Some backyards were just meant to host weddings. Case in point, this gorgeous 16 acre property complete with a lake and a home that the groom just so happened to have built. I’m pretty sure it doesn’t get more romantic than that. And to top it all off, this crafty couple DIYed almost everything you see in these pretty images from Keren Sarai Photography. See the rest right here.
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From the Bride… For our wedding, we were going for a rustic, shabby chic feel that would be simple, intimate and fun. The setting, a friend’s private estate perched on 16 acres and a lake, was a dream backdrop to achieve our vision. The venue held particularly special meaning to us as my husband built the home. Combining his handiness and my craftiness, we were able to DIY nearly every decoration, including centerpieces made out of reclaimed barn wood, chalkboard and directional signs, burlap table runners and raffia-wrapped mason jars. We also incorporated many details from my husband’s home country of New Zealand. Our table names were named after New Zealand places we have visited together, we incorporated ferns and monkey tails in the boutonnieres and centerpieces, and New Zealand Pohutukawa trees graced our invitations, welcome bags and programs. Our hard work paid off 1,000%. It couldn’t have been a more perfect or romantic day!
Wedding Photography: Keren Sarai Photography / Second Shooter: Erica Hang / Wedding Venue: The Home of a Friend in Barrington, Illinois / Event Planning: Allie House of Wedding Now / Floral Design: Peggy Garvin of Garvin Gardens / Wedding Cinematography: Mike Hendzel of Hendzel Productions / Catering: Chef By Request / Wedding Cake: By the Dozen Bakery / Wedding Invitations: Be U Brides / Wedding Dress: Watters via A L’Amour / Hair: Desi Perna / Makeup: Rachael Domanus / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Bill Levkoff / Men’s Suits: Jos. A. Bank