Several years ago I planned and designed one of my all time favorite weddings for an incredible family. It was a backyard wedding on Lake Whatcom, and we constructed the reception tent over a large maple tree. The décor was beautiful, the pies were delicious and the band even had me tapping my toes throughout the night. What I remember most about that night, however, is the love and laughter that warmed the brisk September air.
I also remember Jodi, the tall and beautiful, pixie cut- bonde haired, sister of the groom that giggled her way through the toast she gave to her brother. She had this relaxed, care free and down right fun spirit about her that was rather enchanting.
6 Septembers later, it was her turn to walk down the aisle, and what fun it was to work together to plan and design her wedding day. Although Jodi no longer had her blonde pixie hair, she was still that same spirited, stylish and easy going gal I had met years earlier. She had a beautiful Vera Wang dress, a barn and a vision for her day. Our goal was to create a wedding that was both beautiful and approachable. We wanted to blend high fashion with cowboy boots, creating a couture meets country kind of ambience. Jodi wanted elegance and beauty, but more importantly she just wanted people to have fun and feel comfortable. She also wanted a pretty big, bad-ass bouquet. I think our mission (on all accounts) was accomplished.
To be part of a family’s celebration is an honor, but to be part of two celebrations with the same family is a privilege and a blessing. Thank you Jodi for your trust in me and just letting me do my thing. You were a dream client.
And I have to say a big thank you to my fiend Erin from Floret Flower. Erin is the flower farmer that grows most of the flowers I use in my arrangements. She is also a brilliant floral designer. I was short on staff the week of Jodi’s wedding, and Erin came over and lent me a hand. She is so inspirational in the way she runs her business and lives her life. Those few days we collaborated together were a highlight of my summer. As we worked we learned from each other, laughed a lot, and pumped out what I think was a pretty killer celebration. I’m fortunate to have Erin as a friend and colleague.
And one last big thank you to my mother-in-law, Gail, for baking with Jamie and I. I still think the three of us should open a bakery together someday.
Photo Credit: Andria Lindquist with flower and detail shots from Chris Benzakein
venue: Barn Star Events
coordination, design, flowers, desserts: Sinclair & Moore