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!
Planning this style shoot was a pretty special for me because it would be the first time I would be published in a printed magazine, Wedding Day Magazine.
This style shoot was a little different than the ones I usually plan because Wedding Day Magazine, along with the venue, was hosting it. Most of the vendors were already selected by WDM and the venue had a preferred mood and theme (which were romantic, rustic, vintage).
Like with most weddings, the venue can really set the tone for the overall wedding style. The Hall at Oakland Park is full of natural and earthy elements and charm and instead of covering up these features, I wanted to embrace the beautiful and romantic setting.
The rustic look is still a popular wedding style for The Hall at Oakland Park. I knew that I needed to push the boundaries of what it means to have a rustic wedding, while still understanding the elements that make rustic weddings so popular. I had to stay true to my company’s brand and style while cohesively blending it with a different style, something we have to do with every client.
While the venue tends to draw in the couples that want that traditional rustic style, I approached the shoot with a more organic and earthy vibe. I wanted it to feel like you were out in the countryside on your family’s vineyard that had been in your family for generations and that everything, from the plates to the plants, you already owned and were part of the home.
I pictured warm, dancing candlelight; whimsical greenery, as if it had been neglected and was growing wild; and potted herbs and plants in weathered urns. I wanted as many raw and earthy elements as possible, from natural linens, earthen stoneware and terra cotta, to bamboo and rattan.
Notes:
Gift boxes are wonderful to make because you can customize each one to the individual that will be receiving it. I find it’s easiest to if you choose a theme for the box that is appropriate for the person receiving the gift. Whether that theme is a color, an occasion (ie: housewarming, wedding, new baby) or interest (ie: coffee, wine), having a theme helps you pick out items and gives your gift a nice cohesive look and feel.
Have fun and think outside the box when it comes to the “box.” Bowls, crates, and many other things can be used as your “box.”
I like to include some type of plant in each gift box. Depending on the person, you could give potted herbs, succulent, a small bouquet, or even an air plant.
Instructions:
1. Lay out everything you want to include in each gift box. It helps you get an idea of what you have. Keep in mind you might not use everything you bought.
2. Place the crinkled paper in the bottom of the box.
3. Start playing around with where items should be placed. Generally, the taller items should go in the back, with smaller items placed on top/last.
https://jsevents.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/logo-pink-1030x925.png00Jessica Swagmanhttps://jsevents.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/logo-pink-1030x925.pngJessica Swagman2020-11-12 15:16:272020-11-12 15:22:31DIY Hostess Gift Box
This was an extra special wedding for me because it was for a dear friend of mine. I have known Kendall for over 7 years and we have shared some wild and wonderful experiences together over those years.
Kendall and Anthony’s wedding was as unique as they are and everything they chose had meaning and purpose, was thought-out and deliberate. Their wedding was the epitome of a moody summer boho wedding. Imagine a custom made circle arbor, whimsical wildflowers, tapestries and dream catchers, and beautiful crystals scattered around everywhere.
They chose to have an intimate wedding celebration in northern Michigan at Anthony’s father’s home. Summer weddings in Northern Michigan are wonderful and beautiful. And, if the weather cooperates, an outdoor summer wedding is downright glorious. Thankfully, Kendall and Anthony had picture perfect weather the entire weekend.
The ceremony was a private event for just immediate family and a few close friends. Kendall’s nephew played the guitar as she walked down the aisle with her father. In-between the ceremony and the reception, they snuck away with the photographer for their personal exchanging of vows on a bluff overlooking beautiful Lake Michigan.
The reception was nestled in the woods under a tent where we created a canopy of hanging greenery and lights. Kendall wanted the centerpieces to be casual and carefree, like the flowers had just been picked from the garden and placed in the glass jar. At each guest’s table setting we placed a small crystal, greenery sprig and wooden fan.
Kendall and Anthony’s wedding was absolutely wonderful and it meant so much to me that I could be a part of it.
Macie and Dashiell’s wedding was all about romance. From her color palette of dusty rose, rose gold, and gold, to the flowers, to the attire (her dress!!), everything had a dreamy romantic essence.
Throughout the planning process, Macie was a joy to work with. She was very hands on when it came to the decor. She wanted to personalize and do as much as possible herself because she thoroughly enjoyed it. She collected and painted all the bottles for her centerpieces, found all the decor items, and put together the coffee bean favors.
When it came to choosing and designing her flowers, I knew I had to play up the romance factor. I used large ruffly roses, whimsical lisianthus and sweetpeas, accented with lots of texture from astilbe and yarrow in shades of dusty blushes, peachy pinks, and moody mauves.
Being a part of their wedding day was so much fun and I was honored to help with it.
Nathan + Jessica
/3 Comments/in Weddings /by Jessica SwagmanAugust 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!
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
An earthy al fresco style shoot
/0 Comments/in Style Shoot /by Jessica SwagmanOctober 15
Planning this style shoot was a pretty special for me because it would be the first time I would be published in a printed magazine, Wedding Day Magazine.
This style shoot was a little different than the ones I usually plan because Wedding Day Magazine, along with the venue, was hosting it. Most of the vendors were already selected by WDM and the venue had a preferred mood and theme (which were romantic, rustic, vintage).
Like with most weddings, the venue can really set the tone for the overall wedding style. The Hall at Oakland Park is full of natural and earthy elements and charm and instead of covering up these features, I wanted to embrace the beautiful and romantic setting.
The rustic look is still a popular wedding style for The Hall at Oakland Park. I knew that I needed to push the boundaries of what it means to have a rustic wedding, while still understanding the elements that make rustic weddings so popular. I had to stay true to my company’s brand and style while cohesively blending it with a different style, something we have to do with every client.
While the venue tends to draw in the couples that want that traditional rustic style, I approached the shoot with a more organic and earthy vibe. I wanted it to feel like you were out in the countryside on your family’s vineyard that had been in your family for generations and that everything, from the plates to the plants, you already owned and were part of the home.
I pictured warm, dancing candlelight; whimsical greenery, as if it had been neglected and was growing wild; and potted herbs and plants in weathered urns. I wanted as many raw and earthy elements as possible, from natural linens, earthen stoneware and terra cotta, to bamboo and rattan.
Planning + Design | JS Weddings & Events
Host | Wedding Day Magazine, Kaitlyn
Ceremony + Reception Venue | The Hall at Oakland Park
Photographer | Weeping Willow Photography
Hair + Makeup | Blown Away Blow Dry Bar, Kelly
Floral Designer | Camille’s Floral
Dress + Accessories | Bianka Bridal
Don’t forget to check out the article!
DIY Hostess Gift Box
/0 Comments/in DIY /by Jessica SwagmanWhat you’ll need:
• Gift Box
• Variety of Items
• Crinkled Paper
What I used:
• Wooden crate (I gave it a gray wash)
• Candle
• Matchbook (similar here)
• Hostess serving set (similar here or here)
• Chocolate Covered Blueberries
• Coasters (similar here or here)
• Cheese Spreaders (similar here or here)
• Air plant
Notes:
Gift boxes are wonderful to make because you can customize each one to the individual that will be receiving it. I find it’s easiest to if you choose a theme for the box that is appropriate for the person receiving the gift. Whether that theme is a color, an occasion (ie: housewarming, wedding, new baby) or interest (ie: coffee, wine), having a theme helps you pick out items and gives your gift a nice cohesive look and feel.
Have fun and think outside the box when it comes to the “box.” Bowls, crates, and many other things can be used as your “box.”
I like to include some type of plant in each gift box. Depending on the person, you could give potted herbs, succulent, a small bouquet, or even an air plant.
Instructions:
1. Lay out everything you want to include in each gift box. It helps you get an idea of what you have. Keep in mind you might not use everything you bought.
2. Place the crinkled paper in the bottom of the box.
3. Start playing around with where items should be placed. Generally, the taller items should go in the back, with smaller items placed on top/last.
Kendall + Anthony
/0 Comments/in Weddings /by Jessica SwagmanAugust 24
This was an extra special wedding for me because it was for a dear friend of mine. I have known Kendall for over 7 years and we have shared some wild and wonderful experiences together over those years.
Kendall and Anthony’s wedding was as unique as they are and everything they chose had meaning and purpose, was thought-out and deliberate. Their wedding was the epitome of a moody summer boho wedding. Imagine a custom made circle arbor, whimsical wildflowers, tapestries and dream catchers, and beautiful crystals scattered around everywhere.
They chose to have an intimate wedding celebration in northern Michigan at Anthony’s father’s home. Summer weddings in Northern Michigan are wonderful and beautiful. And, if the weather cooperates, an outdoor summer wedding is downright glorious. Thankfully, Kendall and Anthony had picture perfect weather the entire weekend.The ceremony was a private event for just immediate family and a few close friends. Kendall’s nephew played the guitar as she walked down the aisle with her father. In-between the ceremony and the reception, they snuck away with the photographer for their personal exchanging of vows on a bluff overlooking beautiful Lake Michigan.
The reception was nestled in the woods under a tent where we created a canopy of hanging greenery and lights. Kendall wanted the centerpieces to be casual and carefree, like the flowers had just been picked from the garden and placed in the glass jar. At each guest’s table setting we placed a small crystal, greenery sprig and wooden fan.
Kendall and Anthony’s wedding was absolutely wonderful and it meant so much to me that I could be a part of it.
Planning, Design & Coordination | JS Weddings & Events
Ceremony + Reception Venue | Private Residence
Musician | Kendall’s nephew
Photographer | Pasagraphy
Hair + Makeup | Little River Spa
Floral Designer | JS Weddings & Events
Ceremony Dress | Renee Austin Wedding
Macie and Dashiell
/0 Comments/in Weddings /by Jessica SwagmanJuly 21
Macie and Dashiell’s wedding was all about romance. From her color palette of dusty rose, rose gold, and gold, to the flowers, to the attire (her dress!!), everything had a dreamy romantic essence.
Throughout the planning process, Macie was a joy to work with. She was very hands on when it came to the decor. She wanted to personalize and do as much as possible herself because she thoroughly enjoyed it. She collected and painted all the bottles for her centerpieces, found all the decor items, and put together the coffee bean favors.
When it came to choosing and designing her flowers, I knew I had to play up the romance factor. I used large ruffly roses, whimsical lisianthus and sweetpeas, accented with lots of texture from astilbe and yarrow in shades of dusty blushes, peachy pinks, and moody mauves.
Being a part of their wedding day was so much fun and I was honored to help with it.
Coordination | JS Weddings & Events
Rehearsal Dinner | San Chez
Hair + Makeup | Salon Re
Florist | JS Weddings & Events
Ceremony + Reception | The Waldron House
Catering | The Waldron House
Officiant | Mike Helsel, friend
Photographer | Jamie & Sarah Photography
Reception Entertainment | GR affordable DJ
Cake & Desserts | Kim Grover, Bride’s Aunt
Transportation | Affordable Limo