Jill and Brian’s Stylishly DIY Wedding

by Amy Serrago

Jill and Brian weren’t even planning on setting a date when they first saw The Farm at Cottrell Lake. They went to see this amazing farm because Jill’s friend Melissa is the owner, but when they laid eyes on the property with its historic farmhouse, small cocktail barn and classic red reception barn they knew they had to be married there. Jill had envisioned an outdoor wedding in the fall, but stayed away from the expected fall palette of oranges and dark colors. Instead, she focused on navy blue, dusty pale blue and cranberry for her wedding party and played with white, grays and green for her decor. All of the details were DIY, Jill and her friend, Virginia, worked tirelessly to achieve what we think is an absolutely stunning autumn wedding. The ceremony took place under a wooden arbor decorated with dried wheat, branches and cotton flowers in a large field with mountain views and included a traditional unity braid ritual to honor Jill and Brian’s faith.

Jill was breathtaking in her long sleeved, form fitting lace gown with it’s illusion neckline and sheer back. She finished her look with large, vintage-inspired rhinestone earrings and nude chunky sandals. Her bridesmaids wore cranberry gowns with flowing, cape-like sleeves and her daughters were adorable in their custom made, dusty blue dresses. All of the ladies carried bouquets of dried blue thistle, cotton flowers and pheasant feathers, Jill chose dried and preserved florals so that she could always have them as a keepsake of her special day. Brian and his groomsmen were handsome in blue suits with blue ties and each man pinned a boutonnière of cotton flower and pheasant feathers to his lapel.

The reception barn decor was magical. The fall theme was enhanced by white and gray Jarrahdale squash, birch branches and Spanish moss while fresh cotton buds, pheasant feathers and some pops of green made uniquely beautiful centerpieces. Plenty of candles and rustic accents like rough hewn wooden pedestals completed the tablescapes. Jill says her favorite part of the decor was “an old window that we hung behind our head table. There were white airy curtains hanging behind it. It truly took my breath away every time I walked in.” For favors, each guest received a small bottle of rosemary infused olive oil that was lovingly made by Jill’s dad, they also looked great on the tables! The love and creativity that went into planning Jill and Brian’s unique farm wedding is evident. We hope you find oodles of inspiration!