Colorful Inspiration for the Rustic Sophisticate

Rustic surely isn’t a new wedding aesthetic, in fact quite the opposite, however Melissa Oholendt and her team wanted to show a rustic in a new light – with a sophisticated twist. Taking the old standard and turning it into something fresh and altogether elegant; showing that you can have the barn wedding without the mason jars & hay bales bringing style and whimsy to any location, but especially a rustic one. Shot on location at Gathered Oaks with colorful florals by Thistle & Blooms and acrylic invitations and menus by Printerette Press, the result is cheery and fresh and captured beautifully by Melissa herself.

from the photographer: We started with a palette of neutral grey and french blue which allowed the colorful blooms of the various garlands to play off the stark white of the barn. We also brought a modern playfulness to the decor with beeswax candlesticks and geometric & brass holders, while making subtle nods to the rustic heritage with touches of reclaimed wood tones. To add a bit of whimsy, we brought in acrylic invitations and menus, accented with escort cards made from leaves graced with white calligraphy to coordinate with the greenery of the florals. To add to the sophisticated take on rustic, we capped the decor off with a vignette of a simple stacked cheese wheel cake, floral infused ice cubes and a greenery & floral garland.

For the girl who sees rustic a bit differently, we thought she might also see traditional wedding attire a bit differently as well. We sourced a colorful dress that is a bit out of the ordinary but toned it down with a simple ponytail, classic nude shoes and neutral earrings. With a bridal look so vibrant, we kept the groom’s attire classic and a touch preppy, using his tie to bring in the deep burgundy colors of her dress and the florals.

Shoot Location: Gathered Oaks // Photography & Styling: Melissa Oholendt // Florals: Thistle & Blooms // Invitations, Menus & Escort Cards: Printerette Press // Rentals: Apres Party & Tent // Makeup: Skin Mpls // Hair: 139 Hair by Heidi