A Wedding Story: Allie & Jacob at the Old State House and Hartford Club | Hartford, Connecticut
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 Pottery
Jubilee Events featured on Martha Stewart Weddings Today!
Skip, don’t walk, over to Martha Stewart right now to see the beautiful may day wedding of Allie and Jacob! Super-sized blog post coming from us soon. Big love to all their amazing vendors who put together their gorgeous May 1st wedding:
Photography: Orchard Cove Photography / Design & 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 Pottery
Monday Inspiration: Perfect Late Summer Flowers by Hana Floral Design
A huge congratulations to Katherine and John who were married this weekend at their family’s home Branford, Connecticut. I wanted to share with you some perfect summer flowers designed by Hana Floral Design out of Mystic. In mason jars with big, bright, coral colored zinnias with rosemary, mint, and other pretty herbs. The gorgeous tent was by our dear friends at Sperry Tents.
xoxo
A Wedding Story: Jessica & Frank at Ethel Walker Chapel in Simsbury, Connecticut
Jessica and Frank are one of my all time favorite couples; they smiled from the moment their wedding day started until their very last dance. It was truly a joyful, happy, jubilant celebration… not to mention they both have amazingly kind, generous, and fun families (which explains why they are perfect for each other!). Jessica and Frank met through mutual friends and the rest… Well, now, it’s history. Big thanks to Johnny Arguedas, their talented photographer, for generously sharing their images with us! We also can’t wait to see the incredible video by Vantage Point Films, who was there to capture the moving photography for the day.
Both from Connecticut, they chose to have a huge Connecticut wedding at The Riverview in Simsbury with 361 (to be precise!) of their closest family and friends. Living half of the year in Florida, they planned a spectacular wedding amongst many frequent flyer miles and long distance phone calls.
Their color story was hot pink, deep purple, black and white. We used patterned damask through out their design in their paper story, linens, and even lighting. Jessica was very inspired by her jeweled gown and we incorporated crystals through out the event, too. They also wanted to incorporate their love for horses, which they breed and race, so we worked with Jessica to add those special details through out the wedding.
She wore a jewel encrusted satin drop waist Kenneth Pool with detailing on the bodice and waist. Even her chapel length veil was studded in crystals! Her maids wore floor length Priscilla of Boston mermaid fit gowns with a beautiful crystal broach at the back. Datura: A Modern Garden is responsible for the floral artistry for the entire event, creating bouquets filled with lush pink flowers and crystals.
Their ceremony was interfaith with a Rabbi and Bishop performing the vow exchange, drawing from both of their religious backgrounds. I loved that Jessica kept the symbolism of the Jewish chuppah, which was designed by Datura: A Modern Garden. A four posted structure, the Chuppah symbolizes the home that Jessica and Frank will build together. It was an open aired structure with hand strung crystals and orchids. Pink pomander balls lined the aisle at the Ethel Walker Chapel where they exchanged vows.
We transformed The Riverview in Simsbury by turning the ballroom around for their fantastic band out of Manhattan, Attitude. Jessica and Frank really wanted to showcase their entertainment, so with our colleagues from ShorelineAV, we built a stage in the otherwise unoccupied alcove and brought in our own black and white checkered dance floor. Rob Alberti lit up the room in varying shades of pinks, purples, and amber. He created a custom damask pattern to wash the air wall and a gobo for the band stand. Guests first enjoyed cocktail hour underneath the great white tent with a cigar roller from The Connecticut Cigar Company and a quartet of classic and pop music from Millennium Music. A martini bar was set up with a gorgeous horse ice luge by the talented artists at Ice Matters.
We hung tag escort cards from a branch arrangement with beautiful white calligraphy on rich hot pink card stock by Michelle Dowling. Jessica and Frank chose a gorgeous purple pintuck with a shimmer to be the basis for their centerpieces, which were varying with pink floral pomanders, floating candles, submerged purple orchids. They were introduced into the room for the first time to A Call to the Post amist a large cheer from their 360 guests and went immediately into their first dance. Heartfelt speeches were given by their sibilings (and also maid of honor / best men)… Who spoke about what a loving couple they are to each other and their families.
They may go down in history as having the largest hora we’ve ever seen…. And boy, it went on for a good half hour!
The night ended with a delicious venetian station with made-to-order crepes and gelato, amongst the Riverview’s incredible chocolate and pastry menu.
Jessica and Frank— it was truly and honor to be part of your wedding day! We wish you all the best that life has to offer… And can’t wait to see what the future brings! Xo!
A Country Engagement Session by Carla Ten Eyck Photography, Jim Altieri, Jubilee Events, Datura: A Modern Garden and DD Nickel Beauty
I love to get together with my friends and collaborate… on just about anything. So, in early June I got together with Carla and Mike of Carla Ten Eyck Photography, Jim Altieri, Datura: A Modern Garden, and DD Nickel to put together a fun, impromptu shoot in a super sleuth location. Check out the steamy engagement session below with an amazing video by Jim! Big props to DD and all her fabu accessories. Thanks to all– including Susannah, Liza and Max! xo!
Small Town from Jim Altieri on Vimeo.
A Wedding Story: Julie & Jason at Hartford City Hall and The Society Room | Hartford, Connecticut
Photography: Robert Norman Photography
Ceremony: Hartford City Hall
Ceremony Musicians: Millennium Music
Officiant: Mary Colburn
Reception: The Society Room, Hartford, Connecticut
Floral Design by: The Bride’s Aunt
Event Planning & Coordination: Jubilee Events
Lighting Design & Entertainment: Rob Alberti
Cake: Modern Pastry
Julie and Jason were married in a late afternoon ceremony on May 8th at Hartford City Hall. Their wedding blended different Christian and Jewish traditions and was a huge celebration among their family and friends. Julie’s color story was a muted purple, moss green and white with accents of gold. With their busy lives in D.C. we were so happy to help them coordinate their wedding back home in Connecticut where Julie grew up. In looking through their pictures as we prepared for this blog post, I couldn’t help but notice how excited, happy, and joyful everyone looked on this day. Julie literally beamed– and let me tell you– she has the most beautiful smile. And Jason… well, every time he looked at his beautiful wife, he beamed too.
The morning began with the both of them getting ready in Glastonbury at the bride’s parents home. I absolutely loved the gown that Julie wore, which was embellished just below her hip with a fabric flower, feathers and crystals. She wore a gorgeous cage veil with feathers… perfectly classic and vintage! Her maids were all dressed in purple strapless satin gowns. The groomsmen wore black tuxes with purple pocket squares– while Jason wore some sentimental Curious George cuff-links.
Julie and Jason opted to have an emotional first look prior to the ceremony.
City Hall is a spectacular place for a ceremony– especially for this vintage affair. Julie and her parents were driven to City Hall in a vintage rolls royce, which pulled up front just in time for her to meet Jason at the end of the aisle.
After the ceremony the two of them dashed down the aisle to awaiting congratulations from family and friends. Could there not be a more perfect picture above and below? Robert Norman! After the ceremony, it was off to the gorgeous The Society Room of Hartford to celebrate! The room was lit by our friend, Rob Alberti (who also kept the crowd on their feet all night long!). Julie chose a gorgeous moss green pintuck linen with black lamour napkins. The centerpieces were tall, classic white arrangements… perfect for the setting. Guests dined on a delicious meal, with a generous display of delicious desserts to follow. Jason loves pie– and so the miniature pie dessert table was created!
Their hora was certainly a lively one! We love that a lot of family members, both jewish and non-jewish got lifted up in celebration!
Julie and Jason– congratulations! It was such a pleasure to be with you on your wedding day and to be part of your personal history. You two are a perfect match full of love and laughter. We wish you a life full of just that! We’ve also been secretly stalking your new blog.. and think all our readers should check it out, too! So visit Julie and Jason’s journey through wine and food, aptly named, Wine & Swine.
A big thank you to Robert Norman Photography for the beautiful images!
xoxo
Yesterday was Jill & Joseph’s Wedding Day!
View from the Boulders as taken by in iPhone!
On a spectacular summer morning, Jill and Joseph were married at the First Congregational Church of Litchfield with a reception following at the Boulders Inn in New Preston. With 60 of their closest friends and family, they shared a delicious meal and evening of dancing under the stars. It was an absolute pleasure and honor to be part of their amazing wedding day– and I can’t wait to share it with you all! Have an amazing time in Vienna! xoxoxo
Today is Rose & David’s Wedding Day!
Today is also the very, very special wedding day of Rose and David– two clients who have poured so much thought and love into their June 19th wedding at the Webb Barn in Wethersfield. I can’t wait to show you how beautiful everything is– including our loving couple– who is getting married out underneath the big oak tree with 80 of their nearest and dearest by their side. Their wedding is a mixture of regal charm and whimsical ideas. They are also working with quite the dream team– Emily’s Catering, Azaela Floral Design, Marshall Nichols band, Stephanie Ann Photography, Dana Bartone, Christian Louboutin, and many more!
Congrats Rose and David! Can’t wait to see you two in a few short hours.
xoxo!
Today is Danielle & John’s Wedding Day!
Today Jessica and Diana are coordinating the very special wedding of Danielle and John in Old Saybrook, Connecticut at the Saybrook Point and Spa! I’ve been working with Danielle and her beautiful mom since the beginning of 2010 on a colorful, Parisian inspired wedding faire. I am so excited for Danielle and John and can’t wait to congratulate them personally! They are working with some fabu vendors like Carla Ten Eyck, BLUSH Floral Design, Jennie Fresa, The White Dress by the Shore, and Rob Alberti. Talk about a dream team!
Congratulations guys! I’m so excited and happy for you. xoxoxox!!
A Wedding Story: Jamar & Nika in New Haven, Connecticut
Photography: Erik Maziarz and Carla Ten Eyck for Carla Ten Eyck Photography
Ceremony & Reception: The New Haven Lawn Club, New Haven, Connecticut
Floral Design by: BLUSH Floral Design
Event Design, Planning & Coordination: Jubilee Events
Lighting Design: Rob Alberti
Entertainment: Bon Musique and Elan Artists
Cake: Madison Chocolates
Favors: Jubilee Events
Gown: Vera Wang
Shoes: Jimmy Choo
Beauty: Jennie Fresa Beauty Library
Maid’s Gown: Vineyard
Invitations & Paper: Lilah Paper
Calligraphy: Michelle Dowling
Nika and Jamar were married on a Friday evening in April.. much to the surprise of their guests! We worked for nearly a year on the big surprise their guest would encounter at their lavish “engagement party” at the New Haven Lawn Club in downtown New Haven. Only a select few family members and their bridal party knew about what was going to take place!
The design of their wedding was inspired by art deco, vintage french artwork, and the ambiance of the New Haven Lawn Club. Nika and I worked together to come up with the rich and colorful story of whites, silver, purple and red with a punch of hot pink for good measure! Here is our inspiration board that we designed for her and Jamar:
The story of Nika and Jamar began after being introduced by a mutual friend. It took some time for the two of them to get together after their first meeting… but once they did, it didn’t take them long to realize what a match they truly were. Fast forward a few years later and the two exchanged vows in a dim, candle lit ballroom surrounded by over a hundred of their nearest and dearest friends.
The day began warm and sunny— the perfect kind of day to have an “engagement” party! Nika and her Maid of Honor spent the afternoon getting ready in the bridal suite at the New Haven Lawn Club, with Jennie Fresa on make up.
When Elisabeth delivered Nika’s gorgeous white and green bouquet, filled with peonies, she cried! Peonies are Nika’s favorite flower, and with all the delay in travel after the Volcano eruption, we were not sure if peonies would be available… but Elisabeth was able to make magic happen! What an emotional surprise that lead to so many more on this very, very special day.
Below is a picture if Nika after seeing her best friend and Maid of Honor all dressed in her gorgeous, one shoulder purple Vineyard frock. Let me tell you, these two girls– soul sisters. They have such love and affection for one another– lifelong and dear friends!
Once her hair and makeup was complete, it was time to get her into one of the most beautiful Vera Wang gowns I have ever seen. It fit her like a glove and she looked absolutely radiant! Meanwhile, Jamar and his Best Man were getting ready for when Jamar would see Nika for the first time.. but right before that, we took Nika out front for some gorgeous (and quick!) bridal portraits.
Can a bride get any more beautiful?
Here Amanda and I are dashing to get her back inside before any early bird guests see!
Nika and Jamar chose to see one another before the ceremony and had an intimate first look just outside the room where they were going to be married. First looks are always emotional, sweet, and memorable moments.
Guests were gathering in the foyer to the Lawn Club, greeted with champagne and friendly smiles. Meanwhile, just beyond the wall, we were lighting the candles and putting the finishing touches on the gorgeous ceremony. I love Jamar’s boutonniere– a white rose with berries and a fiddle head fern. Nika’s Maid of Honor held a bouquet with seasonal purple flowers and red ranunculous. All of the flowers were absolutely gorgeous. The ceremony was flanked by two enormous garden urns, spilling over with seasonal white flowers such as hydrangea, ranunculous, and tulips. BLUSH designed the arrangements with tall branches and pussy willows, which mercury glass candle holders hung from. Hundreds of votive candles lined every sill and mantle through out the room.
Moments before the ceremony we hid the bride and groom away from sight and finally opened the doors into the party. Guests walked in expecting to see an engagement party but were met with a romantic ceremony! Here are some of their reactions upon entering the room for the first time! Nika and Jamar were listening in the opposite room to their guests’ reaction as they came in.
As the ceremony began, the bride was escorted down the aisle by her father to a trio of Canon D. The assembled guests rose as they saw her– an incredible and awesome moment!
They exchanged vows, officiated by Nika’s late grandmother’s Reverend, who they had flown in from Virgina. It was very meaningful for them to be married by Reverend Talley, who gave a beautiful ceremony.
Right after the ceremony guests were greeted to the sounds of vintage French music wafting from the ballroom… Nika and Jamar hired the most incredible band, Bon Musique, to entertain at their reception. The Lawn Club catered a delicious cocktail and hor’dourve affair complete with a martini station, risotto station, and more delicious delights! Since their party was all about sumptuous finger foods, yummy cocktails, and dancing– we designed the room to have a nice cocktail party feel! BLUSH designed gorgeous table and mantel decor in purple flowers with red ranunculous, tucked in beautiful mercury glass vessels.
Rob Alberti lit the room in shades of purple and pink!
There were touching toasts by the Reverend Talley and their best man and maid of honor.
Nika’s sorority sister’s sang One True Delta and then the band rocked the night away until the last candle flickered out. What a great way to end an amazing day!
Nika and Jamar– it was such a sincere pleasure to work with you. Thank you for allowing Jubilee to be apart of your families personal history. Nothing but success, joy, love and happiness to you both!
You can also see this wedding featured on Style Me Pretty!
xoxo
A Modern Photo Shoot at the Loading Dock in Stamford, Connecticut
At the beginning of April I flew back into the US from Paris fired up about the incredible shoot I had collaborated on with Robert and Kathleen Trenske and Beth Chapman. I had a few days to switch out my luggage from cute Parisian clothes to long, flowy summer dresses as we geared up for our trip to Costa Rica! In between, we planned a Style Me Pretty Inspiration to Reality shoot. Yeah, I know– are we nuts or what?! In fact, we left the Style Me Pretty shoot and headed straight to the airport for Costa Rica!
I’m so excited to share this shoot with you, which was featured on Style Me Pretty in three separate posts which you can view here: part one, part two, and part three. It was an honor to put together this modern, sleek, minimal, citrus inspired shoot for our friends at Style Me Pretty. The caliber of shoots that they feature are incredible and we are so grateful to be among them! The inspiration board for our shoot was designed by Style Circle member Lena.
I love this board– mostly because it is such a departure from my own personal style. We all loved the minimal feel of the board, the citrus and bold colors. We took that as our main source of inspiration and set out to design a shoot with our incredible team! Speaking of, here are the talented and creative folks who made this shoot possible:
Photography: Carla Ten Eyck Photography
Flowers: Datura: A Modern Garden
Event Design: Jubilee Events
Event Planning: Jubilee Events with help from 14 Stories
Model Styling, Dresses and Accessories: The White Dress by the Shore
Reception Location: The Loading Dock
Hair & Makeup: Dana Bartone & Co.
Catering: Jordan Caterers
Cake & Confections: Ana Parzych
Invitations: Gus & Ruby Letterpress
Shoes: Zappos
Furniture Rentals: Taylor Creative Inc.
Ring Bowls, Place Cards, Ribbon, and Thank You Notes: Paloma’s Nest
Edible Champagne Flowers: Wild Hibiscus
Tableware, Glassware & Chargers: Party Rental Ltd.
Our color story ranged from bright white to orange, green, yellow, with hints of pink. We were inspired by the chandelier at The Loading Dock and integrated some of that sparkle in beautiful details and accessories– like the gorgeous jewelry and accessories from The White Dress by the Shore. Dana Bartone, inspired by the sleek makeup and styling of the model in our inspiration board, created a beautiful bun for our bride Kate. I love how her hair is so defined and slightly retro! The bouquet hanging in the chandelier and held by our bride, Linsdsay, was made of white miniature phaelonopsis orchids with lily grass.
Paloma’s Nest created wooden thank you cards for our couple that doubled as favors. They were tucked in glass line envelopes! Our bridesmaid, dressed in a lemon shantung frock from Chic by the Shore, carried a bouquet of trachelium, aspidistra and fresh cut limes , created by Datura: A Modern Garden.
I had SO much fun designing this tablescape along with Tony of Datura. It was a real challenge for me, personally, but I absolutely love the crisp and modern outcome! We used a ghost table from Taylor Creative Inc., as the basis of our design. Tony created a STUNNING centerpiece of curly willow branches known as “the cyclone” that grew out of the table and into the ceiling of The Loading Dock. It was accentuated with shades of orange clementines, blood oranges, and sweet valencia oranges. Tony wove in eucharis orchid’s into the tablescape for a touch of femininity and a pop of white. Each place setting had an orange glass charger with white frosted place settings. We submerged white frill tulips into the champagne glasses (one of my favorite details!) and also used them to top our clementine place card holders, which were created using wooden rings by Paloma’s Nest.
The paper suite was created by Gus & Ruby Letterpress. They decided on a clean, minimalist design that made use of the bright citrus color palate and hard, architectural lines of the industrial venue in white, orange, and grey with a hint of green. The paper suite was completely letterpress, including the cute citrus elements that we garnished our drink display with!
Tony of Datura created a citrus garland for our brides made of clementines, blood oranges and limes. The second bouquet, carried by Kate, was made of wedding belle daffodils with aspidistra. The menu cards on our table, also by Gus & Ruby were letterpress in orange ink and noted the delicious menu, as crafted by Jordan Caterers.
The ring bowl, an intrinsic part of the inspiration board was also by Paloma’s Nest. It was edged in gold and had our couple’s initials inscribed on the face. Our maid, Kelly, switched from a papaya colored jewel necklace by The White Dress by the Shore and into a custom designed necklace by Datura made of green hypericum berry, amber and minature phaelonopsis orchids.
The white leather couch was from the furniture collection at Taylor Creative, Inc. Ana Parzych created the White Tahitian Vanilla cake layered with Passion Fruit mousseline. It was finished in swiss meringue buttercream and vanilla fondant. Ana created fondant-molded pearls and hand-sculpted sugar lilies.
Jordan Caterers created a menu based on our inspiration board with sea infused menu items such as seared tuna, shrimp, scallops, lobster. They infused citrus in both color and flavor of the entrees and our cocktail bar, made up of key lime martini’s and passion fruit prosecco. We submerged edible wild hibiscus into some of our cocktails, too!
The AMAZING silver shoes with flower embellishment are from Zappos.com… our absolute FAVORITE website for shoes!
And a few behind-the-scenes images of our lovely and delightful photo shoot crew! Thanks to all for your creativity and hard work. It was such a pleasure collaborating with you!
xoxoxo
Today is Jessica & Frank’s Wedding Day!
I hope you are all enjoying your memorial weekend! The team and I have been busy getting ready for Jessica and Frank’s wedding! I’ve been working with them for almost a year now for their wedding on what has turned out to be a gorgeous day in Simsbury, Connecticut. These two are such a beautiful, fun and loving couple and we are SO excited for their wedding weekend to begin! Mazel Tov to you both!!!
We’re also looking forward to working with Johnny Arguedas, Datura: A Modern Garden, and Rob Alberti!
Xoxoxo
Today is Julie & Jason’s Wedding Day!
We’re headed back up to Hartford for the beautiful wedding of Julie and Jason at Hartford City Hall and The Society Room. They couldn’t have chosen a more fabulous and fitting photographer, Robert Norman, for their vintage inspired wedding. Here are some beautiful photographs he took of them in D.C.– where they live.
Congratulations Julie & Jason!!
xo
Yesterday was Nika & Jamar’s SURPRISE Wedding Day!
Yesterday we kicked off our wedding season, officially, with the amazing surprise wedding of Nika and Jamar. They were married at the New Haven Lawn Club and disguised their wedding as an engagement party! I can’t wait to show you the amazing images of their photographers Erik Maziarz and Carla Ten Eyck. Until then, congratulations to Nika, Jamar and their families. It was beyond a pleasure to work with you on your wedding!!!!
xoxoxo
Organic, Local Farm Wedding Flowers by Azalea Floral Design
I met with the lovely Christine D’Angelo of Azalea Floral Design, a Connecticut based floral design company. She turned me on to the idea of using locally grow, fresh Connecticut flowers in your event. Christine and her team will pick and acquire locally grown flowers for your event to be used through out your decor. This is a really great way to support your local Connecticut small business and farms. Christine has also said that this option is affordable, but couples need to have an open color story as some varieties and colors are not always available.
I really love the gorgeous arrangements that Christine put together above using local flowers! Check out her website to learn more about her company, style, and approach. She recently started a blog, too!
BRIDAL SHOW AT THE SOCIETY ROOM — Sunday, February 28th at 11 a.m.
Just a reminder to come visit our booth at the bridal show happening tomorrow, February 28th from 11 a.m. -3 p.m. at The Society Room of Hartford. I would LOVE to meet our readers and show you some sneak peeks in what we’ve been working on. Be sure to stop by our booth! Here are the deets, straight from the powers that be:
photography by Carla Ten Eyck
THE SOCIETY ROOM OF HARTFORD
2ND ANNUAL BRIDAL SHOWCASE
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 28TH 2010
11:00AM TO 3:00PM
ADMISSION $5.00 PER GUEST
Are you dreaming of finding that one-of-a-kind reception location? Hoping for the most unique and elegant floral bouquet to fit your wedding theme and season? Or that cutting edge photographer to capture all of the right moments and details?
Join us as we fill our historic and ornate event space with a spectacular display of wedding goods and services! Photographers, Bands, DJs, Musicians, Videographers, Bridal Boutiques, Florists, Event Planners and more will all be on site to lend their expert advice to New England brides, and grooms too, as they plan for their special day!
THE SOCIETY ROOM OF HARTFORD
WHERE ELEGANCE MEETS EXCELLENCE
31 PRATT STREET * HARTFORD, CT 06103 * 860.524.0796
WWW.HARTFORDSOCIETYROOM.COM
ENGAGE 2010: An edited wedding showcase at the Loading Dock
Fresh Lime Events in association with The Loading Dock is putting together a special event for brides and grooms. Check out the official website of Engage2010 to learn more! Engage2010 will take place on Sunday, March 14th from 11 a.m. — 5 p.m. You can purchase tickets for the event on their website. Readers of the Connecticut Wedding Blog get special pricing! Use the coupon code MIMITLD at check out. Enjoy!!!
A Wedding Story: Eric & Lisa in Mystic, Connecticut
On September 5, 2009 I had the absolute pleasure of coordinating the wedding of Lisa and Eric. They are such a sweet couple who chose Mystic Aquarium as the setting of their incredible fall inspired wedding. Lisa and Eric were the kind of couple who incorporated a lot of meaningful details into their day, and as their coordinator, it was such a joy to see their love story come to life!
They’re day was captured by the talented and funny John of Prestige Barkley Photography.
In the early morning Lisa and her gorgeous ‘maids spent the first part of their day enjoying beauty at the Red Door Spa. By late morning, they were sipping champagne in Lisa’s suite at the Mystic Hilton. Lisa’s maid of honor and sister along with her mom got her into magnificent ivory Pnina Tornai gown (purchased at Kleinfeld). Lisa’s satin gown was full of gorgeous ruching and draping of fabric and had a corseted bodice. She wore her mother’s vintage earrings and necklace. Her maids wore beautiful Alfred Angelo floor length satin gowns in a burnt orange color.
In my conversations with Lisa she’s told me that Eric loves to create special things for her– so it was no surprise that he put together a handmade book for their wedding day and wrote in it a message to his bride. How sweet and romantic is that?
Diane Gaudett created the floral decor for the day, and designed these beautiful fall inspired bouquets with orchids, calla lillis, roses, and branches. They were so beautiful!
The ride from the Hilton to St. Patrick’s Church in Mystic was an exciting one for Lisa and her parents as Eric waited with his best man and Father Brian. At 2:15 p.m., once the bridal party had been sent down the aisle and the groom emerged at the alter, the organist began to play the slow intro to Cannon D. A ton of light flooded into the church as the two large wooden doors opened and there stood Lisa, escorted by her parents down the aisle to her awaiting groom. This is the moment I love the most about a wedding. Jessica and I watched through the door’s stained glass windows.
Once they were pronounced husband and wife it was time to head over to Harkness Park. We had prepared several dozen glasses of champagne in their party bus for the 20 minute ride!
At 5 p.m guests began to arrive at Mystic Aquarium for Lisa and Eric’s reception. The cocktail hour was held outside in the atrium known as “Arctic Coast” overlooking the beluga whale tank. It is such a beautiful setting and so unique. Jazz music courtesy of their amazing band, In Transit. Guests got into interact with the beluga whales and toward the end of cocktail hour, Lisa and Eric escorted the penguins out to great their guests!
The dining and dancing portion of the reception took place in the lower aquarium area which is surrounded by sea creatures swimming around in enormous tanks. It was the perfect back drop!
Diane Gaudett created branch centerpieces for each table, which consisted of curly branches, orange orchids, and hanging votives. They were so beautiful and really, really complimented the cool glow of the tanks. Lisa kept the table linens light with a beautiful ivory underlay and gold / soft brown overlay.
The amazing Ana Parzych created an absolutely stunning cake with two nuzzling sea horses as the topper. Sea horses were a reoccuring theme through out their wedding– in the program, on their escort cards, and nestled on top of their cake. Seahorses are known to be monogamous to one another after they experience courtship, and so they are such a fitting detail to weave into a wedding held at an aquarium.
Once they were introduced as the new Mr. & Mrs. they danced to “Home” by Michael Buble… so romantic! Guests enjoyed a delicious spread put on by Ocean Blue Catering. Once dinner was over it was time to kick it into high gear– and let me tell you– In Transit did NOT disappoint. I can safely say that they were one of the most talented bands I have ever seen!!! They sang everything from motown to the black eyed peas. And as you can see, guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves!
At the very end of the evening guests gathered out front and sent the couple off in style with a sparkler send off. The new Mr. & Mrs. Krause took off into their married life, headed for their honeymoon in Hawaii!
Lisa and Eric — It was SUCH a pleasure to be apart of your wedding. Thank you for letting me be a small part of your family’s personal history. I wish you all the joy and happiness that life has to offer! Congratulations!!! xoxox
HARTFORD BRIDAL SHOW: Come meet Jubilee Events at the Society Room!
I’m so excited to be partaking in an amazing bridal show at The Society Room of Hartford on Sunday, February 28th, 2010 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.. I would LOVE to meet some of our readers and show you some sneak peeks in what we’ve been working on. Be sure to stop by our booth! Here are the deets, straight from the powers that be:
photography by Carla Ten Eyck
THE SOCIETY ROOM OF HARTFORD
2ND ANNUAL BRIDAL SHOWCASE
SUNDAY FEBRUARY 28TH 2010
11:00AM TO 3:00PM
ADMISSION $5.00 PER GUEST
Are you dreaming of finding that one-of-a-kind reception location? Hoping for the most unique and elegant floral bouquet to fit your wedding theme and season? Or that cutting edge photographer to capture all of the right moments and details?
Join us as we fill our historic and ornate event space with a spectacular display of wedding goods and services! Photographers, Bands, DJs, Musicians, Videographers, Bridal Boutiques, Florists, Event Planners and more will all be on site to lend their expert advice to New England brides, and grooms too, as they plan for their special day!
THE SOCIETY ROOM OF HARTFORD
WHERE ELEGANCE MEETS EXCELLENCE
31 PRATT STREET * HARTFORD, CT 06103 * 860.524.0796
WWW.HARTFORDSOCIETYROOM.COM
Allison + Jacob: Engaged
Super clients Allison and Jacob had a fun engagement session with the ultra amazing Amanda Herzberger of Orchard Cove Photography this past weekend and I couldn’t help but share! They are getting married May 1st at the Old State House (my most favorite place in the entire universe….!), followed by an incredible reception at The Hartford Club.
Allie and Jacob went to Elizabeth Park in Hartford, Connecticut followed up by their home in West Hartford. Here are some of my favorites…
You can see all the rest here on Amanda’s blog! Can’t wait for your big day A&J!
xxooo
A Wedding Story: Rich & Veena in Stamford Connecticut
Event Ingrediants
Planning & Coordination: Jubilee Events
Photography: Carrie Draghi
Ceremony & Reception Location: Hilton, Stamford Connecticut
Florist: DesiFloral
Mandap & Decor: Mandaps by Dhoom
Invitations, Table Numbers and Escort Cards: Lilah Paper
Cake: Sabina Jahic
Caterer: Coromandel
DJ/Entertainment: All Digital Mobile Music
Rich and Veena were married on June 27th, 2009 at the Hilton in Stamford, Connecticut. They were surrounded by 250 of their closest friends and family as they celebrated two ceremonies and an amazing reception! Their amazing day was photographed and documented by Carrie Draghi Photography and we had the incredible honor of coordinating and planning their wedding.
The morning began with Veena getting ready for her first ceremony with her maid of honor and mom. Dana Bartone & Co. arrived in the early morning to work on hair and makeup. The bride wore the groom’s sister’s wedding gown and veil and her maid of honor wore a gorgeous purple gown. The groom and his best man wore classic black tuxedos. Their niece and nephew took on the extremely important role of flower girl and ring bearer.
Their “western” style ceremony took place in the Hilton’s gorgeous white tent, which has beautiful chandeliers and amazing white fabric ruching. They exchanged their vows in a room filled with an incredible amount of light. Once their ceremony was complete it was time to change and get prepared for the second event of the day, their Hindu ceremony.
In keeping with traditional Hindu customs, Veena had henna tattooed on her hands and feet — along with all the female friends and family close to her. The hotel suite where the women got ready was a flutter with jewels and gorgeous colorful saris. They helped one another to dress –including soaping up each others hands to get the teeny-tiny bracelets on. Veena was absolutely gorgeous in a red sari and her mother’s jewels.
The Hindu ceremony began with the Baraat, which is aptly named for the marriage processional. While Veena was tucked away in her suite, guests gathered from the farthest point of the Hilton with the groom and made their way inside. It was an extremely jubilant march that took about an hour to complete. There was a lot of drumming (which was AMAZING) and dancing. The history behind the Baraat is the groom being escorted by the bride’s parents and his parents into the bride’s village. I imagine in an era where this really occurred, it would have taken SEVERAL hours to reach the bride. The sweetest part to this story was that Veena watched the entire processional from her suite window.
Once the groom and his guests made their way inside the hotel and reached the meeting point, elders of both the families meet and welcome the groom with garlands and aarati. Then, the ceremony was to begin. The ceremony ballroom was transformed by Dhoom in rich reds and golds. Their mandap was absolutely spectacular, as was all the floral arrangements and special details placed throughout. Once the groom and his family were settled, the brides’ parents went to escort her in.
After their ceremony guests were invited back into the white tent, which was transformed for their reception. They had tall purple floral arrangements and beautiful white lid-top boxes filled with a gold dish and Indian candies at each place setting. Veena had a henna design inscribed on their beautiful white buttercream cake.
Veena changed into the MOST beautiful purple gown. It was so intricate and beatiful with a lot of bead detailing.
The maid of honor and best man gave very touching speeches, and the bride and groom enjoyed their first dance — ‘Til Kingdom Come by Coldplay. They danced ALL night long and had an amazing grand exit at the end of the evening where their guests showered them in rose petals. It was a great way to top off the night!
Many thanks to Rich and Veena for allowing me to be apart of their amazing wedding day. It was such a joy to be with you and your families!!
Jubilee Events featured in BRIDES Magazine! Plus, Behind the scenes video of our photoshoot!
I’m really excited about our recent feature in BRIDES Connecticut and all 16 regional BRIDES magazines (Atlanta, Northern and Southern California, Washington D.C., Chicago, Houston, Boston, Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, Florida, Colorado, Maryland, Michigan, and Southern Jersey). The first feature is an interview and sneak peak into my own wedding, which you can read about in any BRIDES regional magazine.
The second feature is Marie Antoinette inspired photoshoot we did back in September, which has been featured in the newest issue of BRIDES Connecticut (Spring / Summer 2010), along with Carla Ten Eyck, The White Dress by the Shore, BLUSH Floral Studio, Dana Bartone, Flower Upon Flour and Jen’s Closet. Also, the incredible Tom Morlock of Vantage Point Films was on hand for this photoshoot and has put together a great behind-the-scenes snippet video of our shoot…! Check it out below!!!
C10 Workshop from Vantage Point Films on Vimeo.
Today is John and Corine’s wedding day!
Today is John and Corine’s wedding day! Corine and John were both in our wedding party back in August, and now we have the honor of being a part of theirs. I couldn’t be MORE happier for the two of them and I’m really looking forward to all the incredible festivities today. Many congratulations to you and ALL our love!
XOXOX
A Wedding Story: Harris & Soulaf at L’escale at the Delamar Hotel, Greenwich, Connecticut
Once again, this fabulous event was documented and photographed by Carla Ten Eyck with cinematography by Vantage Point Films.
After their beautiful ceremony, Harris and Soulaf’s family and friends gathered on the avenue in Greenwich at L’escale at the Delamar Hotel. L’escale is the most fabulous French restaurant I’ve been to in Connecticut and has such a quaint and luxurious atmosphere. Their chef has been on Iron Chef not once…. but twice! And I can assure you his culinary delights that evening were just as delicious as you would imagine. Their staff is beyond amazing and every detail of Soulaf and Harris’ big day was executed flawlessly! Guests sipped cocktails and ate bite-sized hors’dourves on the patio overlooking Greenwich harbor. Their escort cards were created by Lilah Paper and displayed on a beautiful purple lamour linen. Mini arrangements in antique silver urns adorned the cocktail tables.
After cocktail hour guests were invited into L’escale’s dining room to enjoy a sumptuous meal especially selected by our couple. Each table was draped in gorgeous purple linens with towering centerpieces by Jessica’s Country Flowers. Full of crystals, lavender and ivory roses, antiqued hydrangea and submerged orchids. Satellite arrangements flanked their centerpiece along with a flurry of candlelight. The custom menus were created by Lilah Paper and sat on top of a lavender napkin and antiqued silver charger. Each guest also received a silver box filled with delectable Munsons Chocolate Truffles — a Connecticut favorite! Our dear friends at Ice Matters also carved this incredible ice luge with their monogram and a design from the couture invitations that Lilah Paper created. The entire room was lit by the talented Rob of AfterHours, who also DJ’ed the entire evening.
The new Mr. & Mrs. Grannick enjoyed their first dance amongst their family and friends. Their incredible… and I mean… INCREDIBLE cake was created by the talented Ana Parzych. It was a five tier masterpiece with a custom monogram. On top were the most beautiful purple sugar flowers!!! Just when you thought their wedding couldn’t get any more beautiful…. after dinner… belly dancers!!!
My girl Laura Jordan of Jordan Dance is unbelievable. Not only she is drop dead gorgeous, but this girl can shake her hips like no ones business!!!! Her and her partner put on a 25 minute show that surprised everyone. They were AMAZING!!! After their standing ovation it was time to join in, dance, and spend the rest of the evening celebrating!!
After tossing her bouquet, Harris and Soulaf left in a gorgeous rose petal send off for their honeymoon to Hawaii. Thank you so much for allowing me to be part of your incredible, one-of-a-kind celebration!! It was sincerely an honor and a privilege.
Thank you again to Carla Ten Eyck for the incredible images!!
XOXOX
