Let there Be Light!

Photo by Van Wyhe Photography. Lighting by Vintage Ambiance.

Are you looking for different ways to light up your big day without straying from your original vision? Don’t limit yourself to one particular lighting choice to brighten your ceremony and reception. There are many unique, romantic ways to lighten up your big day without losing your original theme. Here are a few of our favorites!

Chandeliers. During the process of choosing a venue space, make sure you tour venues with and without chandeliers already existing. If there aren’t any in a space you truly love, there are ways to incorporate them into your décor. Vintage Ambiance is one of our favorite resources when it comes to looking for an artist to create beautiful hanging decorations that you can add candles to for a little extra twinkle. They will install their creations for you as well!

Photo by Corliss Photography

Candlesticks. Groupings of candlesticks, either throughout your venue and/or used in centerpieces, draw soft, romantic light upward without being extended overhead from the ceiling. This is an easy atmosphere to create, aesthetically stunning and easy pack up, too.

Photo by The Popes

Lanterns. Whether hanging or placed throughout a venue, lanterns are a gorgeous addition to broaden your lighting décor. They are usually on the brighter side, so make sure you know their full lighting capability before deciding to include them on your big day. Because of this, also consider placing them in darker corners unless you prefer a softer, candlelit glow.

Photo by Jerome Tso Photography

Floating candles. One option we’ve been loving lately at Elegant Affairs is the use of floating candles in various sizes of elongated glass vases. This is a more modern approach to lighting up your big day while still holding true to that cozy, romantic atmosphere. 

Edison bulbs. Edison bulbs are great for outdoor and indoor ceremonies and receptions! If you are looking for a splash of light to brighten up from overhead, consider stringing up a few Edison bulbs to create a sparkly wonderland. This is sure to brighten the space without being overpowering.

Photo by Sara Parsons Photography

LED Dancefloor. This is probably the most unique idea, and so incredibly fun! If you are looking for an outstanding dance party without a spotlight shining down from overhead, try renting an LED dancefloor. These can be set up at different venues and guests LOVE it.

Photo by Scott Drexler Photography

You can use any of these ideas individually, or combine them to create your own perfectly lit event! All of these options will contribute to a beautiful atmosphere for your special day—you can’t go wrong! 

Put a Little Pep in your Prep

Having your wedding ceremony and reception outside is a wonderful idea, but doing so in the Pacific Northwest requires a bit of extra preparation. Don’t ruminate about the possibility of disaster without taking action! Instead, take the time to consider reasonable precautions. Take a look at our preparation checklist and remedies to get you started.

Possible problem: Rain.
Remedy: Tent or umbrellas.

The first thing comes to mind for any PNW couple hoping to celebrate their nuptials outside is the possibility of R-A-I-N. To avert this disaster, look into renting a large tent (they don’t have to be solid white; you can rent clear top tents also) just as backup in case of a storm. We recommend to always include a tent for the reception as an undercover option to help shield from the possibility of a very hot sun or torrential downpour—in case the weather goes either way. If you are willing to risk it without the tent for your ceremony but still want to take slight precaution, provide umbrellas for your guests to take with them to their seats. This makes for stunning and unique photos as well!

Photo by The Popes

Photo by Julie Harmsen Phtoography

Possible problem: Wind.
Remedy: Tent curtains, outdoor heaters, afghans or shawls.

The wind can pick up unexpectedly at the most inconvenient times around the PNW. Instead of panicking the minute it does, be ready with curtains on your tent. Tent curtains are a game changer and can make your space more intimate and cozy. Add some outdoor heaters to warm the space up and keep the cold out if you foresee a storm in the forecast. Another great idea is providing lightweight afghans or shawls for your guests to throw over their shoulders when the sun goes down and it starts to get chilly. This can double as a wedding favor if you are able to find afghans in bulk, making it easier to afford.

Possible problem: Hot hot heat.
Remedy: Handheld fans, cold beverages.

The warmest months in our neck of the woods usually consist of July and August with temperatures that can reach up to 88 degrees. Rare but still plausible, make sure to be checking the weather forecast as frequently as possible in the days leading up to your wedding during these two months. Handheld fans may not resolve the issue completely, but they will help your guests fight the heatwave until they can indulge in a cool beverage after the ceremony. This leads me to my next remedy; provide plenty of cold water…emphasis on the “cold!” Guests will be craving a refreshing drink and cocktails alone will just make them thirstier while creating a perfect storm of dehydration. Make access to chilled water easy and plentiful.

You can definitely have a successful wedding outdoors; you just need to make sure you have a backup plan in case something goes awry. Being prepared is important, so take these ideas into consideration when you’re planning your outdoor festivities. 

Getting Green

A couple weeks ago we discussed winter décor, and one of the biggest trends we highlighted was the use of greenery throughout your space. Today we’re going to elaborate on that idea and include a few more options to consider if you want to incorporate greenery into your special day. Not only can you work greenery into the general décor, but you can also work your green thumb into drink ideas and apparel.

Eucalyptus. First of all, let’s look at the different types of greenery that are our favorite right now. We are in love with eucalyptus everything. It smells like heaven and looks like a dream when added to pretty much any floral arrangement; bouquets, garland, centerpieces and anything else you want to throw some extra green into!

Photo by Clane Gessel

Ferns. Much like eucalyptus, ferns are easy to add to bouquets, garlands, floral crowns and pretty much anything else you need to add a splash of green. Ferns aren’t as pungent as eucalyptus, so if you’re looking for the greenery without any scent, this may be the best choice for you.

Photo by Picture Marvelous

 Wreaths. Wreaths aren’t only for holidays; you can utilize this circular, floral arrangement in any unique manner to add a little extra greenery to your venue décor. Nix the holly and consider adding your favorite flowers, or your wedding flowers of choice, then hang them generously throughout your space. You will be surprised with the fresh and gorgeous ambiance they create.

Photo by Azzura Photography

Garland. We just can’t over how much beauty garland can add to any space. The best thing about garland is that it’s versatile and can be used universally. For example, you can simply drape garland around your bar to add that little bit of green without going overboard. Garland is uncomplicated and a stunning asset to a space.

Photo by Melissa J. Soule Photography

Photo by Ryan Flynn Photography

Arbors. One of the best backdrops to any ceremony is a unique arbor created for you and yours framing you both as you express your vows to one another. An arbor doesn’t have to be in any particular style either. In the spirit of highlighting greenery today, a general base of greenery of your choosing infused with the flowers you love the most will be a perfect addition to your ceremony décor. Some of the most beautiful arbors are already climbing with roses or honeysuckle, combining gorgeous greenery with pleasant aromas and color.

Photo by Jerome Tso Photography

Photo by Jerome Tso Photography

Beverages. Some of the most refreshing drinks, virgin or otherwise, are herb infused. If you’re looking to carry on with the earthy feel throughout the entirety of your event, think about including beverages at your bar created with herb infused alcohol, such as lavender vodka or sage whiskey. Or, a mocktail like basil lemonade is always light and refreshing!

Floral crowns. Here at Elegant Affairs, we LOVE the use of floral crowns for bridesmaids, flower girls and even the bride herself! There are so many floral options when creating a floral crown, you have the freedom to make the most unique crown to express your very own style while continuing with the natural theme.

We love the use of greenery in any event, and with so many options, it’s sure to be incorporated in a unique and stunning way every time! Fresh, earthy and natural, adding that hint of green can make your day truly magical.