At my first meeting with Meaghan, I think I smiled the entire time. She shared with me her vision for a "vintage picnic" themed wedding and immediately ideas started to flow. I watched as her face lit up with excitement - finally someone got it. While her family was having a hard time understanding her concept, I was spitting out suggestions for decor and a mini brainstorm session ensued.
photo credit: When I Grow Up Photography
She wished for an outdoor wedding and selected the Opera House of Pacific, located in the quaint town where she and her hubby-to-be currently reside, to host their big day. The outdoor courtyard was to provide the setting for the ceremony and the ballroom would contain the reception celebration. However, mother nature had other plans. Due to forecasts of rain, we had to implement Plan B and move the ceremony into the reception space, but my dear Meaghan was a trooper and trusted that everything was happening just as it was supposed to.
A ceremony backdrop made of garland was constructed featuring vintage fabrics. In addition, those fabrics were used in creating flag aisle runners.
photo credit: When I Grow Up Photography
A giant fabric chandelier was made to be the showpiece of the reception. However, it got dual notoriety; the ceremony was staged to allow the chandelier to hang directly over the couple as they exchanged vows.
photo credit: When I Grow Up Photography
With grace, Meaghan handled the crushing blow that her wish for an outdoor ceremony wasn't possible. But if that wasn't enough, she showed her resilience when just days before the big event, her flower order had been cancelled and the company was unable & unwilling to fix it for her. Fortunately, I had tested the waters of my floral abilities weeks before and knew I could create something spectacular. So after a trip to my favorite wholesale flower market, I got to work creating something that would make her smile.
photo credit: When I Grow Up Photography
Along with the flowers, her family-style tables featured various vintage treasures as well a some Longaberger baskets from her mother's collection. These were stuffed with apples to provide the pop of red she wanted to carry throughout.
Meaghan really enjoyed creating personal touches for her wedding. From the table numbers & seating assignments to the noise makers & mustache straws, this girl made it fun for her guests. She even had personalized place settings that provided introductions to the people seated next to each other.
photo credit: When I Grow Up Photography
To fully incorporate the picnic theme, dinner was served buffet style using vintage platters & cake stands all while featuring some yummy picnic favorites.
photo credit: When I Grow Up Photography
I had such a great time making Meaghan's vision come to life and I wish her & Jeff a lifetime of happiness.
Special thanks to the other vendors who made the day possible:
Venue: Opera House of Pacific
Photographer: When I Grow Up Photography
Caterer: Earnestly Made Catering Company
