1. Real Weddings

A Laid-Back Vintage-Inspired, Backyard Wedding at a Private Home in Columbia, Missouri

Lauren Okruch (24 and a graphic designer) and Carter Arey (24 and a student) met through mutual friends and after months of close friendship, decided

Lauren Okruch (24 and a graphic designer) and Carter Arey (24 and a student) met through mutual friends and after months of close friendship, decided to give a relationship a shot. One February evening after a big snowstorm, Carter decided to propose. “We weren't able to get out for work or anything, but later in the day we started having a bit of cabin fever, says Lauren. “Carter told me to get ready; we were going to dinner and a movie downtown. He got his SUV ready to face the weather and picked me up. We went to our favorite theater, Ragtag Cinema, and then had dinner at Addison's — the home of our favorite pork nachos. On our walk back to the car, Carter started saying really sweet things, not totally out of the ordinary, and knelt down right there in the snow. People in a nearby restaurant started banging on the windows and invited us in for champagne. We then headed to Carter's parents house, where our friends and family were waiting to celebrate.”For their wedding, the couple planned a fun, backyard affair at Carter’s family home. “We couldn’t see ourselves indoors and what’s better than keeping it in the family?” says Lauren. The day was designed around a laid-back summer vibe. The couple chose a peach, gold and blush color palette to add a subtle pop of color to the expansive backyard setting, with lush bunches of homegrown blooms (Lauren and her mother had been cultivating them for years) like garden roses, astilbes, Queen Anne’s lace, anemones and poppies introducing a whimsical and romantic note to the decor. Floral teacups, antique books and delicate lace doilies were incorporated into the centerpieces for a vintage-inspired touch and votive candles in mercury glass holders felt romantic and glam, casting a warm, ambient glow over the tables as the sun began to set. As a nod to their Missouri roots and the wedding’s casual vibe, Lauren and Carter served up a Southern-inspired menu with barbecue from Grill-A-Brothers and a selection of mouthwatering pies and tarts from Peggy Jean’s Pie.

The couple opted for classic styles with a contemporary twist for their wedding bands. Lauren chose a simple diamond, white gold band to match her emerald engagement ring, while Carter selected a brushed, yellow gold band with polished etching.
To give guests a taste of the wedding's vibe and style, Lauren and Carter opted for playful, illustrated wedding invitations in bright, summery colors.
Lauren's bouquet was filled with blooms straight from her mother's garden. A fresh mix of blush garden roses, bright orange poppies, white anemones and an assortment of wispy greenery came together to create a whimsical look with a note of playfulness.
Wanting a dress that let her move with ease, while still feeling classic, Lauren opted for an A-line chiffon gown with a v-neckline and delicate lace cap-sleeves.
Champagne Wedge Bridal Heels
Mismatched Peach Bridesmaid Dresses
Floral Peach Brooch Boutonniere
Vintage Family Wedding Photos
Instead of handing out programs, Lauren and Carter introduced their wedding party and parents on a hand-painted wooden sign dripping in green ivy.
For their wedding, the couple planned a fun, backyard affair at Carter’s family home. “We couldn’t see ourselves indoors and what’s better than keeping it in the family?” says Lauren.
Lauren and Carter exchanged vows on the expansive lawn of Carter's family home. The spot offered beautiful views of the pond in the distance, as well as acres of lush forest. A simple vine and branch arch was constructed for the affair, with small chandelier and peach blooms adding a decorative touch to the site.
Lauren and Carter's First Kiss
Instead of showering the newlyweds with grains of rice, Lauren and Carter provided their guests with brightly colored sprinkles to toss as they exited the ceremony.
Lauren and Carter's Ceremony Exit
Laid-Back Backyard Wedding Reception
Backyard Reception Tent
Floral teacups, antique books and delicate lace doilies were incorporated into the centerpieces for a vintage-inspired touch and votive candles in mercury glass holders felt romantic and glam, casting a warm, ambient glow over the tables as the sun began to set.
To highlight their Missouri roots and the wedding's casual, summer vibe, the couple opted for a menu chock full of Southern barbecue favorites, like pulled pork and baked beans, plus a selection of mouthwatering pies.
In addition to wedding cake and cupcakes, Lauren and Carter served their guests an assortment of pies and tarts.
Ombre Wedding Cake with Wooden Bride, Groom and Cat Cake Toppers
Lauren and Carter's First Dance