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Bridechilla Wedding Planning

Helping You Ditch Wedding Stress And Plan The Wedding You Want

Tag:

outdoor wedding

Bridechilla BlogBridechilla Podcast

382- Wedding Rentals and Outdoor Planning with Heather Rouffe

by Aleisha July 22, 2019
written by Aleisha

On this episode of the Bridechilla podcast, guest Heather Rouffe, a professional wedding and event planner from Atlas Event Rentals, talks about wedding rentals and outdoor planning. If you are in the midst of planning your wedding, it is likely that this is your first time organizing such an elaborate and potentially expensive event. There are a lot of logistics to think through. If you are planning on doing an outdoor wedding, the amount of logistics can significantly increase. During this conversation, Heather explains how to think through the details of your wedding and how renting can help you accomplish your wedding dreams.  

Listen to episode 382 of Bridechilla Podcast

Indoor v. Outdoor Wedding

When the weather is great and the scenery is beautiful, there is little more charming and lovely than an outdoor wedding. However, choosing the outdoors presents additional challenges and variables that will require a little more planning. Outdoor venues give a blank canvas to create the type of environment you want, but you also have to provide everything needed to accommodate your guests. And what do you do if the weather is uncooperative? Heather gives advice for how to think through all of the elements of planning an outdoor wedding during this episode. 

Having the right team of vendors is so, so important to any outdoor venue and leads to a successful wedding

Photo by Annie Gray 

When to rent and when to buy

Once you’ve determined the venue for your wedding, you then have to start considering the event itself. From tables and chairs, to trashcans and waiter trays, there are so many items needed to create a smooth and memorable wedding. With all of the necessary items, what should be purchased and what items can be rented? Heather suggests working with your wedding planner or local rental company to discuss your venue and event from beginning to end. Considering the guest experience will help discover and secure every item you’ll need for your special day. 

Who would have ever thought that you need a waiter tray to bus all the dirty dishes and to remove your salad course?

Traditions vs Trends

During this conversation, Aleisha asks Heather her opinion on wedding trends in general. Are they a good thing that can create a new and unique experience or are they a risk that could later be regretted? Heather talks about the pros and cons of trends and how they might be incorporated in a wedding. Ultimately, blending trends with meaningful traditions can help create a special event that won’t be cringe worthy years later. 

Making sure your wedding guests know the environment they are going to be in is super important.

Photo by Mel Durham

After the damage is done 

A common concern about renting items for a wedding is damage. What happens if the party gets a bit too lively or a waiter trips and glassware gets broken? Is the couple responsible for damages? How can you avoid having a substantial bill after the party is over. Heather recommends talking with your rental company about insurance and damage waivers. If there is a damage waiver available, it could save money on broken items. It will also give you the peace of mind to enjoy the party, even if you hear the sound of glass breaking. Hear all about that and more wedding rentals and outdoor planning tips on this episode of the Bridechilla podcast.

Backyard weddings sometimes cost more than going to a venue. You have to provide everything.

Listen to episode 382 of Bridechilla Podcast

Show Highlights

  • [0:24] Aleisha introduces the episode and the guest of the show, Heather Rouffe, a wedding and event planning expert.

  • [2:54] How Heather got involved in the wedding industry. 

  • [4:13] What items should you buy for your wedding and what should be rented. 

  • [7:07] If you are having a backyard wedding, what logistics should you be thinking through before you book your venue? 

  • [10:24] How a backyard wedding might be more difficult and expensive than a wedding being held in a traditional venue. 

  • [11:57] Heather and Aleisha discuss preparing for bad weather and preparing your guests for an outdoor wedding.

  • [20:35] What items should you rent for your wedding and where do you begin? 

  • [23:10] Heather lists several of the less glamorous items that have to be considered when planning a wedding and rentals. 

  • [25:46] Trends come and go. What does Heather, a professional wedding and event planner, think about wedding trends in general?

  • [30:09] What happens if a rented item breaks? Is there insurance or damage protection?

Meet this episode's guest

With over 15 years of experience in the wedding and event planning industry, Heather Rouffee is an expert of the logistics of planning a wedding. Heather has worked at Atlas Event Rentals in Byonton, FL since 2004, where she helps her clients accomplish the vision for their events and weddings. On this episode she shares tips from her wealth of knowledge and experience about wedding rentals and outdoor planning. 

With thanks to our Bridechilla Partners

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Show image by Sweet Ice Cream Photography

July 22, 2019
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Real Bridechilla Weddings

Exquisite Cabo Wedding with a Donkey and Maracas!

by Aleisha March 7, 2019
written by Aleisha

Chicagoans Henry and Joelle, escaped the snow and headed to San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico to celebrate their wedding celebrations with 130 of their friends and family.
When Henry and I decided to have a destination wedding – far away from the winter snow– we knew it had to San Jose Del Cabo, Mexico. When else could we gather all our family and friends from across the United States, vacation in the sun for more than a day? We wanted to have more time to celebrate and enjoy than just the day of our wedding! Call us selfish.

The secret to Planning a Destination Wedding...GETTING HELP!

We knew that we needed someone local to help us create the weekend that we wanted to have for our guests. We hit the jackpot when we were introduced to Lauren Lemke at Amy Abbott Events. She went above and beyond in listening to what had in mind and showing us the different options available and assembled a dream team of vendors! She answered us at all hours of the night from emails to texts. Even agreed to set up a WebEx so we were able to share screens even though she was miles away in much warmer climate.

The minute we got to Mexico – all our work was done. We didn’t have to worry about anything because Lauren had everything under control! We spent the days before the wedding hanging at the pool and having quality time with our guests.

Planning a weekend of Celebrations 

The festivities began on Thursday night where we took a crew aged 24-64 to the bars in Cabo San Lucas. It was a blast! It was worth the trip because it was touristy fun for everyone to see the crazy nightlife and mingle before the wedding. Our guests won’t ever forget the Groom being hung upside at Giggling Marlin and the bride dancing in cage with her brothers and cousins at Squid Roe.

Friday night rehearsal dinner was perfect intimate venue for our big family to listen toasts and roasts. A nice surprise was the singer playing acoustic guitar and singing classics. My cousin gave an impromptu performance Sea of Love by Cat Power. After the rehearsal dinner we met the rest of our guests were by the fire pit.

Saturday came before we both knew it! Henry spent the day playing in the waves while I glammed with my friends. Henry surprised me with a bouquet of flowers and monogrammed pajamas and he was delivered a menu to select our dinner for Sunday.

Our wedding at Flora Farms what everything we wanted and more! Looking back at our photos – we were grinning from ear to ear the whole time. Things are never perfect but our day was as close to perfect as we could imagine.

And now we have an excuse to escape Chicago every February in Mexico!

How did you meet, and how long did you date before getting engaged?

Henry and I met ten years before our first date. Freshman year at St. Mary’s College of California far from my home in Chicago and his home in Montana. We don’t remember meeting but over the next ten years our paths undoubtedly crossed multiple times, having mutual friends at a small college, spending a full semester working a across the hall from each other at different internships, and living it up in San Francisco after college. We even moved to Chicago the same month in 2013.

We finally noticed each other over the most romantic weekend of the year in Chicago-–Saint Patrick’s Day Weekend. The timing was perfect because two years to the day later, we were engaged!

Who proposed? When and how?

On a cold Friday evening the night before St. Patrick’s Day (two years after we both caught each other’s eye) Henry insisted that we have dinner in the suburbs near my parents because he was working late. Leaving for work that morning I had an inkling that maybe something was up so I brought my cute coat. By the end of the day when it was time to take the train to the suburbs – I grabbed my big ugly puffy coat because all day my parents and Henry threw me off by being grumpy towards me! There definitely was not a surprise engagement party waiting for me in the burbs.

We walked to dinner, and Henry kept going to the bathroom and he was not paying attention to me! So I thought for sure – nothing is happening. No one is treating me special.

When the waiter asked if we wanted dessert (which I always get) Henry told them – no we are good. I pouted and thought when we get to my parents I’m going straight to bed. I was happy I had my warm puffy coat to walk home.

As we walked towards my parents house I saw that in the windows it said “Will you Marry Me” in lights. Henry got down on one knee and started to recite a poem. He couldn’t get through it because I was screaming and jumping up and down. My parents and brothers were hiding in the bushes and my mom started screaming too. We must have looked crazy – I don’t think Henry expected the sheer amount of excitement. We went inside popped the champagne and called our close family and friends!

How did you choose your wedding venue?

My family has been vacationing in Cabo for the past 10 years, and a few years ago someone mentioned Flora Farms to my foodie parents. They were intrigued and went to check it out. They absolutely loved it and made a point to take us there the next time we were in town with them. Henry and I were only a year into dating, but after having dinner there we turned to each other and said “how incredible would it be to get married here?!?!” The food was amazing, the farm grounds are magical and we just felt like it was the place for us. The farm also features some awesome animals; ducks, turtles, farm kitties, and few well-fed farm dogs. Henry is a huge animal lover so that alone was almost enough for him!

Almost exactly a year later, we were engaged, and our first location visit was to Flora Farms. Because we had both gone to school in California and lived there for eight years, and Henry being from Montana, we have a lot of friends spread throughout the Midwest and west coast. We figured that a lot of people would have to travel to our wedding regardless, so why not bring them on a February vacation to Cabo? We wavered a bit – and my Mom just told me – if you want to have it there- do it! We booked the mango grove after our initial walkthrough and the rest, as they say, is history.

Did you incorporate any religious and/or cultural traditions into your ceremony?

Due to the international travel, our grandparents were not able to travel for the ceremony. They were, however, represented at the ceremony – three prayers which were hand-picked by our grandmothers were read at the altar! We spoke to the same vows that our grandparents swore to each other with hope that our marriage will stand the test of time just like theirs did.

Did you do a “first look” before the ceremony?

No! We did a few things very traditionally, including no first look. Henry and I did not see each other from Friday night until I came around the corner and headed toward the aisle at Flora Farms…it made for a very special moment.

Tell us About Your Reception: What color scheme did you choose and why?

The farm and venue had such natural beauty, so we chose our bridesmaid dresses and suits to compliment the scenery Pink and Navy Blue. For the décor we stayed with neutrals and mixed metallic. At work – our design rationale is timeless design – so we tried to stick to simple and classic. My mom and I worked with Lauren to make sure that everything fit with what we had imagined.

What did you use as your escort cards and/or place cards?

We attached our escort cards to our favor – the maracas

What were your wedding favors?

Maracas! My mom really wanted it as a Mexican Flavor! Our guests loved it and it was a perfect dance accessory.

What was your biggest splurge of the day?

When we decided we wanted to get married at Flora Farms- we knew that we wanted our family and friends to fall in love with it as much as we did. When planning the one thing we had debated on were the tables – there is cost savings round vs. farm tables. We went back and forth, crunched the numbers and at the end of the day we decided to go with what we wanted.

The donkey was a last minute add- Henry has a love for animals and thought it would be a great surprise for our guests. It was hard for me to keep it a secret from everyone so leading up to the wedding I would tell Lyft drivers and strangers that we were going to have a surprise donkey, so I could keep my promise to Henry.

How did you save on costs?

Vow to be Chic was a great option for our bridesmaids since they had to spend on travel and hotel. We used Black Tux for the grooms the grooms too which was affordable. I borrowed my veil and didn’t splurge on accessories for the day of.

We also debated doing a welcome party for our guests, but it was not in our budget. We were able to organize a champagne toast with our hotel and they were able to work with our budget.

What are some of the personal touches that you added to your celebration

Henry was really wanted to have some individually for each of his groomsmen. He found Argentine Luxury Leather Belts La Matera that had a pattern that matched with the suites and gave each groomsman their own pattern.

Lauren (our wedding planner) knew we wanted to have a sweetheart table since we wouldn’t have seen each other all day. She had a great idea to have a loveseat which made it great to be close to each other when we were seated!

We cut the cake with Henry’s Grandmother’s antique cake knives which made it all the more special since she couldn’t attend.

To memorialize the special day in our favorite place in the entire world – we engraved the latitude and longitude of Flora Farms in the inside of our bands.

Our nieces were Jr Bridesmaid. It was so special to have them there to get ready with us. My girlfriends (who always do my hair and makeup) did theirs. I loved sitting next to my nieces while my friend who did my make up in high school did my nieces.

Harry's bespoke Argentine Luxury Leather Belts


What were your 4 favorite moments of your wedding celebration?

1. When my dad walked me down the aisle and gave Henry a hug – He whispered – She is all yours. The mic caught it and everyone laughed. That was the first time we met Rev. Diego at the altar. We were grinning ear to ear the entire ceremony.

2. Henry wanted to plan a surprise dance. We did not practice as much as we should have – Henry walked in knowing more of the moves than I did. When we started our routine – we just went. We thought we had got it down and all the sudden we were still dancing, and the music stopped. It wasn’t perfect, but it was us!

3. Henry’s brothers speech quoted a song from the Grateful Dead which has special meaning to his family because his father was a lyricist for the Grateful Dead - “The heart has its beaches, it's homeland and thoughts of its own.” It really captured who we are as a couple – we are home together but we each let each other keep our individuality.

4.The Dancing! Seeing all of our family and friends from all sides dancing together and tearing it up on the dance floor. At one point two groomsmen tied their ties together and used it for limbo.

What did you learn from the experience?

The best investment we made was getting a wedding planner. Lauren was an all-star. As someone who manages projects and clients it was nice to be the client for once!

Working for a family business- we usually make everything a project. Having Lauren helped us relax and enjoy the wedding and not have to worry about the details and that made it enjoyable for not only our families but Henry and I. The whole wedding weekend my friends and family commented how relaxed we both were – and it was because we had the best wedding planner!

Our vendors really were responsible for what a great weekend it was. They helped us throw the party for our loved ones where everyone could really let their hair down and really enjoy themselves! We had a great team.

If you know what you want – just do it! Henry and I will always look back at it as one of the greatest time of our life.

Insert Image

If you could sum up your wedding day in one sentence, how would you describe it?

Can we do it all over again?!

Joelle and Harry's Rockstar Vendors

Planner - Lauren Lemke with Amy Abbott- Amy Abbott Events
Photographer- Julia Franzosa
Venue- Flora Farms
Paper Goods - Papier Girl (invitations) / Bells & Whistles Cabo (wedding stationary)
Design and Decor- Let it Be Events
Makeup Artist- Neysa Berman- Blanc Bridal Salon
DJ- Alex DJ Cabo Events
Floral Designer- Lola at Florenta Flower Design
Bridesmaid Dresses- Jenny Yoo Collection
Dress Designer- Mignonette Bridal

March 7, 2019
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Bridechilla Blog

Modern, Hip and Rocking Williamsburg Rooftop Wedding

by Aleisha February 15, 2019
written by Aleisha

Project Manager Althea and restaurant owner Sean met an Oscars Party (Argo was the winner that year), through friends of friends! They share the details of their vibrant and personal Williamsburg Rooftop Wedding.

Tell us all about the proposal

It was actually pretty spontaneous. We booked a snowboarding trip to Breckenridge, CO on New Years Eve for the first week of Jan (very unromantic but our credit card offer was about to expire in the new year). Sean somehow managed to arrange a photographer (Joe & Robin; proposal photos here) and a proposal in the mountains near Boulder in that short week. Our flight landed late and unbeknownst to me (Althea), we had somewhere to be. I remember being VERY hangry and Sean would only let me stop for McDonalds! It really felt like us; a little spontaneity, a little adventure and some good old-fashioned laughter!

Describe the wedding planning process.
Why did you choose the vendors you worked with?

This was not as stressful as most people made it sound!
Once we nailed down the location (we chose a place that allowed us to bring in our own vendors, something important to us), we just started asking for recommendations from one vendor to the next and the wedding sort of "planned" itself from there. We knew what was important to us (good food, great bar, killer live music and for Althea, flowers) and really focused our attentions on those things. We chose vendors that matched our taste, gave them an outline of our vision and let them run with it! It turned out really beautifully.

How was your wedding day? 

SO MUCH FUN!

The biggest advice everyone had was that we should be "present" and we really took that to heart. We worried about almost nothing and just let ourselves have a blast all night. Althea spent the entire night on the dance floor (where she wanted to be) and Sean schmoozed (always the life of the party). Our favorite part was our favors - we loved giving away the books and legos and it was fun to see what our guests had chosen.

What was your favorite moment from your wedding day?

Althea: Tied between giving our thank you speech and our ceremony.
For our thank you speech, seeing all of our friends and family there and getting the opportunity to thank them was a privilege. For our ceremony, our friends that officiated blew it out of the water! The speech was sentimental but not cheesy, personal but not riddled with stereotypes. We loved it.

Sean: The moment right after the ceremony and the moment before we headed down to the reception. We got to spend a few minutes alone, take a breath and really enjoy the feeling of being newlyweds!

What is your advice for newly engaged couples?

Decide what's important to you for your wedding and run with it! Don't sweat the small stuff.

Althea and Sean’s Rockstar Vendors

​
Photography- Katie Osgood Photography

Wedding Coordination - ASE, Amanda Savory Events

Floral Design- Rye Workshop

Jewelry Designer- Kataoka Jewelry (Althea's wedding band, bought at Catbird) and Valentin Magro (Sean's wedding band)

Beauty Artists- A friend did Althea's makeup and Vanessa Quiles (Althea's hairdresser) did the hair.

Stationery- We had friends help us out and did some of it ourselves!

Caterer- Poppy's Catering. We also got barbecue from John Brown Smokehouse for our cocktail hour.

Photo Booth Equipment- Sweet Booths

Tuxedo and Mens Attire- Michael Andrews Bespoke

Shoes- Manolo Blahnik

Dress Designer- Elizabeth Fillmore Bridal

Equipment Rentals- Broadway Party Rentals

Band- 45 Riots

Reception Venue- Dobbin St

 

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February 15, 2019
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An Eclectic Backyard Wedding Full of Homemade Details

by Aleisha October 6, 2018
written by Aleisha

Heather & Matthew were married in an eclectic backyard wedding full of meaningful, homemade details. Photographer, Jessica Hunt shares a bit about their day...

Jessica Hunt: This wedding day is like none other I've ever photographed. Though an incredible team of vendors came together to make the wedding day happen, most of the planning and unique details of the day came straight from the couple! The ceremony entrance, arbor, bar, and dance floor were all built by the bride's father and Pawpaw. Truly a handmade-backyard affair!

Every little detail was poured over with love, each decoration and moment thought through. From the 'Wizard of OZ' quotes placed throughout the bride's parents' backyard to the handmade details, each little thing fit Heather and Matthew perfectly. Heather gifted her bridesmaids a pair of earrings, a handwritten note, and a forest green shaw to warm them up on the pretty November day. Matthew wore a velvet maroon suite jacket, and I loved his little fancy pocket square. The 'flower girls' were really 'feather girls' who threw feathers instead of petals, and the couple's friends and family showered them with paper airplanes as they walked down the aisle as Mr. & Mrs. for the first time. The paper airplanes were an important detail for Heather and Matthew because Matthew is a plane/drone hobbyist. They said their vows in front of a sea of candles and a handmade arbor made from stain glass windows.

...and the party after their vows? One for the books!

There were chandeliers hanging in the reception tent and a handmade, custom dance floor to host the party. They had a live band to rock out to all evening, and guests made s'mores right outside their reception tent around bonfires. Even the bar was built by hand for the wedding by Heather's family! Matthew, a real firework enthusiast, put on a gorgeous fireworks show to end the night. All-in-all Heather and Matthew's day was just plain flawless. Every little handmade detail complimented their backyard wedding and love perfectly, and this day is going to go down as one of my favorite wedding days yet.

Some Words of Wisdom from the Couple

Heather: You can never be too organized. If you are doing a homemade wedding, planning is crucial! You don’t want to be doing a lot of crafty things last minute. If one more person told me I have plenty of time to worry about that or you can do that later before the wedding I was going to scream! You want to enjoy the weeks before the wedding and not be stressed out! So anything you can do ahead of time...knock it out! Prioritize what is important to you and knock those things out...if you have leftover wants...OH well at least you got the most important ones off your list of To Do’s and honestly, no one will ever know if something wasn’t done!

Heather & Matthew's Rockstar Vendors

Photographer: Jessica Hunt Photography
Heather's Gown: Mikaella Bridal
Invitation Designer: The Copy Shop
Caterer: Hamptons Restaurant & Bakery
Hair Stylist: The Venue Salon
Officiant: Pastor Tim Brown
Band: Virtually Unshockable
Bridesmaid Dresses: Weddington Way
Men's Apparel: C. Anthony's Menswear
Other Attire: J. Major's Bridal Boutique
Floral Designer: Bloomsbury Floral Designs

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October 6, 2018
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A Breathtaking, Romantic Kauai Elopement

by Aleisha September 29, 2018
written by Aleisha

Stunning views, intimate vows, and a pink sunset for Crystal & Jason's Kauai elopement.

Crystal & Jason committed their lives to each other in a stunning Kauai elopement. Their photographer, Meg Bradyhouse shares her experience photographing this incredible, romantic day, capturing their love for the ages, and all the breathtaking vistas along the way. 

Meg: They read their vows on the cliff under the Koa tree. The wind stopped as so to listen to their words and they softly made their promises to one another.

“I love you more than words can express, and I’m so lucky to be standing here with you today. On top of this canyon, I promise to give you the love and respect that you deserve every day. I will support you like the winds beneath the wings of the birds in this valley, and comfort you like the warm sunsets over the horizon for all the days of my life. Crystal, Aloha au ia ‘oe. I love you”

“I knew that you were special from the first hug you gave me at my apartment when we were only acquaintances. It was gentle and kind – it was a hug that left me feeling loved. From the beginning of our journey together I could feel in my heart the kindness of your soul...Together we have discovered new dimensions of love. Every opportunity that we have to care for each other is a privilege. You are a gift to me in this lifetime."

I took the photograph and lowered my camera. There was just something so special about these two in this place. The sound of the waterfall in the background of the canyon and the stillness all around us. I felt so honored that we got to be there to not only witness but to also capture this rarity of love through the photographs. They truly did create magic, and every time I get to photograph an enchanted elopement I believe in what they stand for more and more.

Crystal & Jason's Rockstar Vendors

Photographer: Meg Bradyhouse


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September 29, 2018
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Woodland Bridal Inspiration for Adventurous Folks

by Aleisha September 27, 2018
written by Aleisha

Super chill, woodland bridal inspiration for outdoorsy types who crave self-expression and nothing but good vibes.

Today we are bringing you inspiration for the free-spirited and wild at heart Bridechillas. The team who produced this photoshoot wanted to channel that wildness into this woodland bridal inspiration. 

This styled bridal portrait session was set along the Greenways in Charlotte, North Carolina and features wild, garden style florals and bridal fashions that complement the adventurous vibe of the setting. The design team was inspired by the change of seasons, natural materials, and rich colors and textures. 

The designers and photographer behind this photoshoot are giving you permission to be your adventurous self on your wedding day and in your bridal portraits. Wear the comfy boots, break out your favorite moto jacket, and go for a hike, even if that hike happens to be along an urban Greenway!

The Rockstar Vendor Team

Photographer: Amy Ellis Photography
Event Venue: Charlotte Greenway
Cake Designer: Sweet Affairs Charlotte
Calligrapher: Samantha Meyer Studio
Hair & Makeup Artist: Bethany Grotz
Floral Designer: Bloom Wild

September 27, 2018
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Kellen & JP’s Creative Casual Outdoor Wedding in Ottawa

by Aleisha September 1, 2018
written by Aleisha

A backyard wedding vibe without the backyard at Cumberland Heritage Village Museum in Ottawa, Ontario, CA.

Kellen & JP were married in July of 2018 at Cumberland Heritage Village Museum in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. This fun-loving couple wanted the vibe of a casual backyard party complete with lawn games, local craft, beer, colorful decor, and delicious smoked BBQ! 

Here is Kellen to share more about how she and JP planned their delightful wedding!

Kellen: JP and I are a pretty adventurous couple and are always looking for something new to try! Chances are pretty good at any given time you will find us outside, whether it's hiking, camping, canoeing, sailing, scuba diving, skiing, skating, or lying in a hammock drinking a beer we belong outdoors!

JP proposed in a small town in the middle of nowhere Germany without a ring! We got engaged in September 2017. We had talked about getting engaged before, so I was kind of expecting something while on our trip. On the 4th day of our 3 week vacation we had planned a hiking trip into the Alps. We were planning on hiking up Zugspitze, the tallest mountain in Germany.

The hike started out a little bit rainy, but we didn't let that stop us and we continued on! We had some incredible views and it was an experience I will never forget. About half way into the hike, we made the decision to turn around. The hike was taking a lot longer then anticipated and we knew we couldn't make it to the top before dark. JP seemed more disappointed then normal about this, but I didn't really think much of it at the time (turns out he wanted to propose up there!). On the way back down there was one spot on the trail that I thought was breathtaking, I remember standing in the spot looking all around and thinking "if he doesn't propose here, he is not proposing on this trip in Germany at all". Well he didn't propose. So later that night, after dinner, when he did, it definitely took me by surprise! On the walk back to our Airbnb the conservation went something like this:


JP: Hey, Did you want to marry me?

Kellen: Yeah, I do.

*long pause*

JP: I'm serious

Kellen Me too

*long pause*

Kellen: So is this the official proposal?

*another long pause*

JP: Yeah - remember that Canada Post missed delivery slip from Thursday...that is your ring!

Turns out the mail delivery slip we got on the day we left home was my ring, not a boat part like JP lead me to believe! Despite the ringless, thwarted mountain top proposal, I still said yes and we spent the next 3 weeks in Germany blissfully engaged while I was silently dying to know what my ring looked like!

Our original thought was to have a causal backyard party at my aunt and uncle's house on the Ottawa River. However, once we started looking at all the logistics we realized it wasn't very reasonable financially or otherwise. So we did the next best thing - found an outdoor venue that already had the basics, like bathrooms, shelter, tables, and chairs! It ended up being under 10 minutes from my aunt's house, so we were still able to do our first look and bridal party photos at my aunt's on the river!

We wanted our wedding to be fun and causal - lots of games, dancing and a bonfire! We didn’t want any pressure to have a ‘perfect’ day and we wanted it to reflex our laidback, down to earth personalities.

My favourite part of the day was the ceremony. From pretty early in the day we knew it was going to pour rain right around the time of our outdoor ceremony. Now, when I say it poured rain, I mean it POURED right during our ceremony time. Our venue was completely outdoors with our ceremony to take place on a tree lined road. We had a covered pavilion and a large tent, but they were both still pretty open to the elements, so they didn’t really help with the sideways torrential downpour. We were all watching the radar closely and knew we would have a 20-minute window of rain free time, so we mobilized quick to get our ceremony going! Since we knew we didn’t have time to wipe down all the puddles on the chairs we moved back our arch a few feet and had our guests stand and line the aisle. It ended up being very emotional and felt so intimate to have everyone surround us and support us in that way. Despite it not going according to plan - I wouldn’t change how it went down for anything!

We were lucky enough to have an army of people help us day of and throughout the whole planning process, so that we were able to make our wedding reflect us. Our whole wedding was DIY – we collected tin cans that became our centerpieces and decorated with ribbon and baby’s breath, we hand wrote all our signs on old mirrors and windows, I designed our invitations on Canva, my mom made our bouquets from Costco flowers, my bridesmaids did my hair, I did my own makeup, my father-in-law built our ceremony arch, my mom and sister-in-law sewed all the colorful bunting, my grandfather made a giant kerplunk lawn game (total hit!), my husband built our wooden card box, my other grandfather made the wine, my older brother played the guitar as I walked down the aisle, my younger brother was our DJ with speakers we borrowed from my aunt – I could go on, but I think you get the point…

What was totally worth it?

Our photographer. This was one of our biggest expenses but 100% worth it. Our photos are gorgeous and at the end of the day the photos are all we really have of the day, so I’m so glad we spend the money to hire an amazing photographer!

What was not worth it?

This may sound cheesy, and has been said hundreds of times, but seriously, the stress. We are both thrilled with how the day turned out and very happy with all the decisions we made and vendors we picked. However, at the beginning of the process before we really had a vision of what we wanted the day to be, I was stressed out about what it ‘should’ be. In the end all the stress did was delay planning!

What did you throw in the Fuck-It Bucket?

The nature of our wedding meant a lot of traditional wedding things naturally ended up in the bucket, mostly because they were never on the table or considered in the first place – I’m looking at you chair covers, charger plates and a formal seated dinner!

There were still definitely a few things we actively threw in though! Favours were a big one (hint: no one missed them or asked about them), seating plan, garter and bouquet toss, wedding cake and everything that goes along with it (had butter tarts from my husband’s hometown instead – best decision we made!), programs and other printed material, videography, a head table (we sat among the guests!).

Speeches were almost, kinda in the bucket as well. I didn't want them, but my husband did, so we comprised on having 'campfire stories' where a few people could share with us around the fire. It was going to be more of an optional thing for guests to enjoy if they wanted to (dancing would continue as we did this). But of course, it started to rain again just in time for the stories to start. Instead we put the dancing on hold for a few minutes and had the best man and my bridesmaids say a few words. It turned out perfect! 

What advice do you have for other couples planning their weddings?

Have fun, take it easy, and make your own rules. Don’t let planning take over your life – it is ok to take some time to not think or talk about the wedding.

How did Bridechilla help you plan your wedding?

We always knew we wanted a laid back, causal wedding but before I found Bridechilla I had this weird reaction of justifying our wedding and why we weren’t doing certain things. After listening to the podcast and being in the facebook group I became more confident in our choices and stopped paying as much attention to everyone else’s opinions. Bridechilla helped me stay focused on us and what we wanted our wedding to be (aka a causal backyard party without an actual backyard). It also played a huge role in me staying so relaxed amid the torrential down pour and change ups of the day. As the rain came down I could just hear Aleisha’s voice saying “fuck perfect” and had a much easier time going with the flow! 

Kellen & JP's Rockstar Vendors

Venue: Cumberland Heritage Village Museum

Photography:  Amy Pinder Photography

Catering:  Meatings BBQ

Butter Tarts: Jean-Marc Bakery

Dress:  Dominique Leveseque

Bridesmaids separates: Love Tanya (skirts) &  RW&co (tops)

Bridal Hair Piece:  Luna and Stone

Bridesmaid Jewelry: Statement Grey

Engagement Ring & Wedding Band: Shiruba Tree

Brewery:  Broadhead Brewing Company

Officiants: Keith with Exceptional Ceremonies & our friend, Grant.

September 1, 2018
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Betty and Allan’s Woodland Cinema Wedding

by Aleisha January 8, 2018
written by Aleisha

I'm into forest walks and he's into movies.... so how could we possibly not have a Woodland Cinema themed wedding!

Yes ok, granted it isn't your classic wedding theme, but it is classically us and that is exactly what we wanted our wedding to be - a reflection of us as individuals and as a couple.

When we first got engaged I was definitely the enthusiastic driving force of the planning - I was coming up with ideas and Pinterest boards galore firming up my "vision." Allan was somewhat slower out the starting blocks, which had lured me into a false sense of security that I might get to make every decision for the wedding - no such luck - once he was on board it was team decisions all the way. This of course meant that I didn't always get my own way [queue toddler tantrum] and we had to do a little thing called compromise (what good practice for marriage!). However, in the end, this meant that we had a wedding that was totally personal and totally "us."


We both agreed that we wouldn't do traditions for the sake of traditions but would pick and choose what was meaningful to us.

I wanted my dad to walk me down the aisle but didn't want him to "give me away" (I am not being passed from one man to the other as a business transaction). I wanted to do a speech (I am not prepared to sit quiet and let the men do all the talking)..... oh did I forget to mention that feminism was a secret sub-theme of the wedding! We wanted the ceremony to be personal and to add in a Handfasting ceremony to reflect our Scottishness and we adapted it to symbolize the joining of two families by using ribbons made of our clan tartans.

One of the best tips I read was in an article by a wedding planner. She said rather than start with a theme, pick three adjectives that you want your wedding to be, and build your wedding from there.

She said that starting with a theme could lead your wedding to feel a bit 2D, but working your way from a broad starting point and refining makes it a more fluid organic process that would lead to a richer theme.

My three words were 'Nature,' 'Colourful' and 'Fun' and Allan's were 'Fun,' 'Informal' and ........ I've forgotten the third #terriblewife.

From there we developed different bits of the day and soon our woodland cinema theme emerged! We held these words in mind when looking for vendors; falling in love with the AMAZING Errol Park with its quirky fun interior and stunning natural ground; loving the family dining style approach of Wild Rover Food (omg soooo tasty and all locally and sustainably sourced); booking photography with the talented Nikki Leadbetter Photography and videography with Brian Scott Weddings due to their informal natural reporter style shots; and having Pretty Little Punk personalized wedding converses for the bride, bridesmaids and mother of the bride to change into after the ceremony - no excuses not to be on the dance floor.

We went pretty heavy on the DIY but were happy to do so. With Allan being a tradesman he is pretty handy, and I love a crafty project. Upon reflection, we perhaps have underestimated the hours and money that this approach would take, but for us, it was these personal touches that would give the wedding the vibe we wanted. For us this was something that was important - so for us, it was worth it (even the repetitive strain I got from folding 480 origami cranes). 

Our favourite touches of the day included:

  • The ushers serving popcorn to guests as they arrived at our ceremony so they had a bite to eat during the main event.
  • Our VHS table plan - find your film to find your seat!
  • Those origami cranes which came from blood, sweat and tears
  • The movie room alcove which played clips from our favourite classic films
  • The hangover kits for guests so they were left with great memories from our day rather than a thumping head!
  • The amazing work of our florist Tupelo Tree - she is a "florist and woodland artist" so immediately I knew she was the one who would bring our vision to life.  She added ferns, moss and wild flowers and her work is truly stunning - swoon.

So my reflections on planning a DIY wedding:

1.Do what is important to you. 

If the little personal touches and DIY projects don't matter to you - don't do them (weddings are still great without them) - it's a lot of hours and money if it's not going to add anything emotionally to your day if wouldn't be worth the hassle. If it is important to you - GO FOR IT - plan plan plan - schedule - timetable and get your friends and family on board - crafternoons are the way forward (boozy crafternoons are even better). ENJOY THE PROCESS AND THE JOURNEY

2.Plan together. 

Shape the wedding to be a reflection of you both. Stay true to what matters to you. I am so impressed we managed this, I am working on my assertiveness and am aware I am conflict avoidant but we managed to stick to our guns on a number of things (e.g., no kids, and no obligation guests) and I am so happy, and proud that we did.

3.Be present. 

I know it's an obvious one that everyone says, but it's true! One of my bridesmaids had just qualified as a yoga instructor so the night before and the morning of the wedding she led a yoga class and some meditation. For me this was the perfect way to start the day in a calm mindset, ready to be mindful of my special day.

4. Let go. 

Once the planning is done.... it's done. Letting go of control, particularly of things which are out of your control frees you up to be present. I am a planner by nature and knew this could be a stumbling block for me, especially since we didn't have a wedding coordinator. I approached this by putting together a detailed, step-by-step, itinerary of the day that outlined what needed to happen, and who needed to do it. I emailed this out in advance of the wedding to all the vendors and the wedding party. This meant that on the day I felt able to let go, not needing to think about any part of it, or if people would be doing what needed to happen. I had done my bit...... and all was left was for me to enjoy the day.

Vendors

Venue: Errol Park 

Catering: Wild Rover Food

Photographer: Nikki Leadbetter Photography 

Videographer: Brian Scott Weddings 

Dress: Wed2b

Kilts: Kingdom Kilts

Florist: Tupelo Tree 

Bridesmaids dresses: TheDaintYard

Personalised trainers: Pretty Little Punk

Hair: MHM Styling

Makeup: Kiki Chic

January 8, 2018
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Chris & Sam’s Intimate Woodland Wedding Brunch (with Gold Flamingos!)

by Aleisha November 14, 2017
written by Aleisha

Bridechilla Graduates:
Chris & Sam's Intimate Woodland Wedding Brunch (with Gold Flamingos!)

Sam & Chris were married in October 2017 at Frozen Head State Park, Wartburg, TN USA. Their intimate woodland wedding and brunch reception were full of personal, handmade details to remind them of their families, and of their own story as a couple. We asked Sam to share a bit about their wedding and how they planned such a unique wedding on a small budget!

Tell us about your wedding!

SAM: Leading up to the wedding, I knew I wanted to make it as meaningful and detail oriented as possible. I put a lot of effort into incorporating family and friends and the things we love. We wanted a joyful ceremony and a fun reception, and that's exactly what we got! Our wedding is proof that $3,000 can give you the wedding of your dreams. ($40 venue, borrowed tables and chairs, DIY all the things, food prepared by friends and family, $100 dress...it can be done, y'all!)

My aunt handmade my veil using pieces of lace from my mother's wedding dress. The Bible I carried in lieu of a bouquet was a childhood gift to my mother from my Grandaddy McKinney. I carried it with dried greenery from my late grandmother's funeral floral arrangement as a way of carrying her with me.

My dad, Steve, and I walked in to a Dolly Parton cover of “Turn, Turn, Turn” by the Byrds. This song was played in my parents' wedding as well. I chose modern versions (hunter green and metallic gold) of my parents’ wedding colors (70s avocado green and goldenrod) to pay tribute to their influence in her life. In addition, we cut the cake with the same knife used by my parents at their wedding nearly 45 years ago.

Chris wore overalls because that was his outfit of choice for our first coffee date. Chris chose an instrumental version of Ozzy Osbourne’s “I Just Want You” in honor of his late father, Richard Ledford, who was a huge fan of metal and a huge influence on Chris’s life.

Our pastor is like a second father to me and drove more than 300 miles to perform our ceremony. We wrote our own vows promising to share in the good and bad as well as sharing our ice cream. We chose to take communion together as husband and wife immediately following the vows using wine made by my late grandfather, Wilburn Jones, and bread homemade by my mama.

After the ceremony, Chris and I stood at the path to the walk way so we could hug each of our guests and personally thank them for coming.

"Let go of anything that's not super meaningful to you."

Now on to the reception! Since I was a little girl, I've loved flamingos. We had gold flamingos lining the aisle, and we used a set of flamingo salt and pepper shakers as our cake topper. Those shakers now reside on our dining room table as a reminder of our wedding day.

My aunt (who also made the veil) handmade magnolia blooms out english crepe paper. We used recycled green glass bottles from our favorite Mexican soda for the centerpieces. Chris and I collect vinyl records. He actually proposed at our favorite record store so we had our engagement photos made there as well. We used 45s that were sprayed gold as part of our centerpieces, and our guest book was a poster with our own gold record attached.

We danced to a song by Dawes called "All Your Favorite Bands", and we had a great time dancing, talking, taking photos and being truly present for the most important celebration of our lives to date.

We started our ceremony at 11am and then had a brunch buffet for our guests with biscuits with jellies, butter, gravy, ham, pimento cheese, etc., fruit with yogurt, our favorite cereals and milk, sausage balls and more. Everyone loved it, and it was sooo cost effective! We also had a coffee bar available with flavored syrups and creamers for guests to grab a cup before the ceremony or during the reception.

We left in Chris's papaw's restored 1960's Ford Galaxie to a crowd of smiling, waving and crying friends and family. My #1 tip for all the bride and groom chillas out there is to let go of anything that's not super meaningful to you. Napkin rings and china patterns will not be what defines your day. Your wedding won't be perfect, but if you'll relax and enjoy the moment, it'll be perfect for you. Make sure to take a few moments to sit back and take it all in. It flies by, but if you're careful, you can make time stand still - if just for a moment.

How did the Bridechilla Podcast help you with Wedding Planning?

SAM: Oh man...the podcast was life saving and life giving! Grateful for Aleisha talking me off the ledge a few times.


Photography by Forget Me Not Photography 

Rentals by Sweven Vintage and Rustic Rentals & Unique Settings Rentals 


Thank you so much to Sam & Chris for sharing their wedding with Bridechilla! Submit your wedding at the link below!

November 14, 2017
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Ashley & Nick’s Eclectic, Boho Outdoor Wedding Vow Renewal

by Aleisha September 30, 2017
written by Aleisha

Ashley & Nick celebrated their 3rd anniversary with an eclectic, boho outdoor wedding vow renewal styled by some of their friends in the wedding industry! 

This inspiration photo shoot was organized by the wedding planning blog, Secularly Wed. A blog created by Erica Greenwold Reisen to help couples plan meaningful non-religious weddings and examine the traditions and cultural issues regarding religion and marriage. Ashley & Nick are good friends with one of the lead photographers, Ana Teresa, and had even already appeared on the Secularly Wed blog. So when it came time to plan this photoshoot, they were the first call! 

When Ashely and Nick were asked to model for the photoshoot, they realized it would be the same weekend as their anniversary. So in secret, they planned a surprise Vow Renewal to happen at the photoshoot! Two of their best friends (the "Bridesmaids") were in on the surprise and one of them even officiated the Vow Renewal ceremony! 

Most of the vendors who collaborated on this shoot are also members of the Secularly Wed Community. They are dedicated to helping couples have unique meaningful weddings, based on their values and personal beliefs, and not just what our culture or traditions dictate.

Inspired by the colors and mission of Secularly Wed, Erica wanted to showcase ways of rethinking trends. Mixing modern and antique, unique floral elements, crystals and geometric shapes paired with softer organic elements. The goal was to create a visual representation of what Secularly Wed and its couples are all about. Examining traditions and trends and only keeping what works for the couple. 

The venue, McDonald Artisan Farm is managed by Kate Mangum, a fellow Bridechilla! The Farm regularly hosts festivals and fairs, so making the shift to hosting weddings was something Kate has been wanting to do, starting with her own wedding in October 2017! The rustic feel of the venue, as well as its community roots set the stage for the down to earth vibe of the event.

For the floral designs, designer Lee Moore Crawford of Hana Lee, took inspiration from Southern California. Incorporating dried flowers and pampas grass, succulents, and locally sourced in-season flowers. The decor was supplied in part by Erica and Lee, but many of the decor items and all of the gorgeous furniture was supplied by The Prettiest Pieces. 

Congrats to Ashely & Nick on three wonderful years of marriage!

See the full vendor list following the photo gallery!

Photographers:

Ana Teresa Galizes  | Instagram | Facebook 

Ariel Kaitlin Photography | Instagram | Facebook


Vendor List:

Organized by: Secularly Wed | Instagram | Facebook

Planning & Design: Folie à Deux Events | Instagram | Facebook

Planning Assistant: Freeman's Creative | Instagram | Facebook

Venue: McDonald Artisan Farm | Instagram | Facebook

Florals: Hana Lee / lee attracting birds and bees | Instagram | Facebook

Decor and Furniture Rentals - The Prettiest Pieces | Instagram | Facebook

Photobooth: Lil Photo Bus Co. | Instagram | Facebook

Makeup: Devon Drugan | Instagram | Facebook

Wedding Gown designed by: Leanne Marshall | Instagram | Facebook

Wedding Gown supplied by: Gilded Bridal | Instagram | Facebook

Stationery: Red Clay Paper | Instagram | Facebook

Cake: Once in a Blue Moon Bakery | Instagram | Facebook

Rings: Mary John Ventre  | Instagram | Facebook

Bridesmaid's Dresses designed by: Jenny Yoo | Instagram | Facebook

Bridesmaid's Dresses supplied by: Bella Bridesmaids | Instagram | Facebook

Featured Cocktail: Durham Distillery | Instagram | Facebook

Models: Ashley & Nick Popio, Amani Mackenzie, & Lorelei Lemon

September 30, 2017
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Hi, I’m Aleisha

Hi, I’m Aleisha

Founder of Bridechilla

I created The Bridechilla Podcast, Guides and Facebook Community to empower you to plan an awesome wedding day and put all of the wedstress and obligation straight in the Fuck It Bucket!
With 350+ episodes of Bridechilla, 3 Guides and hundreds of blogs, get started on your path to wedding planning zen!

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