Sandy wrote about her wedding for Style Me Pretty and I wanted to share her perspective of the day…

From the bride...We had a small wedding of less than 100 people, as we really wanted an intimate evening with our closest friends and family. We chose Jonathan Edwards Winery because we are big wine people, and we thought the place had a great mix of Connecticut charm and outdoor elegance. September is the perfect time to get married there, as the grapes are almost fully grown, and the weather is mild. Since many of Mike’s friends and family members live on the West Coast, it was exciting to show them the beauty of New England. The natural, understated beauty of the venue also allowed me to design my own space from the ground up, not only for the ceremony, but inside the gorgeous Sperry tent for the reception. I worked closely with Candice of Jubilee Events to make my vision come to life and loved every minute of it. I didn’t want to go with the typical dark, fall color palette, and chose to mix pops of colors and textures. I have a real love for beautiful typography and had calligraphy strewn throughout the wedding. My Amsale “Dahlia” gown served as a great inspiration for everything, from the floral design and the wedding cake to the welcome bags I designed. We included a lot of thoughtful details that had special meaning for us as a couple. We had succulents throughout the space as a nod to Mike’s home state of Arizona and a tequila signature cocktail to represent our shared love for Mexico (I studied abroad there, and Mike lived there for five years). Robert & Kathleen Photographers captured our day so beautifully, and thanks to them and the rest of our wonderful vendors, we had a lovely wedding day!

And now, the beautiful images by one of our favorite photographers, Robert and Kathleen.. and the wonderful video by our friend Mike Cyr of Buzz Media Company.

A huge, heartfelt thank you to all our amazing creatives that made this wedding one of the most beautiful events we’ve ever had the pleasure of being a part of. I can’t stretch my arms wide enough to thank Sandy and Mike for letting me be apart of their personal history. Congratulations guys– love ya! XOXO

Credit Reel

Photography:Robert & Kathleen Photographers
Venue: Jonathan Edwards Wineryin North Stonington, Connecticut
Event Design + Planning: Candice Coppola of Jubilee Events
Floral Design: Blush Floral Design Studio
Wedding Cinematography: Buzz Media Company
Officiant: Mary Coburn
Catering + Wedding Cake: A Thyme To Cook
Lighting: Shoreline Audio Visual
Rentals: Party Rental Ltd.
Linens: La Tavola
Calligraphy: Elizabeth Porcher Jones
Ceremony + Cocktail Hour Music: Joe Kiernan Trio
DJ: Rob Alberti
Tent: Sperry Tents Marion
Wedding Signs: SweetWeddingDetails
Cake Topper: ReadyGo
Wedding Invitations: Smock
Wedding Gown: AmsaleDahlia via Amsale Flagship Salon
Jewelry: Prins & Volkhardt Jewelers (610-687-8840) +Tiffany & Co.
Bridesmaids Dresses: Amsale via Plumed Serpent
Beauty: Jennie Fresa
Bride’s Shoes: Milk & Honey Shoes
Groom’s Attire: JoS. A. Bank+Brooks Brothers
Flower Girl Dresses: CrewcutsSimilar Posts:

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• Today is Saryn & David’s Wedding Day!
• Today is Lindsay & Matt’s Wedding Day!!
• Today is Jennifer & Clark’s Wedding Day!
• Engaged: Jennifer & Clark

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You must wake and call me early, call me early, mother dear;
To-morrow ‘ill be the happiest time of all the glad New-year;
Of all the glad New-year, mother, the maddest merriest day;
For I’m to be Queen o’ the May, mother, I’m to be Queen o’ the May.

I have been waiting with baited breath to share this amazing, touching, thoughtful, and down right gorgeous may day wedding with you. It was just featured on Martha Stewart’s website and now we’re really excited to share the story of A&J, as captured by Amanda Herzberger of Orchard Cove Photography. But before we do– I need to caution you– their story is a STORY and it can’t be told in a few words. I promise you that the pictures are yummy and delicious, but the meaning behind them even more beautiful.

Allison and Jacob are the reason why I love my job so much. Not because they had a beautiful wedding with lots of sentimental and meaningful details— but because they are two amazing, lovely people with a once-in-a-lifetime kind of love story that we are so honored to share with you. To know Allie and Jacob is to know that first and foremost, they love each other. And I mean they love each other like Jack loved Rose, Richard Burton loved Elizabeth Taylor and Big loved Carrie. Yeah. It’s pretty major. Sometimes, they would write each other emails about how much they loved each other and forget that I was cc’ed on them. They are extremely creative, thoughtful people who wanted every aspect off their wedding to be a reflection of them, their lives, and their families. Allie and Jacob love Connecticut— and love the city of Hartford. They work here, are intimately involved in the community, and wanted to share our lovely rising star with their nearest and dearest, who flew in from all over the world to attend their black-tie nuptials.

They met while attending Middlebury College where Allie became the best of friends with Jacob’s sister, Jenny. Story goes, beautiful blond California Girl moves to the east coast for college and meets a handsome, studious boy from Huntington, New York… who immediately falls in love with her. She played hard to get, but finally, the two became a pair. After college, they maintained a long distance romance and wrote love letters to one another while they were apart. Not being able to stomach another moment away from each other, Allie moved to Connecticut where they settled down and started a new home in West Hartford.

The muse for Allie and Jacob’s day comes from the whimsy and jubilation of May Day. The dawing of Spring, where everything comes alive once again; the towering Maypole, with her fluttering ribbons. May Day is all about joie de vivre—and so is a Spring wedding. Allie was also inspired by a striking spode pattern from her mom’s china, which was displayed behind glass ever since she could remember. A few years before Allie and Jacob were engaged, Allie’s mom passed away to cancer. Growing up, her mom had this very special set of china that was only used for the most special occasions. Not on yearly holidays or special dinners with friends.. But REALLY special, once-in-a-lifetime kind of occasions where only the prettiest, most perfectly blue china would do. I guess you could say that in the grand list of occasions one has during a lifetime, Allison’s mom would consider the wedding of A&J as the specialist of all.

Allison and Jacob’s guests were asked to save the date with a beautiful, amazing, totally gorg save the date as designed by Cheree Berry (and our bride and groom, who were so closely involved in the paper process). Cheree is an incredible designer and put together the entire paper suite. Their save the date was a whimsical notice decorated with a maypole and the important deets, with the spode pattern blind embossed on the back. Their wedding day invitation suite was a tiffany blue edged, fanciful letter pressed art piece with lots of marvelous touches, including a passage from the may day poem above. Elizabeth Porcher Jones (our all time favorite Southern belle) was the calligraphy composer, with her light, breezy hand. All the interior envelopes addressed their guests by their nicknames, like Moo, Poopsy, and Jenny. Their guests sent back the most delightful responses— putting as much thought into their reply as Allison and Jacob had into the invites. One was even transformed into a watercolor— we LOVED looking through them!

The day began with Allie and her maids prepping in a suite at the Hartford Marriott with beauty by Jennie Fresa Beauty Library. Allie chose to wear a borrowed Vera Wang luxe gown (hereby referred to by name, which is “Holly”) as part of a sweet tradition started by her mom and god mom. When her mother Barbara married Allie’s dad, she wore her best friend Patti’s dress. And so, when Allie married Jacob, she wore Patti’s daughter’s (also named Allison) dress. It was a perfectly whimsical gown with a pleated ball skirt and springy details along the hem. Holly was paired with the daintiest veil and bolero from The White Dress by the Shore. Allie chose to wear special jewelry that was her moms, too. Her maids wore lovely floor length satin Vera Wang gowns. Shoes, of course, by Jimmy Choo.

Not to be outdone, Jacob wore a stellar tux with custom blue and white polka dot suspenders and bow tie… Perfect.

Allison and Jacob exchanged vows at place that makes my own heart skip a beat— The Old State House in Hartford. It’s such an architectural showstopper with it’s clean white trimmings, big windows with buttery light, and the giant gold chandelier. Allie and Jacob especially loved this location for it’s history and meaningfulness to the state of Connecticut. Plus, Jacob’s law firm overlooks the state house, so it’s an important piece of his daily life. Me? Well, it’s where I got married too… so I love it for all those reasons and more!

Guests arrive to the Old State House and were greeted by stunning details and décor. Allie had fabric made from the spode pattern, which were turned into fabric boutonnières and corsages for every guests. What would a black tie event be without a corsage or boutonnière? Paper lilies of the valley decorated the foyer, too. Their program was a beautiful die cut folded booklet (also by Cheree Berry) with all the important deets on the inside and little touches of romantic imagery through out.

Their ceremony was as emotional and tear-jerking as they come. In fact, Diana and I stood in the back corner and cried our little heads off, especially while they read their own vows to one another. Allie and Jacob decided not to see each other before the ceremony (which is so rare these days), so this moment of Allie walking down the aisle to Jacob with her dad was really extra special. Allie carried a gorgeous bouquet of peonies and garden roses alongside a very special hankie. Guests were surrounded with beautiful white hydrangea wreaths hung on the walls, sprigs of flowers tied with blue bows, and ribbon playfully attached to the backs of their chairs. The aisle runner was hand painted with a faint blue pattern of spode down it’s center. Perfect. Their chuppah was understated, but completely gorgeous, with blue ribbons cascading down it’s sides. The poles were tucked into big garden pots, bursting with moss and spring flowers. We had swags of boxwood garland to make the balcony above festive. Rectangular boxwood pots also sat along the window sills. Elisabeth from BLUSH floral design is responsible for all the incredible, amazing, stunning, and down right fairytale beautiful flowers.

So many details went into the ceremony, it’s hard to believe there could be more left over for the reception. When guests entered the The Hartford Club, where Allie and Jacob are members, they were not only greeted with a blue ribbon signature drink (yum! or so I hear), but also a towering maypole– also created by BLUSH and her talented team. Teacups and saucers in the spode pattern decorated cocktail tables, and a fun escort card display with calligraphy by Elizabeth Porcher Jones.

Guests wrote their wishes for Allison and Jacob and dropped them into a well.

We transformed the upstairs ballroom into a space fit for a may day celebration. Tables were bursting with whites, blues, and silver. Draped in a deep blue crinkle taffeta linen with stunning floral designs by BLUSH– big tall arrangements dripping with beautiful flowers in mercury glass vases, and lower arrangements all perfectly situated in spode tea cups, casserole dishes, fruit bowls… the list goes on. There were surrounded by candlelight and a bed of moss, flowers, and petals. So romantic. Cheree stunned us again with blue paper pennant flags which were leaping out of moss containers for table numbers, the prettiest menu cards detailing the evenings gastro delight, and a surprise waiting for guests beneath their antiqued silver charger. Ribbons in varying shades of blue danced along the backs of their silver chairs. We brought in custom lighting, draping, and even an amazing white dance floor that made the whole room take on a soft, white glow. Their cake, a five tiered white masterpiece, was the design of Ana Parzych. It had lily of the valley detailing along each tier, with a dainty cluster of lily of the valley sugar flowers on top.

The Hartford Club and Chef Kube served up an evening of spectacular spring inspired food— most notably delicious was a “leaf” of pasta (a special dish developed by the groom and chef). Yummy California wines (hand picked by the bride’s dad) and Champagne flowed through out the evening. The best man and maid of honor, both siblings to the groom, gave touching speeches all remarking on one common thing: how perfect Allison is for Jacob, and Jacob for Allison.

Important to them was not only the look, the food, and all the small details…. But also the party. Their band, David Clark and the Renegades, did NOT disappoint. As a matter of fact, they go down in history as having the best Bon Jovi rendition I’ve heard!

Jacob surprised everyone with a performance after dinner. In college, Jacob was part of an acapella group named “D8”, who serenaded our beautiful bride with a four-part musical and theatrical performance. It was outstanding— to say the least!!! Everyone absolutely loved it— myself included!

As the night came to a close, the Hartford Club passed the most yummy blue french macarons from Jerome Bouston with shots of milk. Could you not have a more perfect midnight snack? As guests left for the evening, they were given a Favors: Ben Wolff pot with borage seeds— which closely resemble our spode inspiration, but more importantly, are perfect for cooking (and in case you didn’t know, A&J also LOVE too cook and are quite good at it, too!).

And now.. on to the images.. all captured by the talented Amanda Herzberger of Orchard Cove Photography.

… and they lived happily ever after.

xoxo

Photography: Orchard Cove Photography / Planning: Jubilee Events / Floral Design & Decor: BLUSH floral design / Wedding Gown: Vera Wang / Maids’ Gowns: Vera Wang / Beauty: Jennie Fresa Beauty Library / Veil & Accessories: The White Dress by the Shore / Paper: Cheree Berry Stationery / Ceremony: The Old State House / Reception: The Hartford Club / Cake: Ana Parzych / Band: David Clark and the Renegades / Rentals & Lighting: Jubilee Events / Film: Vantage Point Films / Ceremony Musicians: Millennium Music / Macarons: Jerome Bouston / Favors: Ben Wolff PotterySimilar Posts:

• Today is Jacob & Allison’s Wedding Day!
• Jubilee Events featured on Martha Stewart Weddings Today!
• A Wedding Story: Julie & Jason at Hartford City Hall and The Society Room | Hartford, Connecticut
• A Wedding Story: Liz & Jayson in Norwalk, Connecticut
• A Wedding Story: Saryn + David at the Guilford Yacht Club, Guilford Connecticut

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Liz and Jayson were married on July 11th, 2009 at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut. They were surrounded by so much love and support and celebrated their union with their loving family and friends. The Maritime Aquarium is a special place for them — it is the site of their third date. I loved being a part of Liz and Jayson’s wedding which was filled with so many unique and meaningful touches.

Robert and Kathleen Trenske spent the entire day documenting their love story. The day began with Liz and her ‘maids getting ready at their gorgeous apartment in Norwalk. The guys were somewhere close by fluffing their collars and added on their cuff links.

Liz had the most gorgeous wedding gown. I was so in love the first time I saw it at one of her fittings! It was so delicate with lace, a bit of sparkle, and swiss dot fabric. What made it even more beautiful was Liz herself — she just beamed every time she put it on. It was a true testimonial that the woman makes the dress. Look how radiant she is! I absolutely love this photograph that Rob and Kathleen captured of Liz’s mom putting her veil on. Can’t you see the excitement there?

Once Liz and her ‘maids were all ready she went outside into the center courtyard to meet her groom. Their first look was filled with so much emotion!

After it was on to the ceremony at the Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, Connecticut. Liz’s bouquet was filled with white Calla Lily’s and little sea shells that my good friend, Elisabeth from BLUSH floral design, created. I created their wedding day paper, include their blue and silver programs. It detailed their love story and the significance of the Aquarium and also explained the various parts of their Jewish ceremony.

As guests began to arrive, Liz and Jayson held their Ketubah signing ceremony nearby. Surrounded by their parents and closest friends, along with their Rabbi, it was a beautiful ceremony. Once complete, it was time to head down the aisle! We took them through the inner workings of the Aquarium to smuggle them away from guests’ eyes.

The ceremony location inside the Aquarium is actually the cafeteria. I know. Hard to believe, right? Elisabeth from BLUSH created this AMAZING chuppah out of flowy white organza fabric and tightly arranged white hydrangea and carnations. It was the most gorgeous chuppah I’ve ever seen! When we set out to design something for this space I loved the contrast of the white against the brick, wood, and metal. The chuppah really stands out and looks so romantic and dreamy. Elisabeth scattered some rose petals and we lined each window sill with a ton of floating and votive candles to add to the romantic glow of the room. It was heavenly!

Their ceremony was so touching. Jayson sang “Grow Old Along with Me” to his bride! One of my favorite moments, that I simply have to share, was right before the ceremony as the processional was ending. It was just me and Liz at the bottom of the staircase. As the music changed to U2, “All I Want is You”, it was time for her to go. She looked at me and took my arm and said, “Oh my god Candice… this is really it!!! It’s here!!” I get all emotional thinking about it!! It was such an incredible moment for me as their coordinator and reaffirms how honored and privileged I feel to be so intimately involved in my couple’s wedding day. Truly a moment I’ll never forget!

After the ceremony Liz and Jayson joined their guests for cocktail hour. Guests mingled up the pathway of native fish tanks, shark tanks, and lots of sea critters and creatures. We had passed wine and champagne with yummy and delicious food from Phillip Stone Caterers. Can you imagine sipping champagne and watching the sharks circle around their tank? It was so unique!!

Some details from their reception: Elisabeth from BLUSH used three different style arrangements on the tables — one with beautiful white flowers, another with white flowers submerged in cylindar vases with blue sea glass and candles, and another arrangement of a hurricane vase filled with sea glass and candles. I love the combination! She created a fun escort card display of silver painted fish netting, blue sea glass, and flowers. Jubilee created the escort cards out of hand drawn vintage fish on pretty blue card stock.

Their friend, a graphic designer, and created this fish monogram for their wedding. We used that monogram on a ton of fun paper items, like custom cocktail napkins, their programs, favor tags, save the dates and invitations. It was a fun way to tie it all together!

Their favors were Hawaiian sea salt in metal tins, tied with silver ribbon and a favor tag. Their cake was a gorgeous, modern two-tiered blue fondant cake from SoNo Baking Company. They purchased the cutest little fish bowl cake topper, too!

Liz and Jayson’s reception was fun, delicious, and emotional! Their friends and parents gave touching testimonials of their relationship and good nature. Liz and Jayson really are one of the nicest couples I’ve had the opportunity of working with. They danced the night away with friends, celebrated the hora, and ended the evening with one final dance.

Big thank you to Robert and Kathleen Trenske for capturing the essence of their day and allowing me to share the photographs with you!

Thank you SO much Liz and Jayson for allowing me to become a part of your history. It was such an honor and a pleasure working with you!! xoxoSimilar Posts:

• Today is Liz and Jayson’s Wedding!
• A Wedding Story: Saryn + David at the Guilford Yacht Club, Guilford Connecticut
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• A Wedding Story: Sally & Oliver at The Waveny House in New Canaan, Connecticut
• A Wedding Story: Jamar & Nika in New Haven, Connecticut

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Jubilee Events coordinated the wedding of Marin and Joseph, who were married in a beautiful and intimate ceremony in the gardens at the Elizabethan Club at Yale University on a Sunday morning in August with a luncheon reception at the historic Union League Cafe.

Event Ingredients

Photography: Wendy G. Photography
Make up: Jennie Fresa
Hair: Once Upon a Bride
Floral Design: Blush Floral Design
Cake & Catering: The Union League Cafe
Ceremony Musicians: The Amherst String Ensemble
Reception Guitarist: Anna Lisa E. Wald

The bride wore an amazing gown by Monique Lhuillier that just fluttered in the sunny morning breeze. She had on gorgeous Christian Louboutin ballet flats, a veil with a Maria Elena ribbon headband. They had a great looking bridal party — the bridesmaids all chose a dress in a pretty shade of blue. I love the contrast and personality that each individual girl offers! The groom wore a handsome suit from Brooks Brothers and the groomsmen all wore blue striped Brooks Brothers ties.

Marin and Joseph met and fell in love while attending Yale University and wanted to incorporate their love of New Haven into their wedding. I really admired the beautiful and amazing garden behind the Elizabethan Club, which houses original Shakespearean folios and quartos (so romantic!). In the back garden there is a bust of Shakespeare, with an inscription that reads: “I know a bank whereon the wild thyme blows, where oxlips and the nodding violet grows, Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine, With sweet musk-roses, and with eglantine..”

Guests arrived into this secret downtown New Haven Garden with beautiful purple flower carnation pomanders on shepherds hooks and chairs. Strung alongside were White Dendrobium orchids and ribbons that fluttered from the trees. The sounds of The Amherst String Ensemble filled the air. Guests found small wicker fans at their seats for cooling themselves (it was hot!) The bride carried a bouquet of antique purple roses mixed with hypericum berries alongside her grandmother’s vintage hankie. It was so gorgeous and romantic!

Marin and Joseph’s interfaith ceremony incorporated some Jewish traditions, like the signing of the Ketubah and breaking of the glass. Their close friends and professors spoke about their love and marriage and the ceremony was officiated by their friend, Judge Jose Cabranes.

After their ceremony guests were handed maps of New Haven and walked from the Elizabethan Club to enjoy a delicious lunch at one of my favorite New Haven restaurants, Union League Cafe. Guests enjoyed music by guitarist, Anna Lisa E. Wald and floral design by my good friend Elisabeth of Blush Floral Design. Guests took home delicious tea favors from Harney & Sons.

A big congratulations to Marin and Joseph!! What an amazing and beautiful wedding. Thanks to all of their spectacular vendors, especially Wendy G. Photography, Blush Floral Design, the staff at the Elizabethan Club, and The Union League Cafe for making Joseph and Marin’s wedding simply one-of-a-kind.

xoxoSimilar Posts:

• Today is Marin and Joseph’s wedding day!
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• Today is Jennifer & Clark’s Wedding Day!
• A Wedding Story: Jill + Joseph at the Boulders Inn in Litchfield County, Connecticut

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Today is Veena and Rich’s wedding in Stamford, Connecticut! I’m so excited for them and their families who have traveled great distances to be here. Veena and Rich have planned an amazing two ceremony wedding and will top off their marriage with a gorgeous reception at the Hilton in Stamford. Can’t wait to come back and share all the details from their day. For now, my assistant Audra and I are about to head out and do what we do best!! Check us out on twitter today to see what we’re up to!Similar Posts:

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Dagney and Michael were married on May 16th, 2009 at Calvary Church in Trumbull, Connecticut in a moving ceremony filled with personal touches and a lot of song! Their reception was held at Oxford Airport, in Oxford Connecticut in one of the working hangars. It was truly spectacular! But before we delve into the details of their one-of-a-kind event, here is their incredible love story.

They met after being matched up on eHarmony. They were two pilots who had individual loves of aviation, they hit it off from the start. Dagney grew up flying planes with her Dad and Michael is a pilot in the military. Their love of planes and their faith brought them together. Michael actually proposed in an airplane as he flew them to a celebratory dinner. One word to describe that: amazing! I think you’ll be hearing me say that a lot about this wedding.

When Michael & Dagney contacted me in January to help plan and coordinate they had one idea – they wanted to be married in an airplane hangar. If you knew them and their families (with long aviation history) it was a no brainer. People may have said it couldn’t be done, but they had an incredible set of people helping them to pull it together.

The event was catered by emily’s catering, where guests dined on a duet of chicken and salmon with delicious vegetables passed around the table family style. They had the most incredible band, The Joe Holmes Swing Band from Norwalk, Connecticut. They LIT UP the hangar and provided throw back, 1940’s war time sound. They were nothing short of amazing! Bouquets and floral centerpieces were provided by Flore Floral Design in Southbury, Connecticut. The cake was provided by a family friend, Crystal, who did an incredible job! Lastly, the event was captured by very good friends of Jubilee, the talented group at Robert & Kathleen Photographers. They did an amazing job of telling the story of how Dagney & Michael’s day began and ended. Finally, Jubilee Events (that’s us!) coordinated and planned the event. Big thanks to Style Me Pretty who featured this event (before we even did!) in their Friday edition. Thanks Abby and Eddye!

The day began with the bride getting ready at her parents’ home with her maids.

She wore a gorgeous dress by Maggie Sottero and her mother’s vintage 1960′s veil which was cathedral length. Believe me when I tell you it was magnificent!

The ceremony was held at the Bride’s church in Trumbull, Connecticut. Dagney walked down the aisle first with her father, and turned around to face the church doors while she waited for her groom to come and receive her. It was very moving and unique!

After the ceremony guests waited outside for the sabre arch. They dashed into an awaiting black towne car and off they went to their amazing reception!

Their reception was held at Oxford Airport in Oxford, Connecticut. I think everyone, guests and vendors alike, were overwhelmed with how awesome it was to be celebrating in a working airplane hangar, surrounded by 7 planes. Dagney and Michael had a vintage 1948 Beech D-15S flown in especially for the occasion. It was gorgeous and the perfect centerpiece to their event. We positioned it, along with two other planes, behind the The Joe Holmes Swing Band and black and white checkered dance floor.

When guest arrived to the hangar they were greated with fabulous hor’dourves and cocktails from emily’s catering. They were invited to look at photographs that documented the couple’s families aviation history, sign their handmade wooden propeller, and grab their boarding pass which promised to take them to an amazing location that was significant to the couple. Each table was assigned a gate number for the guests to fly out from.

The tablescape was dreamed up by Dagney’s mom, who loves to dress up tables! Her and I worked together on the design, but all the credit goes to her. They really loved a family style table setting and wanted something unqiue, so we used rectangular tables instead of round or square. They had custom yellow overlays made to bring in a pop of color, and we brought in stone slabs to pay homage to their new last name (Stone). Sitting atop each stone slab was a floral centerpiece by Flore Floral Design. Filled with spray roses, ranunculous and other yellow and white flowers arranged in a glass pedestal vase. The centerpieces were flanked by hand cut lilacs in silver mint julep cups and tall fluted vases with hand cut branches, both of which Jubilee Events arranged. It was really breath taking!

The cake was lovely — white buttercream with green scroll work and their monogram on the second tier. It was decorated with pretty yellow roses and sat on top of a fun green poodle linen that Dagney’s mother picked out. It was simply gorgeous with one of the planes as a back drop!

They danced their first song to At Last by Etta James, as sung by their good friend Ana. It was extremely romantic! Guests danced the night away to big band 1940′s war era songs preformed by the The Joe Holmes Swing Band, who I can’t stop raving about. They were amazing!!

Their final exit came about a half hour before the soiree ended. Originally they were to fly out, but because the fog was so thick and bad, we had to come up with a Plan C. Dagney’s father has a vintage 1967 porsche and they used that as their get away car. We opened up the hangar doors and invited all the guests to join us outside on the ramp. Bubbles were passed out on silver trays as we got the bride and groom ready for their final exit. With the car in position, they made their way outside and into the awaiting car. It was quite emotional! My favorite image from the night is above. Robert and Kathleen really captured the day so perfectly; their images are amazing. We loved working with them!!

Dagney and Michael — we wish you all the love, joy and happiness the world has to offer. It was an amazing experience that I am so proud to be apart of!

Similar Posts:

• Today is Hala & Michael’s Wedding Day!
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• Today is Jennifer & Clark’s Wedding Day!
• A Wedding Story: Eric & Lisa in Mystic, Connecticut
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Isn’t Lisa just one of the most GORGEOUS brides you have ever seen? She totally rocked it for our favorite photographers, Robert and Kathleen. My favorite photograph from this set is Lisa with her parents as they are set to come down the aisle. Can’t you see how excited and proud her parents are? Love how it is captured!

Stay tuned for more goodies from Lisa & Marc’s reception!

The Vendors

Photography by the uber talented Robert and Kathleen Photographers; The bride wore an amazing gown by Alvina Valenta as did her bridesmaids. The bride’s hair and makeup was done by Dana Bartone; their purple and white floral designs were provided by E.T. at Hot Petunia ; the ceremony and reception was at the Delamar Hotel and catered by l’escale restaurant, located in Greenwich, Connecticut; their delicious cake was compliments of Sweet Lisa’s Exquisite Cakes, located in Greenwich, Connecticut.Similar Posts:

• Real Connectict Wedding: Lisa & Marc in Greenwich | Finale
• Real Connecticut Weddings: Lisa & Marc in Greenwich | Part II
• Real Connecticut Wedding: Lisa & Marc in Greenwich | Part IV
• Real Connecticut Wedding: Lisa & Marc in Greenwich
• A Wedding Story: Harris & Soulaf at L’escale at the Delamar Hotel, Greenwich, Connecticut

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I was so excited to be contacted by Jahna of Wedding Runways in Branford, Connecticut. I love that Connecticut has such a talented and amazing couture aisle runner designer. We love to support local small businesses! Wedding Runways’ mantra is they want to “bring red carpet style to your wedding aisle.”

Their selection is truly custom and versatile, offering widths available in 36” or 50” and lengths are available in increments of 25’ up to 150’. They use commercial grade snag-proof material (so important!), non-slip heavy poly scrim and “self-healing” capabilities. Plus, their color calibration system can match your color swatches exactly! They also create matching table runners and soon to come, your very own “step & repeat” backdrop for photo opportunities.

They are currently offering a complimentary, over sized thank you card with your order. You can be photographed holding it and that photo can then be turned into a thank you card to send to their guests. So fun!

 

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The Gown

I had a really hard time when I was trying dresses on. Everything was really beautiful but I was just torn between the old, traditional me that I thought I’d be on my wedding day, and the new, fashion conscious girl that I have become. I love high fashion couture and it just didn’t seem right to ignore that! I went to the trunk show and the designer told me the dress was “made for me!” I’m sure he says that to everyone, but his French accent got me… I was sold! I feel in love with the contrast of the traditional overall appearance and the details that made it feel very high-fashion. The overall look was relatively traditional but the amazing details made it so special and very fashion forward. The asymmetrical line of the bust and the opening of the skirt to that crazy fabulous tulle- you can’t see it in the pictures, but there were crimped, pleated, and beaded pieces of tulle tumbling out of the dress. I kept saying the dress was like a mullet- business on the left, party on the right! Truly, it was an amazing piece of craftsmanship and 100% embodied who I am. That’s L-O-V-E! I was also obsessed with my poofy veil! Ah… I get excited just remembering it! Overall, my look for the day was everything I had always dreamed of. I really unleashed my inner Carrie.

Details!

The feather fascinator Ashley wore in her hair (shown in detail in our last post) is traditional with formal attire in England, where Mark is from. It was Ashley’s little homage to his heritage… plus it made her feel a little like Carrie (Bradshaw!). On her Grandfather’s altar pin, which was lovingly affixed to her bouquet: “I always joked with my Grandpa that he just had to stick around to be at my wedding. He passed away the year before we got engaged, but I knew he was there with me on my wedding day. His alter boy pin helped me to feel like he was closer.”

What you can’t see…

Just prior to the ceremony, Ashley’s nerves got the best of her. She held hands with her sister and Maid of Honor and sang — which made everyone very emotional!

Describe your wedding ceremony

Noank Baptist Church is just the most simple, beautiful, quintessential “New England” church we could dream of. The light and the surroundings were to die for. We did not have a church of our own, so finding one for the ceremony was difficult. From the first day we spoke with Reverend Paul we knew he had to marry us. His warm and caring nature truly made us feel welcome and at home there. His service was very personal, and his homily truly felt like a heart-felt conversation between the three of us and the love of our guests surrounding us just brought it all together. Halfway through my vows I starting squealing the words, which was quite embarrassing but it gave us all a little laugh! We spent so much time planning the day and the reception, but as it turned out, the ceremony itself was the most amazing part of the whole day. It just felt so true and so natural. It was beautiful. Also- one of my favorite parts of the ceremony was walking down the aisle with my dad to Mark’s favorite song. I wrote out Oasis’ “Wonderwall” to be played by my favorite instrument, the cello and surprised Mark with it. It was awesome!

Next up: The details!

The Vendors

The story of their day was told in photographs by the talented Amanda Herzberger of Orchard Cove Photography. The wedding ceremony was held at Noank Baptist Church in Groton, Connecticut with a classic New England fete at the Seamen’s Inne in Mystic. Hair and makeup for the wedding was by Deanna & Danielle of the Rob Rivers Salon in Mystic. The bride wore a magnificent gown by Cymbeline Paris, purchased at Lili Bridal in Tarzana, California. The bride’s attendants wore beautiful dark champagne colored Jim Hjelm satin dresses. The groom donned a custom tuxedo by Mattucci in Redondo Beach, California with a black and white stripped tie by Brooks Brothers. The groomsmen wore suits by John Galante. Personalized cup cakes were deliciously designed by You Take the Cake in New London. Floral design was by Adams Garden of Eden in Pawcatuck, Connecticut. Guests danced the night away to music and entertainment provided by Rich Conway . The day was captured on video by Casey Moran, and the bride created the invitations and designed the wedding herself!Similar Posts:

• Real Connecticut Wedding: Ashley & Mark in Mystic
• Real Connecticut Wedding: Lisa & Sean | The Ceremony
• Real Connecticut Wedding: Alex & Jeremy | Details and Reception
• Real Connecticut Wedding: Alex & Jeremy in Wolcott
• Real Connecticut Weddings: Alex & Jeremy | The Beginning…

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Another favorite of mine is from Rob & Kathleen Trenske, too. This photograph shows the pure jubilation and love of that first kiss as man and wife (check out their family rejoicing in the background!)

And now for more equally amazing ceremony moments…

Photographs courtesy of Carla Ten Eyck Photography, Robin Dini Photography, RAW Photo Design, RJT Pictures, Lam Photography, and Justin & Mary Marantz.Similar Posts:

• Connecticut Weddings 2008: The Bride & Groom
• Photoshoot at The New Haven Lawn Club with Carla Ten Eyck, Datura, White Dress by the Shore and Jennie Fresa
• Our Engagement Pictures
• Connecticut Weddings 2008: Getting Ready
• Vendor Spotlight: Eric Langlois of raw photo design

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A few days ago I had the opportunity to visit Tyrone Farm in Pomfret, Connecticut for one of my clients. As I drove up to the picturesque property it easily became one of my top ten must see wedding venues. The property is, in one word, spectacular. The mountain views are amazing and must be killer right now overlook the foliage. I spent my time talking with Ian, the properties site manager and wedding coordinator. He told me about the farms history and how it had been in his family for quite some time. It was very interesting to talk with him about their unique story and learn how they came to offer the farm for weddings and other events.

I love Tyrone Farm for a number of reasons – one being their commitment to being eco-friendly. First, they’ve invested in solar technology, which supplies most of the properties’ energy. How amazing is that? They also grow and tend a number of beautiful pesticide free flower gardens, which eliminates the need for some to purchase flower arrangements. Their flower gardens really are beautiful, too. So much so that I inquired if Ian’s brother, who works on the gardens, was a landscape architect (which he isn’t – just naturally talented!). Ian also mentioned that they are looking into growing their own herbs which they might offer to event caterers to use in their dishes. On the property they also have an eco-friendly guest cottage which was developed and built in a factory in Denmark. The guest cottage is great feature because you can get ready there, have out of town guests stay there, or in a worst case scenario, someone who has had one too many can crash safely for the night.

Tyrone Farm also supports local businesses and artisans. For those who know me, you know that I am a huge proponent of using local vendors, businesses, and talented people for my events. I admire when venues appreciate the importance of supporting the local community in every event they do.

During my visit I took a tour of the property and admired all the details and little touches that Tyrone Farm has to offer. They have several spaces that are ideal for ceremony locations with beautiful focal points and, of course, gorgeous gardens. Their reception locations are also unique because they offer the best of both worlds. They have a gorgeous horse barn that many couples use as their dining and dancing area. They also have a blue stone terrace off the main house that overlooks the horse trails and beautiful mountains of Connecticut (although it could be Massachusetts or Rhode Island – I’m not sure which direction you’re pointed in!) The best part? The patio is already tented and stays covered during wedding season, so there is no need to bring in tent rentals and deal with the added cost. I don’t have the exact specifications on the tents size, but I am almost sure it will seat 150 comfortably for dinner.

All these different spaces are like different rooms that you can use to create a unique atmosphere for your guests. A wedding that has several different locations on one property, like Tyrone Farm, just works better in my opinion. You can have cocktail hour amongst the gardens, dinner on the blue stone terrace, and an after hours lounge with dancing in the barn.

I’m looking forward to coordinating and designing a wedding at Tyrone Farm and urge our readers who are looking for all of the above to give them a call and schedule a tour! I love their commitment to the environment, their support of the local community, and how they’ve kept the integrity of their families farm. I’ll leave you with some pictures that I lifted from their website.

 

 

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I had the opportunity to tour the Old State House in Hartford this past Saturday afternoon. Elisabeth from Blush Floral tipped me off to this special location a few weeks ago. It is an absolutely amazing venue that should be on your list of unique and interesting places for your wedding ceremony or reception. It is right smack dab in the middle of downtown on Main Street, only a stone’s throw away from some very popular Hartford wedding spots (a.k.a. the Goodwin Hotel, Wadsworth Museum, and Gershon Fox Room to name a few). They offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options and you can rent out the state house for the reception!

For indoor ceremonies the wedding would take place in the luminous court room on the main floor. Words cannot describe how beautiful this room is – and the light that floods the antique hardwood floors and white columns in truly amazing. The windows are two stories high and look out onto our beautiful capitol city. I love the acoustics in the room too – they are very pronounced and dramatic. Plus, look at that chandelier! It is four times bigger than it looks in person!

Outdoor ceremonies take place on the front lawn, overlooking the beautiful architecture of the state house. There is also an option for a tented reception on this beautiful lawn, which is enclosed by an antique wrought iron fence and gate. I especially loved the spiral staircase outside, which I unfortunately have no pictures of. But the staircase makes for beautiful bridal portraits and photographs.

The state house also has a few empty rooms that are on a smaller scale than the court room, but are equally beautiful. The front lobby would make for a beautiful cocktail area and I loved the dramatic staircases leading up to the second story and the checkered marble floors. The rooms to the left would be great for an afterhours lounge or photobooth. The court room is turned over after the ceremony for the reception. I believe it can seat 85 persons comfortably for a sit down dinner with 120 for a standing cocktail reception. What I love best is the historical significance that the Old State House provides to your wedding ceremony.

Many thanks to Carla for letting me use the beautiful photographs she took at a recent wedding at The Old State House!Similar Posts:

• Ceremony & Reception Venue Spotlight: The Tomes-Higgins House
• Reception Venue Spotlight: The Society Room
• Ceremony/Reception Vendor Spotlight: Tyrone Farm
• Join Us Tonight at the Gershon Fox Room Cocktail Party!
• HARTFORD BRIDAL SHOW: Come meet Jubilee Events at the Society Room!

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