There were a lot of squeals at SMP Headquarters when this lovely wedding landed in our inboxes – one because it’s beyond gorgeous and filled to the brim with all the things that make us swoon, and two because that drop-dead gorgeous bride happens to be near and dear to the SMP family. As sweet as she is pretty, it’s no surprise that her big day was beyond beautiful particularly when she had Jen of A Moment In Time by her side to make sure everything went perfectly. Toole Art Photography captured each gorgeous moment and filled the gallery so we could all spend our Monday gushing over the gorgeous – which I know is on team SMP’s agenda today! We are so thrilled for you Jaimie! Congrats! xoxo
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From the Bride… The theme of our wedding day became “True Love is a Big Deal”. I can’t take credit for the creation of it, instead I found it and saw ourselves in its truth. It was from then on that I decided, the only thing we needed was love. Unfortunately, love doesn’t host and cater for 150 people. After searching through the usual choices of golf courses, country clubs, and halls, and being unimpressed, Chris and I knew that a more none traditional setting would make our day truly ours. We found a secret little gem, River Birch Lodge, about an hour away from us. After scouting out the property, I fell in love. From the large antler chandelier, the grandiose fireplaces, and rustic decor there was a warmth that seemed like home. The private estate would be ours for the entire weekend, making it the perfect backdrop to spend time with our family and friends.
On the day of the wedding, the weather took on a windy chill, that forced us inside. Instead, the ceremony was held in the lodge, in front of a large fireplace and under a very large moose. Everybody got really, really cozy while we said our vows. Rev. Bell pronounced us husband and wife, and Chris was told to “salute your bride”. This was followed by a brief pause, an awkward look and then Chris responded “Can I just kiss her instead?”
The weekend was an absolute dream and could not have been done without our amazing vendors, family and friends. Originally, I wasn’t going to hire a day-of coordinator in hopes of making room in the budget. That would have been the biggest mistake! Finding Jen House from A Moment In Time was like finding a new friend (one of the real genuine, honest ones!) Whether it was putting out all the fires on the wedding day, helping with some different family dynamics, or setting up all of our thought out plans, she was there every step of the way (well, more like 3 steps ahead). On top of that, she handcrafted the most amazing floral combinations which guest are still raving about. Not hiring a coordinator would have been a mistake, but NOT hiring Jen House would have been the BIGGEST mistake. We also must mention the talented Toole Art Photography. Crystal and Mike are some of the sweetest people whose work speaks for itself. We love re-living our magical day over and over through their beautiful pictures, while always reminding ourselves, “True love is a BIG deal”.
Wedding Photography: Toole Art Photography / Venue: River Birch Lodge (810-599-6587) / Coordination + Floral Design: Jen House of A Moment In Time / Catering: Crystal Gardens / Linens: Affordable Elegance Chair Covers + Linens / Wedding Cake: Aunt of the Bride, Karen’s Cookies and Cakes / Cookie Bar: Milford Baking Company / Cookie Bar Sign: Blue Pearls / Wedding Dress: Pronovias via Birmingham Bridal Couture / Veil: Mother of the Groom / Jewelry: J.Crew / Bride’s Shoes: Steve Madden + Kate Spade / Jacket: Kohl’s / Hair + Makeup: Posh Studio / Groom + Groomsmen Attire: President Tuxedo / Ceremony Music: Rondo String Quartet / Entertainment: Dante of Music Box Productions / Celebrant: Rev. Bill Bell / Bridesmaid Dresses: Jessica Simpson via Macy’s / Guestbook Tree: Bleu de Toi / Bride and Groom Stamp: lilimandrill / Invitations: Senor & Senora / Wedding Signs, Paper Goods, Flags: DIY / True Love is a Big Deal: DIY by Bride’s Uncle