Once they realized they had found “the one,” life and love moved quickly for Sydnie & Derek. Like many modern couples, they met on a dating site and instantly knew this connection was different. Just three months later, Derek proposed to Sydnie in the middle of a country road at night, during a heavy snowfall, which she remembers as a sweet and romantic moment.
Location was important when planning their big day. They chose Springbrook Events for its barn and rural landscapes, while still being easily accessible for guests traveling for the occasion. Springbrook Events has indoor and outdoor locations, stunning scenery, a rustic barn, and optional on-site lodging for extra convenience.
When it came to planning, Sydnie & Derek dreamed of a late summer, September wedding, opting to tie the knot the same year Derek proposed, instead of delaying another whole year. Sydnie reflected:
“We planned a large wedding in only seven months, and it came together beautifully! My advice would be to use the people in your wedding for help; they are there to support you. You aren’t putting them out and typically are expecting and happy to help!”
The base color palette for the wedding consisted of black, white, and various shades of green. Sydie’s bridesmaids wore unique yet coordinating gowns in green shades, ranging from forest green to sage and teal.
Derek wore a suit from Men’s Wearhouse, with a white undershirt and white satin tie. His groomsmen were a little more casual, dressed in black suit pants and white button-down shirts, but skipping the jacket. Instead, they wore brown suspenders and accessorized with green ties.
Sydnie’s dream dress from Amelishan Bridal was romantic and ethereal, featuring off-the-shoulder sleeves, a v-neck bodice, and sweeping tulle and lace detailing.
The couple exchanged vows beneath two willow trees, in front of a pond with swans swimming in it. Florist Diana Dreger Designs added bright, bold pops of color to the celebration with bouquets, floral boutonnieres, and installation pieces on the wooden ceremony backdrop.
After the ceremony, the couple explored the venue property to take beautiful couple portraits. Sam Lauersdorf Photography captured all the vibrancy of the day, from preparation to golden hour and night photography.
Authenticity was at the forefront for Sydnie & Derek when it came to the details. At their reception, they included a quilted guestbook. Each guest signed and wrote a message on a square, which will be sewn into a family heirloom. They also worked hard to create a meaningful (and flavorful!) favor.
Sydnie wrote, “We wanted our guests to take home something that Derek and I spent time on, to show how much we appreciated having our loved ones share our wedding day with us. We made homemade strawberry jam for each guest, made with handpicked strawberries from Mayberry Farms; we had to pick 8 buckets of strawberries!”
The couple and their guests danced the night away thanks to music and entertainment from The Fun DJ. Highlights included interactive experiences, signature drinks and catering from Springbrook Events, and a cozy outdoor patio with warm lighting and bonfire seating.
For couples nearing their wedding day, Derek & Sydnie agree: “Make sure you find each other and check in with each other on the big day–it goes by incredibly fast! Take some moments during the day to stop and take it all in. You spent so long planning it, enjoy it!”
Inspired by this celebration? Keep the ideas flowing with our virtual wedding magazine–your yearly planning companion, filled with real weddings, expert advice, and stunning inspiration. Pick up printed copies at our vendor locations or request one here.
