Today’s wedding is filled to the brim with elegant summer rustic wedding ideas to help you plan a wedding full of southern charm. This summer rustic wedding took place over the Independence Day holiday which had such a big significance for today’s couple Sean and Erika as that was the same day they got engaged two years prior. A rustic wedding is known for it countryside aesthetic that usually incorporates the outdoors and nature throughout. Some of the most popular design elements seen throughout a rustic wedding incorporate muted colors, burlap designs and lace decor. Throughout today’s wedding you’ll be inspired as your browse through these beautiful images captured by Kara Abby Photography.
Incorporating your style on the wedding day
One of the most exciting aspects of planning a wedding is the ability to incorporate your personal style throughout your special day. I adore the way they chose to decorate their wedding venue Hayloft Barn with touches of dusty pink seen throughout the reception centerpieces. The bride wore a stunning gown from popular dress designer Maggie Sotero. In addition, the bridesmaids wore dusty pink gowns from popular dress designer Azazie.
Words from the photographer Kara Abby Photography
The Independence Day holiday will forever hold a whole boat-load of meaning for Sean & Erika. Not only did they get married this past 4th of July weekend, but two years ago, it was over the 4th of July weekend that they got engaged.
Two years ago, Sean & Erika were in Cumberland, MD spending time with Sean’s family. They live up in the mountains & their property is full of 4-wheeling & hiking trails. Since Sean & Erika love the outdoors, it wasn’t out-of-the-ordinary at all for Sean to suggest they pack a picnic lunch & go find a secluded place to enjoy the view & each other’s company.
Without a second-thought, Erika agreed & together, they jumped on a 4-wheeler & took off into the woods.
After being together for so many years, it was obvious to everyone that eventually Sean & Erika would be getting married. They had even talked about it, but since both agreed that they wanted to wait until after they graduated from their respective colleges to get married, Erika figured that a proposal would not happen for a long time. In fact, Sean had worked hard for an entire year to throw her off the proposal scent, by reassuring her that there was no reason for them to be engaged for 2+ years.
Unknown to Erika, Sean & his parents & his brother had worked magic up in the woods to set up a pagoda, decorate it with American flags & flowers, and a sign that read, “Will you marry me?”
So, as Sean was driving the 4-wheeler up the mountain with Erika riding behind him, he suddenly came to stop. Confused, Erika asked what was going on, and Sean simply pointed across the field. Finally spotting the pagoda, Erika began to wonder if this “normal” picnic up in the mountains was anything but “normal”. They rode over to the spot Sean had picked out & overlooking a gorgeous view, he asked Erika if she would marry him. You can probably guess what she said.
After being engaged for 2 years, Sean & Erika finally got married. Having both graduated from college in May, it was finally time for their wedding day! And what a perfect, beautiful day it was! Rain had been forecasted, but as the morning wore on, the weather predictions changed, the sun came out, and it was a stunning day!
There’s just something I love about a navy blue tuxedo. These groomsmen wore tuxedos from JoS. A. Bank.
Photographer: Kara Abbey Photography
Dress Designer: Maggie Sotero.
Second Shooter: Lasting Memories by Ellen
Ring Designer: Blue Nile
Ring Designer: Jared
Tuxedo and Mens Attire: JoS. A. Bank
Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie
Dress Store: Abbott’s Bridal & Formalwear
Invitation Designer: Elli
Location: The Hayloft
