I brought out the gray in the bridesmaids' bouquets with bits of thistle. Groomsmen wore boutonnieres of craspedia and thistle.
The ceremony was held in the Rotunda in the library. I didn't want to design something that had a distinct front and back, so I made pomander topiaries for the room, which can be viewed from any direction. Perfect for the location!
I added some "bookends" to a lantern sitting on a table which greeted the guests in the Rotunda.
Cocktails were served on the roof while the Rotunda was turned over for the reception. Tara made some really clever "vases" for the tables. She decoupaged colorful paper along with a scene from either Seattle or Philadelphia on it. They were all different and all so cute!
Placecards were bookmarks designed by Tara. I think the picture of the two of them behind their books is just perfect. I raised the flowers on the table by stacking books underneath them.
The first thing that came to mind when designing this wedding was that I was going to create vases out of books! Glenn was skeptical, but up to the task. So he scooped out thick books that would fit my inserts. I stacked that book on top of a couple others and voila - a container for flowers.
My second idea was to use books as the bookends with flowers in center. Old fashioned library cards were used as table numbers.
And lastly, I made some tall pieces for the tables since the ceiling was so very high. Table numbers were attached to old books.
I just made a couple of small arrangements for the sweetheart table to carry through the color theme.
This was one of my favorite weddings to work on. I just loved focusing in on a theme and carrying it through. The bride and her family were so helpful with collecting books and working out the details of this wedding. I think everything came together so beautifully. Congratulations to Tara and Alan on their marriage! You're off to a great start.
