Elegant Style Meets Countryside Charm at this Northern Indiana Venue: An Exclusive WeddingDay Style Shoot at The Hall at Oakland Park in Nappanee, Indiana

Many people romanticize Midwestern, countryside landscapes with their vast scenes of open prairies and charming farmlands. That is why country venues like barns have become so popular with couples looking to tie the knot. Little do they know that modern design can be integrated with that unmistakable Midwest charm to curate a wedding atmosphere unlike any other. That is why this style shoot at The Hall at Oakland Park in Nappanee, Indiana will highlight how this venue is standing out from the rest. The Hall at Oakland Park’s Events Coordinator, Doreen Helmuth-Yoder, says, “Many things set us apart from the average venue; starting with the 45+ acre grounds that are beautiful and peaceful with three interlinking ponds, bridges, willow trees and natural landscapes. The Hall at Oakland Park is nestled quietly and peacefully away in Nappanee, Indiana.”

Given the gorgeous location of the venue, the style shoot team was challenged to create a design that would match the natural allure of the space. Led by Designer and Planner, Jessica Swagman, of JS Weddings and Events and captured by Kayla Holdread of Weeping Willow Photography, the team was able to deliver an irresistible style of elegance and modern edginess. Jessica says, “The Hall at Oakland Park is full of natural beauty, both inside and out. The landscape is so romantic with its rolling hills, long bridges, and weeping willows, and inside the hall there is a large rugged stone fireplace, and I really wanted to highlight all of the earthy and organic elements that this venue has.”

“Along with our many outdoor spaces to choose from, our indoor space is ample and spacious yet cozy,” notes Doreen. “There is a catering kitchen with a separate entrance so your caterers can come and go without disrupting your guests.” The Hall at Oakland Park offers many sensational highlights within their 5,000-square-foot space. Whether it is their charming, stone fireplace or reminiscent, vaulted ceilings adorned with breathtaking chandeliers - this venue can surround anyone who steps through its doors with comfortability and joy.

“While the venue tends to draw in the couples that want that traditional rustic style, I approached the shoot with a more organic and earthy vibe,” says Jessica. “I wanted it to feel like you were out in the countryside on your family’s vineyard that had been in your family for generations and that everything, from the plates to the plants, you already owned and were part of the home.” The Hall at Oakland Park definitely supports that home away from home atmosphere. This venue offers endlessly inviting features that any couple could fall in love with.

The main reception space within the venue is truly impressive. Jessica and the rest of the team wanted to accomplish a theme that would pair with the open space. Jessica says, “Since the reception space is inside, I needed to bring as many natural elements in as possible to emphasize the al fresco feel. I knew that I wanted to use lanterns to really play up the natural style. I chose a mix of ceramic, wood and rattan in a variety of shapes and sizes. To accent the lanterns, I decided to use potted plants in earthenware vessels to add to the organic and earthy feel.” By mixing in various materials, Jessica was able to give the space an outdoor feel without the unpredictable variables that come with outdoor weddings.

The team added to their organic, yet modern theme by using a palette that mimicked those organic colors found within the countryside. They also layered in pops of bold colors, utilizing hues of purples, yellows and pinks seen in the florals designed by Tracy Lane of Camille’s Floral. Jessica adds, “Tracy used a wide range of flowers in a mix of textures and sizes, with the main focus being on the locally grown peonies, accented by mini calla lilies, lisianthus, hydrangea, scabiosa and pincushion flowers.”

If you are looking for some extra space within your venue, The Hall at Oakland Park offers a private Wedding Party Suite. Doreen adds, “The private Wedding Party Suite hosts an open space with many mirrors, airy feel and natural lighting.” This is a perfect spot to get ready for the big day. For this shoot, the team chose a modern bridal look using a gown from BIANKA Bridal. Jessica notes, “We wanted a dress that would be ethereal and romantic but wouldn’t feel out of place in the countryside, say on a beautiful vineyard.”

The Hall at Oakland Park is sure to become the place where the adventure of your lifetime begins. We love that this style shoot displays how elegant style can be brought to life in the Midwestern countryside.

 

 

are you a bride-to-be?

We'd love to plan with you on weddingday-online.com. Let's get started!

 
are you a wedding extraordinaire?

Join WeddingDay Magazine in inspiring brides by partnering with us! See how here.