Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Non-Flower Centerpieces

I've showcased flowerless bouquets before, but brides can go even further to create a unique ambiance using flowerless centerpieces at the reception.  Here are some of my favorite non-flower centerpieces:

Feathers

Use peacock or ostrich feathers to create a full, dramatic centerpiece.

Lanterns

Candles in lanterns or birdcages create a mysterious glow.

Clusters of Candles



Candelabras

Candelabras dripping in crystals can be either elegant or alluring.
Cakes

While candy buffets and dessert tables are all the rage, if you really have a sweet tooth, decorate with cake centerpieces for a bit of whimsy.
Opting to decorate without flowers is bold and unique.  If you want to give guests a lasting impression from your wedding, give non-flower centerpieces a try.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Jenna & Michael: A Tuscan Autumn Celebration

Fall colors abounded at Jenna & Michael's October wedding. The reception took place at Osteria Via Stato, one of my favorite Chicago restaurants.  The back room, decorated with floating candles and branches, transported guests so that they felt like they were in a Tuscan villa in Autumn. Check out the beautiful photos by Dayna Schroeder Photography.

A traditional Catholic ceremony at the beautiful Assumption Catholic Church.

During their photo shoot around town, the bride & groom stumbled upon the Occupy Chicago protestors. But with good humor, they took photos among the protestors and signs.

The back room of Osteria Via Stato felt like an intimate Tuscan villa, with stone walls, wood ceilings, and tables of different shapes and sizes.

Candles hung from the beautiful branch centerpieces by Catherine's Garden.

Each place setting was quite detailed with a place card in a maple leaf holder (yes, the fall leaf theme but also the Bride was Canadian!), a favor box, a menu card, and a photo donation card.

The Head Table

The unique table numbers, each one featuring a different photo of the happy couple.




Instead of escort cards, a framed photo listed the table assignments.

Fall leaves cascaded down the cake by Tipsy Cake.


Congratulations Jenna and Michael!

Vendors:
Ceremony Location: Assumption Catholic Church
Reception Location: Osteria Via Stato
Hair & Makeup: Bridal Beauty Chicago
Wedding Coordination: Camille Victoria Weddings LLC