If you live in Tennessee and were recently wed, you undoubtedly had to stick to a 10-person limit (as announced by Gov. Bill Lee for all social gatherings). Around 63% of couples have postponed their wedding celebration, reports a recent survey by Lending Tree, since the majority of couples wish to hold larger events surrounded by friends and family (some of which need to travel from afar). If you have decided to plan your wedding for better times because you have your heart set on a large, traditional country-style wedding, then you can take the next few weeks and months to ensure your wedding is unforgettable. If you wish to celebrate the upbeat ambiance, style and tradition of the south, the following tips may be helpful.
Choosing An Elegant Outdoor Setting
The showstopper in many a country wedding is undoubtedly the Great Outdoors, so choosing a venue with beautiful gardens, shady trees, and dreamy canopy tents is of the essence. Nashville has a host of ideal spots in which to host a nature-filled event, with just a few popular venues including East Ivy Mansion in historic Edgefield (featuring 44,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor space and two gardens with brick pathways and mature shade trees, maple trees, and colorful flowers). Other top choices include The Barn at Stone Gate Farm & Guesthouse (ideal for a rustic yet stylish wedding with southern chic-styled interiors and dreamy outdoor green areas), and Cedarwood Weddings (ensconced in a stunning 50-acre historic estate, close to Mooncake Lake, tucked away in a nature preserve).
Styling It Southern Style
Southern style is usually associated with tradition, but the truth is that when it comes to ‘saying yes to the dress’, every bride is individual and some may prefer vintage styles, while others opt for minimalist or fitting modern dresses. Step into shops like Olia Zavozina, Karen Hendrix couture, or Romantic Creations Bridal Nashville USA. In Tennessee, grooms are generally expected to marry in black tie, with cummerbunds or vests worn alongside a one-button black tuxedo suit being the norm. Of course, you can always change things around, opting for lighter shades or unique materials if you are into avant-garde designs.
Expressing Yourself
Southern women (and indeed women across the nation) may favor traditional styles and materials when it comes to engagement rings, but country legends like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood have shown that these days, it’s all about expressing yourself and daring to break with the mold. Both these artists sported stunning yellow diamonds; Kelly Clarkson, for instance, sported a five-carat yellow canary diamond framed by classic transparent diamonds. Yellow, pink and red diamonds are highly prized, but if you like colorful styles, then gemstone engagement rings can be affordable but equally dazzling, especially when paired with pave diamond frames. Just a few gems to consider include sapphires (which come in a host of colors, including blue and pink), emeralds, and tourmalines.
Throwing An Unforgettable Party
Your wedding reception should ideally express the wonder of life in the south. You can achieve this in many ways – through your choice of dishes, music and décor, for instance. Rustic décor, lace, flowers, and natural elements can help create the ambiance you seek. If you will be holding an indoor wedding, then barn-style or wood-filled décor will be perfect for adding an element of warmth and coziness. When it comes to food, why not break with standard three-course meals and offer guests a fun buffet featuring classic Tennessee favorites like meat and three, fried pickles, cornbread, and barbecued (or better yet, Josper-grilled) meat? Music is also important: if it is within budget, hiring a band playing seasoned and new country music favorites is a guaranteed way to keep your guests on the dance floor for the entirety of the party.
A majority of couples across the U.S. have postponed their wedding to better days, despite the fact that in states like Tennessee, limited social gatherings are permitted. Traditional southern weddings are large, lively, outdoor affairs characterized by great food, appealing décor, and great music. You can also show your southern flair by opting for something a little different in your attire – a colorful ring, sparkly shoe, or lighter suit (for grooms) can break with tradition but still boast all the elegance associated with southern weddings.
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