by: Here in the Midwest, it seems that the winter is just ... lingering. Sunshine and warmth, we are eagerly awaiting your arrival! Until then, we will cheer up with sunny thoughts of a beautiful MagnetStreet couple's summer wedding. Kara and Andrew's wedding in Maryland was picturesque and featured a super-chic neutral color palette. 
Kara and Andrew met on the first day of their new jobs in their home state of Tennessee. Some time later, he moved to Italy while she relocated to Washington, D.C. Time flew by, and Andrew popped the question to Kara on a quiet park bench. Kara described it, "Andrew spoke the most beautiful words I had ever heard, and before I knew it, he was on one knee and I was sobbing happily, even though I swore I wouldn’t cry." We'll let the photos paint the story of their sophisticated wedding day ... showcasing their ravishing neutral color palette, elegant wedding invite from MagnetStreet, lush florals, and stunning venues! 
Grand Soiree Wedding Invite from MagnetStreet Weddings "I loved that MagnetStreet had a lot options for complete suites that matched and coordinated extremely well. In addition, the order just one program was incredibly valuable in giving me peace of mind on my decisions. I believe that stationery sets the theme of your event for your guests ... it’s so much more than just paper. Handsome paper products were very important to me!" 
Something borrowed, blue, old, and new! "My bouquet was wrapped in my great-grandmother’s handkerchief. I also had my maternal grandparents’ wedding rings and a crystal pin that belonged to my paternal grandmother nestled into my bouquet. With the incorporation of the organ, everyone was with me on my big day! My father walked down the aisle with a custom pocket square. It was made from material from my wedding dress, as well as the lace applique from my mom’s veil that she had worn nearly 50 years before." 
The dress "I wanted a simple but stylish dress. I had tried on several at many stores, but they were too white, too sparkly, too lacy….! I found my dress almost a whole year before my big day. I thought it was too good to be true. Even though my amazing friend who was with me that day cried when I walked out wearing what was ultimately 'the one,' I didn’t take it right then. They held it for me, and less than 24 hours later I was calling to order it. I couldn’t stop thinking about it after I’d left it!" 
Did you decide to do a “first look”? "Yes! We loved the idea of seeing each other sooner rather than later during the day, especially since we had done a gift exchange and card read without the other one present that day. We also know it would help us ensure we had time devoted to capturing great moments between the two of us." 
Wedding theme with a neutral color palette "We had a very traditional wedding with our ceremony at a church. We did day-of gifts and cards, toasts, a sit-down meal, first dances, a cake cutting, and a send-off. I couldn’t commit to bold colors, so I chose sage green, gray and silver, classy neutrals that would be universally flattering." 
Favorite photo of the day "We had a petal toss send off. We were so happy and excited in that moment!" 
Not everything went to plan ... "The A/C in our church broke ... not ideal for June in the mid-Atlantic. We considered various other options, but powerful fans would have impeded the sound on the video, and possibly ruined some hair styles or caused a Marilyn Monroe-type incident. Scrambling to set up the reception venue didn’t seem worth it, not mention would have been a hassle to communicate to guests last minute. We gave out fans and refreshing wipes (like on airplanes) to all of our guests. Thankfully, our ceremony was short!" 
Choosing the venues "Our venues represented us very well. We are both from Tennessee, so having southern food was great for the rehearsal dinner. We’ve both been to Italy, and Andrew even lived there in Bologna for a year, so having the reception at an Italian restaurant was very meaningful. One of my ceremony venue requirements was an organ, because my late grandfather made a career playing the organ, and there is nothing like the rich sound of a pipe organ." 
Highlight of the day "We were blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful family members and friends. Even though they were there to have a good time, they wanted to help us! People were great about offering us drinks and taking care of us as we were getting ready and throughout day during our photos." 
Yum ... wedding cake(s) "We had cake (strawberry amaretto) and cupcakes. The cupcake flavors were nods to our heritage. Bourbon vanilla – because what’s more southern than bourbon? In addition, I lived in Fort Lauderdale for eight years, so the vanilla represents the Caribbean influence. And Black & White, like the cookie, an homage to New York City where Andrew’s paternal relatives are from ... and a place we frequently visit and have fond memories." 
The bride's advice "Never forget it’s yours and your groom’s special day. Make your day your own and include things that are important to you.Don’t get caught up in what’s trendy on Pinterest or Instagram. Genuineness always comes through, and people can feel that. Your guests will find a way to have fun!"
The following talented wedding vendors turned their wedding day dream into a reality: Ceremony: St. Paul’s Lutheran Church | Reception: Positano Ristorante | Rings: Nelson Coleman Jewelers | Photographer: Lee Hickman, Weddings by Lee | Videography: Video Express Productions | Florist: Stephanie's Secret Garden | Hair & Makeup: Priscilla M Beauty | Planner: Heather, Divine & Elegant Events, LLC | Cake(s): Lauren, SweEat Dreams n' Sunshine | Music: Amy Costanzo, “DJ ‘Zo” | Dress: Love Couture Bridal | Dress alterations: iCON Bridal & Formal | Menswear: Men’s Wearhouse
