We saw a Florida barn with a modern twist… But then said, “make it Napa Valley!” Jesse and Jim’s wedding was an absolute dream to plan from start to finish.
From the start, Jesse had a clear vision for what she wanted– rustic with black and white accents, warm wood tones, simple white florals, and a breezy, comfortable feeling to put all her guests at ease. Oh, and did I mention she wanted a barn? If you know me, you know the words “Lisa Lyons” and “barn” are not often uttered in the same sentence. But, I *knew* Jesse and I shared a similar vision and aesthetic so we got to work!
Achieving a Napa valley vibe in a Florida barn felt like staging a coup at times but the final result says it all– my design partners “went there” with me and the juxtaposition of every element created something truly special!
The wedding was held at The Mulberry in New Smyrna Beach, about an hour north of Orlando. The grounds were picturesque and both Jesse and Jim knew they wanted an outdoor ceremony.
We opted for simple, rustic bench seating and a ceremony beneath a huge maple tree. Lana and Art Faulkner of Fairbanks Florist custom made the ceremony backdrop and wove white wisteria, roses, and anemones into it. The result was so very “Jesse and Jim,” it the perfect setting for them to make their commitment to one another.
For Jesse and Jim, more important than the setting or any other detail was Jim’s daughter Finley. They wanted to ensure she was included in every aspect of their ceremony.
Finley walked with Jesse down the aisle– where there was not a dry eye in sight! Then all three stood together as Jesse and Jim made vows not only to each other, but to Finley too.
And just like that, Jesse and Jim were wed and Finley officially had a bonus Mom!
A cocktail hour followed the ceremony in which guests sipped on a choice of two signature cocktails: a French 75 and an Old Fashioned.
Traditional canapés were traded for an enormous, eight-foot grazing table– otherwise known as the cheese and charcuterie board of dreams! It was the largest spread the caterers had ever done! From the start, Jesse and Jim knew they wanted a grazing table (an 8’ table at that!) and it was a major hit with their guests.
As guests imbibed, the newly married couple snuck away for portraits. I do not even have WORDS for these images!
After cocktails and photos, the reception space was ready for my big reveal moment with Jesse and Jim.
We went for simple, classic, warm, and decidedly chic. Guests sat at long wooden tables, lined with white florals and a mix of classic white tower and black taper candles in glass hurricanes. Black rimmed glass chargers were set with soft linen napkins draped over the table’s edge. Custom stationery by Do Tell Stationery featured in each menu and place card, each with their own wax seal.
Once guests made their way to their seats, it was time for Jesse and Jim’s first dance. We had a custom dancefloor created and as the song reached a crescendo, cool sparks erupted.
Dinner and speeches followed with lots of laughter.
Then there was a cake cutting before…
… The dance floor kicked up. And what a dance floor it was! Few people party like the Pittman’s and their guests!
We had a confetti release…
And light sticks…
And a send off with cool sparks…
Although our couple and many of their guests stayed to dance until the wee hours!
Vendor Credits
Wedding Planning and Design: Lisa Lyons Events
Ceremony and Reception Venue: The Mulberry at New Smyrna Beach
Photography and Videography: Josh and Rachel
Florals: Fairbanks Florist
Hair and Makeup: Kristy’s Artistry Design Team
Lighting, Entertainment, Cool Sparks, Confetti: Fyerfly Productions
Linens: Over the Top Rental Linens
Wedding Cake: Sprinkles Custom Cakes
Furniture: Event Effects
Chargers, Stemware, Flatware: Treasury Rentals
Stationery and Table Numbers: Do Tell Stationery and Designs
Attire Credits
Bride’s Wedding Dress and Veil: Alyssa Kristin Bridal via Everthine Bridal Boutique
Bride’s Shoes: Stuart Weitzman
Grooms Attire: Hugo Boss
Rings: Blue Water Jewelers
