Favorite designers

As more casual wedding venues like farms and vineyards become more popular, there's a greater need for wedding dresses that are understated and organic while still being elegant and, of course, affordable. Luckily, the wedding industry is constantly growing. New designers with fresh aesthetic are answering these demands. Here are some of my favorites.

On the left is a dress by Whitney Deal. Lasting Love by Sarah Seven is on the right. 

 Elizabeth Dye of The English Dept. designed the dress on the left. An eyelet dress by BHLDN is on the right.

Navy and white

Navy and white seems to be such a classic pairing. I doubt it will ever go out of style. I'm especially loving the revival of classic enamelware in navy and white. You could stockpile all of your enamel goods in this gorgeous tote.

{Images: 1. Garrison Bag from Vitrine;  2. Alder & Co. enamel teapot; 3. & 4. Falcon Enamelware.

Embroidered table numbers

Embroidery is everywhere these days! I'd love to see stitched wedding table numbers in embroidery hoops. This DIY kit could get you started.  

{Images by Curious Doodles}

Christmas decor

I love these mason jar snow globes from Anthropologie! They would make a great DIY project for gifting.

Glitter goodness

I'm usually not into glitter. But I must admit, I'm quite smitten by the recent surge in sparkly goods. Gold and black would make a perfect pairing for a winter wedding, don't you think? You could decorate with these gold star sculptures from Design Within Reach; and you could have a beautiful cake like that one made by Stephanie of Dessert For Breakfast. So pretty!

 

{Images from Design Within Reach and Dessert for Breakfast}

Jars of jam

Homemade jams and jellies have become popular wedding favors lately; and I personally can't think of a better gift to give (or receive). You can fill one small jar with love, which will taste great too. And no matter the season, there is a fruit that can be made into a delicious spread. Apple or pumpkin butter would be prefect right now. Later this winter, orange marmalade could be made.

One of my favorite blogs Frolic! recently posted a free downloadable template for canning labels. Aren't they great? Visit Chelsea's blog to get the free file!

{Image by Banquet atelier & workshop for Frolic!}

A pop of color

Love these teal kitchen accessories.

 

{whisks; porcelain pendant lighting; ceramic french presses}

Wedding at Serenbe

Situated just 30 miles southwest of Atlanta, Georgia, is Serenbe, a sustainable community that includes an inn, a farm, quaint shops and art galleries and much more.

Nicole and Carm fell in love with Serenbe while searching for an accessible destination wedding location. They rented the entire Inn for several days--which includes barns and stables that have been converted to cottages--for an extended celebration full of fun activities.

I love the idea of a wedding party that spans several days instead of just one--especially if the venue is a farm!

Here are a few words from the bride: 

The beauty, simplicity, and authenticity of a farm really captured the "rustic elegance" theme we were going for.  We are very outdoorsy people and like to go against the grain somewhat.  Avoiding a banquet-hall/ballroom was a priority!  Plus, it was personally important to me to get married barefoot in the grass.

Our favorite aspect of the location was that we could rent out the entire farm resort for our guests. Our save the dates said "save the weekend" instead of save the date! Thursday through Sunday, we had invaluable one-on-one time with our loved ones.

The focus on sustainability was not a requirement but was a big bonus for Carm and I.  We're both vegetarians and health nuts. We eat organic and supporting local foods when we can. So we really appreciated Serenbe's efforts to be sustainable. Our flowers were chosen by what was in season. And our centerpieces contained plums, apples, and grapes.

We are still getting rave reviews of our wedding weekend from guests and its been almost 6 months!  They loved all of the farm animals, beautiful grounds, and nearby little shops.  There were three baby pigs, which could be bottle fed, and a hayride to the stables. We also planned unique activities for guests such as a scavenger hunt, a bonfire with s'mores, a pool party, and kickball game (groom's side vs. bride's side). I think the fireworks after the reception were a big hit too!

Here are some beautiful images of Nicole and Carm's day taken by the talented Twin Hearts Photography.

 

 {Beautiful images taken and shared by Twin Hearts Photography}

Southern sustainability

Have you heard of Serenbe? I recently learned of the amazing community, which boasts a sustainable living community, an organic farm and more! Here's a beautiful image of Nicole and Carm who recently wed on the grounds of this beautiful place southwest of Atlanta. More tomorrow!

{Image kindly shared by the talented Twin Hearts Photography}

An Americana wedding

I am in love with film photography. I am especially in love with the work of Seattle-based wedding photographer James Moes. Every one of his wedding exudes a raw beauty that I've yet to see in the wedding industry. Here are some shots from a recent wedding that took place at a family cabin in Hocking Hills, Ohio. Although it deviates from the farm weddings I'm usually most attracted to, I love the Americana feel of the celebration. A ceremony set in a field, canoeing, square dancing, and down-home food--all captured by this oh-so-talented photographer. Enjoy!

{Thanks James for sharing this amazing images. See many more here!}