We’re totally suckers for a sweet backyard wedding, and if we were to throw one ourselves right now, it might look something like Amanda + Alex’s charming homespun New Jersey nuptials. For these cuties, as much focus was placed on their guests as was on the two of them. And that turned their day into a celebration filled with so much love + meaning, it couldn’t not be a total success. Let’s hear a little bit more about all that from Amanda:
The most important focus for us was to make the day about our family and friends. My cousin married us and together with his wife, we all wrote our ceremony. My father started making wine a few years ago and bottled it for our favors. We had wedding pictures of our parents and grandparents throughout the space, as well as, special moments that belonged to our family. In terms of design, we wanted to bridge the whimsy that stems from vintage pieces with the pure, natural setting of the outdoors. We did not want to be too serious, but we did want to make sure our guests felt like they were celebrating the most special day of our lives.
Big thanks to Jessica OH Photography for sharing these gorgeous images from Amanda + Alex’s day with us! And fun news for GWS readers who are currently looking for a photographer to capture their wedding! Book Jessica for a wedding and mention you found her on GWS and you will receive a $500 discount on your wedding package! :)
Lovin’ the guys in their suspenders + bow ties!
Processional: Stoned Me – Van Morrison
Recessional: International Players Anthem – UGK (Instrumental)
First Dance: You and Me – Penny and the Quarters
And we’re absolutely swooning over Amanda’s unique Sarah Janks dress + her ‘maids decked out in their mismatched Adriana Papell!
These vintage-meets-woodland tablescapes are our fave! With natural elements like moss, pinecones, and branches, paired with thrift store finds + family heirlooms, it wouldn’t be too hard to achieve a similar look, which we think would be perfect for fall + winter weddings!
Do what makes you, as a couple, happy. Make choices that are representative of your life together. You will never forget this day - do YOU!

photography: Jessica OH Photography // venue name: The bride's childhood home in Kinnelon, New Jersey // event design: Laurie Hudson and Matthew Halbert, [email protected] // wedding dress: Sarah Janks // bride's shoes: Chinese Laundry // bridesmaid dresses: Adriana Papell // hair stylist: Kerri Lynn Mucci -- [email protected] // makeup artist: Kerri Lynn Mucci -- [email protected] // groom attire: Topman // paper goods: Minted // catering: The Fruited Plain // cake: Nare Hamalian, Extraordinary Cakes -- [email protected] // music: DJ Jack Navin // vintage rentals: Laurie Hudson and Matthew Halbert, [email protected] // event planner: Dara Castiglione, The Fruited Plain // floral design: Barbara Cotton -- [email protected]
Absolutely stunning! My daughter is getting married soon, so I’ve been scouring Pinterest to find a wedding similar to what she’s envisioning. I just found it! Love, love, love the reception tent and the beautiful vignettes on each table. I can see that so much of your personalities shone through in every aspect of the day! I wish you many blessings for a long & happy marriage. (And I hope that my daughter’s wedding turns out as lovely as yours! 😉)