We like to keep you on your toes so we’re switching things up a bit this week. Meaning today we have a lineup of nine beautiful weedings coming your way with tons of inspiration tucked inside the full galleries and the good news? No waiting until Wednesday. The even better news? It starts with this beauty captured by Bonnie Sen that is completely eco-friendly. Yup, from recycled paper goods to reclaimed window panes, every inch of this savvy affair was mother earth approved. And behind each DIY detail, there lies the love of family or a friend who pitched in along the way. In the bride’s words, it was truly a labor of love. For even more ideas to go green, head on over to the gallery.
From the Bride… As Louisiana natives through and through, Adam and I wanted to spend the night celebrating the casual Louisiana atmosphere, while also focusing on an eco-concious theme. Using this as our inspiration we decided to personalize the day with many DIY elements using recycled and reclaimed materials where possible. As a result, our wedding was a labor of love. We could not have pulled off this amazing celebration without the help of so many friends and family who pitched in to make the day perfect. My mother, a talented artist and local high school art teacher, was especially crucial to the transformation of the backyard ceremony and reception space. She wore many hats from florist to electrician, and none of it would have been possible without her. One of my favorite moments of the night was when Adam and his friends spontaneously took over the band’s equipment for a rendition of “Stand By Me” as my father and I danced. It couldn’t have gone better if it were planned.
The catering was a unique element at our wedding, and the delicious Louisiana cuisine was one of my favorite things about the night. Rather than hiring an expensive caterer, my mother had the idea to hire the teacher and students at her high-school ProStart program, a nationwide, two- year program for high school students that teaches students everything from culinary techniques to management skills. Steve Oubre is the culinary teacher, and previous to his teaching career had a small catering business. We thought it would be wonderful if we could make a donation to the schools program, the participants could gain some real world industry experience, and we were able to create our very own custom menu along with the chef and the kids in the program. The result was a delicious, authentic creole menu, which was a huge, hit with the guests!
Keeping with the unique catering theme, we ordered several small cakes from a local bakery rather than getting an elaborate wedding cake, which can cost a small fortune. In addition to these cakes, we thought it would be nice to have friends and family add to the dessert mix so we encouraged them to bring their signature dessert. It felt very personal having so many wonderful friends and family members contribute. My grandmother, Gigi, made her apple pie, my friend Julie and her sister created a chai spice pie – so unique and delicious, we had pumpkin, pecan, raspberry, a lemon tarte and my best friend Alice’s father even made his famous blackberry pie with blackberries from his own backyard vines.
My groom Adam is a musician and music has played a big role in our relationship, so we decided to hand out a personal play list with some favorite songs as favors. Blackbird letterpress did an amazing job with the CD sleeves made from 100% recycled paper. We also chose to give out homemade praline candies. My grandmother, and a family friend made hundreds of pralines for guests to take home. DIY elements designed and executed by the bride, mother, family and friends: wine bottles/candle holders, string balloons, huppah, window wall, succulent centerpieces, wood circles, and chalkboards.
Wedding Photography: Bonnie Sen Creative Photography / Wedding Venue: Private Residence in Louisiana / Wedding Design + Styling: DIY by Bride, Mother, Family + Friends / Day-of Coordination: Bobbie Rice Weddings / Floral Design: Bobbi Rice Weddings (Bridal Bouquets and Boutonnieres) / Catering: Woodlawn High School ProStart Program / Butter Cream Cakes: Baum’s Bakery / Pies: Family + Friends / Favors: Praline boxes, Etsy State Stamp, Pralines made by Family + Friends / Invitations + CD Sleeves: Blackbird Letterpress / Doggie Bowtie: Sillybuddy / Wedding Dress: BHLDN / Bride’s Veil: Twigs & Honey / Bride’s Shoes: Topshop / Groom’s Attire: J.Crew (Ludlow Suit) / Groom’s Tie: Speaklouder / Bride’s Ring (Large Coral Ring): Family Heirloom / Bride’s Ring (Sapphire Engagement Ring): Designed by Groom
