So, after all the drama with picking a venue, we finally decided to have the wedding at my family’s home. It turned out to be the perfect choice. It’s gorgeous, intimate, meaningful to us, and (a major plus) we saved money by not paying for a venue, so were able to hire a wedding planner (Kate Ryan Occasions… so helpful, and a genius)! We also have total freedom to use our own decor, furniture, linens, etc. Katie, my wedding planner, has tons of great vendor relationships, so she knows who’s the best to work with, and what our budget will allow. Here’s a shot of part of the back yard, just to give a taste of what the outdoor space will be.

Our wedding will be a cool, laid-back cocktail party… no fancy sit-down dinner.  Hors d’oeuvres and high-top tables, lots of ways for our guests to mingle, and a live band playing an acoustic set of our favorite rock songs. The colors will be black, ivory, gold and silver metallics, with a plum or aubergine hue thrown in for flavor. Here’s a style board I created for a Brooklyn Bride contest. Even though I didn’t win, I still love this style and reference this board a lot. It’s almost exactly how I envision the wedding!

{Mood Board Photo Credits: NELLE XL BeBaubled Evening Bag , ‘Black hearts’ flowers via DesignSponge, Priscilla of Boston Melissa Sweet bridesmaid dress, Black and White Valentines Day via Grey Likes Weddings , DIY Wedding by Amy and Stuart via Style Me Pretty, Christian Louboutin Fetilo Peep-Toe Pumps via Saks Fifth Avenue, Mary and Stefan’s Real Wedding via Once Wed }

Have you created an inspiration board for your wedding?