The ethereal summer setting of a family farm nestled in the foothills of the Berkshires of western Massachusetts was the perfect venue for Morgan and Daniel’s romantic, homegrown wedding. Friends and family played a role in so many parts of the planning and execution of this wedding, from the stationery and florals to the cake and music. Even their wedding officiant was a close personal friend who helped shaped and personalize their ceremony and vows. This is an elegant fête under the stars you will not want to miss!
Morgan + Daniel | June 22, 2013 | Mill River, Massachusetts | Dress Listing: Amsale, Bali
The Ceremony
The whole wedding was a fantastic, collaborative group project involving our friends and family. We staged the ceremony on my cousins’ landscaped stone patio overlooking a hay field with a spectacular view of woods and the Berkshire mountains. The ceremony was a production, including an extended processional accompanied by the mischievous harmony of David Byrne songs played by the groom’s cover band.
My bridesmaids wore a range of dresses and accessories in peachy-corals, including watermelon, blush-rose, pink prosecco, and champagne. We included readings from the Bible, Shakespeare, and the writer Louis de Bernières. Our friend Kim married us with a personal address, as our guests looked on with a spectacular view of hayfields that met the forest at the base of the Berkshire mountains and late afternoon sky beyond.
The Reception
The reception was a feast and an outdoor party that unfolded in the late-staying light of the solstice. We set up a big tent next to my cousin Liz’s pumpkin patch. She and her husband Don spent loads of time preparing their property to host the event—it was a huge gift. There were paper bag lanterns lighting the way to the tucked-away toilets and fruit trees draped in Christmas lights.
There was lots of summery grilled food, locally brewed beer and refreshing rosé. We had a funky, bluesy band that got everyone dancing. Our friends made the delicious homemade wedding cake, the party favors, and the bunting in the tent. Dan made a late-night playlist and set up laser lights for a raucous finale. A big, full strawberry moon added to the dreamy fairy-castle feeling of the tent that lingered on into the wee hours.
Morgan’s Dress Search
I had planned for a designer-friend to make my dress, and had some silhouette and material ideas in mind. I knew the dress would play a critical role in the overall aesthetic we wanted to create, and I was also inspired by the history of theatricality in weddings – I knew I wanted a real gown. Dan and I wanted to create a ceremony that was unique to us and full of meaning.
How Morgan Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Happy, graceful, beautiful
Why Morgan Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
There are a couple of reasons. First, the experience of wearing such a special gown should be shared! I enjoy taking care of beautiful things, but I also believe in sharing beauty–it’s not as good when boxed up. Second, Dan and I are mapping out a plan to move towards the next phase of our marriage, and recouping some of what I invested in this dress would be very helpful.
