Today’s featured wedding is a beautiful blend of simplicity and elegance, with a strong focus on family tradition. Mia and Nathan exchanged vows in a historic home in Florida that has been a hub for big family gatherings. The atmosphere was relaxed and intimate, with the warmth of the setting sun casting a romantic glow over the proceedings.
While there are certainly plenty of gorgeous details to inspire your own wedding planning – from the stunning ceremony backdrop to the decadent cakes – this celebration is ultimately about evoking a feeling rather than providing specific ideas or decorations to borrow. The photographs, taken by Christina Block Photography in her signature atmospheric style, perfectly capture the love and joy that filled the air on this special day.
From the Photographer
Mia and Nathan’s beachside wedding at their family home was a unique and intimate celebration with a long history of couples exchanging vows in the same location, this special spot has become a beloved tradition among loved ones. Amidst the picturesque surroundings, the couple’s attention to detail shone through in the beautiful florals and decorations. The property’s moody light was perfectly balanced by the bright and airy atmosphere we captured during our ocean-side photo shoot.
This lovely wedding serves as inspiration for brides seeking an understated yet elegant celebration without breaking the bank, and of course, the cakes were just as delicious as they looked.
Our Love Story
As I reflect on how Nathan and I’s story began, it’s remarkable to think about the serendipity that brought us together in our graduate program at the University of Florida. Our instant connection was undeniable – we shared laughter and a deep affection for each other, not to mention their families and mine. We built a life together in Tallahassee, FL, where our family grew with the addition of our beloved dog Gus.
As our careers took off, so did our love for adventure, leading us to leave Tallahassee behind and embark on a three-and-a-half-month European escapade. It was during this trip, in the picturesque city of Florence, that Nathan popped the question, and I happily said yes. Returning home to Atlantic Beach, FL, we settled into planning our special day just two months later, welcoming another furry member to our family – the sweet Dolly.
Fast-forward to our wedding day, where we exchanged vows at my aunt and uncle’s home, originally my grandparents’ residence. Today, we reside just a stone’s throw away from them, surrounded by love, memories, and of course, our two loyal companions Gus and Dolly.
The Inspiration
Imagine an evening soiree where sophistication meets free-spirited charm. A setting that seamlessly blends refinement with whimsy, characterized by a calming neutral backdrop and subtle pops of cerulean and emerald hues, carefully curated to showcase the stunning property’s natural beauty.
The Budget
When planning my special day, I made a conscious decision to prioritize certain aspects over others. While I didn’t hesitate to invest in exceptional photography and a memorable cake, I opted for a more understated approach when it came to decor. By keeping things simple, I was able to allow the venue’s natural beauty to take center stage and create a cohesive atmosphere that perfectly complemented the celebration.
The Venue
The family homestead, where many cherished memories were forged, has a profound significance for me. My parents, as well as my aunts and uncles, exchanged their vows within its walls. In fact, my father relocated there during his elementary school years, making the property an integral part of our family’s history.
The kindness of my aunt and uncle, who currently reside in the house, was exemplified when they generously offered to host my wedding, a testament to the enduring bonds formed within those very walls.
The Ceremony
My uncle had the honor of officiating the ceremony. To make the occasion even more special, we hired a talented duo featuring Addi and Jacq on vocals and harp for our recessional. Their performance was truly unforgettable, as they sang Leslie Gore’s iconic ‘Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows’ – a song that held deep personal significance for my family members, including myself, my aunts, and cousins.
As we made our way down the aisle to celebrate our union, the atmosphere was filled with joy and warmth. Later, during our first dance as a married couple, Nora Jones’ soothing melody in ‘Come Away with Me’ created a serene ambiance, allowing us to cherish this momentous occasion.
The Honeymoon
We recently splurged on a trip to Europe, and was granted several days off work ahead of my big day – the wedding. It was a great opportunity to squeeze in some quality time with loved ones before exchanging vows. In hindsight, I think it would have been more beneficial to dedicate those days to unwinding and rejuvenating on a romantic honeymoon getaway instead.
The Photography
As soon as I stumbled upon Christina Block’s work, I was hooked. Her exceptional talent and ability to effortlessly capture the essence of a moment resonated deeply with me. What sets her apart is her remarkable skill in conveying a sense of authenticity – her photographs never feel staged or forced; instead, they perfectly capture the most treasured moments of your special day, making them an absolute treasure to revisit time and again.
Advice for Other Couples
To avoid feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of design options, it’s crucial to stay focused on a single vision or theme. As you explore various ideas, remember that consistency is key; it can be tempting to get sidetracked by new and seemingly better concepts, but it’s essential to resist these impulses and maintain your original direction. I’ve learned this lesson firsthand, having previously struggled with the urge to drastically alter my approach multiple times.
Thankfully, I managed to stay the course and am now grateful for the decisions I made.
The Decor & Details
As we prepared for the special occasion, my mother and I carefully curated a unique touch by selecting vintage glasses for our signature drinks – mostly beveled crystal pieces that added an air of sophistication. Meanwhile, my sister and friend combined their creative forces to craft a stunning floral backdrop for the ceremony, a true masterpiece that set the tone for the celebration.
To further elevate the atmosphere, we took charge of designing the name cards and sourced a diverse array of votives to adorn the tables. My vision was to allow the venue’s natural charm and the flower arrangements to take center stage, while still incorporating thoughtful details that would make the occasion truly unforgettable.
Our Favourite Details
The significance of the wedding location was palpable as it held a special place in my heart; I cherished the personal touches we incorporated, such as our homemade name cards, a floral arch that added a whimsical touch, and a picture display showcasing the history of the property with all the other weddings that have taken place there. There’s something truly captivating about this wedding – it effortlessly blends modern charm with traditional warmth.
It’s clear that this was a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and I’m thrilled to see family traditions continuing to unfold within these walls. I extend my sincerest gratitude to Christina Block Photography for capturing the magic of this special day and to Mia & Nathan for graciously sharing their backyard wedding with us. May it inspire others to plan their own unforgettable celebrations.