1. Real Weddings

A Rustic, Outdoor Wedding at Coffee Creek Ridge in Shelbyville, Indiana

Mark Vaughn (24 and a dentist) and Amanda Kennedy (24 and a respiratory therapist) first met when they were only 13 years old and shared a fun night o

Mark Vaughn (24 and a dentist) and Amanda Kennedy (24 and a respiratory therapist) first met when they were only 13 years old and shared a fun night of riding on four wheelers together. The two didn't see each other for seven years after that night but then reconnected when Amanda moved back to Indianapolis, IN. In 2011, Mark and Amanda went on a Caribbean cruise as a Christmas gift for each other. During their flight to the cruise ship port, the pilot came over the intercom to announce the flight status and at the end said, "I have one more important announcement. Amanda, Mark would like to know if you will marry him?" Suddenly, Mark was down on one knee in the aisle holding out a ring. Mark and Amanda first knew it was most important that they found venue that could accommodate all of their family. After deciding on having a rustic, outdoor wedding, they chose to have their wedding at Coffee Creek Ridge in Shelbyville, IN. "It had a big red barn, rolling hills, tons of space and character. It just took our breath away," Amanda said. Playing off the natural beauty of the venue space, their color palette was plum, lilac, green and ivory. The ceremony was held at the venue's outdoor property under a large sycamore tree. Hung from the sycamore tree was a beautiful chandelier adding a touch of elegance to the space. The reception was inside the barn and, keeping with the rustic theme, ?was decorated with white lighting, antiques and heirlooms. Mark and Amanda's family was always an important part of their wedding day. "To us," Amanda said, "our day was as much about them as it was about us." At the end of the night seeing their guests happy and enjoying themselves, Mark and Amanda had the perfect rustic wedding they had hoped for.

Classic, Silver Wedding Rings
DIY Ceremony at Coffee Creek Ridge in Shelbyville, IN
The floral arrangements for the day consisted of white and green hydrangeas, ivory roses, green spider chrysanthemums, dendrobium orchids and calla lilies.
Groomsmen in Dark Grey Tuxedos with Plum Bow Ties and Ivory Rose Boutonnieres
Strapless, Plum Bridesmaids Dresses
Rustic, DIY Reception Decor at Coffee Creek Ridge
Mark's father created this wooden door frame as entrance to the ceremony.
Mark and Amanda chose to have a small wedding cake for themselves while providing guests with an assortment of cupcakes.
Purple and White Bridal Bouquet with Hydrangeas, Roses and Orchids
Mark and Amanda share their first dance under a chandelier at their reception at Coffee Creek Ridge.
Outdoor Wedding with Chandelier at Coffee Creek Ridge in Shelbyville, IN
Mark and Amanda dressed their reception tables in ivory table cloths with burlap runners. Each table had a mason jar centerpiece with a photo of them.
Hydrangea and Chrysanthemum Centerpiece
The rustic barn at Coffee Creek Ridge was decorated with white string lights, chandeliers and antique items for the reception.
Mason jars hanging from shepherds' hooks while holding small bouquets of ivory and purple hydrangeas, calla lilies and roses lined the ceremony aisle.
Mark and Amanda said their vows while standing under a chandelier hanging from the large sycamore tree.
DIY, Simple Seating Assignment Sign
"I wanted my wedding dress to look southern with lace an satin," Amanda said of her strapless, fit and flare dress.