From left: Lanterns and gourds make an earthy statement, while a candelabra adds elegance. Seasonal produce in wooden containers defines rustic chic.
BG: So now that everyone’s on the same page…
KB: It’s time to find your venue. This is your most important decision, because the venue will drive your choice of everything else, from your dress to the decor to the food. Let’s say your mood will be earthy and natural but elegant. You know you want something outdoors, with a certain number of people and you’ve agreed on a budget. So maybe you’ll decide on a farm or a small inn.
From left:For a ceremony, hydrangeas and bittersweet berries on a frame of birch and curly willow. A bouquet made entirely of ornamental kale.
BG: How does the location influence the food and other elements?
KB: Let’s say you've chosen a farm. You'll Source your food and flowers locally. Tomatoes in season or apples for centerpieces— perfect! For music, you might want a bluegrass ensemble or a zydeco band instead of a classic jazz trio.
BG: Does selecting a farm or inn mean you have to go casual?
KB: No! You can go rustic but elegant. If you’re casual, you can use tin pails for centerpieces; if you’re elegant, go with silver compotes filled with apples and surrounded by silver candelabra.
BG: What’s another example of a venue?
KB: Let’s say your mood is urban chic. Perhaps you’ll rent a modern art gallery and put in long tables. Your centerpieces might be a row of narrow, clear cylinders, with a single fl ower in each. You’ll go with chic food presentation and swanky cocktails. But let’s say that sustainability is also a priority—choose organic produce for the meal. With thoughtful planning, it’s usually possible to get exactly what you want!
Photography: Stewart Tabori & Chang