond between a mother and daughter,

and planning the wedding together made the day even more meaningful.

Seeing Jake for the first time on our wedding day, exchanging our private vows, and witnessing

his adoration made me feel like the most beautiful and cherished person. Finally, the moment

my bridesmaids saw me in my dress, which I had kept a secret, was priceless.[/field]

[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Hora: The Hora, a traditional dance of celebration and unity, was a

powerful moment for us. Being lifted in the chairs and looking down at the circle of family and

friends was deeply moving. It symbolized the support and love surrounding us as we embarked

on our marriage. The joy and smiles radiating from everyone in the room created an

indescribable warmth, reinforcing the strong bond of community and celebration we were

fortunate to share.[/field]

[field title=”Special Detail #3″]–Vendors: Working with an incredible team of vendors made all the

difference. The personalities and professionalism of the vendors were key to ensuring

everything ran smoothly. Since many of them are with you for the entire wedding day, it’s

important to have a strong, positive working relationship. Each vendor played a pivotal role in

making our vision a reality, and their expertise allowed us to relax and enjoy the day, knowing

everything was in capable hands.[/field]

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[board_carousel title=”Couple Portraits”]

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[board_carousel title=”Reception”]

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