margeaux + Derek // lathrup villlage, michigan

Conservatory Wedding in a Cleartop Tent

The Inspiration

When Margeaux & Derek started planning their wedding, we talked about conservatories, greenhouses, and glass houses. Thru the process of exploring options around Michigan, we all concluded that the best place to bring this light and plant-forward vision to life was right in their backyard in the suburb of Detroit.

One of my favorite parts about this wedding weekend was seeing the backyard transform over a few days as the cleartop tent was erected, the gold-potted ferns were hung, and the layers of detail came to life even more beautifully than the original vision in a rented venue.

A literally perfect fall day (Margeaux’s favorite season) and that ceremony set in the street with heartfelt vows that brought us to tears made for some unforgettable revelry.

Ceremony

in the Street

Having claimed all available space in the backyard for their reception tent and with plans to use the front lawn for cocktail hour, we decided the best place for a ceremony was right in the middle of the street. Derek got the permits and the couple passed out thank you packets to the neighbors (complete with earplugs for later in the evening).

We set up a chuppah built just for the occasion under the leaning tree and added baskets of floral to the back of the aisle. A mazel tov glass was tucked into the couple’s mailbox for later retrieval by their officiant friend. One of the best parts of this scene was the neighbors who pulled their camp chairs onto the porch to watch from the side.

Cocktails on the Lawn

The cocktail bar was set up in front of the couple’s garage and guests mingled on the lawn, in the driveway and in the street.

Greenery ties on champagne linens adorned cocktail tables. The seating display was a collection of framed table seating assignments, candles, books and a few of the couple’s own potted houseplants artfully arranged in a rattan bookcase. “Find Your Seat” was printed on the back of book bindings to complete the look that introduced a reception vibe to come.

Dining under the Ferns

Guests made their way to the backyard reception scene as the afternoon sun shone off leaves that were just turning to fall color, visible thru the clear tent roof. The tablescape was a fusion of contemporary lines and eclectic organic textures. Miniature potted plants and ferns at each place setting kept the greenhouse vibe. Gold candlesticks and gold flatware added a touch of glamor. Taupe water goblets, earth-toned votives and oatmeal linen textures all added to the organic look. A sweet macaron on each bread & butter plate gave the experience a playful & festive beginning.

Dancing, Dessert, & Dreamy Lighting

The magic of this night came into its own as the warm glow of the evening sun faded into the twinkle light canopy of the tents. A dessert bar featuring local donuts, a cute cake, and stunning caramel apple art from Margeaux’s mom were in keeping with fall flavors and the dancing that happened under those twinkle lights was in keeping with a fullness of heart for this special couple and their visionary celebration.