Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Caity and Matt's Sperry Tented Wedding at Hill-Stead Museum


Caity and Matt . . sigh, where to begin?? I met Caity, Matt, and Caity’s parents on a cold and blustery day almost two years ago. The whole gang glowed with ideas of a country chic wedding at a venue near and dear to their hearts – Hill-Stead Museum. Caity grew up in Farmington and attended Miss Porters School, so Hill-Stead with its incredible sense of history, magnificent artwork and proximity to their beautiful home was an obvious choice in which to hold the wedding reception. It was instant kismet and we were thrilled to bring their vision to life.

Jane and Mike of IRIS Photography captured the entire event from start to finish brilliantly. See for yourself!

The morning of the wedding started a bit overcast, but the clouds broke to real the most amazing sun drenched day. Caity and her maids had their hair styled at a local salon and then returned to her childhood home to lunch, sip champagne and get dressed. Caity wore a breathtaking Angel Sanchez one shouldered dress with fabulous ruffle detail and hot pink satin Kate Spades. And while I'm not sure exactly if we sourced our inspiration from those shoes or vice versa, they were the just the perfect shade that was reflected throughout the flowers and other wedding decor. Her girls looked just lovely in their Jenny Yoo dresses and soft hair. The groom and his men readied at another historic home in Farmington, donning Zegna tuxes and vineyard vines bow ties expertly tied by the groom himself.




Upon time for the ceremony, Caity and her father were escorted up the street by an old fashioned horse drawn carriage to Saint Patrick’s Church. The ceremony music was just exquisite and all too soon the smiling newlyweds were whisked away in a Rolls convertible, while all the guests made their way up to Hill-Stead Museum! Cocktail hour took place in the sunken garden where guests took in the beautiful afternoon, explored the rolling hills of the venue and were treated to an open house at the Museum. They had a wonderful time mingling, enjoying the scrumptious bites of Emily’s Catering, playing croquet and snapping silly takes in the photo booth. A sun shower quickly escorted everyone into the reception tent, but luckily for us it passed quickly and did not dare damper spirits.

The Sperry Tent on the West Lawn was a bright and happy place and it was so exciting to see our inspiration all come together. Our country chic setting was established by long guest tables layered with oyster burlap runners and floral arrangements featuring the most vibrant shades of pink and tangerine in a vast array of fantastic trophy cups and other silver containers particularly sourced for this event. Delightful mismatched floral china and letterpessed menus were pleasing indeed and welcomed each guest to his or her seat. Toasts to the couple ensued, in particular, Caity’s maid of honor gave a heart wrenching account of their friendship since Miss Porters School. Everyone feasted on a delicious meal and wine paring, numerous desserts and had a marvelous time dancing the night away to Eight to the Bar under the canopy of Japanese lanterns. An after party took place at The Country Club of Farmington, but not before each guest departed with a Hill-Stead honey favor as a sweet farewell.
Caity and Matt, it was a remarkable experience getting to know you, your parents, family and friends. It was our honor to bring your wedding dreams to reality and a privilege for us personally to witness your day. We wish you the best of luck in your new life together in Boston and do hope you stay in touch in the years to come. We will remember you and your gorgeous wedding always!

xoxo,
Lindsay, Talia, Rachel and Nicole

Fabulous Fete Fruitioners:
Wedding Planning and Design: Sixpence For Your ShoeCeremony: Church of Saint PatrickReception: Hill-Stead MuseumPhotography: IRIS PhotographyCatering: Emily’s Catering GroupFloral Genius: Dragonfly EventTent: Sperry TentsWedding Rentals: Party Rental, LtdRestroom: Suburban SanitationMusic: The Wildwood Groups & Eight to the BarGown: Angel SanchezShoes: Kate Spade
Maids: Jenny YooTuxes: ZegnaHorse Drawn Carriage: Allegra FarmStationery: Lettres Stationery of Distinction
Cake: J. CakesGuest Accommodations & Transportation: The Farmington Inn

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Hillary and Rory's Sperry Tented Private Estate Wedding



On a chilly night last winter, Hillary and her dad, Tom came to meet with us to discuss Hillary's dream of a wedding on the property of her parents' Bed and Breakfast in Suffield, Kingsfield Bed and Breakfast.  With it's rolling hills, fountained ponds, history and charm, it was an incredible backdrop for Hillary's wedding to her prince charming, Rory. 

Eileen Broderick Photography was on hand all day to capture Hillary and Rory's wedding and provided all of the images within this post.

On the morning of the wedding, Hillary and the ladies (and there were lots of lovely ladies) all readied at the Bed and Breakfast with the assistance of the girls from Dana Bartone Salon.  Hillary wore an off white lace sheath gown and worked with her seamstress to add a pale peach rouched bustline and dramatic bowed back.  The maids and usherettes wore dresses of their choice in three shades of blue from J. Crew.  The guys also donned J.Crew, looking ever so dapper, in their striped blue ties. 



The ceremony was held in an intimate grove of trees overlooking the setting sun and one of the propery's ponds.  Ribbons of pale ivory, blush, and peach hung from the trees and blew in the gentle breeze.  Millenniumm Music played, as guests were treated to lavender iced tea and fresh lemonade in their way to their seats.  Guests fanned themselves in the August heat with two sided fan programs we created to tie in with the overall wedding decor.  In keeping the ceremony personalized, one family friend married the couple and another sang.  As the ceremony ended, a tease of fireworks filled the sky and Hillary and Rory exited followed by their bridal party.   



Together, Hillary, Tom, Lindsay and I worked to design a French Country inspired wedding reception, beautiful and welcoming, unique in details and complimentary to property.   Post ceremony, guests made their way to the stone walled garden area behind the Inn and were greeted by the delightful staff and incredible hors d'oeuvres display of Emily's Catering


Under the soaring Sperry Tent, white lanterns hung, while we dressed the tables in Blue Etoile, Silver chargers, personalized menus in cornflower blue and lavendar and the florals, all provided by The Growth Company, were in ivory, green and blue, set in Vermont styled Ceramic Pots.  We added gold toned framed table numbers.  The table numbers matched in style to the "escort card wall" we created and hung gold frames from, directly guests to their tables. 


Following dinner, Hillary and Rory cut their wedding cake, a surprise design from Hillary's dad Tom, provided by Classic Cakes. The momument on top is the Bunker Hill Monument in Boston, a location particularly special to Hillary and Rory.  Just before the rain began to fall, we moved guests outside of the tent to watch the most incredible fireworks display, provided by Atlas Productions.  Then, guests danced the night away to tunes played by The XRAYS, a Burlington, VT based band who also played at Hillary's brother's wedding. 



Hillary, Rory, and Tom, thank you so much for allowing us the opportunity to bring your vision to life on your gorgeous property.  It was a spectacular day, filled with wonderful memories, and we were thrilled to be a part of it.  Hillary and Rory, we wish you many years of love and happiness in marriage and hope that you always look fondly back upon your wedding day as the beginning of your lives together as one.

Cheers,
Talia, Lindsay, Rachel and Nicole 

Fabulous Fete Fruitioners:

Wedding Planning, Event Design, and Day-of Stationery: Sixpence For Your Shoe
Catering: Emily's Catering
Photography: Eileen Broderick Photography
Hair and Makeup: Dana Bartone Salon
Tent: Sperry Tent
Rentals: Party Rental, LTD
Florist: The Growth Company
Music: Millenniumm Music, The XRAYS
Fireworks: Atlas Productions
Wedding Cake: Classic Cakes

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Congratulations Lila and Paul!


Today we are excited to be celebrating Lila and Paul's wedding at one of our favorite venues, Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park!  It is such a gorgeous location, the weather couldn't be more spectacular and the details are going to be divine.  We have been working with Lila and Paul, a wonderful team of vendors to create their whimsical and eclectic French Hobo wedding and can not wait to see it all live and share in their incredible day.

Be sure to check back for the photos - the wedding is being captured by Katie Slater and they will definitely dazzle!

Cheers!
Talia

Saturday, October 8, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Congratulations Liz and Fred!

 
Just three short months ago, we began our adventure with Liz and Fred and their vision for a natural, organic, and fresh, "Farm to Table" styled wedding on Fred's parent's sun-drenched, pond-side, private property in Middletown.  They pulled together some of the best of the best vendors in the industry, including one of our personal favorites, A Thyme To Cook, to bring their wedding to life and we can't wait to be there and be a part of it all!

Be sure to come back soon to see the pictures! 

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Congratulations Lara and Robby



Today is Lara and Robby's wedding at Saltwater Farm Vineyard in Stonington.  We first met last December the week before Christmas, and it was certain that love was in the air.  They are sweet and kind and planning their wedding has been a joy with each of them.  Lara and Robby, as well as all of their guests have travelled from out of state to celebrate their marriage.  While this morning is a little dark and gray, the vineyard's Hanger space will be transformed into a warm and sophisticated setting, featuring peach, gold, and copper, combined with white and ivory florals. 

Check back in for pictures after the wedding! 

Monday, September 19, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Amanda and Sasha's Sleek and Modern Saltwater Farm Vineyard Wedding!



Fashion forward, totally modern, and downright stylish, Amanda wed her laid back, witty and super handsome groom Sasha on one of the most incredibly beautiful May days.  For nearly a year and a half, we worked with Amanda, in between her hectic business travel and intense MBA program, along with her absolutely adoring mother, Paulette to plan Amanda and Sasha's wedding at one of our favorite venues, Saltwater Farm Vineyard.  After visiting some of the most stunning venues that Connecticut has to offer, Amanda fell in love with Saltwater as soon as she walked onto the property and knew that Sasha would just the same.  With it's rustic, yet modern minimalist design, the incredible light which shines through the wall of windows, and the gorgeous grounds, there isn't anything not to love and we used the hanger as our backdrop to plan their navy and taupe wedding.

A special thank you to Jerome and Jen Braga of Studio 1923 who wowed us yet again with their extraordinary ability to capture all that is our clients, their personalities, and the unique aspects of their weddings which make them truly theirs.  They did none other for Amanda and Sasha as well!  

Amanda and the ladies readied in the loft space at Saltwater.  Amanda slipped into her beauty of a Priscilla of Boston gown and the ladies wore striking short frocks in Navy.  Sasha donned a navy suit and paisley patterned tie and the stood waiting to meet his blushing bride in between the vineyard vines.  In keeping with the crisp and modern vibe, Amanda carried oversized callas - a classic and bold statement, and the ladies with bouquets of greens and viburnam. 
 


Before the marriage ceremony in front of their family and friends, Amanda and Sasha gathered with their parents, bridal party, and Rabbi for the Ketubah signing in front of the Fireplace inside the hanger space.   The ceremony within the vines was personal and emotional.  Sasha wore his yarmulke from his childhood and the kiddish cups were ones from each Sasha's family and Amanda's as a gift on her Bat Mitzvah.   The Chuppah was classically beautiful with white draping and large containers of bright green bamboo, greens, bells of Ireland all provided by Marcy and Thom at Dragonfly Event.  Upon the conclusion of the ceremony, the newlyweds exited all smiles! 



The Hanger space of the Vineyard was transformed into a neutral, yet sleek and modern vision with Fruitwood Chivari chairs, a drool-worth textured Stone Faille Linen, reminiscent of the stonework on the fireplace and main bar, and sky high calla lilies stretching into the open space thanks again to Dragonfly Event.  We incorporated metal etched table numbers to balance the exposed metal and railings in the loft space and provided just a touch of whimsy with the wheat grass escort card display, with the cards sitting on Saltwater Farm Vineyard wine corks.  As a tribute to Sasha's father, who has passed, and in honor of the couple's last name, Amanda and Sasha were given Blue Waterford Crystal Toasting Flutes, by Sasha's sister and they were used by the Newlyweds who toasted their guests and remembered Sasha's father.

Guests danced and danced, under the direction of Doug from Power Posse Productions, and then enjoyed a sweet delight of Gelato, on little wooden spoons, custom stamped with Amanda and Sasha's names. 




Amanda and Sasha, we hope your wedding was all you dreamed it could be and more.  Planning with you and your mom Paulette, was always fresh and fun - the balance between honoring tradition and pushing the unconventional brought our creativity and challenged us to be our best.  We wish you all the best and many happy years together!

Cheers,
Talia & Lindsay


Amanda and Sasha's Fabulous Fete Fruitioners

Wedding Design, Planning and Stationery - Sixpence For Your Shoe
Venue - Saltwater Farm Vineyard
Caterer - Coastal Gourmet
Photographer - Studio 1923
Florist - Dragonfly Event
Videographer - Capture It All
Grown - Priscilla of Boston, through the White Dress by the Shore
DJ - Power Posse Productions
Make-up - Friend of the Bride
Hair Styling - Naomi Martinez Salon

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Heidi and Al's Fluttery Blush Nuptials



This spring, I received an inquiry from the absolutely gorgeous, Heidi, who was referred by her photographer, a friend and past client of mine, Alissa Dinneen.  Heidi and her fiance Al, had assembled a wonderful team of talented vendors, including their florist, Jessica's Country Flowers, and were looking for some final design assistance to pull all of their details together and provide all of their wedding day stationery.  

With Heidi and Al's wedding invitation suite as inspiration, we designed ceremony programs, table numbers, escort cards, and complimenting note cards, in their wedding colors of ivory, blush and charcoal.  We worked with Heidi to find the perfect linens for the guest tables in an ecru crinkle taffeta and the accent tables in a blush lamour to compliment their venue, the flowers, and the stationery.  The refined, yet fluttery muted palette fit perfectly with Heidi's vision. 

We loved being a part of Heidi and Al's wedding.  Special thanks to Alissa Dinneen for recommending our services and providing the gorgeous photography and images within this post!


Sunday, September 4, 2011

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Anna and Justin's Webb Barn Wedding



Nothing could have made us feel more honored or privileged to meet Anna and Justin just three short months before their wedding day.  When we sat in our studio, the two of them gushing over each other, telling us about their romance, their lives, their paths which lead them to their upcoming wedding, we couldn't help but leap on board, assist them with the remainder of their planning, and bring their wedding to life on a beautiful day in May! 

Anna and Justin's wedding came together with an incredible group of vendors including Justin & Mary who photographed their day as seen from the swoonworthy pictures within this post!

The vision for Anna and Justin's wedding was inspired by the intricacies of their eight year courtship: time traveled, well layered, bohemian décor, with fluttery, feminine and refined tones set amidst a natural setting.

Anna was pure perfection in a Modern Trousseau lace gown which featured a split tulle train and exceptional detailing across the back, while her maids wore ethereal, goddess style mint colored gowns and Grecian hair pieces. Justin and his men sported a classic 1940s look with sleek gray suits and ties, with cheeky Adidas Rod Laver tennis sneakers . Anna carried an aqua blue wrapped bouquet, jeweled with a family heirloom locket, containing pictures of her grandmother, featuring ivory garden roses, white sweet peas, white veronica, dusty miller and white peonies.




Our beautiful couple wed on the grounds of the historic Webb Steven's Museum in a personal ceremony officiated by a family friend. When the skies opened and the rain fell, they remained together, hand in hand, under umbrellas held by their matron of honor, Anna's sister, and best man, Justin's father, and pledged their love to one another forever.





The rustic Webb Barn was completely transformed to reflect a vintage flea-market soiree. The entrance of the barn was flanked by antique french doors with guests names and table numbers written on the beveled glass panes, while draping, hung and side-gathered in the doorway welcomed guests to the jewels within. The back wall of the interior of the barn was decorated majestically with exquisite sunburst mirrors of a variety of shapes and sizes, which in turn reflected the incredible array of silver chandeliers suspended from the rafters. A mix of both round and long tables set with the airiest of pale pink overlay, stacked books and mirrored trays, gold chargers and a myriad of tea-stained, pink and ivory roses in vintage tea-ups and mercury glass created a warm and enchanting dinner party feel. Stacked vintage suitcases, mismatched candlesticks and a type writer guest book upped the eclectic ante. Slip-covered lounge furniture set both indoors and out with an array of scrolled linen and green silk pillows beckoned guests to gather, converse and rest tired toes, while a variety of Moroccan inspired lanterns and mercury glass tea lights were hung from the trees, magically bouncing light about the property. Late night, Anna changed into a peach toned, high waisted, short frock with vintage lace and a sheer neckline, as she danced the night away with her guests.

In keeping with the intimate dinner party vibe, guests dined on a delectable duo plate of filet and sea bass, while the sides were served family style. To appease each and every sweet tooth in the house, Emily's Catering also served a duo plate dessert, of rich flourless chocolate torte and a tiramisu shooter which tasted divine. Justin's cousin crafted the couple's wedding cake, a sweet three tired confection of chocolate and coconut. In a nod to the sweetest type of love, later in the evening, handmade sweet treats were displayed in hand-blown containers with personalized tags and vintage cake stands to tie in with the flea-market typewriter wedding. As guests boarded the school bus shuttles at the end of the celebration, individual bags of warm doughnuts and chocolate milk were offered to make the ride home that much sweeter.




Anna and Justin, thank you so much for being so wonderful, for being so in love and for making everyone around you smile.  You were both complete joy and pleasure and we wish you so much happiness in all that life has in store for you. 

xoxo,

Talia, Lindsay, and Nicole


Anna and Justin's Fabulous Fete Fruitioners include:

Location: Webb Barn
Wedding Planner and Day-of Stationery: Sixpence For Your Shoe
Event Rentals: Sixpence For Your Shoe, via Party Rental, LTD
Wedding Photography: Justin & Mary
Floral Design: Jessica Country Flowers
Caterer: Emily’s Catering
DJ: Rich Gumpert, Powerstation Events
Ceremony Musicians: Millennium Music
Transportation: Durham School Services
Lounge and Decor: Ryan Designs
Maple Kettle Corn: Lamothe’s Sugar House
Make-up: Sandra Downie Beauty
Wedding Dress + Styling: Modern Trousseau + The White Dress by The Shore
Sweets Table: Cookies Creatives by Jennifer
Calligraphy: Dancing Pen Calligraphy
Paper Suite: Stonington Design+Paperie; Intima Press
Officiant: Michael O’Loughlin
Bride’s Necklace: Kendra Scott
Wedding Cake: Lauren Kroesser (Sister of the Groom)

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Congratulations Stephanie and Matt!



A little under a year ago, Stephanie and Matt contacted us to design and plan their sleek and modern seaside wedding. And so we did. Then, Hurricane Irene ravaged the shoreline and left us without a venue, and it was time to pick up the pieces and plan again. As they say, luck is in the cards, because it just so happens that our new venue in New Haven is even better suited for our couple (and their guests who have flown in from all over the world to celebrate with them) than before. Congrats Stephanie and Matt! Can’t wait to share this day with you! Also, looking forward to working with so many wonderful vendors today who have really pulled together to make this transition happen, including Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, Stacey Ilyse Photography, Chris Walsh Productions, Night Rhythm Band, Stems FlowerDesign, Rob Alberti's Event Services, Ryan Designs, Wildwood Groups and Jennie Fesa Beauty Library.

xoxo,
Lindsay, Talia and Nicole

Saturday, August 6, 2011

Congratulations Hillary and Rory!



Just eight months ago, we met Hillary and her father Tom for the first time to discuss Hillary and Rory's wedding vision, including the gorgeous property that would be the grounds for the entire weekend festivities.  Hillary's parents own and run the Kingsfield Bed & Breakfast in Suffield, and the location is spectacular with its historic home and original interiors, the rolling hills, and two ponds with fountains.  We have had a great time planning with Hillary and her dad and can not wait to share the details of this "preppy meets french-chic" wedding! 

Stop back soon to see the details!