Caity and Matt's Photos in The Connecticut Bride

What a nice surprise it was to see photos of Caity and Matt's Hill-Stead Museum wedding in The Connecticut Bride Spring/Summer 2012 Issue. The gorgeous photos were taken by our wonderful friends Jane & Mike of IRIS Photography. We never tire of looking at them!
Enjoy!
Lindsay

Brie and Matt Featured in La Bella Bride Magazine

We are excited to share that Brie and Matt's beautiful Saltwater Farm Vineyard wedding is featured in the newest issue of La Bella Bride Magazine! Hurry on over to Borders to pick up your issue and check out our darling wedding (among many other gems) featuring the great talents of IRIS Photography, A Thyme to Cook, Stems Flower Design, Ryan Designs & Naomi's Studio & Salon.

Cheers!

Lindsay

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Reflecting on a Spectacular 2011

image by blue diamond photography

As we ring in the new year and toast to all the excitement, splendid couples, beautiful weddings, wonderful venues, amazing colleagues and all that 2012 has in store for us, we also take a few moments to honor an incredible 2011. 

We were pushed and challenged to expand our creativity, to explore and design in new locations, and to set the bar that much higher and then some.  We, along with our clients, braved snow (at the beginning of the season and the end!), torrential rains, extreme heat, a hurricane, some of the most glorious of weather days and more.  We grew our team, yet again and broadened our talented network of vendors and colleagues, allowing our clients fetes to be that much more fabulous!  And we met amazing couples, who welcomed us into their fold, gave us the opportunity to play such intimate roles in their lives - their wedding day, and who leave us with fond memories, in the same way we hoped we were able to do for them. 

Here is just a small look back at our year:



Images by: Stacey Ilyse Photography, E. Broderick Photography, Iris Photography, Katie Slater for Carla Ten Eyck, Leslie Dumke Photography, Blue Diamond Photography, Alternate Angles, Steve Depino, Alissa Dinneen Photography, Studio 1923, Justin & Mary, and Alissa Keane Photography

Congratulations to our 2011 clients and couples:
Alissa and John
Karri and Chris
Anna and Justin
Amanda and Sasha
Meghan and Glen
Brie and Matthew
Laura and Jeff
Caity and Matt
Heidi and Al
Judy's Birthday Party
Hillary and Rory
Stephanie and Matt
Lara and Robby
Alicia and Steve
Liz and Fred
Amy and David
Lila and Paul
Shawn's 40th Bash

Here's to 2011!

Connecticut Wedding Planner | Tori and Jack's Prep School Soiree

Tori and Jack’s wedding was a true expression of them as a couple. Victoria, an interior designer, was exceptionally inspired by a whimsical yet composed fresh and preppy spring garden feel. Jack, with his infectious grin and a background in the film industry, wanted to ensure friends and family who traveled far and wide for the couple’s wedding weekend had an amazing time. The couple's charming personalities were infused throughout all aspects of their wedding, beginning with their wedding invitations. A delicious accordion style letterpress invite featuring love birds captured their young at heart humor perfectly. The love bird theme was carried throughout their day of stationery, a sweet reflection of our couple's adoration for each other. Together with their families, they hosted an unforgettable June celebration at Avon Old Farms School for Boys in Avon, Connecticut that was full of thoughtful touches for their guests and downright fun!

The wedding party’s attire definitely set the stage for the affair. Tori wore a beyond gorgeous custom designed gown from Modern Trousseau; the marvelous ruffle detail was true work of art in and of itself. Bright Manolos added an unexpected splash of color and tied in with her ladies in flirty one shouldered navy and magenta dresses. Jack and his men donned J. Crew. Khaki suits and personalized Chuck Taylors. Their preppy accoutrements were complete with multi-striped ties and pocket square for Beau Ties.


One cannot set foot on the campus of Avon Old Farms School for Boys without gasping over the incredible stone and oak architecture modeled after English Cotswold and Tudor styles, which immediately conjures up visions a la Harry Potter. For Tori and Jack’s wedding it was our goal to brighten and lighten all spaces, yet still hold true to the remarkable back drop.

The ceremony took place at the chapel on campus, where our wonderful florist Jane of Just For You Floral Design Studio festively hung white pomanders by green ribbons from the support beams. Tori’s uncle performed the piano for the ceremony and she walked down the aisle to a song he composed just for her and that moment, this being the first time she heard it. It was a very warm day, but luckily the sweet ceremony program fans tied with bakers twine were not only adorable, but also helped keep everyone cool!



Following the ceremony, guests were guided across campus by old-school chalkboard signs to the lawn where cocktails were held. Croquet, custom initial bean bag tosses and lawn golf were set up for guests to enjoy themselves as they took in the incredible view and sipped on specialty drinks.

For the reception we transformed the dining hall into a dramatic garden party. Chalkboard escort cards with each guest’s name and table were strung up on the original cloak hooks in the dining room, making a grand statement to all entering. Utilizing the school’s original tables of extraordinary lengths, we layered them meticulously with crisp white linen, custom aloe runners Jack’s mother had made while on a visit to India, pebble green chargers, and a hemp napkin rolled with a jeweled accent. Varied height arrangements of hydrangea, rose, lisianthus and ranunculus provided interest to the table, and were a gorgeous contrast against the paneled walls, while the exposed green stems were another dash of green on our tables. Menus were hung from each chair, tied with the signature bakers twine. There were flickering candles in every possible place we could put them, and specialty lighting cast about the room a welcoming glow.



The fun evening was complete with an impressive play list by Jack, a photo booth, and lots of “dancing fuel” including a candy bar, passed cookies, popcorn machine and the biggest hit of them all, ice cream sandwiches in a vintage cooler. All in all, a wonderful day and fabulous party for our "love birds" Tori and Jack.

If you haven't already, run on over to check out this glorious wedding on Style Me Pretty!

Tori and Jack's Fabulous Fete Fruitioners include:

Venue: Avon Old Farms School
Planning and Design: Sixpence For Your Shoe
Event Photography: Benoit Photography, Dolce Photography
Detail Photography: Brian Khang Photography
Dress: Custom Design via Modern Trousseau
Suits: J. Crew
Ties and Pocket Squares: Beau Ties Ltd
Brides Shoes: Manolo Blahnik
Rentals: Party Rental & Taylor Rental
Linens: Linen Hero
Table Runners – Custom Made in India
Florist – Just For You Floral Design Studio
Invitations and Stationery – Lettuce Paper
Napkin Rings – EAB Designs/Etsy
Lighting & Photo Booth – ShinDig Lighting
Ceremony Music - Bride's Uncle
Reception DJ – Rob Waldron, Elegant Occassions DJ
Transportation – Premier Limo
Rings – Lux Bond and Green
Hair – Salon Naomi
Make-up - D.D. Nickel Make-up Studio
Cake - Creative Cakes by Donna
Video - Steven Fowler Films

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

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

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

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! 

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! 

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