Coastal weddings are trending, and this couple absolutely nailed the vibe! From the quaint waterfront venue to the bride’s impressive DIY oyster shell place cards, there is so much inspo to be had for your own coastal affair. So keep scrolling and get ready because you’re going to want to pin every single one of these photos by Susan Elizabeth Photography to your wedding inspo board.
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their love story
Throughout the demanding years of their studies, Ryan was a steady source of joy for Lea, filling stressful days with date nights, surprise flower deliveries, and unwavering support. What initially began as a friendship in medical school naturally blossomed into something much more. Six years later, during a trip to Turks and Caicos, Ryan proposed. One evening before dinner, he suggested a private meal on the beach as a belated birthday celebration. Unbeknownst to Lea, he had orchestrated the entire moment, complete with a secret photographer and a plan for her family to watch the proposal through the hotel’s beach camera feed. “It was a beautiful, thoughtful surprise I’ll cherish forever,” Lea shared.
the vision: coastal escape
A cherished serenity of the waterfront shaped Lea and Ryan’s wedding into a coastal escape that celebrated the natural beauty of New Jersey’s shoreline. “Every summer since we started dating, we’ve made it a tradition to escape to the shore,” the couple shared of their weekend getaways. Those memories made choosing The Bonnet Estate as their venue feel effortless. Painted in soft shades of blue, washed-out sage, and airy neutrals, the celebration reflected the calm and elegance of the coast. The ceremony, awash in the gentle August light, was held in the chapel boathouse before a stone hearth, where bridesmaids carried baskets brimming with blooms by Magnolia Exquisite Florals & Event Décor.
the invitations
Enclosed in a delicate sage envelope, the wedding invitation suite was awash in pastels and featured a watercolor illustration of the coastal venue. Whether you’re planning to use it on your invitations or not, investing in a custom illustration of your venue is such a perfect keepsake from your wedding day!
DIY place cards
Nods to nautical charm appeared throughout the day—Lea even handcrafted decoupage oyster shells that served as both place settings and keepsakes for guests.
We live for simple, chic DIYs just like this!
getting ready
In adorable gingham nighties, the bride and her ladies popped bottles and explored the garden before getting ready for the big day ahead. They all opted for natural glam makeup looks with flowing waves for their hair.
the fashion
Lea wore a simple, fitted white gown for the ceremony, later changing into a neutral-toned lehenga detailed with beading and embroidery in a sandy gold hue that perfectly complemented the day’s palette.
incorporating the bride’s heritage
With an intentional effort to honor her Indian heritage, Lea and her family planned a special dance performance. She began with her mother, was joined by her cousins, and eventually, the entire bridal party joined in. Lea recalled how dedicated everyone was to learning the choreography: “It was one of the most unforgettable moments of the celebration—filled with love, energy, and a joy I’ll always cherish.”
the cake
The couple cut into a four-tiered buttercream-frosted wedding cake displayed on an elegant silver platter. Fresh flowers in shades of blue and white cascaded down one side.
some advice from the happy bride
Her advice to future couples: “Personalize the wedding in ways that feel true to you—it’s those thoughtful details that make the day feel like a reflection of your story and your love.”
