the country
Rustic Refined Envision a wine country wedding in Northwest Florida By Rebecca Padgett
LILY & SPARROW PHOTO CO.
ALICIA OSBORNE PHOTOGRAPHY
T
60
NORTHWESTFLORIDAWEDDINGS.NET
he golden hour gleams off glasses of sipped wines as guests mingle and dance the evening away, everyone flush with the happiness brought forth by good food, good times and exceptional wines. If this sounds like pure wedding day bliss, a wine country wedding may be just your cup of tea — or glass of wine in this case. The vineyards of California, Italy and France are world-renowned for scenic vistas and the finest wines. You can evoke the very same sensory experience in Northwest Florida through a curated menu, rustic decor and wine galore. While outdoor ceremonies and receptions best fit this style, the same look and feel can be achieved indoors through decoration details. Wine barrels can be utilized as tables for food, gifts and dining, specifically if you don’t plan on having a seated meal. Set food, desserts and the cake on top of wine crates. Wine crates also can be filled with flowers or greenery. Wine bottles can be utilized in a variety of ways — use them as vases for flowers, candelabras or table number holders. An interactive idea is to place a bottle of wine on each table, and once the guests have finished it, they sign it with a permanent marker leaving it for the couple. Another guest book idea is to have each guest sign a cork. The couple can then make a piece of art to decorate their home with as a special keepsake. For outdoor weddings, create a rustic romantic ambience. “An al fresco dining setting under bistro string lights creates a glowingly stunning aesthetic for an unforgettable experience,” said Katie Butler, sales manager of Social Catering & Events. “String quartet music flowing in the air sets the stage of the rolling hills of the countryside.” Wood, greenery and naturally occurring florals work best to emphasize the provincial beauty of wine country. Consider vines, olive branches, honeysuckle, garden roses