greenlion design: Caitlin & Jeffery, Whispering Pines Conference Center, RI

Caitlin and Jeffery wanted a vintage, organic, feminine and romantic feel for their wedding. She loved the lush large dinner-plate dahlias and very open bloomed roses, which look like heirloom roses but cost much less.

The wedding was held at Whispering Pines Conference Center in RI. A stunning botanical wonderland down a long winding pine-lined road. The air was clean and it felt like you were in another world. For this horticulturist, I thought I was in heaven. The rain did not dampen the day (no pun intended, or maybe it is) and it seemed to add to the romance.

The centerpieces were inspired by an image Caitlin found, that evoked the feelings she was looking for. They matched the venue beautifully. Pitcher plants, lotus pods, asparagus ferns and succulents stood tall in low fishbowls. Fully opened peach roses sat in the bottom of the vases that added a romantic traditional feeling to a otherwise very nontraditional design.

We did half the tables with these intricate designs and the other half with simpler versions in different vessels. I love using different vessels on the tables; it gives guests a reason to wander with curiosity.

Caitlin wanted a mostly white bouquet with touches of blush pinks and greens. I incorporated pitcher (bog) plants and lotus pods to tie in the centerpieces. Lush white dahlias with barely there pink centers, lisianthus, peach roses, blush pink astilbe and seeded eucalyptus...

Long velvet ribbons adorned the bouquets, and the boot n' ears as well. The bridesmaids carried simpler versions of the bride's bouquet with small dahlias, astilbe, seeded Queen Anne's lace and lady's mantle blooms...

The mothers of the bride and groom carried nosegays which were delivered in vintage bottles which they were later dropped in to be displayed;

The boutonnieres were made with a succulent, an asparagus fern, sweet pea tendril and lady's mantle bloom accent:

The bride got a film charm for her groom's boutonniere as a surprise and to make his extra special and unique:

A vintage garden trellis was the centerpiece for the wedding ceremony. Bottles filled with big garden blooms and glowing candles in lace covered votive holders all contributed to the beauty and romantic feel!