Laura + Zach
October 14
I have known Laura’s family for many years (and even had the privilege of helping her older sister Elizabeth with her wedding), so you can imagine my excitement when I was asked to help plan Laura’s wedding. Laura is such a warm and gracious person, one of those people you just want to do anything and everything for. She was an absolute joy to work with because she appreciated every small detail that I showed her, was open to so many ideas, but also knew what she liked.
Zach and Laura were with married on a cool autumn day in October at her home church. Even with a wedding day weather forecast of rain and thunderstorms, you would never have known the skies were gray given both of their excited, happy and unfazed demeanors. After the ceremony the rain did stop for a few hours, giving the wedding party time to gallivant around Holmdene Manor and Downtown Grand Rapids before they had to arrive at the beautiful Ballroom at McKay Tower to greet guests. Instead of the traditional receiving line after the ceremony or going from table to table at the reception, Laura and Zach incorporated a different way to greet their guests. All four parents were there in the foyer to greet guests the moment they reached the ballroom. Once inside the ballroom, Laura and Zach spent a few minutes with each guest, greeting and hugging him/her, making sure each guest felt special and appreciated. It was the sweetest thing ever and so inline with the character of Zach and Laura.
A color palette of soft pinks and peaches were accented with dusty gray blues and ivory. We brought in gold and silver tones, which kept things interesting, but still remaining polished eclectic.
During the spring and summer months I normally have a full garden to cut from, but by October there is less to work with. Thankfully, I was still able to use dahlia, zinnias, sedum and tons of foraged greenery, giving her flowers a romantic and whimsical style.
We had a custom monogram designed that we incorporated in the hand letterpress invitations and the place cards.
With a grand ballroom backdrop, the family style meal created a warm and intimate atmosphere, starting the flow of comfortable conversation and giving guests a chance to talk and interact. The rocking dueling pianos made sure the dance floor was full all night.
Ceremony | Thornapple Covenant Church
Reception Venue | The Ballroom at McKay
Design, Planning & Coordination | JS Weddings & Events
Photographer | Kate Morrow
Floral Designer | JS Weddings & Events
Hair + Makeup | Tanaz
Catering | Kangaroo Kitchen
Bakery | Cakabakery
Paper Goods | Freshly Squeezed
Band | Main Street Dueling Pianos
Shuttle | Affordable Limo