A Family Affair

Including your family in your big day

As the year is coming to a close, I’ve had some moments in December to appreciate how blessed my family is. I’m incredibly grateful to be able to work closely with my daughter and son-in-law here on this beautiful estate. I love that I get to pop in and see my darling granddaughters as well. And I’m thankful that my other daughter is only a few hours away.

There have been quite a few ceremonies this year that have integrated family into their day. This has helped them make some unique memories that I’m sure they will treasure for a lifetime. I’d love to share with you about a particular couple in May who included family in their ceremony and reception in the most beautiful way.

The Couple

Reagan and Jeff met at work in 2019. After a year of dating, he popped the question and Reagan of course said “Yes!” When they started planning their wedding for 135 guests, The Carriage House was added to their list of potential venues. I was pleasantly surprised when Reagan and her mother, Jane, came to tour our grounds as I had previously worked with Jane at Alpha Elementary School in Morristown. I have known Reagan since she was in elementary school; seeing how she has grown into a beautiful young woman gave me such warm fuzzies.

Integrating Family Pieces

This family was very thoughtful in how they made this day special. Reagan had a vision for a timeless and classic wedding and reception. The family used antiques from their home including centerpieces that were placed in vases from their family collection. Jane still fondly recalls being able to use their antique sofa out in the field for pictures that day.

Reagan’s dad wrote the bride a letter. They had it made into a banner that was hung on the wall. Who could hold back tears for a heartfelt touch like this?!

Including Family in the Ceremony

Reagan treasures her relationship with her two brothers. She viewed this day as an opportunity for her brothers to gain a brother in her new husband, Jeff. She included her brother Parker by asking him to read scripture during the ceremony.

Her brother Garrett used his professional skills to be part of the ceremony and reception in a way that I have never seen before. You see, Garrett is a professional dancer and is in the Trainee Program with the Sarasota Ballet. He and his partner, Mia, have danced together for a year and a half. They performed to “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” at the ceremony site prior to the wedding. This was a beautiful piece in a perfect setting.

After the ceremony, I was able to catch another dance performance prior to the reception. This time the dance pair performed to “The Prayer” by Josh Grobin. Thank goodness weddings come with lots of tissues as this performance was so moving! I could not hold back the tears myself!  

Each and every wedding that I help plan is unique and beautiful. I love hearing the couple’s love story. I also find it so sweet to integrate special people into their wedding day. When you tour our grounds, let’s discuss any ideas you have of making your day unique to you and your family.

We are excited to meet the newly engaged couples after Christmas. Give me a call to set up your tour of The Carriage House. If you are looking for a space that has lots of possibilities in indoor and outdoor space, we would love to be considered in your venue search.

All my best,

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