It goes without saying that destination weddings are much more difficult to execute than they once were, and they weren’t easy, to begin with. With travel restrictions and budget cuts, that destination wedding you’ve been dreaming of may seem a million miles away, but that doesn’t have to be the case! Here’s a how-to guide to getting that fairytale feel of a European villa right here in the USA.
Kelsey Bauder of Moonrise Weddings & Events, planned this magical wedding inspiration and breaks down exactly how to make your wedding dreams come true, no matter where you are. Would you believe that Villa Antonia, a sprawling estate with views for days, is actually located in Texas (WHAT?!–we know)! Jordan Flowers & Events created all of these delicate florals you’ll see throughout and these whimsical photos by Emily Boone Photography look like they’re straight out of your favorite storybook. All the images are in the full gallery, so be sure to click through and read on to hear more from planner, Kelsey Bauder.
CHANGED FOR THE BETTER
If you’re a couple getting married in the age of Coronavirus, you know better than anyone that plans change. Yet, after a year of working with couples forced to manage COVID restrictions, date changes, and travel limitations, something kind of wonderful happened–we realized that with each unexpected twist and turn, delight can still be found around every corner. Why? Because sometimes plans change for the better.
With this in mind, we were inspired to create a styled shoot for the bride who has dreamt her whole life of saying “I Do” under the Tuscan sun. She planned, pinned, and prayed for an Italian destination wedding, but simply could not see this dream come to fruition. We’re here with a how-to-guide and simple, attainable tips for any couple looking to create a timeless, Old-World-inspired wedding–no expensive flights necessary!
1. Book the Villa of Your Dreams
Before researching venues, Emily (owner of Emily Boone Photography) recommends creating a mood board on Pinterest of scenes that inspire you. As you tour venues, look for those moments. Where can the Tuscan vignettes you love come to life? For our shoot, we chose the stunning Villa Antonia in Jonestown, Texas. Had Google Maps not guided us there in under 30 minutes from Austin, you might think you had just landed in the Italian countryside. Everything from the breathtaking view to the soft creamy colors and Romanesque architecture invites you to a Tuscan escape…in Texas.
2. Timeless Neutrals
When it comes to wedding design, it’s important to consider not only what is currently trending, but also how that trend will transition over time. A neutral color palette beautifully compliments an old-world theme and is also SO romantic. Consider embracing cream colors, champagne hues, baby blues, and muted pinks. Don’t forget a touch of sparkle!
3. Al Fresco Dining
Nothing says Italian garden romance like a luxurious al fresco table setting nestled beneath lush flowers and greenery…but add a farm table because we’re in Texas! Kelsey Bauder (owner of Moonrise Weddings & Events) suggests utilizing tall candlesticks of different heights to add depth and dimension to a farm table. A floor-length table runner is a swoon-worthy touch, think of what a train does for your gown–it’s that, for a table! Finally, Kelsey loves using bud vases in her designs for some added whimsy.
4. Modern Touches
Bring your wedding into the 21st Century with modern moments. In this shoot, we worked with Table Manners to develop a design for the head table where what’s old is new again. Modern blush plates, gold flatware, and cotton crinkle napkins were paired with vintage crystal cut plates, glasses, and a gold-rimmed charger. Kelsey recommends pairing modern pieces with vintage finds for a timeless balance.
5. Heirloom Invitation Suite
To create a classic Italian-inspired invitation suite, McKenzie King, lead designer and owner of Paper Tie Affair, says that texture is everything. Incorporating silk ribbons and choosing a soft, deckled-edge paper are easy ways to bring in the feel of Tuscany and old-world inspiration. Subtle white and grey tones are a no-brainer to keep your invitations classic, and you can’t go wrong by adorning with a gold seal to add contrast. From invitations to menus, highlighting a romantic calligraphy script is a perfect way to stay right on theme. For an added personal touch, McKenzie incorporated a hand-drawn, vintage-style venue sketch of the gorgeous Villa Antonia.
6. Lounge Around
What says Old-World charm more than lounging around aimlessly in a sprawling garden?! We worked with Premier Event Rentals to provide an ivory lounge look paired with a more industrial style coffee table. Add string bulb lights and other personal touches (we opted for vintage lanterns) to take the lounge experience to the next level.
7. Don’t Be Afraid to Pull in a Pattern
When it comes to wedding design, it’s common to shy away from patterns, but showcasing a unique pattern or texture can actually work to elevate your look. In this shoot, Villa Antonia boasted some truly beautiful tile work that Emily was able to capture beautifully. A great way to incorporate patterns into décor is by using them in small places like napkins, menus, or even on your wedding cake.
8. You Glow Girl
A fresh-faced look can work to enhance a classic wedding theme. Lauren Haese, owner of The Luxx Look, recommends a monochromatic pallet with light peaches, coppers, and soft pinks. She used Ardell Professionals “Wispies” lashes and a cream blush to give our model a youthful glow. Lauren also suggests an undone-updo with face-framing layers that add movement to a soft tousled look. Finally, dry shampoo and root lifter powder is key to having all-day volume and texture!
Budget
The estimated budget for this wedding is $30,000. Please note that prices do change, and this budget breakdown gives you an idea of how much a wedding like this might cost you.
