Tyler and Lexi’s Heartfelt Western September Wedding at The Urban Cowboy in Nashville, TN
A TRAVEL INSPIRED WOODLAND WEDDING
Hello Lovelies! Happy Easter Sunday! In true spring style we have a gorgeous sunny wedding to share with you today featuring lots of pastels and scrumptious summer fruits, sure to make your mouth water. I can just taste the strawberries as we speak! I think I may have mentioned it once or twice now, but I am really looking forward to summer, have you noticed?
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Over to our beautiful bride, Liz…
“We were looking for an outdoor wedding, so chose the JG Woodland Discovery Centre, as we loved the rustic woodland feel. We imagined our guests sat on hay bales. We tried to keep everything handmade and woody, for welcome drinks, we served cloudy cider and homemade strawberry lemonade out of jars as opposed to the usual champagne being served. We tried to make everything ourselves so that it was all about us as a couple and reflected our tastes. Our Cake was made by a family member, a simple Victoria sponge topped with fresh fruit on top of a tear stump to give it a nice wooden feel in keeping with our theme. We also incorporated our love of ‘traveling’ and maps, as we had previously lived in different countries in the past and had also done some traveling together. We made Wooden Heart Keepsakes and filled them with Australian Double Chocolate Tim Tams. The heart shapes were in keeping with the wood feel and Tim Tams are something that we both loved whilst traveling in Australia.”
Super Suppliers – Photography: Shelley Richmond// Venue : JG Graves Woodland Discovery Centre// Grooms outfit – Jeff Banks & Marks & Spencer// Caterers: Big D’s BBQ & Artisan Pizza// DJ – Jo ASBO a GOGO// Make up: Jenny at MAC (meadowhall)// Hair – Wigs and Warpaint// Brides Dress: Ebay// Bridesmaids dresses: Lindy Bop, Ebay// Flowers: Katie Peckett//
Why I Love Woodland Weddings
I’ve attended weddings in all sorts of places, but there’s something truly magical about a woodland wedding. Imagine exchanging vows under a canopy of ancient trees, with birdsong as your soundtrack and the scent of pine in the air. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale, and trust me, it’s an experience you and your guests won’t soon forget.
First off, let’s talk about the setting. Nature has a way of providing the most stunning backdrops, no extra decoration needed. I’ve seen couples say “I do” in clearings bathed in dappled sunlight, with wildflowers at their feet and a chorus of cicadas cheering them on. It’s like having your ceremony in nature’s own cathedral, complete with a vaulted ceiling of branches and leaves. The ambiance is naturally serene and intimate, making it perfect for a deeply personal celebration.
Planning a Woodland Wedding isn’t easy…
However, planning a woodland wedding isn’t without its challenges. Bugs, uneven terrain, and unpredictable weather can be daunting. I remember one wedding where a sudden gust of wind sent the bride’s veil flying into a nearby tree. Cue the best man climbing up to retrieve it—definitely a moment to remember! But these quirks only add to the charm and adventure. They’re the kind of stories you’ll tell for years to come, adding layers of fond memories to the day.
One of the biggest pros of a woodland wedding is the inherent sense of connection to nature. There’s something profoundly grounding about being surrounded by trees that have stood for centuries, witnessing countless seasons and changes. It’s symbolic, really. Just as those trees have weathered storms and thrived, so too can a marriage grow stronger through life’s challenges. The forest is a testament to resilience and enduring beauty—qualities every couple aspires to in their relationship.
Of course, there are practical considerations. Bugs can be a nuisance, so bug spray and citronella candles are a must. And let’s not forget about restroom logistics—port-a-potties can be a bit of a downer. But with a little creativity, these hurdles can be easily overcome. I once attended a wedding where they turned a rustic cabin into a chic, temporary restroom. Problem solved, and it added to the rustic charm!
The Enchantment…
What truly sets woodland weddings apart is the sense of enchantment and wonder they evoke. Walking down a mossy path to your ceremony, with the sound of crunching leaves underfoot, feels like embarking on an adventure. It’s a setting that sparks the imagination and invites a sense of childlike wonder. Guests feel like they’re part of a secret, magical world for a day, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Reflecting on my experiences, I’ve learned that a woodland wedding is perfect for couples who value nature, adventure, and a bit of whimsy. It’s for those who aren’t afraid to embrace the unexpected and find beauty in the natural world. The forest, with its timeless beauty and quiet strength, offers the perfect metaphor for marriage: enduring, ever-changing, and always full of surprises.
So, if you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s both intimate and awe-inspiring, consider a woodland setting. Embrace the rustic charm, the natural beauty, and the sense of wonder. After all, the best weddings are those that feel like an adventure, where every moment is a story waiting to be told.
Shame you didn’t have ice cream for dessert ;0)