Real Wedding | Chandra and Derrick – A Charming Union on a Texas Estate.

Typically, I try to reserve mid week posts for useful tips, inspiration and other randoms things that you should know about.  Not this Wednesday!

I just couldn’t wait to feature this Autumn, home wedding, and you’ll see why.  Erin Woolsey, the young, trailblazing photographer out of Texas has not only confirmed that following your passion is crucial to feeding one’s soul, but also, no matter how seasoned or new to the business you are, it’s all about the spirit and the quality of product.  And, boy does she deliver!  With astounding charm and a flirtatious nod to classic fairy tales and whimsical romance, Erin Woolsey of EE Photography, can definitely call our Vendor J’Adore list: Home!

Setting: Grandma & Grandpa’s Texas Estate.

Heroine & Hero: Chandra – a Texan bride with zest for Style & Graphic Design and Derrick, her dashing groom (of Taiwanese descent).

SCENE 1: Pearls, Vintage Veils and all things Feminine.

(Gown by Maggie Sottero; Veil and Jewelry made by bride; Hair and Make-up by friend of Bride)

I told you this was a family affair.  Practically everything adorned by the bride was custom made by herself, or passed down from a friend or family. The dress, for example, belonged to Chandra’s sister.  Love it!

Scene 2: A Handsome Entourage

(Grooms’ Suits by Jones NY)

Scene 3: A Home Grown Ceremony.

(Ceremony Location at Home of Bride’s Grand Parents in Farmer’s Branch, TX)

Okay, so I’m a total sap, but the middle shot of the Derrick  as he watches Chandra walk down the aisle is priceless.  Let me rephrase that, she wasn’t just walking.  Chandra’s creative aisle march gets it’s own special paragraph.

Wedding Music/ Vow Exchange Idea: Chandra had lyrics to the song that she chose to walk to, printing on classy boards, which she picked up as she approached the front.  She revealed each sign and the respective lyrics in real time with the music (“Awake” by Secondhand Serenade).  Not a bad way to make an entrance, and a great idea for vow exchanges as well.

Design Idea: Let’s talk about the bridesmaid’s sitting elegantly on hanging swings in the background.  Not only is it picture perfect, but comfortable.  How many times have you heard bridesmaid’s complain (out of earshot from the bride, of course), of having to stand in heels for 45 minutes to an hour.  This would be a great design idea, if you have the right fauna available.  (I hope you’re taking notes.)

Scene 4: The Reception!

As I mentioned earlier, the bride’s grandparent’s hosted the wedding in their backyard, which if it isn’t available for public rental…it should be.  From packed lunches and ice cream stations, to luscious cupcakes, cheese and crackers, they had the menu all figured out (and custom designed, as well:-)   The menu wasn’t the only thing thought out from start to finish.  Staying true to home values, respect for family and culture, Chandra and Derrick incorporate others elements into their 250- guest reception.   “There were pictures of both our parents and our grandparents on their wedding days on the table.” Says Chandra.  ” We thought it would be a nice way for them to be honored.  We also had my brother in-law fold origami flowers for each place setting…sort of as a party favor.  The paper he used was an old Asian newspaper!”

(All Images by © EE Photography)

“Its not at all what I thought it would be.  I had it all planned in my head and it turned out completely different, perfect but different.  I had a blast and didn’t take anything too seriously so it wasn’t hard when things went wrong…and they will.  I would tell other brides not to stress and just enjoy the moment so that your memories of your wedding day are all
positive.“

-Chandra, the Bride-

Congratulations to C & D!  Your wedding is truly in inspirational dream palette, all on it’s own.

Thank you to Erin for hookin’ us up with these awesome photos.

Spicyhugs,

Fri