So often I meet with brides requesting the same thing, how do I take a ordinary space and make it extraordinary all on a limited budget? Let me first start by saying that identifying your personal style is essential in creating a memorable event. Our first educational series covered that very topic. I would encourage you to first sit down and make a list of what’s important to both you and your fiance.
In this post I thought it would be fun to share a wedding that took place at the infamous Cannonsburg ski lodge. In the winter you can find many hot chocolate milk faces and snow gear but who knew in the summer the lodge could be transformed into a reception location.
The brides request to create a Japanese garden reception was no small task in this rustic lodge. Our job was to transform this chalet style space equipped with wagon wheel light fixtures, dark wood and fieldstone fireplace into the couples perfect vision!
While on my site visit with the bride and her family we agreed there were areas that needed special attention. One of which was the wagon wheel light fixtures. Rather than work against the decor I chose to use the fixtures to our advantage. We first started by draping sheer chocolate and ivory fabric along with white chinese lanterns adorned in crystals. Next a unique floor plan was created by incorporating the use of 8ft. banquet style tables, hollow squares and square tables.
Rather than using the conventional front facing head table we actually placed two hollow squares in the center of the room. If you’re asking yourself what in the world is a hollow square, I’ll tell you. It’s a combination of four 6 ft. or 8 ft. banquet tables designed in a square. This option worked perfectly for the couples head table not to mention the hollowed out center is a perfect place for a gianormous focal design.
Don’t you just love the silk chinese lanterns with crystals. LED votives were used and last over 15 hours with fresh batteries. They are light weight and less dangerous than real candlelight. When on a limited budget I encourage people to spend the money on a few large focal designs vs. spreading a minimal budget over 20 to 30 tables.
Pink champagne runners were used on the guest tables while both head tables were dressed in full linens. I say if you can’t afford to fully dress every table why not find a creative way to have a little of both. I promise it makes a huge difference!
My hope is that through this post and our educational series you gain a greater sense of how to create an event that is not only beautiful and affordable but uniquely your own.
Happy planning!
by jenn
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