When Caroline and Mike decided to tie the knot, a friend shared that even though many traditions in our society have faded out, it’s so wonderful that this one thing has remained – that being the celebration of marriage. This observation sent Caroline on a whirlwind, as she imagined her wedding day as being a celebration of their love, rather than a formal event.
In order make their vision a reality and give the wedding more of a carnival/backyard barbeque feel, C+M hired Susan Norcross of Styled Bride. Setting the tone for the big day, they carefully crafted invitations that let their guests know how to dress for the occasion, since there would be many outdoor activities to partake in. As an experiential therapist, Caroline specializes in creating fun and engaging games – and the duo really wanted to make the whole day exciting for their guests, so they had quite the set up: lawn games, love libs, a photo booth, instant cameras for playing eye spy, a kids cave + more!
Thanks so much to Paper Antler for all of the dreamy images and a huge congrats to Caroline + Mike! So without further ado, let’s see all the fun of this elegant backyard bash!
Caroline’s dress was specifically designed for her by Frank Agostino. She loved the casual feel of her cotton dress; she shares the hand painted flowers made it feel like I went running through a field and the flowers stuck to it. It turned out even cooler than I could’ve imagined!
Mike and I actually met and began spending time together because of horses (we were both training to do Equine assisted Psychotherapy). I wasn't completely sure how we would include them into the day, but the horses turned out to be such a highlight for many guests and I loved that we were able to incorporate the way we met!
The couple encouraged everyone to dance, they even hired party starters to get people groovin’. Caroline shares the party starters could do dance moves and everyone would follow along- they even got my 13 nieces and nephews to dance! Most of the time the adults sit on the wayside, myself included, and they helped me fight the urge to not dance!
The “Kids Cave” is the cutest thing we’ve ever seen!
Caroline knew that the day would go by in the blink of an eye and how important it was to have those memories to hold onto. The team at Paper Antler provided a calming presence amidst the craziness of the wedding and snapped the (gorgeous!) fleeting details of the day.
How cool is the wood print on this cake?!
The couple set up “grazing stations”, allowing their guests to sit wherever they pleased and even munch on popcorn during the ceremony!
We absolutely adore their sparkler exit! Such a fun way to light up the night and cap off an incredible day. Congrats again, C + M!
photography: Paper Antler // venue name: Private Residence, Gladwyne, Pennsylvania , USA // event design: The Styled Bride // planning: The Styled Bride // florals: Beautiful Blooms Events // wedding dress: Frank Agostino // bride's ring: Cartier // videography: Sweetwater Portraits // paper goods: Chick Invitations & Design // catering: Leslie Rosen // cake: Nutmeg Cake Design
Love the kids cave idea! Gorgeous floral delights!
I just love everything about this wedding–from her dress to the smallest detail. The games and activities are such great ideas! Lovely couple!
Amazing love the images with the Horse
Everything about this wedding is just perfect! Very beautiful.
Great Colouristic ideas ! The Wedding must have been awesome !
Being a dog and horse person, I love those images. Fantastic wedding – exactly the kind of wedding I’d like to photograph. Classic and outside! Great stuff!