On October 10, I had the distinct privilege of coordinating the wedding and reception of Jenn and Jonathan. As a talented wedding and portrait photographer herself,
Jenn's wedding was of course creative and spectacular.
Jenn and Jonathan chose a unique site for their special day: Camp Happyland nestled deep within in Prince William Forest Park outside Dumfries, Virginia. Jenn and Jonathan rented the entire campsite, which included rustic cabins for all out of town guests, an open pavilion with a grand stone fireplace for the reception, and a Council Circle for the ceremony.
Despite some early morning showers, it was an absolutely perfect October day!
The color palate of Tiffany blue, white, and chocolate brown was accented by traditional fall jewel tones, reflecting the "rustic chic" theme perfectly. And Jenn and Jonathan's bright personalities shone through all aspects of the wedding. From the biodegradable wooden utensils wrapped with twine, to the white and crystal antique candy dishes on every table, to the photo booth for candid shots of guests, to my personal favorite: the "ring warming" ritual, which allowed each guest to hold and bless the wedding rings...a unique alternative to the more traditional unity candle lighting!
Jenn and Jonathan's family and friends went above and beyond the call of duty to make this day one to remember for the happy couple. They helped Jenn and Jonathan with the typical DIY projects; making signs, assembling programs, and hanging the muslin and white globe lights from the pavilion ceiling (Jonathan's training as an engineer helped ensure the perfect drape, every time!). Most adorable was the seating card display: a reclaimed shutter, twine, and miniature close pins. I caught many guests lingering after they found their seats to marvel at this adorable welcome to the reception.
I was so honored to work with such a wonderful team of vendors. The images you see here were captured by the amazing
Rob and Lauren from Canada, who themselves just eloped two weeks ago while vacationing in Greece. Rob and Lauren's images are creative, youthful, and artistic, and they are super fun to work with! If only they lived closer so I could work with them more! Their image of Jenn's dress below is probably my favorite...
Maryellen Bowers of
Cakes & Candies by Maryellen made the gorgeous cake shown below. Three different tiers, each more delicious than the next (yes I tasted all three. I'm not ashamed). The cross section of the tree on which the cake is displayed was actually cut down by Maryellen's husband from her yard. It was the talk of the reception!
Bill Siewert of BBQ Brothers and his staff were a joy to work with. BBQ Brothers is a full service catering firm specializing in high quality, award-winning, slow-cooked BBQ at reasonable prices. They provide a full service wait staff and bartenders to set up and clean up the event site. I'm so using them for my next Derby Party.
Congratulations Jenn and Jonathan. Thanks for choosing me to help make your vision a reality!
Photography:
Rob & Lauren PhotographersCake: Cakes and Candies by Maryellen
Catering:
BBQ BrothersMarriage Celebrant: Diane C. Stanley (authorized in Virgina)
Coordinator:
Emily H Events
Each year, my best friend Tara Novotny and I host a Holiday Brunch for 40 guests. Our decor in 2009 was black, white, and fuscia--festive but not conventional holiday--with tiered cylindrical vases filled with ball ornaments to display food.
Table Presentation
Bloody Bar...
...With shrimp!
Lox Tartar with Dill Cream Cheese
Utensils
Cheesecake Parfait
Cupcakes by JoAnna Hiatt
