THE DETAILS

Date: September 29, 2018

Ceremony Venue: Private Residence 

Reception Venue: The Vineyard at 12 Corners

Color Scheme: Greens, Ivory, Burgundy, Gold, Dusty Blue

Design Inspiration: Classy, with a minimalist, slightly boho vibe

 

 

THE HIGHLIGHTS

So many gorgeous moments to highlight from Maggie + Eli’s outdoor, late September wedding celebration. The family lake house ceremony setting for the I Do’s was naturally personal for their immediate families and were overjoyed to share it with all of their guests. Champagne sipping and string instruments welcomed guests on their arrival. Truly remarkable views of Lake Michigan from the backyard, with a beautifully decorated traditional chuppah that brought focus to the altar. The reception took place not far from there at 12 Corners Vineyard with non-stop, 360 views of plump grapevines just as harvest season was approaching. Outdoor fall weddings in a vineyard – it’s one of the best combinations, especially for guests used to city living.

Fall vibes were all over the design – with outdoorsy farmhouse tables being the foundation, the classy gold chiavari chairs and flatware, and unforgettable coziness of lush greenery, rich burgundy and dusty blue tones. Hundreds of candles in varying pillared heights lay scattered down dining tables paired alongside gold mercury votive candles. The romance as guests sat down for the reception was unparalleled. So intimate, even with as large of a guest count as it was. The night time hour introduced comfy fleece blankets and Adirondack chairs around a firepit and a photobooth station. There really was never a dull moment for guests to experience something fun.

Generally being big fans of flowers, they wanted each nook and cranny of the venue to have consistency and a polished finish. The tent ceiling was no exception, including a 5ft diameter floral chandelier suspended over the dance floor – where guests danced the night away.  Other pieces that continue catching our eye are the flower crowns for the bridal party ladies, trendy signage be it the ones with acrylic form or the printed paper products showing loads of personality, and the sea glass name cards for the 36-guest head table! Including dates at the head table seating arrangement has been a popular selection. We love how much it adds a grandiose look to such an important table and brings functionality too. 

 

VENDORS

Photo: Kati Mallory

Design, Logistics + Wedding Planning, Day of Coordination + Rentals (farmhouse tables, wine barrels, specialty linens, lounge furniture, firepit): 1928 Planning Co.

Floral: Flowers By Anna

Lighting Design: Schades of Light

Other Rentals: Taylor Rental (chiavari chairs, gold silverware, ceremony tent, ceremony chairs)

Baker: Sweet Mandy B’s

Entertainment: Style Matters DJ, Hipstr Photobooth

 

 

THE DETAILS

Date: September 2, 2018

Venue: Private Residence; Lakehouse in Whitehall, Michigan

Color Scheme: Grays, Creams, Greenery, Gold

Design Inspiration: Refined rustic with classic flair

 

 

 

THE HIGHLIGHTS

The location of Justin and Casey’s wedding celebration was such a wonderful way to bring family, old and new, together on a property filled with memories, spectacular lake views and privacy. The expansive lawn provided space for ceremony over the bluff, cocktail space, and an adjacent tented reception. With all areas being outdoors, they wanted nothing more than to showcase greenery, and the earthiness of the outdoors into their chosen color palette and wedding design. It really was a winning look we enjoyed seeing come together! 

Private residence weddings are essentially creating a wedding venue from a blank canvas. Down to selecting what size tent, colored chair, type of fork, and everything in between, Justin and Casey had an eye and vision that was consistent and simplistic. We are drawn to looks like are straightforward, focused and airy. It allows for the overall impact to speak for itself. What to live this day even more? Check out their wedding video trailer!

 

THE VENDORS

Photo: Jillian Bowes

Video: Maiko Media

Design, Logistics Planning, Day of Coordination, Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Floral: Every Little Detail 

Seating Chart: Kimy Battista Art

Venue Rentals: Aays Event Rental (tent, lighting, dance floor, tables, reception chairs, place-settings) + Classic Catering + Events (ceremony chairs, restrooms).

Baker: Sweet Traditions

Entertainment: Kaleidoscope Events, 77 VW Photobooth Bus

 

 

 


DIY wedding ideas are something we love here at 1928 Planning Co. Not only do they add some personalized flair to your wedding, but you can brag about your crafting skills to friends and family. Today we are going to teach you how to make a marquee letter that will be the perfect addition of vintage charm to a gift or dessert table. This DIY would also look adorable in the newlywed’s home post wedding!

DIY7Photo credit: Camille Curtis – 1928 Intern

Things you will need:

Large Cardboard Letter
X-acto Knife
String Globe Lights
Pencil
Paint color of your choice (optional)

DIY6

DIY51. Cut along the seam of the letter on one side only. This will allow you to hide the cord from the lights later on.

DIY3

2. Twist the globes off of the strand and place them where you want them on the front of the letter.
3. Trace around the smallest part of the globe with your pencil.
4. Using the X-acto knife cut an asterisk into each circle, that way you can fit the globes into place.

DIY2DIY1
5. Place the globes back into the circles and insert lights from behind. Make sure you are tucking the extra cord in as you go.
6. Apply a coat of paint, if you wish!

diy4
7. Plug in and enjoy!

If you try this for your home or wedding send us a photo, we would love to see! We hope that you love this darling DIY wedding idea just as much as we do.

RachelSIg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For 1928 Planning, holiday weekends always bring us an extra level of excitement and when you add in coordinating a wedding for a phenomenal couple, well, you realize just how awesome of a career you have! Jackie & Andy’s Fourth of July wedding celebration at The Veranda @ The Whitcomb in St. Joseph, MI, stars in our latest Real Weddings edition – and we are eager to share!

READY

Just like you’d hope for in July, it was gorgeous weather for their outdoor wedding celebration. After spending the morning getting ready at The Boulevard Inn, Jackie and Andy shared their intimate first look at easily the most breathtaking view of the city and Lake Michigan from atop the Whitcomb Tower. We are always telling people how much of a hidden gem it is – it never disappoints!

BG

Being just a quick jaunt away from Tiscornia Beach, the bridal party took a ride in style on the Sunset Coast Trolley and headed towards the beach to take advantage of one of the most noted landmark’s the city has to offer: The North Pier Lighthouse.

BRIDAL

The rooftop ceremony was, believe it or not, a first for The Veranda. It made for quite a special time and one that 1928 was thankful to be a part of! After trouble securing a ceremony location on a holiday weekend, Jackie and Andy were encouraged by their photographer, Ben Pancoast Photography, to check out The Veranda’s blank slate rooftop and have their wedding ceremony propped right above the bluff that overlooks Lake Michigan. Remember when I said the views don’t disappoint? This here was no exception.

CEREMONY 1
Their summer inspired color scheme complemented the rooftop perfectly, with pops of bright coral in their decor, florals, and bridesmaids dresses. They even topped off each ceremony chair with a pair of signature sunglasses both as favors and to keep their guests comfortable during the sunny afternoon ceremony.

CEREMONY 4

Untitled

As the ceremony ended, guests made their way downstairs to enjoy an hour of cocktails, music and delicious bites while lounging on the rented patio furniture in the connected garden. The layout of the reception was so unique – filling the space with large King Arthur tables to provide larger seating capacity at each table. It was a great way to add some dimension to the venue and to fit a larger guest count.

RECEP 1

The charcoal gray linens and ruffled runners paired with bundles of free-spirit coral roses made such a statement in the monochromatic atmosphere of The Veranda. Throughout the venue, no detail was forgotten. They designed signage that matched the table number with photos of both Andy and Jackie at the age. Something we are sure the guests enjoyed looking through as they found their seats for dinner service.

RECEP 2

The night was filled with family-style dinner service provided by (the awesome!) CK Catering, and delicious mini pies and cupcake bites from Amanda Marie’s Bakery for dessert hour. As the sun set, guests enjoyed dancing, sparklers, and anxiously awaiting the Fourth of July fireworks display over Lake Michigan.

FOOD

RECEP 3

As dusk came, the much anticipated firework show began, displaying in ideal view for the wedding guests gathered in the garden and on the walkway of The Veranda. It was literally a picture-perfect ending to their reception and sent guests off on such a high note! Jackie and Andy enjoyed the fireworks from the Tower. It made for some remarkable photos and a few minutes of alone time with each other to take it all in as their reception came to a close.

FIREWORKS

For more details on Jackie and Andy’s big day and so much more, contact 1928!

Vendors for Jackie & Andy:

Day of Coordination & Rentals: 1928 Planning Co.

Catering: CK Catering

Baker: Amanda Marie’s Bakery

Florals: Crystal Springs Florist

Photography: Ben Pancoast Photography

Music: DJ – Music Unlimited | Harpist – Meg Rodgers

Transportation: Sunset Coast Trolley

Lighting: Schades of Light

daniellesig-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

1928 Planning has seen first-hand the impact that lighting design can have on a reception and believes that the finished product is invaluable. 1928 partners with local wedding lighting design company, Schades of Light to offer front-end communication to clients. We thought what better way for our readers to get to know Schades of Light than to have them guest blog for us and explain in their words the ultimate question: Do I Need Wedding Lighting?

Schades of Light Q & A

With Owner, Stephanie Schadler

dots

How did Schades of Light come to be?

In 2008, a mother of a bride asked if I would help decorate her daughter’s wedding. They had two bags full of lights and tulle fabric from a friend’s wedding and showed me how they wanted it hung. I thought, sure I can help out, this can’t be too hard and I got to work.  Well, five hours later, a few phone calls to family and friends and a couple of trips to the store, I was done!  After receiving payment I thought there has to be an easier way to do this!  So the following wedding season I bought my own supplies, setup a process of how to work efficiently and we’ve been at it ever since!

 

What local venues has Schades of Light provided services?

The Veranda @ The Whitcomb, The Boulevard Inn, Shadowland Ballroom, Blue Dress Barn, The Vineyard @ 12 Corners, Hidden Vineyard, and Harbor Shores.

4

Photo Credit: Jennifer Mayo Studios (top) | 430 Studios (bottom)

Why do you love what you do?

Every event is a happy one!  Each one is different and unique in their own way and I love getting to meet the bride and groom and their family.

 

What would you say is your favorite part?

Seeing the finished product! I love going back just before the wedding starts to see how everything came together.

 3

Photo Credit: Ben Pancoast Photography (top) | 430 Studios (bottom right) | Woodnote Photography (bottom left)

Some couples don’t see a need to have lighting at a reception. Make your case. Why is it important?

In the summer months (our busiest season), couples often think that since the sun sets around 9:30p that they don’t really need any additional lighting.  Although the sun is setting late, only on a perfect sunny day will you have a lot of natural light. What about cloudy, overcast, or rainy days?

We try to avoid turning on any permanent lighting in a venue because although it is functional lighting, it just doesn’t have the ambiance that most couples are looking for.

Some couples will also say they have a lot of candle light planned for their tablescapes. What if it’s a windy day and the candles can’t stay lit?

Local venues that have a separate lounge area are usually dark, and by adding a few stands of café lights it’ll make the space welcoming for guests and add a safety factor too.

 

For someone who knows their venue needs lighting but doesn’t know how to get started choosing what will work best, what would you suggest to them?

Gather pictures – either inspiration photos online or from another source so we have a clear idea of what they are looking for.  We show them pictures of the venue from other events with lighting options to give them a realistic view.  Most of the time the venue is empty when they view it and that makes it hard to visualize the space all decorated. That’s what we are here for – to help you see your ideas!

 2

Photo Credit: Dan Stewart Photography (bottom) |  430 Studios (top right) | Zachary Photography (top left)

What is your most popular service?

Paper lanterns. We offer a variety of color options to our clients that typically match their color schemes. It’s more of a casual look and complements most venues.

 

Where do you see wedding lighting design going?

A move towards simple elegance, using lights, fabric and chandeliers. We recently added a group of chandeliers to our services! We are super excited to begin offering them for the 2015 wedding season!

 1

Photo Credit: Jennifer Mayo Studios (bottom) | Bjlr Photography (top right)

Anything else you want to share your expertise on?

What we often hear are brides and grooms wanting to save money and purchase their own lighting decorations, install and tear it down themselves. It usually takes a lot more time than they think – time they could be enjoying their big day.  At the end of the night they really don’t want to worry about tearing everything down, especially after a few drinks! With our pricing, we include not only the inventory but the setup and tear down. You won’t have to lift a finger!

For more on Schades of Light and how they can be a part of your wedding day, contact us!

daniellesig-01

 

 

 

 

 

We all love catching up on wedding trends for the upcoming year – it’s something we look forward to and gets us excited to think about what our clients might debut for the weddings ahead! It’s that time again – welcome to our post on 2015 wedding trends! Some are new and fun, while others are trends that have been around and just aren’t saying sayonara anytime soon.

In 2013, the #1 word engaged couples used to identify their wedding was FUN! In 2015 they are using the phrase “down to earth ambiance”… seen in their florals, food, color schemes, and guest experience.

Florals

What’s In:

Organic looking tablescapes with free-spirited arrangements are trending for 2015. The move is towards a wild-garden look with more than one color or type of flower.

Utilizing non-floral items – such such as berries, fruit, acorns, etc. We witnessed centerpieces in the fall of 2014 filled with accents of artichokes and pomegranates.

Imperfections are welcomed.

Fresh pickings from a farmer’s market or local grower. It’s not only budget-savvy, but it also lends itself to the trend.

1

Photo Credit: 430 Studios (left) | Ben Pancoast Photography (right)

Food

What’s In:

Food pairings with beer or wine. Local wine or craft beer complimented with delicious bites – what could be better than this 2015 wedding trend?

Family-style dining. The guests feel comfortable and at home, passing delicious food around the table. Guest interaction is a big goal for today’s couples and nothing gets a conversation started quite like this style of service. Family style is acceptable for casual and more formal receptions.

Locally sourced and seasonal food.

Late night snack attack. Give the guests an extra element of surprise near the end of the evening with another round of food. The late night snack tends to make it’s debut around 9:30p at receptions. This time of night you’ll be craving snacks and comfort food. Treat guests to a build-your-own coney bar, sliders and fries, pizza, and quesadillas. You’ll want something that can be versatile enough for all of your guests to enjoy.

Fondant wedding cake vs. buttercream wedding cake. The trend is headed away from the fondant extravaganza and instead showing off a more textured cake using buttercream. Your possibilities are endless with buttercream. We’ve seen tiered cakes that offer a different, but complementary, design on each layer. Of course we can’t forget about the ‘naked cake’ that has been trending too!

Untitled

Photo Credit: Jordanne + Ryan Photography (bottom left) | 430 Studios (right and upper left)

Color Schemes

What’s In:

Bold colors and non-traditional color combos. Pastels and neutrals aren’t necessarily done for, but the use of a bold or unexpected accent color is something we will see quite a bit as a 2015 wedding trend. We are sure Pantone’s 2015 Color of the Year: Marsala will make its mark, especially in the fall of 2015. Below are the Top 10 Wedding Color Combos for 2015 courtesy Stylish Wedding Ideas.

stylish wedding trends

The Experience

What’s In:

With the average wedding sized around 140 guests (smaller than past years), couples are wanting to create an experience from beginning to end.

Build up the excitement long before the big day with a wedding website or some fun and unique wedding invitations. Since invitations are the first impression for your wedding, make it count with something unexpected that will grab attention and add a wow-factor. The goal is to build the anticipation long before the actual big day.

Give thank you’s as they exit rather than just a favor at a place setting for them to grab. We think this is a great trend for 2015. We’ve seen too many favors get left behind at the dinner tables! If you’re wanting to give guests a takeaway and have the room in your budget, make sure they aren’t left behind!

Offer transportation to accommodate your out of town guests. Buses or trolleys are popular to shuttle guests to and from hotels, allowing them to just enjoy the evening and leave their GPS back at home. 

This is a biggie: keep in mind guest comfort. Recently we wrote a blog on Creating Your Signature Wedding. One of the best things you can do while planning is to think about the experiences and comfort of your guests. Consider all angles: hot or cold weather, hungry or thirsty guests, how to manage a kid-friendly reception and thinking about the flow of your wedding timeline. 

 

For more on what’s trending – contact us!

daniellesig-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

Giving tribute to loved ones on your wedding day is filled with such meaning because chances are, those in spirit made an impact on your life. Coming up with creative ways to remember and honor them on the wedding day is what this blog is all about! It’s okay to keep it as simple and subtle or as bold of a statement as you’d like. Check out some of our ideas below to get you started thinking!

Incorporate their memory into accessories

We’ve seen brides get creative on how they display sentimental items as a wedding day accessory! Pin small photos to your bouquet or shoes, wear their jewelry as your “something old” or add other jewelry, hair pins, or special pieces to your dress that remind you of a loved one and make their memory physically present for the big day.

Untitled

Photo Credit: 430 Studios (top left) | Ben Pancoast Photography

Memory and photo table

A popular take on commemorating those not present on your wedding day is a memory table, complete with photos of late loved ones on display and a lit candle. This table often becomes a talking piece amongst guests as they arrive and will not be overlooked.

3

Photo Credit: Dave Tree Photography

Give a tribute during the ceremony

Dedicating a portion of the wedding ceremony to those not present is something that can be done in a number of ways.

Start off the ceremony with a moment of silence, recognizing those that are not present.

Add a tribute section found inside the ceremony program.

Save them a seat at the ceremony marked with a loose flower or photo.

1

Photo Credit: Katherine Martin

Play their favorite song

This can be done during the ceremony, reception or both! We have also had the song selections for the traditional father/daughter and mother/son dances be a tribute to a parent that has passed.

Use a family recipe

Most caterers will be flexible and make something not on their standard menu. Provide the caterer with a famous family recipe that will remind guests of a loved one whose passed. It’ll be the focal point of your menu.

Make a donation

Choose to donate to a charity close to a late loved ones heart in lieu of favors.

2

Photo Credit: The Knot 

For more ideas on how to honor loved ones on the wedding day and so much more, contact us!

daniellesig-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Having a DIY wedding vs. hiring a wedding professional … probably one of the most ongoing thoughts and debates in a couple’s mind throughout planning.

Even as planners, sure, we think there is nothing wrong with doing a little bit of DIY for your wedding. After all, you want the day to speak of all things YOU and who you are as a couple. And what’s a better way to do so than utilizing your own skills, right?

Well, sort of.

Most couples we meet want their wedding day – and of course the months leading up to it – to be stress-free, enjoyable and go without a hitch. Our piece of advice when making the ultimate decision on having a DIY wedding vs. hiring a wedding professional, is asking yourself a few questions:

Will going DIY result in the overall guest experience as a good one or a bad one?

For this particular task, why do I think doing it myself is the way to go? Does your answer seem reasonable?

Money aside, how could we benefit from hiring a wedding professional for this task?

And last but certainly not least, just remember…

Nothing trumps your sanity!

Hiring a trusted wedding professional: DJ, photographer, videographer, baker, florist, alcohol supplier, lighting vendor, etc. will bring you peace of mind. They have most likely been in the industry for years, if not decades. They know what is trending, what works and doesn’t work, and they can offer experienced advice on how to make your wedding exactly as you hope it to be.

DIY can mean anything from making your own guest takeaway favors, desserts, and centerpieces to hiring your cousin to DJ and uncle to act as videographer during the wedding ceremony. As planners, we suggest leaving the big items to the pros and you can express your DIY side on the smaller, less stressful and time-consuming elements of the wedding. You’ll keep your cool and not have the pressure that you may otherwise have if you put too much on your plate during planning and the day of the wedding.

Example: grab your bridesmaids for a night of prepping wedding guest favors or recruit the bakers in your family to make bite-sized desserts to accompany the wedding cake you hire from a professional.

Organize your wedding budget so you can confirm what you’re able or wanting to spend in each vendor category. Check out our helpful post showing a budget breakdown if you’re just getting started.

Of course, contact us with questions, or if you’d like our company to be someone you hire for the big day!

daniellesig-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rustic Weddings have been making their mark in the industry for easily the last few years. But as an engaged couple, eager to plan the perfect wedding, you may be asking yourself, what exactly is a rustic wedding style and what does it mean for me?

This wedding style has so many interpretations and no one definition is the same. It allows you to really step outside the box and create your own version of rustic weddings – being a style setter rather than a style follower. Keep in mind that no matter which direction you decide to go, rustic is collective. Find miscellaneous and eclectic pieces that work together to complement your style. With this, mistakes, and imperfections are welcomed and cookie-cutter is nowhere to be found.

One of the most easily coined items to fall in the rustic category are mason jars, burlap, and lace accents in a barn setting. I don’t want to call those old-news, but there is SO much more out there! I think every one of my posts encourages you to BE CREATIVE, and this, my friend, is no different.

Rustic Weddings – Interpreting it for yourself.

Just some ideas to get the mind thinking:

 

Option 1:

Bringing in shades of green and creating an outdoor garden style with moss and branches. Use accents of reclaimed wood and recycled metals. Spiced favors to offer guests.

Untitled

Option 2:

Go more rustic – chic by designing the wedding around mercury glass, pearls, brooches, and heirloom lace.

2

Option 3:

Take it more retro with an ocean blue color scheme, whimsical tableware, lemonade, peach preserve favors and a naked wedding cake.

3

The rustic wedding has boosted the DIY sensation in the wedding industry. With the help of a loyal friend named Pinterest, DIY’ers are able to find a jumping off point for their ideas. Follow us on Pinterest to get some inspiration for your big day!

As always, contact us for more assistance!

 

daniellesig-01

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Opting to create some of your own wedding decorations is a valuable way to cut corners off of  pricey wedding costs. We are thrilled to announce that this is the first installment of a new DIY decorating series on our 1928 blog. Here we are going to show you how to make your own tissue paper tassel garland, which has been a popular enhancement in weddings this year! The garland is perfect to use as a photo booth backdrop, pin to the front of a dessert table, or jazz up a vacant wall- the opportunities are endless. Follow our instructions and you are one step closer to dominating your DIY wedding!

image

 

image (1)

image (2)