“Abbi dreamed of having her wedding at Mustard Seed Gardens for years. So when Josh popped the question, it was easy to picture them having their first kiss as husband and wife under the beautiful gazebo. March is always an unreliable month for weather in the Midwest, so it was a gamble to book an outdoor wedding before it was officially Spring, but they had faith that they could make it happen. We’re so thankful they did because the day of their wedding was full of sunshine and gorgeous weather! Abbi’s style is so fun, she rocks her gorgeous Elsa-like hairstyle and vintage dress with ease. The couple celebrated in unique style and shared a delicious dessert bar with their family and friends. They spent the night on the dance floor with their guests and has a super fun glow stick send off!” – Jennifer Van Elk Photography
What is your favorite wedding day memory?
I think one of my favorite moments of the day was right before I walked down the aisle. We had an out of the ordinary beautiful, warm and sunny day in March. Before I walked down the aisle, I got the chance to stop and look around out at all our family and friends gathered there to help us celebrate our big day! At the end of that aisle, I got to marry my best friend and that moment took my breath away! I remember taking a big breath with butterflies in my stomach, a huge smile on my face and being in love with how everything had turned out!
What did you DIY for your wedding?
I DIY’d my invitations, table numbers, wedding programs, decorations {signage, tables, outside ceremony and banners}, bouquets {mine and my Bridesmaid’s}, corsages, and our hot cocoa favors! Most of my decor supplies came from JoAnns or found at barn sales or antique stores.
Something old, new, borrowed and blue?
Yes! My something blue was on the bottom of my shoes, well as flowers in my bouquet. My something old was my table centerpieces. For those, I used old books that my Mom and Grandmother collected. My Mom and I spent many afternoons at vintage and antique stores, as well as barn sales looking for old suitcases, window panels and more for decor! Lastly, for my borrowed, I used my Grandmother’s crystal glasses from Germany for our toast!
Any advice for brides currently in the planning process?
I truly loved my time planning for my wedding! That isn’t said by many brides, but I truly enjoyed it! I would tell brides-to-be that the expectation and stress we put on ourselves to create a perfect wedding is really not worth it in the long run. My husband played a huge role in this for me. He constantly reminded me of what was actually important. At the end of the day I got to marry my best friend and all of the planning and beautiful decor was an extra bonus! This perspective allowed me to have fun while planning my big day! Also, I would tell ladies to let their fiances get involved. I am a pretty creative person on my own, but its important to let him help so that you don’t get overwhelmed. Just trust them a little! – Abbi, the bride
Event Credits
Photographer: Jennifer Van Elk // Venue: Mustard Seed Gardens // Wedding Cake and Desserts: A Cake and A Smile // Officiant: Eli Skinner // Engagement Ring: Shane Co. // Bride's Attire: Blue House Bridal // Bride's Shoes: Betsy Johnson // Hair: Brittany Neu // Bridesmaid's Attire: UW Dress // Bridesmaid's Jewelry: Charming Charlie's // Groom's Attire: Gap // Groom's Tie: The Tie Bar // Groomsmen's Attire: Gap // Groomsmen's Tie's: The Tie Bar // Flower Girl Dress: Color Angel's Boutique
