Tucked away behind gates and a long and winding driveway in Allentown, New Jersey is The Ashford Estate, a Weddings of Distinction venue.It’s one of the most stunning and luxurious venues in the area, and I’m always so honored (and equally as excited!) when I’m asked to design invitations and wedding day stationery for couples who have chosen such a beautiful spot to tie the knot.
Lauren and Dave celebrated their wedding day on October 14, 2017 – just over a year ago! It was so sweet to work with them because I had previously designed Lauren’s sister’s blush and gold foil wedding invitation for their New Year’s Eve soiree. I always love working with families! With its laser cut details and art deco style, L+D’s wedding invitations were reminiscent of the gates that swing open as you enter onto The Ashford Estate’s sprawling grounds. It was the perfect piece to offer a sneak peek into the experience guests would enjoy a few months later, and the suite’s style was mirrored in some of the couple’s wedding day stationery, like the custom sign noting all of the transportation details.
On their wedding day, Lauren and Dave both got ready at the estate. Lauren’s dress hung nearby while she and her bridesmaids sipped drinks and enjoyed hair and makeup. Once they were ready, Lauren and Dave saw each other for the first time. But, Dave was greeted by a Leonardo DiCaprio life size cutout first because Lauren is such a huge fan. I love that she incorporated her love of Leo and the Great Gatsby into their day!
Rather than reciting their vows offsite, Lauren and Dave opted to get married in The Ashford Estate’s onsite barn. The space is rustic with tons of elegant charm, and the pair only added to it through their inclusion of flowers and plenty of lanterns. I loved providing wedding programs for the guests!
The grounds that led to their reception inside the ballroom were perfectly outfitted for the fall with tons of mums! I also love the lanterns that led the way inside where the couple and their guests were met with tables filled with tall floral arrangements complete with hydrangea and roses. Custom signage was placed throughout the space, a seating chart provided guests with their most asked question – “where am I sitting” – and circle shaped menus awaited everyone at every place setting.
Lauren and Dave each danced with their parents (and each other!) throughout the night complete with an “H” monogram I placed onto a GOBO glowing off to the side, but I have to believe their most special moment happened when they cut their cake. The cake was decorated beautifully with a blue and pink theme, and the inside revealed their baby’s gender to each other and their guests. I’m so thrilled L+D welcomed a baby girl!
Between the blue and gold palette (with plenty of pink details!), gold foil printing onto the stationery, the sweet couple, and their beautiful venue, I loved working with Lauren and Dave. Thank you so much to Love At First Snap for capturing these photos! L+D, congratulations on your first anniversary and your sweet new addition! xo