Garden weddings always have a way of sneaking their way to the top of my favorites list…. There’s just something so magical about the combination of some uber-lovely nuptials and mother nature’s beauty that simply warms my heart. So, it pretty much goes without saying that I am absolutely loving this charming Wheaton affair by Elizabeth Greve Photography with its gorgeous setting (but, of course), laid back meets elegant vibe, sophisticated black and white color palette and darling DIY details. This is just the pretty we needed this Friday morning and the perfect start to a sure to be fabulous weekend. Click here for even more!
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From Elizabeth Greve Photography… I’m so excited to share this awesome outdoor ceremony with you! I was honored to photograph the wedding of a friend I have known for years which made the day even more special for me. The best way to describe Katie & Matt is to tell you that along with being a wonderful couple together on the outside, they are also beautiful people on the inside as well. They make everyone around them smile and laugh and their detailed wedding that included DIY projects and a dog as a flower girl reveals just that. Below, you’ll read comments from Katie, the bride, on how the inspiration for this creative wedding came about.
As for the details, the bridesmaids were asked to wear black cocktail-length dresses (each of them have their own sense of style, and the bride and groom wanted to celebrate that)! The groomsmen wore classic, Calvin Klein tuxes… with the exception of the bride’s brother, who was in his Army dress blues (he was able to come to the wedding, on his mid-tour leave from Iraq). The outdoor ceremony included a secret garden-like path that the wedding party walked through. The bride’s brother serenaded her down the aisle, to Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” The couple’s Pug, Ramona, acted as the flower girl. The groom’s mother made paddle fan programs, to relieve guests from the hot August sun. The bride, her mother, and mother-in-law made chalkboard framed signs that were displayed throughout the ceremony and reception. They each displayed some of the bride and groom’s favorite lyrics like, “How Sweet it Is to Be Loved by You,” “I’m lucky I’m in Love with My Best Friend,” and “For you I’d wait til kingdom come.” The placecards were inspired by a Style Me Pretty inspiration board. With old luggage tags, laundry pins, and vintage typewriter type, they were an easy way to bring the vintage flair to each table. The Candy Table included old-fashioned candy, jars, scoops, and a handmade banner. Guests were encouraged to take candy home, in small cellophane bags. The bride wore a gown from Nordstrom Bridal. After the ceremony, she quickly changed into her dance-friendly sparkly Toms. Flowers (in mason jars, with wire for hanging on shepherds hooks) from there ceremony were re-purposed for the reception.
Wedding Photography: Elizabeth Greve Photography / Florist: Petal Play Design / Weekend-of Planner: La Belle Fleur Events / Wedding Ceremony Location: Cantigny Park / Wedding Reception Location: Cantigny Golf / DJ: A Posh Production / Hair: Salon Vis a Vis / Make-up: Linda Camacho / Nails: The Nail Shop / Wedding Invitations: Etsy / Groom + Groomsmen Attire: Calvin Klein / Wedding Dress: Nordstrom / Bride’s Shoes: TOMS