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Colorful china was layered and complemented by lush florals that stretched down the table in an eclectic mix of rattan vases and stone compotes.

Featured Article

Summer Dreaming

Article by Sarah True, True Event

Photography by Mindy Briar Photography

Originally published in Greenwich Lifestyle

The elevated camp setting of Cedar Lakes Estate in New York proved to be the perfect setting for a summer styled shoot. In the heart of Hudson Valley, this estate is a dream location for a destination wedding. Guests can enjoy a weekend of yoga, canoeing, swimming in the lake, and so much more – it’s the perfect little escape outside of the city.   

Inspired by the setting and the season, I wanted to design a table that was elegant but not fussy.  A tablescape that highlights the colors of the season - leaning into vibrant hues of pink and red with a variety of shades of white and green and a perfect pop of purple. Yumiko Fletcher from Hana Floral Design selected a combination of bold and soft flowers that created movement and wove in texture. Her use of a variety of seasonal blooms including tulips, clematis, sweet pea, poppies and fresh on the vine tomatoes helped create a garden inspired, whimsical, al fresco table that set the tone for the day.

The foundation of the design was based on custom hand painted china from Squiggle Rentals. Complementary glassware and flatware completed each setting. Pattern linens are a big trend this year, and I love how they create a unique setting making it feel more unique and less traditional. It is a great way to personalize the design and make it feel custom.

Erica Bryniczka, from Erica Jean Calligraphy, hand wrote the escort cards on lucite adorned with pressed flowers that coordinated with the palette of the fresh flowers on the table. It is the little details like this that truly make an event unique and memorable. We have found that handwritten pieces help to personalize each event. 

Shannon Vindiola, from Yozo Studio, created the paper suite to continue to build off of the design and tie in all of the little details on the table.

Ana Parzych is one of the most talented cake designers with a passion for detail and perfection. She creates one-of-a-kind masterpieces and her cakes taste as incredible as they look!

A Little Something White provided the fashion for the bride and the groom. Looks that are both timeless yet with a modern twist from the midnight blue tuxedo by J. Hilburn to the alencon lace detailed bridal gown by Caroline Castigliano styled with a clean cathedral length veil.

Mindy Briar

Mindy Briar is a wedding and portrait photographer based in New England, New York and Hawaii. Mindy specializes in fine art portraiture, blending digital and film mediums to capture timeless moments. Her passion for history and design deeply influences her work, allowing her to focus on the intricate details that make each photograph unique. Her approach is tailored to each client, ensuring that every session reflects the individual beauty and personality of her clients. 

True Event

Sarah True is the founder and creative director of True Event.  With over two decades of experience, Sarah True has become a premier leader in the wedding and event planning industry.

Sarah has built an incredible reputation in the industry not only for her keen eye for design but for her ability to connect with her clients and put them at ease. Sarah genuinely loves working with people, making them laugh, and bringing their vision to life. She loves designing unique and gorgeous events that reflect her client’s own personal style.

Since 2009, Sarah has produced hundreds of weddings and events across the country, and has built strong relationships with some of the most elite vendors and venues in the industry. 

Planning & Design: True Event @trueevent

Photographer: Mindy Briar Photography @mindybriarphotography

Floral: Hana Floral @hanafloral

Venue: Cedar Lakes Estate @thesistersofcedarlakes

Paper: Yozo Studio @yozostudio

Calligraphy: Erica Jean Calligraphy @ericajeancalligraphy

Cake: Ana Parzych Cakes @anaparzychcakes

China, Glassware, Flatware, Linen: Squiggle Rentals  @squigglerentals

Models: Alexander & Amber @amberandalexanderayer

Hair & Makeup: Makeup By Flynn @makeupby_flynn

Dress: A Little Something White @alittlesomethingwhitebridal @CarolineCastigliano

Tux: A Little Something White @jhilburnco by @alittlesomethingwhitebridal