The Wedding Story of Sarah & Michael McAuliffe

Photos BySamantha James Photography

Written By

Date

August 2, 2017

One Fine Day: A Rustic, Fairytale Wedding at Hidden Vineyard

We all know them. Those stunning weddings that, with so much as a glance, have the power to take your breath away. Sarah and Michael McAuliffe's wedding is certainly one of those. As you ooh and ahh over the fresh flowers, romantic outdoor setting and fine details, you can’t help but wish you had been a guest.

Rhiannon of Rhiannon Bosse Celebrations, the talented designer and planner behind these nuptials, was part of a larger team of talented, local vendors that brought the couple’s dreamy vision to fruition—a kind, gracious pair that, as Rhiannon fondly remembers, exuded as much radiance as their big day. “While Sarah and Michael shared their dreams with me, they also made sure to share their gratitude and excitement in a way I’ll always remember,” Rhiannon says.

The Venue

Venues truly are key to a wedding’s design but, in some cases, they are a showstopper. In this case, the sprawling grounds and picturesque vineyard, sweet, rustic barn and on-cue sunset were jaw-dropping. And the shining gem? Hidden Vineyard Wedding Barn’s signature Catalpa Tree. As if cradling the intimate nuptials below in its adorned, outstretched arms, it was the perfect natural focal point for a stunning outdoor ceremony.

The Look

Sarah looked to The Gown Shop, located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, for her romantic dress. Featuring an intricate, lace bodice with beaded detail, embellished belt and a delicate, champagne-colored lace panel, its flowing tulle skirt allowed for elegant movement and flow. The bride’s classic, yet airy look provided just the right amount of polish and whimsy—a perfect blend for the rustic setting. Hanna Wagner Designs completed the bride’s look with soft hair and feminine makeup.

The DÉCOR

Elegantly dressed Fancy Fray farm tables were the perfect rustic backdrop for the light and airy tablescape designs. Layered with neutral La Tavola linens, gold-rimmed china and flatware, greenery and delicate vases of florals, the place settings welcomed guests with a glowing softness. Varying textures also brought depth and interest to the overall design.

The Floral

Sarah’s single wish was for her Labor Day weekend wedding to feel like a floral fairytale—and fairytale it was! Her wish was granted using hundreds upon hundreds of garden roses, sweet peas, snowberry and Michigan-grown dahlias. Rhiannon ensured she delivered a soft and romantic atmosphere using a palette rich in texture and infused with pinks and purples. The property’s breathtaking Northern Catalpa Tree was a true labor of love as it took the team six hours to complete the floral feature on its branch.

What We Love

This end-of-summer wedding just exudes beauty and celebration. From the stunning florals to the mesmerizing setting and all the details in between, nothing was left unturned. It’s not hard to see the love this couple shares and the same love and passion that everyone around them had in making their wedding day dreams come true!