Bringing Elegance to the Country for a Chic Outdoor Wedding

Lacey and James celebrated their timeless outdoor wedding at Twelve Oaks Mansion, nestled just outside Pittsburgh. They brought their countryside glam wedding to life with intricate lace, plush velvet, and radiant red hues, all set against vibrant autumn colors.

Twelve Oaks Mansion can accommodate everything from intimate ceremonies and dinners to extravagant affairs with up to 250 guests. They offer versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, breathtaking hilltop vistas, and ample natural light. And their outstanding service, hospitality, and event planning are simply incomparable.

Twelve Oaks Mansion isn’t just a venue; it’s a family. This family-owned and female-led event team takes immense pride in serving couples and their guests, and I appreciate their commitment to sustainability and zero-waste practices. One of the team members also owns a small farm, supplying all pork and eggs for fresh farm-to-table dishes.

All that to say, it’s not hard to see why Lacey and James picked Twelve Oaks for their special day.

6 Steps to Planning Your Chic, Elegant Outdoor Wedding

As a wedding photographer passionate about making art from life’s sweetest moments, I am constantly seeking ways to elevate traditional concepts and help you create truly unique and memorable events.

One trend that has captured my heart and imagination is bringing elegance outdoors. There is something enchanting about the combination of natural beauty and refined details that creates a magical atmosphere for weddings. If you are dreaming of a luxury countryside wedding that gives elegance and sophistication, I have curated a few tips and ideas to help you recreate this concept for a picturesque aesthetic for your big day.

Emphasize the venue’s natural scenery, and let it play a star role in your theme.

First and foremost, location is everything. When selecting a venue for your outdoor wedding, opt for a picturesque countryside setting like Twelve Oaks Mansion. Think rolling hills, lush greenery, and nostalgic elements. A historic estate or a converted barn can provide the perfect backdrop for your elegant affair.

Consider a minimalist approach and let the scenery speak for itself.

Next, focus on the details. Small touches can make a big impact in creating an elegant outdoor ambiance. Consider incorporating delicate lace accents, vintage-inspired furniture, and soft, romantic lighting. A beautiful chandelier hanging from a tree or a canopy of fairy lights can add a touch of glamour to your outdoor space.

Never underestimate the power of texture. Lacey’s crinkle-crepe shoes, her lace gown, and the bridesmaids’ red velvet dresses all gave to the elegant theme in a big way.

Choose a color palette that complements the setting.

For your outdoor wedding color palette, stick to classic and timeless hues such as ivory, blush, and sage green. These colors not only complement the natural surroundings but they also exude a sense of sophistication and elegance.

Alternatively, like Lacey, you might focus on one bold accent color. The rich red in this wedding is a stunning complement to the natural greenery and subtle fall foliage.

Incorporate these colors into your floral arrangements and décor for a cohesive and refined look. Go for large, loose floral arrangements and native wildflowers if possible.

Make sure all vendors are on board with your vision and can achieve your style.

To seamlessly execute your style, ensure every vendor involved is fully aligned with your vision and capable of bringing your unique style to life. Each aspect should reflect your outdoor chic style, from the invitations to the floral arrangements.

When meeting with each vendor, clearly communicate your vision and expectations. Share your inspiration board, color palette, and any specific details that are important to you. Sharing examples will give them a clear understanding of your style and allow them to make suggestions and adjustments to enhance your vision. Make sure to choose vendors with experience in executing the style you are looking for, as this will ensure a cohesive and stunning final result.

Don’t be afraid to ask for samples or mock-ups of their work before making a final decision to help you determine if they are the right choice for your wedding aesthetic.

Find a venue or caterer who sources ingredients locally.

When it comes to the menu, opt for a farm-to-table approach. Serve locally sourced, seasonal dishes that showcase the fresh flavors of the countryside. Farm-fresh ingredients not only taste better, but they also support local businesses and add a personal touch to your special day.

Add a personal touch for details that matter.

Lastly, remember the little details that can make a big difference. Provide your guests with cozy blankets or pashminas to keep them warm during the outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour. Offer them a signature cocktail inspired by the surrounding landscape. Utilize rugs to bring a luxe look to the lawn. There are endless ways to create a cozy, beautiful, and memorable countryside wedding.

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