Tori & Xander’s Dream Wedding
"Hello, lovely people,
It’s Danielle, your favorite wedding designer at Modern Story Event Co., and today, I’m thrilled to take you on a journey through a wedding that feels like stepping into a magical, hidden world. I’m talking about Tori and Xander’s enchanting “Secret Garden” wedding, a celebration of love that blends natural beauty with refined elegance."
Tori and Xander wanted their wedding to be an intimate and romantic affair, set in a place where nature’s beauty takes center stage. They chose the stunning Wandering Tree Estate in North Barrington, Illinois—a venue that perfectly captures the charm and mystery of a secret garden.
The Secret Garden Theme
For their wedding theme, we embraced “The Secret Garden,” drawing inspiration from the lush gardens, winding pathways, and serene lake of Wandering Tree Estate. We aimed to create a wedding atmosphere that felt both intimate and grand, filled with hidden corners of beauty just waiting to be discovered. The color palette featured soft greens, blush pinks, and elegant ivory, enhancing the natural surroundings while adding a touch of timeless romance.
Venue & Setting
Wandering Tree Estate was the perfect backdrop for Tori and Xander’s vision. The estate’s sprawling gardens, vine-covered arches, and tranquil waters offered endless inspiration. The ceremony was held in a secluded garden nook, where the couple exchanged vows under a floral arch that seemed to have grown naturally from the earth. The reception took place by the lake, with tables set under the open sky, surrounded by the estate’s lush greenery.
Attire
Tori looked every bit the romantic bride in a flowing, off-the-shoulder gown in soft ivory, with delicate lace details that echoed the natural beauty of the surroundings. Her look was completed with a simple floral crown, adding a touch of whimsy and romance. Xander complemented her perfectly in a classic black tuxedo, with a boutonnière featuring a single blush pink rose, tying in beautifully with the garden’s blooms.
Floral Design
The floral arrangements were a key element in bringing the Secret Garden theme to life. We used a combination of wild greenery, soft blush roses, and trailing vines to create a look that was both organic and refined. The ceremony arch was adorned with lush flowers, while the reception tables featured overflowing arrangements that seemed to grow naturally from the tables themselves.
Decor Details
To complement the floral design, we added layers of texture and elegance to the tablescapes. Luxurious linens from BBJ La Tavola draped the tables, while gold accents in the cutlery and charger plates added a touch of sophistication. The personalized stationery from The Paper Vow was designed to feel intimate and personal, with delicate calligraphy and soft, textured paper that invited guests to linger over every detail.
Stationery & Signage
The stationery played a crucial role in setting the tone for the entire event. We opted for a design that was both elegant and understated, featuring soft watercolor details and romantic fonts that echoed the organic feel of the Secret Garden theme. Each piece was printed on textured paper with subtle gold accents, adding just the right amount of luxury to the overall aesthetic.
The Overall Vibe
Tori and Xander’s wedding was all about creating a space where their love could flourish in the beauty of nature. The Secret Garden theme allowed us to blend the estate’s natural charm with the couple’s elegant style, resulting in a celebration that was both timeless and magical.
If you’re dreaming of a wedding that captures the romance and mystery of a secret garden, let’s connect and bring your vision to life. At Modern Story Event Co., we specialize in turning your dream into reality with a custom-tailored experience that reflects your unique love story.
With warmth and creativity,
Danielle Hearn
Modern Story Event Co.