Sophia and Peter’s American Swedish Institute wedding was a celebration of their love set against a backdrop of exquisite historic architecture and painterly florals. The venue’s stunning beauty was enhanced by the exquisite spring blooms from Ashley Fox Designs, adding the most delicate and ethereal touches of natural splendor throughout their day. An abundance of thoughtful details, meticulously curated by the bride’s incredible mother, Laura, infused the celebration with personal touches and heartfelt significance. Scroll down to read the full story, coming soon to BRIDES!
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The wedding featured an all-white palette accented with the pale green of hellebore and spring branches, along with subtle touches of Scandinavian blue. Inspired by Audubon prints, the design incorporated four bird species known for mating for life, alongside spring flowers chosen for their meanings and fragrance. Traditional Scandinavian carving and William Morris patterns also influenced the design. These elements were seamlessly woven into the crest, invitation, and paper goods, as well as the table names, signage, and embroidered linen banners, ensuring that the wedding reflected Sophia and Peter as a couple.
The welcome boxes for Sophia and Peter’s wedding were a thoughtfully curated collection of items, each reflecting personal touches and cultural significance. Crafted to resemble traditional Scandinavian bentwood boxes and engraved with a custom wedding crest inspired by classic wood carving, the baskets contained an array of meaningful gifts: Lily of the valley soap wrapped in Irish linen with a silk ribbon and lily of the valley wax seal; a Korean sheet mask in custom wrapping paper featuring bird species that mate for life; a tiny bottle of rose champagne wrapped in washi and adorned with a wax seal; a baguette from Sophia’s favorite bakery; cheese from a beloved local shop; local honey with a porcelain blossom; customized Fortnum & Mason wedding tea; spring blossoms from Ashley Fox Designs; a lilac candle with a custom crest; matchboxes embellished with ostrich feathers and a sterling bird; a tri-fold welcome booklet detailing local attractions; a wedding weekend schedule; and a do-not-disturb sign for a restful stay until the newlywed brunch.
Sophia’s wedding dress, designed by Romona Keveža Legends, was a simple yet elegant A-line gown crafted from glowing mikado silk with a straight, strapless neckline and a sash. She knew it was the one as soon as she tried it on, feeling like the most beautiful version of herself. The dress-shopping experience was special, shared with her mother, which made finding the dress even more memorable. For accessories, Sophia wore her maternal great-grandmother Delores’ wedding ring and her paternal great-grandmother Ione’s lace-trimmed handkerchief pinned to her bouquet, adding a sentimental touch. She also wore Bella Belle lace shoes and a Lena Rom crown of hand-made porcelain flowers, which her mother had used to embellish the wedding favor boxes. Diamond earrings gifted by her parents for her medical school graduation completed her look. After the ceremony, Sophia changed into a Chantilly lace overlay by Sassi Holford, adding a second look for cocktail hour, with a rose motif that honored her favorite scent and childhood memories in the Cotswolds.
The bridesmaids wore enchanting Monique Lhuillier point d’esprit tulle gowns in winter white, each paired with delicate flower crowns adorned with fragrant spring blooms selected by the bride’s mother for their symbolic meaning. The matron of honor stood out in a sophisticated silk and tulle gown in pale Scandinavian blue, carrying a bouquet of lily of the valley that perfectly complemented the ceremony’s elegant theme. The combination of soft fabrics and meaningful floral accents created a cohesive and romantic look that enhanced the overall beauty of the wedding.
The ceremony was beautifully set in the Historic Chapel at Lakewood that itself was a work of art, featuring a single large trailing floral arrangement at the lectern in memory of the bride’s favorite place as a child. Blooming spring branches framed the arch at the entrance, although the floral team adapted with simple arrangements for the nave when needed, enhancing the space’s natural beauty. Large antique candelabras, painted to match the chapel’s aesthetic, added a timeless touch, aligning with Sophia and Peter’s vision for a classic, enduring celebration.
The centerpiece of the modern reception dinner space was a stunning blooming white apple blossom tree, surrounded by flowers masterfully arranged by Ashley Fox and beautifully illuminated by PHOS. As the sun set, the tree sparkled in its glittering dress of lights, creating a magical ambiance for guests dining beneath it. The bride’s mother designed a table scheme that mirrored the roots of the tree and arranged for six guests per table to ensure an intimate atmosphere. Tables were dressed in white dupioni silk and natural linen napkins, complemented by simple Scandinavian stoneware and modern glassware for the libation flights. Ashley Fox also crafted exquisite table arrangements overflowing with spring blooms, filling the room with their delightful scent, while white tapers and votives created a candlelit atmosphere that added to the evening’s enchantment.
Guests were greeted at the cocktail hour by Swedish fiddlers in traditional dress, followed by classical music from the Four Voices string quartet. A procession led by Celtic pipes and drums brought everyone to the dinner space. The evening began with dancing to a 15-piece orchestra performing standards, while a Celtic harpist played during dinner, complemented by wine and non-alcoholic pairings. Guests danced between courses to the orchestra’s tunes, and later, a DJ played music chosen by Peter. The night concluded with a candlelit farewell as everyone gathered around Sophia and Peter.
At the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed trays of champagne, signature cocktails, and a variety of Scandinavian canapés. The Chef orchestrated a memorable five-course modern Scandinavian dinner, complete with wine pairings, a trio of cordials, a coffee cart, cotton candy, and late-night bites. Guests received a personalized 12-page menu book featuring Scandinavian traditions, Sophia and Peter’s story, Arthur Aron’s love questions, quotes, the meaning of the wedding flowers, and a note from the couple. The Swedish Institute’s catering team provided flawless service, making the meal truly unforgettable.
The American Swedish Institute wedding concluded with the cutting of the cake, featuring a three-tier white wedding cake adorned with bas-relief spring flowers and birds. The cake’s apricot-laced flavor and honey buttercream reflected Sophia’s nickname, “Honey Girl.” Additionally, a traditional Scandinavian kransekake, adorned with Norwegian and Finnish flags and set with antique Norwegian wedding spoons and a wedding crown, honored Sophia’s grandparents’ Norwegian heritage.
American Swedish Institute Wedding Photography: Molly Carr | Day of Coordination: Camryn Brook | Floral Design: Ashley Fox Designs
