All the blues, whites and greenery your heart desires can be found in Summer + Russell’s classic modern wedding! Our very own NBG wedding planner, Jayde J. Smith Events helped the couple create the wedding day of their dreams! The stunning heirloom photography by Ashton Brooke Photography features every detail of the day including the fun marquee letters, the classic white and gold table scapes, and the pom pom exit! Plus you can’t forget the smiles on everyone’s faces as they watched this gorgeous couple say their “I Do’s”! Keep scrolling to see their full day.
Summer + Russell
9.24.21
The Cordelle
Guests ~ 165
Budget ~ $20,000 – $30,000
How did you guys meet?
Summer: Well, it all started after a college girlfriend of mine tried to “set me up” with Russell. At the time, I just got out of a long term relationship and wasn’t looking to jump right into another. At first, it was just casual hanging with other friends, or dinner nights with groups, nothing serious, just friends. But eventually, we stopped “playing hard to get” and went for it! He took me to a downtown rooftop bar and honestly ever since then it has been him and I. **Pro-tip – Becoming friends first is ALWAYS the best way to get to know someone before you actually date them 😉
Tell us about your engagement!
Summer: Oh boy! So it was my birthday weekend. (My birthday was Sunday the 16th – 27!!) We started at Bourbon Steak downtown at the JW Marriott around 5 PM on Saturday. I got ready for what I thought was my “birthday dinner” and honestly, did not have one OUNCE of a clue. He was acting like he always does, just doing house chores and yard work all day. We end up having a great time at Bourbon Steak (of course eating to much…) so we end leaving. We get in the car and are heading towards our house in East Nashville when we take a left and pull into Nissan Stadium. Now, I never really question Russell because everything we do always ends up being something fun or something I’ve never done before. So we start walking towards the river (granted I’m in heels) so I’m let’s not walk too far because my feet hurt, he was like “okay we won’t, promise”. So we get to the spot where he popped the question and had a blanket, champagne and a cooler already waiting for us. I was thinking… “WOW he went all out for this birthday!” NO NOT EVEN CLOSE – I hear movement behind me, turn and see our dog Rooney running towards us with a sign that says “Will you marry my Dad?” I BALLED. I was a wreck… I mean I cried sister, CRIED. We ended up taking photos and having the BEST time. I was SO shocked. Afterwards, the surprises didn’t stop. He planned for 50+ of our family and friends to be at a house close by to do a surprise party. Now that was a surprise too. It was the best night of my life – he did amazing.
What was the vision for your wedding?
Summer: If I had to pick one theme for the entire day, it would be joy. It surrounded every detail and every minute of our wedding day; so tangible you could feel it! It truly was a magical day, and the best part is that it is just the beginning for us.
What was your theme and what inspired it?
Summer: I had a pretty detailed vision for our wedding reception from the get-go; a blend of organic elegance with vintage touches, creating a rich, intimate atmosphere. I had shades of white roses as centerpieces and elegant candles to cast a warm tone throughout the room, creating a charmingly intimate vibe throughout dinner.
What details were used to create your classic modern wedding?
Summer: I really wanted a classic, simplistic, modern vibe with a touch of vintage. I played off mixed metals, a pop of blue and classic green/white/gold/black colors throughout. I wanted something that when I looked back at my photos it would age well over time. The details throughout were about hosting a wonderful celebration for guests and going “classic…but make it modern”.
Where did you splurge? Where did you save/DIY?
Summer: We splurged on photography, florals and food – completely worth it! The food was delicious and the service was TOP-NOTCH. If you are looking for a catering company then look no further, Wildberry Catering is your go-to! Saved on cake/dessert, “take home gifts” & rentals. I tried to use what I already had. The Cordelle is beautiful so I just enhanced it as much as possible with the help of my vendors.
What words of advice do you have for couples in the midst of their planning?
Summer: Enjoy the process and soak it all in, because it flies by and you only get to be a fiance once! Don’t sweat the small things – it will all turn out even better than you could ever imagine!
Can you share any special moments or highlights from your classic modern wedding day?
Summer: One of my favorite special moments is my grandfather-daughter dance. I did a dance with my grandfather instead of my father because I come from a split family and my grandfather has always been a constant in my life. I wanted to pay respect to the man who’s always been there for me and always has been my biggest cheerleader. It only made sense to have him share the special moment with me. Let me tell you, there was not a dry eye in the room. Another special moment was walking half way down the isle with my father and then picking up my step father and finishing with them both arm in arm. I loved that we put aside our differences and were able to celebrate and love on one another during that day. It was so special and a moment I’ll never forget.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about your wedding?
Summer: A big THANK YOU to all my amazing vendors who made my dream wedding come true! Be picky about the vendors you chose – it really makes or breaks your wedding. Its the best when they turn into friends after the wedding! Russell and I feel completely blessed!
Thank you so much to Summer, Russell, and Jayde J. Smith Events for sharing this beautiful classic modern wedding day with us! You can check out more on Jayde J. Smith Events here and also be sure to check out more amazing NBG preferred wedding pros in our vendor directory!
