Gilded Nautical Engagement Party Inspiration

I adore anything gilded and nautical stylings always speak to me, so the moment I opened up this inspiration from Threaded Together Photography I knew I was going to be in love. With stunning florals from Barbie’s Blooms, gorgeous styling from Threaded Together Vintage Rentals and steal-worthy signage from Katie Hoffman Ink, this gallery is pure goodness.

From Threaded Together PhotographyI am a sucker for anything nautical so I’ve been wanting to do a full inspiration shoot that was nautical but also authentic and sophisticated. The overall theme for this shoot was inspired by the nautical term “Hold Fast” which is used as a directive to hold the rope taught and strong against treacherous winds. “Hold Fast To Love” is a perfectly appropriate phrase to celebrate as a couple prepare to enter their marriage. It is a sweet reminder of the blessing that is finding the person you want to spend the rest of your life with and also of what’s worth holding on to and fighting for. The beautiful Oyster Bay Yacht club in Fernandina Beach, Florida which is home to large southern oak trees, a marina, marsh views and the private estate style wedding venue made the ideal spot for our seaside shoot. Since this needed to be a sophisticated and elegant take on maritime decor I went with lots of brass and blues. Found vintage items mix with gilded elements (like the gold sequin mini dress by Pencey) and beautiful floral. The theme phrase was hand painted onto a vintage oar and sets the romantic tone. A unique element is a nautical twist on the photo booth which includes salvaged nautical props (like a ships wheel, brass porthole, buoys, oars and a sailor hat), and a custom backdrop hand made from knotted rope, vintage navy flag code cards strung with twine and a cedar frame. The vintage navy code cards are adorable and include colored flags, naval terminology and little sailor’s showing how to properly signal. Flower boxes were also built into the base and vintage fish net draped down the sides created a softness. Pretty gold lettered signage informs guests to “Jump ship and take a pic.” The open backdrop enables the coquina ledge and marsh views to show through in the photos. The backdrop does double duty and also serves as a unique way to display the naked cake whipped up by Sugar Rush Confections. A lounge area was set up on the front lawn. The floor area invites guests to relax and sit around the coffee table and chat with guests seated around the perimeter. A striped blanket topped with an old cable spool as a coffee table and fluffy pillows add a cozy touch. My vintage dark and chippy mantle and upholstered chair gives a home-like feel and an authentic lobster trap (barnacles and all) serves as a display for chunky striped throws perfect for chilly evenings. A sweetheart area of the lounge includes my two-seat theater bench with custom inserts adorned with gold knots and reads “Almost His” and “Almost Hers.” A vintage wash basin serves as the beverage display with signage reading “Down the hatch” and houses the Shipyard and Anchor brand beers. Brass and cobalt glass pedestals with flowing floral, brass lanterns, rose and hydrangea adorned driftwood, a weather vane, sail boat tray, champagne bottle and trunk add pretty detail. Striped and gold weaved cushions encourage relaxing on the vintage pew. A sweetheart tablescape was set up in the curved path leading to the marina. A brass industrial light hangs over the vintage table. Blue rope dishes add texture, fish print appetizer plates add whimsy and the gold chargers add a touch of luxury. I tied the vintage flatware with gold knots. Brass candlesticks add warmth and the vintage Nippon Sento onion lantern ringed in roses makes the perfect centerpiece. White Hydrangeas, Veronica and tan Sahara Roses added a softness while their understated color palate allowed the nautical decor to stand out. Weather you are a sucker for nautical like me, you want to incorporate the groom’s sailing hobby, or perhaps your family’s Naval heritage, have fun using these ideas in your wedding and party plans!

Photography: Threaded Together Photography | Floral Design: Barbie's Blooms | Cake: Sugar Rush Confections | Location: Oyster Bay Yacht Club | Signage: Katie Hoffman Ink | Styling And Vintage Rentals: Threaded Together Vintage Rentals