Franklin Wedding Ideas and Inspiration

Magnolias and Mountain Views: Southern Elegance at an Intimate Family Estate

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[field title=”Wedding Colors”]The wedding colors are green, ivory, white, silver, and brown/copper tones from the magnolia leaves.[/field]
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A European Garden Oasis: The family estate served as the picturesque backdrop for this magical day. With its stone architecture, French gardens, and stunning views of the Tennessee mountains, it was as if guests had been transported to a romantic European garden. The lush surroundings were adorned with the iconic magnolia leaves, exuding an air of elegance and southern tradition.

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A Love Story That Began with Serendipity: Aubree and Ryan’s love story started with a touch of serendipity. They first crossed paths at a birthday party. Their connection grew over time, despite not exchanging numbers or talking extensively at the party. Ryan’s curiosity about Aubree never waned, and he continued to inquire about her, week after week. Their paths crossed again a month later, at a Starbucks in Green Hills. It was during a snowstorm, adding an unexpected twist to their budding romance. Their initial meeting left them feeling a connection, but life’s twists and turns delayed their first date. From First Date to Forever: Aubree and Ryan’s first date was a memorable one, taking place during an ice storm that left Aubree trapped at her parents’ house for six days. The delay only intensified their anticipation, and when they finally met for dinner, they talked for hours, shutting down the restaurant. It was the beginning of a journey filled with open and vulnerable conversations. Their love story continued to unfold, with a significant milestone being their presence as the only two single guests at their friend’s wedding in Phoenix. Their connection deepened, and they became inseparable from that moment forward. The Moment She Knew: For Aubree, it didn’t take long to realize that Ryan was the one. His kindness, genuine nature, love for family and friends, and his ability to connect with people deeply all contributed to her certainty. Their connection was undeniable, established from their very first date when they openly discussed life’s most profound topics. A Proposal Full of Surprises: Ryan’s proposal was a beautiful surprise that took place at the bride’s sister & brother in laws estate. Despite rumors from friends that the proposal would occur, Ryan had Aubree convinced otherwise. Little did she know, he had been planning it meticulously. While Ryan had originally claimed there was a dinner with his parents, it turned out to be part of the surprise. After the proposal, the couple was met with a family celebration featuring a beautifully set dinner on the back patio. The ring itself was a family heirloom with a story, a center stone from Ryan’s great-grandmother’s ring, making it even more meaningful.

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The designer was Elysian Bridal, an Australian designer. Aubree’s dress was classic, stunning, and had an intricate attention to detail. The off-the-shoulder, sweetheart neckline was stunning with the form-fitted silhouette. Her veil was so sophisticated with lace detailing along the train.

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[field title=”Bridesmaid Dresses”]Stunning green olive satin bridesmaids gowns.[/field]
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A culinary experience from The Clean Plate Club featuring the first course of an Autumn Salad with mixed greens, roasted butternut squash, dried cherries, pistachios, and shaved parmesan with a white balsamic vinaigrette. The main course was surf and turf, a pan-seared beef filet with bordelasie sauce, and an herb-crusted sea bass filet with sun-dried tomato beurre blanc. The sides were olive oil mashed Yukon gold potatoes and brussel sprouts, heirloom carrots, and red onions.

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The florals designed by Jackson Blume Studio were exquisite. Magnolia blooms, leaves, and white garden roses filled the tablescapes and ceremony site.

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[field title=”Wedding Cake”]A three-tiered elegant buttercream cake adorned with cascading magnolia blooms and leaves.[/field]
[field title=”Readings, Ceremony Music, Reception Songs”]A quartet of music filled the air as the ceremony took place. It was truly something out of a fairytale. [/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #1″]Aubree’s favorite part of the wedding was its intimate and timeless atmosphere, especially being married on her sister’s estate. She cherished the magnolia leaves, the fall weather, and the opportunity to smoke cigars with her father and Ryan’s friends.[/field]
[field title=”Special Detail #2″]Aubree’s engagement ring was an heirloom featuring a center stone from Ryan’s great-grandmother’s ring, making it even more meaningful. Ryan surprised her with the wedding band. He also hand-crafted the ring box for her.
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[field title=”Special Detail #3″]Aubree shared a first dance with Ryan’s father. Ryan’s sister passed away and his father would never be able to share in that father-daughter dance. So Aubree danced with him. It was truly a beautiful moment.
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Rebecca Musayev Photography

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A Franklin, Tennessee Love Affair Set Al Fresco

If you’re in need of a little wedding eye candy, this lovely wedding planned by Big Events, Inc. AND this luscious bouquet, also designed by Big Events, Inc. will do just the trick. It’s the perfect way to kick off this Tennessee love affair set al fresco, and Rachel Moore photographed the fun from start to finish.

From event planner Molly Sohr of Big Events … The first time I met with Carli and Alex I knew we would have the best time planning their wedding day. Carli, having been in dozens of weddings in the past, knew exactly what she did and did not want. A HUGE elaborate wedding was the main item she did not want.

Early on in the process, Carli wanted the wedding to feel exactly like “them” as a couple. She wanted guests to experience a non-traditional, exciting, unique day that was just plain fun.

They chose Carnton Plantation via photos online and when they finally went out and saw the venue they knew they had made the right decision. Choosing a May date was the perfect time at Carnton because the garden was in full bloom. The goal vision of their day was for it to be laid back, incorporate their favorite items and keep it intimate.

Carli’s bouquet was by far my most favorite I have ever seen. I LOVED that she wasn’t afraid to use bright colors, we even used some of her peonies from her garden at home to give a personal touch. They wanted everything to be outside- and weather surely permitted, it was the most beautiful day of spring in 2016. For their reception layout they chose open seating at long farm tables topped with seeded eucalyptus garland with pops of color + lemons tucked in (Carli’s favorite color is yellow) all while dining on “brunch for dinner” concept (which included an omelet bar + mimosas!) under the Tennessee sky. After dinner the guests danced the night away to local jam band Magnolia Sons (Carli + Alex’s favorite band).

The entire day was unique to them, extremely fun and just perfect even down to the weather.

Classic Southern Charm + Romance Right This Way!

Julie Paisley said it perfectly when she captured these two lovebirds: “If someone asked me to describe the perfect Southern wedding, I would just show them pictures of Katy and JT’s wedding.” And we couldn’t agree more. It’s the epitome of classic, Southern charm, with lace, lush florals and pure love between the newlyweds. See all the romance in our gallery right this way!

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From Julie Paisley Photography… If someone asked me to describe the perfect Southern wedding, I would just show them pictures of Katy and JT’s wedding. This wedding just screamed Southern charm. From the amazing historic plantation, the perfect Southern lace gown, bowties, lush florals, darling little flower girls with floral crowns and so many special touches from family heirlooms used in the decor, it was simply perfect and Southern. The Carnton Plantation is such a special venue. Since it was spring, the gardens were in bloom setting a spectacular backdrop for this beautiful outdoor but very elegant affair.

Olympic Gold Medalist Shawn Johnson’s Wedding

Shawn and Andrew? They’re the definition of a power couple. Shawn, an Olympic Gold Medalist currently commentating in Rio, and Andrew, a Long Snapper for the Oakland Raiders, said “I do” with a celebration that felt uniquely and completely “them” planned by Fete Nashville. If you ask us, there’s no better way to lead up to tonight’s Olympic closing ceremonies than a trip to the wedding gallery photographed by Wild Native Co. plus a peek back at their adorable engagement.

I don’t think our wedding day

could have been any more perfect

…or any more “us.”

Andrew surprised Shawn by singing

“You’ve got a friend in me”

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From Fete Nashville… Planning Shawn Johnson + Andrew East’s wedding was a dream come true! It was pretty exciting from the beginning when Andrew, a long snapper for the Oakland Raiders proposed to his sweetheart, Shawn, a gold Medal Olympic gymnast, at Wrigley Field right after she threw out the first pitch! 

We started planning right away and chose the top of a hill for the ceremony, with 360’ of countryside views at a farm in Franklin, Tennessee. The alter was designed with gorgeous whitewashed antique church windows dripping with flowers, honeysuckle, and vines with more natural elements at the base including logs and lots of candles.   Jack Daniel’s barrels served as aisle markers holding the most beautiful flower arrangements of white peonies, ranunculus & dahlias, ivory garden roses, and lots of textured greens. The bridal party walked through custom barn doors and down the aisle decorated with lanterns, candles and flowers. After the “i do’s, the new Mr. And Mrs. East jumped up with excitement to the cheers from all their friends and family and danced their way back down the aisle to Stevie Wonder’s “signed, sealed, delivered!” 

At the reception, Andrew surprised Shawn by singing “You’ve got a friend in me” with his father playing the piano accompaniment. As a late night snack, we had the famous Ellie’s doughnuts food truck come to serve sweet treats to all of the guests. At the end of the night, Shawn and Andrew ran through sparklers to a silver Rolls Royce. At 7 incredibly delicious layers, the wedding cake was taller than the bride!

The reception was lovely with Shawn + Andrew sitting in an ivory love seat with custom “bro” & “bug” signs on the back; their nicknames for each other. Gold calligraphy on white washed wood hanging with gold silk ribbon. Head table made up of several reclaimed wood farm tables with vintage lace runner. 25’ ladder covered in greenery installed over the head table with exposed bulbs hanging. White french urns and mercury candles with loose and flowing greens.

Guest tables: a combination of farm tables and rounds with ivory linens. Centerpieces of barn wood boxes filled with low, lush greens hanging over loose and whimsical. Shawn’s gown is a glamorous silk duchess trumpet silhouette with a soft geometrical lace bodice. Matching lace trim along the hem of her gown also appears on the removable silk satin organza cathedral train. Shawn’s gown features the Elena Zavozina signature keepsake pearls cascading down the back of her gown. Shawn also had her custom headpiece and jewelry designed by European designer Elena Zavozina designed Shawn’s dress, all nine bridesmaids dresses and Andrew’s entire custom suit

From the Newlyweds… Fete Nashville truly made my fairytale wedding come true! I don’t think our wedding day could have been any more perfect or any more “us.” From how it ran to the details, Fete Nashville thought of for Andrew and I. They blew us away and we couldn’t have been happier!!!

The Ultimate Spring Plantation Wedding

Can we please discuss how incredibly sweet Courtney and Isaac’s wedding is?! Filled with pretty pink details and a few happy tears, this is one celebration that you’re sure to fall in love with. Nathan Westerfield was behind the lens snapping it all to share and it’s all waiting for you in The Vault!

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From The Bride…May 14, 2016 was the most perfect day! The bridesmaid’s and bride started the day early with hair and make up and a few mimosa at the hotel. It was an atmosphere of joy surrounding the bride; everyone was happy and willing to make sure the day went great! After all the hair and make up was done, the bridesmaids put their Jenny Yoo dresses on and they looked beautiful. The bridesmaids and bride then headed to the venue for the bride to get dressed. The bride’s dress was a beautiful lace dress by Sareh Nouri with Badgley Mischka shoes. Her something borrowed were gorgeous diamond earrings from her Grandma, her something new was her dress, and her something old and blue was her mom’s garter that she had worn at her wedding. The bride put her dress on and her sister who was also her Maid of Honor zipped it up. While the bride and bridesmaids took all day getting ready, the groom and groomsmen spent the day relaxing and got dressed in their tuxes in about 15 minutes and then headed to the venue just before it was time for the bride and grooms first look. Once the groom and groomsmen arrived, the wedding planner, Lauren placed the groom, Isaac in the garden to await the first look with his bride, Courtney. As Courtney was walking to the garden to meet Isaac she was so excited to finally get to see her handsome groom! Their first look was such a happy moment as they got more and more exciting to marry their best friend! After the first look Isaac and Courtney took some pictures together and then met back up with their wedding party for some group pictures.

After all of the group pictures were taken it was about time to get ready for the ceremony! Guests started to arrive and Courtney and her bridesmaids were hidden away in the bridal suite until a majority of the guests were there. The wedding party then lined up at the back of the garden, where the ceremony was going to take place and it was then it hit Courtney that she was about to get married! She tried to hold back tears and shared a special moment with her dad. The ceremony then began and the music went along beautifully, all of the wedding party made it to their places and then it was time for Courtney to walk down the aisle with her dad. This was when the emotions really started flowing, Courtney was crying and Isaac teared up a little bit, this was it, they were getting married!!! The ceremony shared a beautiful message with Courtney and Isaac and all of their guests about how special the love was that was shared between a man and a women as they became husband and wife. It was a surreal and beautiful ceremony.

After the ceremony was cocktail hour which was held on the front lawn of the beautiful plantation house. There were many cute southern touches such as rocking chairs on the front porch, string lights over the lawn, corn hole boards and hors d’oeuvres of hot chicken bites and pulled pork with sweet potato grits. the ceremony was a blur as Courtney and Isaac tried to talk to all of their guests. A little ways through cocktail hour Courtney and Isaac were whisked away to take sunset pictures in a beautiful field. It was a nice chance for Courtney and Isaac to connect with each other and get to take a deep breath and enjoy the fact that they were married!! After the pictures they had their grand entrance into the reception area. The tent was beautifully decorate from chandeliers to bright flowers and gold silverware. It was like a dream. Courtney’s dad made a toast to the happy couple and blessed the food and then everyone ate. After dinner the best men and the maid of honor gave their speeches. The maid of honor wrote words to the song Bohemian Rhapsody and sang then couple a song, it was one of the highlights of the night!! From there the bride and groom cut the cake and maybe smushed some cake on each others faces and then it was time for their first dance! It was one of those things that seems like a normal thing, but was such a special time for them to connect and reflect on their amazing day. After their dance, Courtney danced with her dad and was able to thank him for everything he had done to make the wedding happen. (Courtney’s parents paid for the whole wedding) After that dance the dance floor was opened to everyone and then the party really started. It was so special to see all of the friends and family who had come out to celebrate Courtney and Isaac, it made them realize how truly loved they were. All in all it was an amazing day and there isn’t anything they would do differently!

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Badgley Mischka

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Sareh Nouri

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Bacon + Bourbon Make This Southern Affair All the More Memorable

Sweet southern sizzle this wedding is everything. For not only did this pair plan one heck of a celebration, they also made sure guests were well equipped to carry on the fun throughout the night. Translation: A passed hors-d’oeuvre consisting of bacon paired with single barrel bourbon. If that doesn’t get your heart racing then maybe all the stunning captures from Austin Gros in The Vault will do the trick!

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From The Bride…Where do you have a wedding when the bride grew up in Maryland, the groom New York, and they are currently settling in Los Angeles. You dig for roots…

We planned a Tennessee wedding after relocating to from New York City to Los Angeles. We were drawn to Middle Tennessee for our wedding as I spent many spring vacations from elementary and middle school visiting relatives and family friends in Franklin – rollerblading through town, movies at the Franklin Theater, and listening to seemingly endless family stories – as my dad wanted me and my sister to experience a little of our Tennessee roots.

It wasn’t hard to sell Matt on the idea of a Tennessee wedding as few of our New York friends and Matt’s family had ever visited Nashville and he knew it would be fun for them to experience someplace new. My easiest wedding decision was where to have the reception. Carnton was in my blood – literally, as I am a lineal descendent of Randal and Sarah McGavock, who built the home. Actually, as delineated in the “father of the bride” speech, our wedding reception is the first family wedding celebration held at Carnton since January 3, 1884, 131 years ago. Also, there were more direct McGavock descendants at Carnton that May 9th evening than at any other time since the house was built in 1826.

Most importantly, this was a magical evening for us, complete with a surprise ice-breaker for all the guests, Tennessee Moonshine. The photographs capture the wedding spirit, complete with a bride and groom dance-off and yes, even doing “The Worm” on the dance floor. Matt’s reaction early the next morning as he slowly, oh ever so slowly, eased himself into his now father-in-laws car: “That party was the best night of my life”.

It was very important to us that our wedding feel relaxed and not formal. On a night when all eyes were on us, we felt incredibly comfortable and relaxed. I credit this because we didn’t feel like we had to adjust how we acted due to the wedding, the wedding adjusted to us and our energy set the tone. We were 100% ourselves that night, just as everyones wedding should be. We made the decision to have our wedding party photos taken at Carnton before the ceremony. This turned out to be crucial as we were able then to be present for and enjoy every minute of the reception. While there were 250 people there, it still managed to feel like one tight-knit gathering.

Rustic-Organic Farm Wedding Inspiration

This is the kind of wedding inspiration that makes me skip with happiness to my computer each morning. An unfussy vibe, neutral palette paired with just the right amount of subtle hues here and there and completely organic at heart. Basically, it’d be the jumping off point if I had a wedding do-over. So, thank you Julie Paisley, Firefly Events, Southern Events, Designs In Paper and team, for crafting it all—we’ll be pinning every bit in THE VAULT!

From Firefly Events…Nestled among the tallest hills in Williamson County, Trinity View Farm is an exquisite venue with undeniable European influence. When you round the final turn up the long driveway and first see the so-called barn, every visitor feels transported out of Tennessee and onto a picturesque Italian hilltop boasting panoramic views. The only thing it lacks are the olive groves that inspired this shoot.

Katie and Josh, our real life, newly married model couple, shone against the rustic but elegant backdrop and textured, modern florals. Firefly Events crafted each understated detail to create a bigger picture that would inspire an earthy setting of romance and thoughtfulness.

We used greenery paired with neutral, earth toned garden roses for the florals. Our favorite detail is the sourdough loaf set at each place setting accompanied by hand poured olive oil favors. Olives, with their varying sizes and hues, inspired the color scheme and atmosphere. The whitewashed brick and dark wood features of Trinity View Farm set a warm backdrop for the elegant dress, jewelry, cuisine, and paper goods. We hope this shoot speaks to you and inspires a welcoming atmosphere for your event.

More Southern Wedding Inspiration this way!

Rustic + Timeless Trinity View Farms Wedding

A new display from Leslee Mitchell is reason alone to celebrate, but add in the craftsmanship of Big Events Weddings draped with Southern Events props and you’ve got yourself one perfect party. From the autumn inspired centerpieces to the unplanned hot air-balloon ceremony, it’s the type of day we’ve deemed dream-worthy and we’re giving YOU an exclusive invite to peruse the pretty in THE VAULT!

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From The Bride…I had never been one of those girls who dreamed about their wedding day all their lives, but after Andrew and I were engaged it started a whirlwind of “dreaming for the big day”. First it was most important to me to find a venue that was not basic and reflective of us as a couple. I did not want to be just another wedding venue with three packages to chose from without modification. We went through three different non venues falling through (all being personal homes that would not work out ) and six months before our wedding date we found the most ideal/dream/ perfect location that embodied everything Andrew and I had ever wanted. Trinity View Farm, was off the beaten path in the rolling hills of Tennessee, and at the time, not an actual “venue”. We got to bring in everything specific to our design dreams: decor, florals, tents,our dream photographer, Leslee Mitchell plus use our own full service wedding planners, Big Events Inc. who planned and created a magical day that truly felt like us.

I am a native Floridian, with a Mississippi heritage who is mildy obsessed with the outdoors (most specifically fall in Nashville) while Andrew is a Nashville native- born and raised. It was important to me to bring in elements of my hometown, Destin Florida and Mississippi roots since the wedding location was in my new home of TN. We used driftwood and sprigs of cotton on the ceremony arch under which we said our vows, with a back drop setting of Tennessee was a gift from God. We continued the usage of driftwood throughout the night using them on the tablescapes. I chose a custom hand drawn design from local designer, Olia Zavozina. It was everything i wanted and more…plus comfortable (custom pocket inserts!) For the bridesmaids I chose “vanilla” hue by Amsale to really let the scenery speak for itself instead of overbearing color. Andrew, also a fan of not being basic, picked the guys to wear custom suits in Navy blue by a very talented local tailor, Jeff from Stich It paired with a custom tie from local tie -maker and designer Otis James.

We decided to get married at sunset because that was when Andrew proposed to me 9 months prior. It was a sunset like no other i had seen before and as we said I do Hot Air Balloons passed the open sky, unbeknownst to us. I walked down the aisle by my father to my favorite instrument, a bagpipe. Our vows were traditional mixed with kind words of wisdom from our Presbyterian minister friend Carter Crenshaw. We had our dear friend and artist, Abigail Rose sing acoustic version one of our favorite songs “Stand by Me”… after we said our I do’s our parents followed us as we followed the bag pipe down the aisle to our reception next door.

Throughout the planning process we were extremely humbled to see how many loved ones chose to travel, and attend our big day. We wanted to make sure everyone was extremely comfortable in the venue adding extra soft seating and lounge areas outside.

Both of us being a lover of music and tequila, brought our most favorite elements of the wedding reception… the band, Big Blast and The Party Masters and Patron at every bar. It was for sure a party we will never forget. Our first dance was to Into the Mystic- Van Morrison and my dad and I’s dance was to “What a wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong. And that it is…such a wonderful world and a day Andrew and I will never forget.

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Amsale

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Elegant Equestrian Wedding in Tennessee

If bluegrass and bourbon are your jam, then you’re going to love this Southern charmer. It’s a farm style fete that is a honest-to-goodness dream. Married in the church that the Groom grew up in, it’s a union of pretty that is beyond perfect in every single possible. From the barn reception, to a few galloping guests, Brooke Boling shared it all in The Vault!

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From Brooke Boling…There were so many special wedding day highlights on this beautiful day. The minister that married ashley + will has known the bride her whole life, and they married in the church (West End United Methodist) the groom grew up in. At the reception, guests were greeted at Wills’ family barn by Percherons (the horses). During the cocktail hour, guests sipped on the grooms favorite cocktail, Moscow Mules. The cocktails were served up in copper mugs as they listened to bluegrass tunes played by Craig Duncan and Friends. The seated buffet began with a plated first course…a “vegetable ceviche” that included the brides favorite fruit, watermelon. A perfect crisp and cold selection for the warm, summer evening. After the guests worked up an appetite dancing, they were served late night burgers and fries and then sent home with blueberry and maple glazed donut holes.

Beautiful, Bright Inspiration Shoot at Carnton Plantation

Beautiful inspiration like this doesn’t cross our paths every day. So when it does, we tend to drop everything we are doing to soak up every last moment. Beautiful, bright and styled to perfection by Emerson Events – these images from Sawyer Baird couldn’t be prettier if they tried.

From Sawyer Baird…When Lauren, from Emerson Events, contacted me about this shoot I was on cloud nine! Being a person who adores neutrals and deep moody colors I found myself surprised with how in love I was with this vision that Lauren had. These bright colors bring out the happiness that comes with warmer weather. It was a treat to be able to be apart of this shoot!

Elegant Tennessee Plantation Wedding

Love stories are the heart and soul of every SMP wedding and this one was nearly 10 years in the making. And when the day rolled around these Tennessee sweeties opted for a hometown affair with a major nod to their roots. They brought on Austin Gros, Bright Events, Music City Tents & Events and a whole crew of talented vendors for a day that can only be described as “Southern elegance done right.”

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From Sage Nines Event Production… Caroline and Lee had been together for almost ten years prior to getting married and it was important to them to throw a celebration that exemplified their roots. Wanting a classic outdoor Southern wedding, they chose Carnton Plantation in Caroline’s hometown of Franklin, TN as their venue. The historic mansion and its grounds were the perfect backdrop for their day. Caroline’s father escorted her to the aisle via an arbor that surrounds the formal garden. The ceremony took place under a giant tree adorned with hanging lanterns and flowers in shades of white and ivory. Bridesmaids wore pale blush Monique Lhullier gowns.

Following the ceremony, cocktail hour on the mansion’s porch featured signature drinks including the Mitchell Mule in honor of the groom’s family name, and the Sweet Caroline White Cosmo. Guests played corn hole, the couple’s favorite game, while enjoying mini margaritas and mini tacos, a nod to the couple’s love of Mexican food. Hand lettered magnolia leaves served as escort cards and directed guests to their tables for the main meal.

Dinner took place in a large tent adjacent to the garden, which was illuminated by a 6′ crystal chandelier chosen by the bride. Wooden farm tables were decorated with magnolia garlands intertwined with white roses and hydrangea, while round tables featured striking centerpieces of white roses in tall silver flutes. Abundant candlelight created a romantic warmth throughout the night of dining and dancing.

The happy couple departed the festivities in the bride’s grandfather’s vintage car after guests joined them in launching white balloons into the night sky.

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Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fall 2015

Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Fall 2015

Spring 2016

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Southern Winter Romance Style Shoot at CJ’s Off the Square

With the way the holidays fall this year, I have a feeling the festivities will continue well into the weekend and straight through New Years. So we thought we should keep the holiday pretty coming here too. And this shoot from Jen & Chris Creed and Event 29 at CJ’s Off the Square is filled to the brim with ideas for anything you might be hosting, and you can see them all right here.

From Gabrielle Green of Event 29…We were inspired to create a winter shoot that was both seasonal yet welcoming, so we looked to the icy hues of the season and the warm, romantic Southern charm of our venue. From there, a palette of wintry steel blue and aquamarine with toasty cinnamon and mocha emerged. Champagne and gold tones were then incorporated to bring it all together. Pretty, ethereal elements were coupled with strong, classic pieces to tell a timeless love story, and our concept of a Southern Winter Romance was born.

In dressing our Southern couple, we played off the tones in our palette, and went with a navy blazer and copper tie for our groom. Our bride wore a delicate lace gown by Lea-Ann Belter with subtle mocha undertones that we all fell head over heels for! Our hairstylist created a romantic, low chignon, that was swept to the side, and softly enhanced the natural beauty of our model, and added just a hint of drama around her eyes. The bridal bouquet of roses, pieris, magnolia leaves, olive leaves, and hydrangeas dried and gilded by our floral designer was trimmed with an antique bracelet and trailing ribbon. The same flowers were repeated in our tablescape centerpiece in lush, free flowing form, and a garland dotted with roses and pieris twisted it’s way across the champagne tablecloth and spilled blithely onto the floor. We accompanied traditional pieces of gold-rimmed china and brass candlesticks with spicy cinnamon-toned napkins and tapers, and complimented the warmer hues with cool blue glassware. To tie the tablescape together, menu cards were designed with all of the colors in our palette. Our stationery designer created a custom emblem featuring the happy couple’s silhouettes, and repeated the charming motif throughout the shoot in the invitations and programs.

Seasonal spiced pear cocktails were served in etched glass goblets on an elegant brass tray. The steel gray console table that served as our bar also held our custom pastoral-inspired wedding cake atop a handmade wooden stand. Our designer lined the drawers of the table with the same spicy fabric used for our dinner napkins, and left them open to hold programs and a relaxed arrangement of roses on a bed of magnolia leaves.

Our event designer worked to create a concept and a palette that would warm and inspire winter brides, and coordinated with our skilled vendors to bring it all together. Our talented models told the story, and our lovely photographers captured it all in stunning detail. We had so much fun the day of the shoot watching the elements fall into place, bringing the Southern Winter Romance to life!

Tennessee Barn Wedding from Glass Jar Photography

Today’s lineup of lovely continues with a Tennessee barn wedding infused with a sense of southern charm. Filled with cheery pops of coral and a touch of rustic whimsy, this wedding has all the right components for the perfect “I do” day. Glass Jar Photography captured all the sun-soaked images sitting pretty in the full gallery here.

Colors

Seasons

Summer Weddings

Settings

Outdoor Weddings Rustic Weddings

Styles

Casual Rustic

From Glass Jar Photography… Sam flew to Egypt to propose to Danielle so they wanted to incorporate lots of Egyptian elements into their day and decor mixed with where they live in the south. Some neat ideas and details of the day were that they played “Rock, Paper, scissors” for who said their vows first, they had their own beer brewed and bottled for the reception and the walkway from the ceremony to the reception was lined with family wedding photos to make a love lineage.

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Wedding Dresses

Watters

Willowby Fall 2014

Watters Maids Fall 2014

Wtoo Maids Fall 2014

C20 Mothers 2012 Part I

C20 Mothers 2012 Part II

C20 Mothers Spring 2013

C20 Mothers Fall 2012

Seahorse Spring 2013

Watters Brides Fall 2014

Watters Brides Spring 2013

Watters Brides Spring 2015

Wtoo Brides Spring 2015

Willowby Spring 2015

Watters Maids Spring 2015

Wtoo Maids Spring 2015

Encore Spring 2015

Watters Brides Spring 2016

Willowby Spring 2016

Wtoo Brides Fall 2015

Willowby Fall 2015

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Franklin, TN Wedding from Brandon Chesbro + Mary Crimmins Event Design

Grab your morning cup of jo and snuggle in real close SMPers, because this wedding is so flippin’ adorable you’ll need time to cozy up with each pretty as can be picture from Brandon Chesbro. Each one. Because that’s when you’ll start to see all the perfectly whimsical, color-filled details dreamt up by this couple and the Bride’s sister (who also happens to be the talent behind Mary Crimmins Event Design). It’s image after image of pure loveliness, and it’s all waiting for you right here.

From the Bride… From the moment we started planning our wedding, Shawn and I knew that we wanted it to not only be special for us, but a blast for everyone else. My sister Mary offered to be my wedding coordinator/designer/Wonder Woman and she and I planned most everything. We wanted a unique wedding with lots of personal and whimsical touches and tons of color. The location was something we put a lot of thought into. We wanted it to feel intimate, relaxed, and like you were transported to some other place, so we ended up having it outside on a friend’s property which was absolutely perfect. Shawn is from Las Vegas and I’m from Nashville so we chose to make it both really Southern with touches of the desert mixed in. We added lots of succulents in to pay homage to the desert and lots of colorful soft flowers to stay true to my Nashville roots.

We got tons of ideas from Pinterest and blogs and ended up with most of the decorations being DIY. We spent hours constructing pinwheels and programs, painting baskets, and shopping at the flea market for antique colored glass and fabric. For seating at the ceremony we used hay bales covered with patterned colored fabric which really captured the laid back feel of the day. We brought out my sister’s vintage silver Airstream trailer to add something quirky.

The food and drinks were also important. We wanted delicious food that was also largely local and organic, something that’s really important to Shawn and I. The drinks were mixed by my sister Mary, and ended up being just what everyone needed to get up and dance to some awesome Jazz and Motown, which was one of our favorite things about the wedding.I absolutely loved how magical and special our ceremony ended up being and how much fun the reception was. Everyone really let loose and we had such a blast at the reception that we didn’t want to leave. If I could go back, I wouldn’t change a single detail. Everything was absolutely perfect and very true to Shawn and me as a couple. It felt like us.

Wedding Photography: Brandon Chesbro / Wedding Venue: Private Property of Katy Snow (615-485-9598) / Wedding Planning, Design + Stationery: Mary Crimmins Event Design / Floral Design: Lisa Jones of Garden Delights / Wedding Day Coordination: Treasured Weddings By Tonya / Catering: Martha Stamps Catering / Wedding Cake: Rachel Make My Cake! / Reception Band: Tom Michael Jazz Ensemble + Zodlounge Music / DJ: DJ egYpt (718djegypt813@gmail.com) / Rentals: Southern Events / Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier via The Bride Room / Bride’s Jewelry: Bario-Neal / Hair: Nathanael Gambino / Makeup: Dayle Lemon / Groom’s Shirt: Burberry / Groom’s Pants: W.R.K. via Nordstrom / Groom’s Shoes: Zara / Groom’s Tie: Otis James / Bride’s Rings: Lisbeth Jewelry + Walton’s Antique and Estate Jewelry / Groom’s Ring: The Bride’s Grandfather

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Wedding Dresses

Monique Lhuillier

Monique Lhuillier Bridal Fall 2015

Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Fall 2015

Spring 2016

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Nashville Wedding by Smitten Photography + H Three Events

And just like that, I fall head over heels in love with yet another sweet southern fête. It was bound to happen – we all know I am a sucker for simplistic elegance – but with a drool-worthy gown and light-infused images from Smitten Photography, I had no hope. It was love at first sight, and I can’t thank H Three Events enough for pulling it all together. I have a spot reserved for this pretty party in my favorites folder, but you can see it all right here!

From the Bride… Matt proposed in July 2010, while I was still in college. We chose not to get married until I graduated, which meant a two-year engagement. It wasn’t ideal (and I wouldn’t wish it on anyone), but it gave the two most indecisive people on the planet time to plan. Our keywords for our wedding theme were country elegance and simplistic charm. I wanted the beauty of nature to be the wedding décor.

The first order of business was to email Sharon, our photographer, and get her booked. She was my first “must-have” and number one priority. I had read her blog and been drooling over her pictures for years. We then got an outstanding wedding planning team who helped us lock down the venue right away. Even though we were two years ahead of the game, it was still hard to get an open date at the Carnton Plantation for June 2012. We fell head over heels with the location because of its beauty and deep-rooted history in the Nashville area. On the way up to the plantation house, there is a giant hay field. After we booked there and we drove away, I remember thinking that I couldn’t wait to take pictures with my husband out in the field on our big day. I literally dreamed about those pictures until Sharon finally made them reality.

Catering was really important to me, and I wanted to stay true to our personalities when choosing the right caterer. I grew up in the small town of Nolensville, Tennessee — home of Martin’s BBQ. They have been on numerous television specials for their outstanding BBQ and are critically acclaimed. My brother joined the Marine Corps shortly before Matt and I got engaged, and we had his Afghanistan send-off party there. So it was the natural choice for food when it came to our wedding. The wedding cake was another priority. I knew I wanted a peanut butter and fudge cake. When I tasted Jo’s, I thought I had gone to heaven. Matt is a firefighter, and we also wanted to incorporate that into our wedding. She made a replica of his fire helmet, and he couldn’t believe how much actually looked like his helmet. One tier of his cake was lemon, and the other was white chocolate. I love that we both went for unique flavors, and our guests loved it too.

Hiring our wedding planners was key. I was planning from Knoxville, where I was still in school, but the wedding was in Nashville, so it had the potential to be a difficult scenario. Luckily, Hugh and Anita made it easy-breezy. I was shocked by how much they took care of and thankful for not having to do tons of DIY projects, meet with vendors, etc. I constantly had people telling me they would help me with anything I needed, and I always felt kind of bad turning them down because I didn’t even need the help! It was such a laid-back process.

Wedding Photography: Sharon Clark of Smitten Photography / Wedding Venue: The Carnton Plantation in Franklin, Tennessee / Wedding Planning: Anita Hogin + Hugh Howser of H Three Events / Floral Design: Phillipe S. Chadwick / Catering: Martin’s BBQ / Wedding Cakes: Jo’s Custom Cakes & Catering / Rentals + Linens: Music City Tents & Events / Lighting: TechWorks / Entertainment: John Ward of Mid-South Mobile DJ’s / Wedding Favors: DIY by the Bride’s Mother / Wedding Dress: Pronovias “Alcanar” via The White Room / Bride’s Cowboy Boots: The Cowboy Store / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Alfred Sung via The White Room / Hair + Makeup: J’on Alan Salon in Cool Springs, Tennessee

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DIY Nashville Wedding by Rachel Moore Photography

If ever there was a wedding to seriously sweeten your Thursday evening, this gorgeous Nashville affair captured by Rachel Moore Photography is most certainly IT. A literal DIY dreamland, it’s an exposed brick warehouse (hello, Building 8 at The Factory!) meets colorful bunting meets fab paper goods designed by the uber-stunning, plus oh-so-talented bride. Completely crafty, seriously dreamy and totally amazing – this is a personality-filled wedding done oh-so-right. See SOO much more right here.

From the Bride… I’m a graphic designer and my husband is a video editor, so we definitely agreed on was our wedding had to be visual, and it had to reflect us. We were both born in middle Tennessee, so our southern roots have inspired the look and tone of our crafty, handmade wedding. We wanted it to feel comfortable and homey, so no tuxes or roses here! It was also very important to us to prove that a beautiful wedding can be thrown for less! I’m proud to say that we planned our wedding in just seven months for under $10,000! We accomplished this by simply setting a budget from the beginning and sticking to it! We picked our main priorities and found less expensive alternatives for everything else. We put photography at the top of the list, even above venue! We kept other costs down by borrowing wherever possible, thrift shopping and seeking out deals.

We go to church in an old factory, so renting it was perfect for us — not only does it have character with exposed beams, brick walls and concrete, but we also got a discount for being members there. Another way we cut costs on venue was to have the ceremony and reception in the same room. This decision came with so many benefits. First off, we saved set up/tear down time by basically setting the room up for a reception for the entire event. We set up our altar in the middle of the room, and then placed round tables around the altar, so the wedding was in the round, and everyone got a unique view during the ceremony. I also appreciated this setup because it allowed me to be involved in the setup of everything the night before, instead of it all getting thrown together in between a ceremony and reception.

I love doing crafty things, so I made all of the handmade details around the room. Fabric squares from Joann’s Fabrics were the best way to get tons of fabric samples for a very low cost, especially if you catch them on sale! I bought several patterns in our colors and made fabric birds, fabric flower chains for the altar and bunting off tutorials I found online. For the “Just Married” and “gifts” bunting, I printed letters onto iron-on transfer paper, ironed them onto the fabric and glued them around hemp. So easy and SO affordable! I designed our invitations myself, along with various signage around the room, such as the favor table, guest book, and cupcake and catering lists. My centerpieces had awesome old books and various found objects I got from garage sales and Goodwills. The flowers were one of my favorite parts. My vision was a wildflower kind of feel using varied clear bottles and vases. I started collecting bottles when we got engaged and enlisted the help of my bartender friend. I had over 150 by the wedding. Our flower vendor was a friend of my fiancé’s family who did flowers for his mother and aunt’s weddings years ago. He no longer does weddings, but was kind enough to consult with and advise us, as well as make the bridal bouquets/boutonnieres and order us buckets of flowers. Then the day before the wedding, about 7-10 of us got together and assembled all the flower arrangements for the centerpieces and tied jute and hemp around the bottlenecks for added detail. They turned out better than I had envisioned!

After our send-off, we got into our getaway car: my grandfather’s 1927 Model A. He passed the year before, so it was important to me to have a piece of him in the wedding, and I was honored to be able to use that classic Ford. My dad even taught my fiancé how to drive it beforehand to make it more authentic.

Wedding Photography: Rachel Moore Photography / Wedding Venue: Building 8 at The Factory in Franklin, Tennessee / Wedding Day Coordination: Margot L. Irwin of Destination Nashville / Floral Consultation + Ordering: Henry’s Florist / Wedding Cinematography: Matt Giesler of Matt G Video / Catering: Famous Dave’s / Cupcakes: Sweetface Cakes / Wedding Invitations: Designed by the Bride / Chair + Linen Rentals: Southern Events Party Rental & Vintage Prop Shoppe / Wedding Dress, Veil + Headband: David’s Bridal / Hair + Makeup: DIY by the Bride / Bridesmaids’ Dresses: Wtoo / Groom’s Suit + Tie: Express

Nashville Wedding at the Franklin Marriott Cool Springs by Matt Phoenix Photography

Welcome back to the prettiest day of the week my friends! Yup, it’s Wednesday already and you know what that means! Seven gorgeous weddings coming your way, guaranteed to inspire you for days. But remember, we’re only showing a peek of these pretties so it’s up to you to check out the full galleries of your absolute faves.

First up in the pretty parade is the prettiest purple party you ever did see. We’re loving the fresh, crisp florals and the gorgeous mansion where the couple, along with their bridal party, met up before the big ceremony. Matt Phoenix Photography snapped up all the goodness and there’s so much more right here in the full gallery.

Click here for the FULL wedding!

From Matt Phoenix Photography… Jason and Franchesca are both Jehovah’s Witnesses who met at a Kingdom Hall building project when they were 18. According to Franchesca, “We were friends for a while, and later got engaged in downtown Memphis, Tennessee. We went to the park on Court Street in a carriage ride, and he proposed to me there. We were engaged for a year.”

The theme of this wedding was “springy” with a fine classic stroke. The bouquet consisted of hydrangeas, white and green roses, calla lilies and kermits, which were bought from Emma’s. Franchesca was dropped at the mansion (owned by Catherine & Doug Cutler) in an Excursion limo.

This mansion is featured in the book “Great American Houses,” and it is across the street from former Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young and a stone’s throw away from Dolly Parton’s house (both houses are clearly viewable from the yard). Jason and the guys got ready in the mansion before heading to the Kingdom Hall to begin the 2 p.m. wedding — there were about 200 people in attendance. They then rode to the Marriott of Cool Springs for their reception, where they stayed overnight.

Wedding Photography: Matt Phoenix Photography / Ceremony: Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses / Reception: Franklin Marriott Cool Springs in Franklin, Tennessee / Floral Design: Emma’s / Event Design: Franklin Marriott Cool Springs / Event Planning: Franklin Marriott Cool Springs + Jared Smith / Wedding Invitations: David’s Bridal / Wedding Dress: Lazaro / Bride’s Shoes: RSVP via After 6 / Hair: Teresa Wright / Makeup: Melanie Wright

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Lazaro

Spring 2016

Fall 2016

Spring 2017

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Franklin Wedding by Ulmer Studios + Bridal Blueprints

I’m loving so many of the details in this wedding, but my absolute favorite has got to be how the couple displayed their love letters to one another while the groom-to-be was serving over in the Middle East in a large, old window for all their guests to see. Bridal Blueprints did an incredible job of infusing their romantic love story throughout the reception and kept the decor green and re-purposed many items to keep the overall cost down which is always a good thing in the wedding world! Ulmer Studios snapped all the pretty images and there is so much more waiting for you in the gallery.

Click here to see the entire gallery of images!

From Bridal Blueprints…The bride’s color palette was navy, mustard/gold, lavender and ivory. Since we were working on a budget, we had to get creative when it came to decor items. We wanted to bring in a lot of personal details to the wedding – primarily the couple’s love story. The groom had been in the Middle East since early last year, met his bride on a brief trip back home here, they kept in touch through letters, email and Skype – he sent her flowers on a weekly basis. He proposed to her ‘unofficially’ over the summer when he sent her to Genesis Diamonds under the premise of picking up a watch he had ordered. When she got there, the salesman told her to pick out which ring she wanted. The groom came home for a week of leave in October, where he went home with her to meet her family. During a family photo session, the groom proposed to her in front of her whole family. Because of the dangerous situation the groom is in (his job is basically what the guys in the movie the Hurt Locker did with bombs), they went ahead and got married at the courthouse. Their real wedding was the one at Carnton in June. We wanted to share their story, and did so by using the letters they sent to each other as part of the decor.

I tried to ‘upcycle’ as many things as I could do bringing in a green, environmentally conscious element as well. All of the fabric flowers and pennants were made from old sheets purchased from Good Will. The window was taken from an old house in Franklin. Rather than using a ton of flowers, we went with fabric flowers for centerpieces and attached them to twigs from dead branches in my yard. The glass vases were all old jelly, spaghetti sauce, pickle, salsa jars. Rather than renting new dishes, the bride collected vintage china plates from yard and estate sales and thrift stores. The guests were also invited to sign these plates & will serve as the couple’s Guest Book. The bride’s bouquet was made primarily from her grandmother’s vintage brooches – they served as her ‘something old’. All of the drinking glasses were mason jars that were fitted with tags for guests to write their names on and claim for the evening. The suitcases used as the altar were from the bride’s family and supported memorial candles in honor of the bride’s grandmother and the groom’s sister.

Wedding Photography: Ulmer Studios / Wedding Coordination: Meredith Zeller of Bridal Blueprints / Caterer: Bacon & Caviar / Ceremony + Reception Venue: Carnton Plantation / Entertainment + Lighting: Ross Hill / Event Rentals: Music City Tents & Events / Floral Design: Melissa Marie Floral Designs / Hair: Bryan Wood of Salon Capelli / Linens: Connie Duglin / Make-up: Andrew Pentecost

Tennessee Wedding by Williamson County Weddings & Events

The boots, the cafe lights, the lovely wild flowers – oh how we love a good country shindig. Especially one designed so perfectly by Williamson County Weddings & Events. It’s a little bit country, a little bit chic and a whole lot of lovely. Be sure to stop by the gallery for more Tennessee details all captured by The Photographix.

feeling a little bit country…find more inspiration here!

As a wedding planner, I am blessed to witness many couples exchange vows on their wedding day. But I rarely get to see the proposal. Surprisingly, I was introduced to Tessa and Chase through a dramatic proposal video a friend sent me. It showed one of Rihanna’s dancers bringing his girlfriend on stage during a set break for a surprise proposal in front of thousands of screaming fans. Now that is a story to share with your grandkids! Little did I know that only a few days later I would meet the happy couple in person and we would begin a whirlwind race to craft their romantic country wedding together in their hometown of Franklin, TN. The couple had a short window of time between tour dates to get married and we wasted no time selecting a natural color palette with tons of rustic, vintage details that perfectly accented the couple’s style.

On a beautiful October afternoon, the couple was married on a hill overlooking the rolling Tennessee country side. Guests were seated on hay bales and warmed by the setting sun as Tessa and Chase became husband and wife. Wildflowers, lace and burlap were used to provide a soft but rustic look for the reception. Vintage books added color and texture and silver mercury glass gave a soft candlelit glow to the tabletops while string lights illuminated the dance floor. There was a bit of a chill in the air that night, but the guests never noticed as DJ Kevin Perryman kept the dance floor packed all night. The evening concluded with a grand exit as guests lined the path with sparklers and cheered on the happy couple.

Photography: The Photographix / Flowers: Provided by friends of the family / Event Planning: CJ Dickson for Williamson County Weddings & Events / Ceremony & Reception Location: Southall Eden, Franklin, TN / Invitations: Southall Eden Paperie / Shoes: Aldo / Dress: Watters Bride / Bridesmaids: J.Crew