Classic Architecture Meets Modern Fine Art Elegance at The Hartwood Stables

Who else is spending many nights staying up too late binging The Crown right now? We can’t help it – we’re obsessed. Anything to relive that royal wedding. Today’s stunning editorial from Exhale Events is giving us major english countryside stone castle vibes. Muted moody hues set the tone while unexpected textures and patterns throughout the design allowed for an element of surprise. Our favorite part? The lighting. Edison bulbs were strung together and hung from arched metal structures over the reception table creating an ultra-romantic display. See it all at the full gallery – captured by Lauren Renee Photography!

From Lauren Renee PhotographyThere is so much beauty in old venues and the history behind them. The Hartwood Stables belonged to a prominent family in Pittsburgh for several years before it was turned over to the county. It is truly a hidden gem and one of the few places that remain in the area that maintain classic architectural lines and building elements of classic stone. The charm of the location takes you to another time and place. When we (Lauren and Nicole) saw the venue, we knew we needed to showcase the beauty of the property, but we wanted to take a refined romantic approach to the shoot with modern touches that showcases how today’s bride can take an old location and infuse it with new trends. 

Our color palette focused on muted tones of traditionally bold colors and a blend of darker and light hues for a modern approach. Our table settings also pulled in more patterns and tones that couples might not think to put together, however fused seamlessly in the setting. The softer elements came into place with a romantic stationery suite and designer gown from Galia Lahav. The raw edged stationery and scenic envelope liners weaved in such delicacy while the flowing tulle fabric on the wedding dress added a dreamy ethereal touch. Nestled beneath the trees of the venue, we set up the ceremony. 

To not take away from the beauty of the area itself, we kept the decor minimal; utilizing black mid modern chairs and florals which really were a focal point. Our vision for the floral designs was brought alive through wild, organic structures including an elevated overflowing vase as the backdrop of the ceremony and a blossoming archway entrance. In keeping with the feminine florals and architectural details, Alex Robba Cake hand-painted blue flowers along with tile that mimicked stone in a modern, yet timeless cake design. The look was topped off with the prettiest sugar flowers that added such grace. Not far from the cake display was the family style tablescape. Each place setting had a classic set up, but it was each piece that put a fresh spin to a rather timeless approach. Saffron watercolor patterned plates sat atop one another with stiletto shaped black horned flatware gently placed beside them. Wooden and ceramic textures also appeared throughout the table design to provide an earthy depth and dimension to the details. However the lighting is easily the trendiest and most unique part of the aesthetic. Edison bulbs were strung together and hung from arched metal structures over the table. EF Lighting worked their magic and it really provided the perfect glow! With the quaint setting, stylish details, and classic elegance, this old-meets-new wedding inspiration offers a little something for every bride and groom!

Floral Design: Green Sinner | Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav | Cake: Alex Robba Cake | Invitations: Every Little Something | Makeup: See Jane Blush | Hair: Courtney Benedetti | Men's Attire: Surmesur | Wedding Venue: Hartwood Acres | Bridal Shoes: Christian Louboutin | Bride's Ring Box: esselle SF | Design & Planning: Exhale Events | Female Model: Kaitlyn Sapp | Danijel Trifkovic | Groom's Ring Box: The Mrs Box | Groom's Shoes: Karl Lagerfeld | Jewelry Designer: Octavia Elizabeth | Jewelry Store: Orr's Jewelers | Light Design: EF Lighting | Linens: Lendable Linens | Photography & Design: Lauren Renee Photography | Tabletop Rentals & Flatware: Artisan Tableware Co.