Nathan + Jessica

August 24

This summer we were quietly wed in a small private ceremony at my parents’ home. Neither of us wanted a large, grand event, so we decided to have an intimate wedding with just our parents.

Each and every detail of our wedding was thought-out and purposeful. From the date, to the clothes, to the specific type of flowers, they all held special meaning.

Summer in Michigan can be absolutely beautiful. It can also be humid and rainy. Planning any event outside, let alone a wedding, is always a gamble. So, why did we choose to have an outside wedding in the summer? Simply: because the date of August 24 is our anniversary of when we started dating.

Thankfully, my parents’ home has a lot of options for inclement weather and it’s beautiful no matter where you are. I did create and design 2 different back up options just in case it rained or was crazy hot and humid. But lucky for us, the weather cooperated and we were able to celebrate outside.

Being a wedding planner, an avid gardener, and flower lover meant the design and décor would be a smidge over the top. Peonies happen to be my favorite flower (and Louie’s). In Korea, peonies are regarded as the “king” among flowers because of their large blooms and brilliant colors, making them a common symbol of royalty. In addition, peonies are called the “flower of wealth,” as they also represent prosperity and nobility. My parents gardens are overflowing with peony blooms every spring, so I cut and dry stored a few from June to be able to use for our wedding.

Nathan and I decided to play a little tribute to my Korean heritage and wear hanboks that I designed and made. While hanboks are usually bright and colorful, I decided to design ours to be more modern and in shades of whites and ivory.

The hanbok is the name to describe traditional Korean clothing. Up until about a century ago the hanbok was worn daily, and while the hanbok has undergone changes throughout its history, it remains an important part of Korean culture. For Koreans, the hanbok is still worn today during major holidays, weddings, birthdays, and celebrations, and represents the aesthetic of the Korean people.

My wedding band is my Grandmother’s wedding band. She recently passed away and to be able to have and wear hers is extremely special. Nathan, being an industrial designer, made his wedding band. My necklace is from the trip my family took to South Korea. My fan earrings were made by my very talented friend Rena.

Earlier this summer Fouad Catrib offered to cater our wedding. I remember going home and telling Nathan and we were both over the top excited. For those that don’t know Fouad, he is an amazing chef who used to own Marie Catrib’s. For our wedding he created the most amazing menu using local ingredients from his farm. I’m still dreaming of the eggplant and tomato galette and the hummingbird cake.

Fun fact: In case you didn’t know, I met Nathan at a wedding. I was hired by the wonderful Stephanie and was helping her plan her wedding at the Grand Rapids Art Museum. Nathan is friends with Stephanie and her family and was also the cellist at her wedding. Somehow I got Nathan’s phone number (I played it very cool, saying I needed it since he was a part of the wedding), and the rest is history. Needless to say, we had to have some wedding photos at the GRAM. And Dionel nailed it with the photos. Seriously.

Although we missed having you all there, every single one of you was with us in our hearts. Thank you for your endless love and support.

Lastly, a big thank you to our parents for everything. Also, thank you to all the wonderful and talented people that made our wedding so special!

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For even more photos, click here.

Ceremony + Reception Venue | Private Residence
Planning + Design | JS Weddings & Events
Photographer | The MittenTog
Floral Designer | JS Weddings & Events
Makeup | Betsy Kort
Officiant | Keith Treman
Catering + Desserts | Fouad Catrib
Paper Goods | Nathan Treman
Hanboks | Jessica Swagman
Earrings | Afterglow by Rena
Linen + Chair Rentals | Special Occasions
Table Rental | Alpine Events
Lanterns + Decor | West Elm