Lauren and Ilia celebrated their wedding day at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center in Georgia because it offered everything the couple was looking for, specifically “a natural setting that could accommodate our desire for an outdoor ceremony as well as a late night dance party.” It also set the stage for some beautiful portraits of the bride in her “dream come true” Jenna Packham gown (check out Lauren’s advice on altering a sample gown if you’re considering it!) and dainty floral crown. We’re loving the laid-back vibe of the couple’s day as well as the beautiful images by Chloe Giancola Photography and we know you will too.
From the bride:
After Ilia and I got engaged, we knew choosing a venue would be the most difficult task in planning our wedding, as our families are spread out across Israel, Ukraine, Canada and the U.S. When we ultimately decided on getting married in Georgia at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, however, everything seemed to fall into place. Ilia and I wanted a venue with a natural setting that could accommodate our desire for an outdoor ceremony as well as a late night dance party, and the GEHC checked all of our boxes. It was a bonus that I was familiar with the venue from regularly running on the connecting trails with my mom! After we booked the venue, I went dress shopping with my mom, sister and best friend to find a romantic dress to complement the wooded, wild surroundings. At the third store we visited, Kelly’s Closet in Atlanta, I found a stunning Jenny Packham gown, and it was a cliched “dream come true.” I never thought I would be able to afford a gown from my favorite designer, but the fact that it was slightly damaged from a sample sale put it inside my budget. The large amount of alterations required was worth it for how amazing I felt on my wedding day! The other details beautifully highlighted the romantic woodland feel in blush, ivory, gold and green. Thanks to all the efforts by our photographer, florist, caterer, coordinator, family and friends, it truly was the best day of our lives!
Photographer: Chloe Giancola Photography // Event Planner: Weddings By Clellie // Event Planner: Elle Planning Events // Floral Designer: Brides and Blooms // Invitation Designer: Kristen Bringe // Event Venue: Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center // Cake Designer: The Baking Grounds Bakery // Linens and Coverings: Angel Linens // Equipment Rentals: Atlanta Event Rentals // Cinema and Video: 11 Squared Films // Dress Store: Kelly’s Closet // Bridesmaid Store: Rent The Runway // Hair & Makeup: Revival Salon // Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Savvi Formalwear