Making an entrance at a wedding. From the guests’ point of view.

January 22, 2023, , ,
Wedding guests make an entrance at an outdoor wedding hosted at a private estate.

Making an entrance at a wedding should be grand for guests, too!

How we walk into a celebration is probably one of the more important elements for me when I work with clients to design their weddings & events. For me, the way we arrive sets the tone for the whole thing; a little excitement and anticipation, a heaping dose of welcome, and of course – style are all key ingredients to creating memorable layers within the overall experience of a great party.

Group of men walk into wedding cocktail hour at private residence in Chicago.

An additional ingredient that I find so important? Infusing customs and cultural traditions that are important to our clients. That’s such a magical part of planning for me because these elements are what make the day personal, detailed, and special. When these customs and traditions are blended together it is also a beautiful representation of the people joining in marriage too.

For this stunner of a day, we brought to life a wedding on the history-filled private estate of the groom’s family (the property was purchased by his grandmother). Within the property is a gorgeous garden, we used it to create this magically meandering walk from the moment guests arrived at valet, through the garden, and ultimately to the tent. Along the way, guests were greeted with the welcome of milk & dates from the bride’s Moroccan culture. When receiving guests, milk and dates are served to honor guests and show them that the hosts are delighted to celebrate with them. We created a milk and date station with an attendant so guests were treated to this along the path and felt welcome and celebrated before they even arrived at the tent. 🤩

Such fun and such meaning. Truly one of my favorite elements ever in a wedding we’ve brought to life. ✨


Photos: Collin Pierson // Decor: Natalie Walsh with HMR Designs // Linen: Zia Delma // Rentals: The Festive Frog // Catering: Niche And Co Events // Film: Hunter Floyd Films // Printed items: Smitten Boutique // Cake: Flourish Cake Design // Tent: Pro Em Events // Lighting: Frost Chicago // Planning: Michelle Durpetti Events

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