Mackenzie and Tj's Willow Brooke wedding featured a coastal garden theme with light blue and champagne tones, romantic florals, and Interstellar-inspired vows. Elegant details, a sparkler sendoff, and heartfelt moments made this summer celebration unforgettable.
Though they did not attend the same high school, Mackenzie and Tj's story began with young love when they met on a night out in 2017. The connection was instant, and although Mackenzie knew she would be moving away for college soon, she decided to take a chance on love amid long-distance and big life changes.
Five years later, after countless adventures and challenges faced together, Tj planned a meaningful proposal. He told Mackenzie they were going to take family photos by the river (also covertly sneaking their dog into the surprise), where his family was waiting with big letters spelling, "Marry Me." Mackenzie said yes, and their families immediately surrounded the couple to celebrate in the nearby park. Afterwards, they went back to Tj's mom and stepfather's house, where they were both surprised by an engagement party that included even more friends and family.
During the wedding planning process, Mackenzie first prioritized finding a venue. She writes, "After touring Willow Brooke, we instantly knew it was the one. They offered so much within their price, the venue literally mirrored inspiration that I had saved on my Pinterest board, and it was in an amazing location."
She also credits Summer with Orange Door Weddings for being a crucial part of the wedding planning process. The couple reflected, "[Summer] let us know everything we needed and when, and was such a great help bringing our vision to life."
The couple strove to create an atmosphere that was timeless, classy, chic, and reminiscent of a coastal garden. The color palette included white, champagne, gold, light blue, and navy. Whimsical Design & Decor designed luxurious stationery and signage pieces for the couple that included invitations, a custom menu, a seating chart, name cards, and more.
Mackenzie wore a chic, satin gown from Celebrations Bridal & Formal Wear. The gown featured a mermaid silhouette, with a deep-v neckline, off-the-shoulder straps, flowing train, and a sheer, illusion back. During the ceremony, she accessorized with a floor-length veil with beaded edges. Heavenly Crossroads Salon and Spa secured her hair into a classic low bun, and Looks by Liz brought out Mackenzie's natural beauty with dark lashes, lightly rouged cheeks, and a peach lip.
Tj wore a light blue, heathered suit from Men's Wearhouse, with a matching vest, a white undershirt, a silky bowtie, and a floral boutonniere. The groomsmen wore navy suits with white undershirts and champagne-hued ties that coordinated with the bridesmaids' dresses.
While there was some rain in the morning, the sun came out during the couple's outdoor ceremony. Florals from Clementine Flowers lined the aisles, with larger floral pieces framing the vow exchange. Mackenzie walked down the aisle to "Cornfield Chase" by Hans Zimmer, from the movie Interstellar. They also incorporated quotes and references from the film into their vows as a personal touch.
Willow Brook Farms had plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces for photography, mingling, and the reception inside the barn. The stunning barn features neutral white walls, vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, tall windows, and ample space for dancing. The beautiful head table was adorned with a blue and white patterned tablecloth, crystal glassware, a floral table runner, candles, blue linens, gold-rimmed plates, and gold silverware.
Guests enjoyed dinner catered by Marna's Catering and desserts from Hanisch Bakery. The couple opted for a simple, one-tiered wedding cake with a custom topper, surrounded by various flavors of cupcakes.
When the sunset photos, speeches, and dining concluded, the party heated up with dancing, and music & entertainment from Wedding Day DJ's. Mackenzie changed into a more casual dress, featuring a halter neckline, beading, sparkles, and even a few feathers. The couple enjoyed a festive champagne pour, ending the night with a joyful sparkler exit.
Whitney Wiatt photographed all of the details from the day, seamlessly working around the weather, indoor and outdoor lighting, and twinkling fireworks. She captured posed photos, candid photos, and had fun integrating motion into the dance floor moments. BVISIONS Media also preserved all the joy with a wedding video that the couple will cherish forever.
When asked about advice they would give couples currently planning a wedding, Mackenzie wrote, "Enjoy the planning while it lasts. Whether you have a long or short engagement, the time will go by in the blink of an eye. And always remember that no matter what, your day will end up being everything you dreamed it would be. Make sure to take the day in as much as possible to truly appreciate the work you put into planning and bringing your visions to life!"
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