What began as a simple branding photoshoot for my other blog, Secularly Wed, turned into a full-on styled wedding photoshoot and vow renewal with over 15 local wedding pros involved. Inspired by the ethos and mission of Secularly Wed, I set out to bring together some of my favorite wedding event partners and an amazing couple, to create unique, eclectic wedding inspiration capturing the vibe of the blog and our readers.
The result was this incredible photoshoot, which as it turns out, fell on Ashley & Nick’s 3rd anniversary weekend. To celebrate, they decided in secret to actually do a Vow Renewal at the shoot! Their vow renewal ceremony had us all unexpectedly laughing and crying simultaneously. It was truly wonderful.
Most of the vendors who collaborated on this shoot are also members of the Secularly Wed Community. They are dedicated to helping couples have unique meaningful weddings, based on their values and personal beliefs, and not just what our culture or traditions dictate.
Inspired by the colors and mission of Secularly Wed, I wanted to showcase ways of rethinking trends. Mixing modern and antique, unique floral elements, crystals and geometric shapes paired with softer organic elements. The goal was to create a visual representation of what Secularly Wed and its couples are all about. Examining traditions and trends and only keeping what works for the couple.
The venue, McDonald Artisan Farm regularly hosts festivals and fairs, so making the shift to hosting weddings was something they have been wanting to do for awhile! The rustic feel of the venue, as well as its community roots set the stage for the down to earth vibe of this eclectic wedding inspiration shoot.
For the floral designs, designer Lee Moore Crawford of Hana Lee, took inspiration from Southern California. Incorporating dried flowers and pampas grass, succulents, and locally sourced in-season flowers. The decor was supplied in part by myself and Lee, but many of the decor items and all of the gorgeous furniture was supplied by The Prettiest Pieces.
Thank you to everyone who made this dream of a photoshoot happen. Vendors tagged following the gallery!
The Dream Team
Photographers
Ana Teresa Galizes | Instagram | Facebook
Ariel Kaitlin Photography | Instagram | Facebook
Design Team
Organized by: Secularly Wed | Instagram | Facebook
Planning & Design: Folie à Deux Events | Instagram | Facebook
Planning Assistant: Freeman’s Creative | Instagram | Facebook
Venue: McDonald Artisan Farm | Instagram | Facebook
Florals: Hana Lee / lee attracting birds and bees | Instagram | Facebook
Decor and Furniture Rentals – The Prettiest Pieces | Instagram | Facebook
Photobooth: Lil Photo Bus Co. | Instagram | Facebook
Makeup: Devon Drugan | Instagram | Facebook
Wedding Gown designed by: Leanne Marshall | Instagram | Facebook
Wedding Gown supplied by: Gilded Bridal | Instagram | Facebook
Stationery: Red Clay Paper | Instagram | Facebook
Cake: Once in a Blue Moon Bakery | Instagram | Facebook
Rings: Mary John Ventre | Instagram | Facebook
Bridesmaid’s Dresses designed by: Jenny Yoo | Instagram | Facebook
Bridesmaid’s Dresses supplied by: Bella Bridesmaids | Instagram | Facebook
Featured Cocktail: Durham Distillery | Instagram | Facebook
Models: Ashley & Nick Popio, Amani Mackenzie, & Lorelei Lemon