When a wedding planner plans her own fall wedding, you know it will be fabulous. Amy Russell, an Event Producer at The Catered Affair, shares her insights on gathering inspiration, insider tips, and how to plan and celebrate your dream New England wedding.
October 14, 2022, The Garden at Elm Banks
How would you describe your wedding style?
I stayed true to my romantic and timeless aesthetic with champagne, blush, and dusty rose tones. However, for dancing, I transformed the tent into a Miami-inspired nightclub where guests danced all night. It was so fun to create!
As a professional planner, how did you gather wedding inspiration?
I follow many local and national creative partners on Instagram and borrow ideas from impressive vendors. Pinterest is ideal for collaborating with friends on different themed boards. I also spend time browsing photographers’ blogs which provide real wedding inspiration.
You’ve produced spectacular New England Weddings. How did you choose The Garden at Elm Banks as your wedding venue?
We both wanted a fall wedding that was easy for our guests to travel to. We wanted a venue that felt far enough away from our every day, but it wasn’t. The Garden at Elm Banks has beautiful gardens, and the fall foliage provides the allure of a destination event close to home.
What was the ‘must haves” for your wedding day?
I ensured the timeline was precise to maximize time on the dance floor because a live band was essential to us. Dave interned with Young Love and the Thrills a million years ago, so we were sold after seeing them perform. Flowers were another massive part of my wedding day vision, as was a special menu.
Did you incorporate unique elements?
I fell in love with a bouncy white castle on Pinterest. It was so much fun! Also, servers passed late-night Mini Espresso Martinis, which was a great surprise for guests.
Share a few menu highlights.
Many guests said the food was the best they’d ever had. Not just the best wedding food, but the best food EVER! Guest especially loved the Cacio e Pepe Cheese Puffs, Saffron Poached Lobster Spoons, Burrata + Beet Salad, and Seafood Martini station.
What was your favorite moment of the wedding?
The anticipation of walking down the aisle was my favorite moment. My dad was more emotional than I thought he would be. It was extraordinary!
What advice do you have for couples ready to begin planning a wedding?
Collaborating with creative partners, I’ve worked with ensured I had an all-star team of rockstars. Part of the reason you’re choosing a caterer who provides event production services is to capitalize on our relationships, so you’re contracting professionals who are uber-talented and deliver on the day of.
Any last words of wisdom?
It is easier said than done but remember, it’s just one day. If something goes wrong, it’s okay! The important thing is getting married to your best friend.
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. David White!
View this post on Instagram
Vendors
Catering: @thecateredaffair
Venue: @elmbankevents
Florals: @stoneblossom
Photography: @taramorris
Lighting: @cjc_lighting_and_production
Band: @youngloveandthethrills
Rentals: @peakeventservices
Cake: @montilios
Bounce House: @bounceonus
Dress: @kellyfaetanini via @flairboston
Makeup: @daniwagenerbeauty
Hair: Sophia Adler @phia_hair
Alterations: @lucianeofboston
Bridesmaids: @showmeyourmumu
Start planning your dream New England Wedding with The Catered Affair.