Extended Celebration to 3 Days:
We felt incredibly fortunate to extend the joy of our wedding weekend into a delightful three-day celebration. Our adventure began on Thursday evening with an intimate gathering we named "Taste of Tennessee." It was an intimate affair for our wedding party and families, featuring a private tasting and tour at the Nearest Green Distillery.
Friday brought even more excitement as I hosted a bridal brunch in the morning, while Jonathan organized a golf round for a touch of pre-wedding fun before our afternoon rehearsal. The evening was set aglow with our Welcome Party, graciously hosted at my parents' house.
And then, of course, Saturday took center stage as the main event! The extended weekend not only allowed us to savor every moment but also provided ample time to share precious memories with our loved ones. It truly transformed the weekend into a magical journey of love and happiness that will be etched in our hearts forever.
Unique Involvement of Friends:
Ensuring our closest friends were an integral part of our special day was paramount to us. We carefully crafted roles for them that added an extra layer of personalization and inclusivity to the ceremony. After all, every significant person in our lives deserved a spotlight!
Seated Bridal Party:
We decided to shake things up a bit and had our bridal party seated during the ceremony. It wasn't just about us standing at the front; it was about creating a sense of togetherness among all our guests, allowing everyone to feel fully immersed in the magic of the moment.
Final Dance Instead of Formal Exit:
As the evening drew to a close, we didn't want a typical formal exit. Instead, we opted for something a little more intimate and romantic—a final dance. It was the perfect way to wrap up the night, surrounded by love and laughter, creating a memory that we'll cherish forever.
Faux Cake with Sheet Cake for Guests:
We wanted to surprise our guests with a sweet treat, so we had a faux cake for the ceremonial cutting. But fear not, everyone still got to indulge in delicious sheet cake! It was the best of both worlds—visual appeal without sacrificing taste.
Guests Seated as Bride Entered:
We decided to flip tradition on its head a bit and had our guests seated as I made my grand entrance. It created a unique focal point, building anticipation and adding an extra layer of emotion to the moment that we'll never forget.
Pre-Wedding Speeches:
To kick off the celebrations with a heartfelt touch, we organized speeches the night before the wedding. It set a warm and intimate tone for the festivities to come, allowing for relaxed and meaningful words to be shared among loved ones.
Aisle without Flowers:
Opting to walk down the aisle without my bouquet was a choice I made to ensure all eyes were on the true star of the show—my dress. I couldn't be happier with that decision, especially seeing how beautifully the photos turned out. My maid of honor held onto the bouquet until it was time for us to make our way back down the aisle together after the ceremony, adding a special touch to the moment.
Runway-Style Seating:
Drawing inspiration from innovative designs, we embraced runway-style seating for a wedding experience like no other. It gave us and our guests a fresh perspective, turning the ceremony into a visually stunning affair that truly elevated the entire day. Additionally, we had our parents sit on the opposite sides so that they could face us.