Elizabeth and Tom
Elizabeth, a Boston-based mental health therapist, and Tom, an investment analyst, wed on September 10, 2011. The day merged classic elegance with rustic touches, complementing the affair's pastoral setting: the bride's family farmhouse in Hudson Valley, New York.
The Location
More than 200 years old, the house set a beautiful backdrop for the ceremony and reception. The home's ivy-colored shutters fit the wedding's fresh green-and-pink color palette.
The Welcome Gift
Upon arrival, guests were treated to a box of goodies that contained a customized water bottle, chocolate-covered raisins, crackers, a granola bar, and information about the wedding weekend.
The Bouquet
Winston Flowers created Elizabeth's beautiful clutch of roses, ranunculus, arabicum, coxcomb, blushing bride protea, viburnum berries, cymbidium orchids, and a single daisy -- the same bloom her mother carried at her own wedding.
The Fashions
The dapper groom wore a charcoal J.Crew suit and John W. Nordstrom tie. His bride paired her Melissa Sweet gown with blue Badgley Mischka shoes, a Priscilla of Boston veil, and Kwiat earrings.
The Bridal Party
Though each bridesmaid dress was unique, all shared a common feature -- a sweetheart neckline -- that unified the girls' looks.
A Meaningful Nod
Elizabeth's older brother, Patrick, unexpectedly passed away 10 months before the wedding. No matter the weather or season, he always went barefoot, so in his honor, the bride, the groom, and their bridal party went shoeless.
The Weather
The big-day forecast: sunny, 70 degrees, and breezy. During the day, fans were supplied during the day to keep guests cool, and at night, pashminas were available to stave off the evening chill.
The Program
The invitation suite and program were created by Cheree Berry, and featured a willow-tree illustration.
The Processional
As 200 guests looked on, Elizabeth walked down the aisle on the arm of her father, Bob.
The Ceremony
The path was lined with river rocks, moss, and roses.
The Ceremony
The couple stood by the pond underneath a cedar arch arbor as Tom's uncle officiated the ceremony. Readings included "Song of Solomon 2:10-13" and William Blake's "Love and Harmony Combine," as well as a performance of Fleetwood Mac's "Songbird" by the groom's cousins. The couple exchanged traditional vows peppered with references to their shared love of adventure.
The Recessional
The newlyweds walked back up the aisle to a rendition of Coldplay's "Strawberry Swing" played by a string quartet.
The Reception
A tent from Peterson's Party Center was erected over a tennis court and strung with glowing lights.
The Centerpieces
Topping the white farm tables were lush pastel green-and-pink arrangements.
The Centerpieces
Sprinkled in between the flowers were vessels filled with wild grass, moss, and fruit -- a nod to the apple trees around the property.
The Menu
A meal of pear-and-walnut salad, lamb, and family-style sides of seasonal vegetables and polenta with mushrooms was prepared by The Catered Affair. Menus, also created by Cheree Berry, rested at each place setting.
The First Dance
The newlyweds spun around the dance floor to "Green Eyes" by Coldplay. The tent was adorned with dramatic rattan light fixtures and patterned projections helped set the mood.
The Dessert
In addition to wedding cake, mini ice cream cones were served.
The Favors
At the end of the evening, guests were given homemade apple butter and local honey.
Sources
Photography: Genevieve de Manio
Event Planning: Rafanelli Events
Catering: The Catered Affair
Flowers: Winston Flowers
Stationery: Cheree Berry Paper
Cake: Cakes to Remember
Tent: Peterson's Party Center
Videography: Films by Francesco
Hair and Makeup: Luz Beauty
Rentals: New England Country Rentals