Are you and your fiancé happiest among the great outdoors? Toast to your upcoming nuptials in a garden setting where your love will continue to bloom.
Décor
Wrap pastel paper lanterns, string lights and hanging votives around the trees or ceiling beams with ribbon. Line tables with burlap runners and tie napkins with raffia for that rustic, outdoor feel. Get playful by carving your initials into a heart-shaped wooden sign for fun photo-ops. Want to add pops of color? Display ripe cherries or bunches of purple grapes at each place setting. Then, turn your dessert into additional decor by filling glass vases with brightly frosted cupcakes, bouquet-style. Your centerpieces will double as a yummy treat!
Food
Bake bread into small clay pots and serve with sweet honey butter. Offer farm-to-table style fare including unique salads, fresh berries, organic chicken and a selection of cheeses. Set up a dessert spread of refreshing lemon bars, mini fruit tarts, teacakes, and a sugar cookie station with a variety of frostings and toppings. Edible flowers on the serving plates will tie in that garden party essence.
Drinks
For a daytime celebration like this, opt for something light, yet sophisticated. It’s all about the presentation, so pour your cocktails into mason jars with patterned paper straws for festive sipping. Mimosas and bellinis are go-to classics, while a sweet tea cocktail lends itself to an outdoor event. If you’re feeling adventurous, try introducing your guests to something new. Elderflower liquor with champagne anyone?
Ensemble
Airy sundresses for ladies and a polo shirt or linen button-down with khakis for guys is the perfect mix of casual elegance. Open-toed wedges and sandals are a favorable option over heels that could get stuck in the grass. For the men, boat shoes and loafers are the way to go. Dainty pearls around your neck offer a feminine touch, while wide brimmed hats or petals in tresses of soft curls complete the look from head to toe.
By Jenn Press Arata
Jenn Press Arata heads That’s SO Jenn, Confessions of a Foodie, a popular food/party planning website.
