Advice From Fête

FARMHOUSE FÊTE TABLESCAPES

Farmhouse Fête’s design and floral teams have created eight unique centerpiece looks to capture the essence of the country fête. We started with our favorite floral looks, then edited each vase, votive, riser and table number until we achieved the perfect tablescape.  

Below, you'll find the floral image that inspired us followed by the items we've chosen to complement its look. And of course the florals are all signature Farmhouse Fête arrangements, and the items below it are all available to rent on first-come, first-served basis.

All floral arrangements shown below are conceptual. Amy, Farmhouse Fête’s lead florist, will work with you to create your perfect floral vision. Contact Amy at amy@farmhousefete.com.


Fête ELEGANT

Floral: This beautifully detailed glass pedestal dish is the perfect size and height (7 1/2'' tall x 6'' wide) for an uncluttered table. The deep green glass pairs beautifully with any color scheme and allows for a free flowing and organic looking floral design.

Design: When we saw the original antique Fenton glass compote that Amy wanted to design around, the design team scoured antique shops until we found 20 in perfect condition. This piece is stunning and understated at the same time, so we looked for complements that were equally feminine and stately. The addition of a simply framed table number and rose gold colored votives make this collection versatile, compact and polished. 


Fête CLASSIC

Floral: A simplified version of option 1, this centerpiece offers a more traditional approach to your table. With a smaller pedestal (3 inches tall) and smaller diameter (3.5 inches wide), it is low and perfect for a smaller centerpiece. The neutral champagne color goes well with most floral choices and despite it's small size, it can stand up to a variety of sizes/shapes of flowers.

Design: We've discovered more modern metal table numbers in a champagne color to match the dipped votives. This is a great option for centerpieces that are compact and simple without sacrificing style.


Fête VINTAGE

Floral: This mercury glass vase in a golden-bronze finish is unequivocally vintage glam and pairs nicely with other metallic shades. It is best used with a more structured arrangement. It perfectly complements monochromatic blooms in a single variety, such as the roses featured in the photo or fluffy white hydrangeas.

Design: Bronze votives add drama to this table's elegance, while the unique door knob table number holder literally brings something new to the table!


Fête WILDFLOWER

Floral: Nothing says country wedding like mason jars and wildflowers! We've taken it up a notch by using authentic antique jars with metal accents around the rim. We then paired it with 3 small bottles to highlight individual blooms.

Design: Placing the arrangement on a distressed cream pedestal helps to define the space and bring out the sweetness of a wildflower bouquet. Chalkboard table numbers on a neutral colored holder and mason jar votives allow the wildflowers to stand out in any color combination.


Fête MODERN

Floral: Clean, simple and modern. Using only one bloom per bottle allows for high impact. This look is best suited for statement flowers with a big wow factor, such as fully opened peonies, fluffy garden roses or hydrangeas. Whether you want a mix of bold colors or softer shades, this is a great choice for creating a high impact design.

Design: This unique centerpiece will leave your guests in awe. We lowered the vases directly onto the table but added two taller bottles to amp up the drama of these stunning single blooms. The antique shapes of the bottles, silver mercury glass votives and vintage door knob table number holders bring this very modern look seamlessly into a countryside setting. 


Fête INDUSTRIAL

Floral: When we heard what the design team wanted to do with this centerpiece, it took us a moment to fully understand. But now that we see their ideas (below), we couldn't be more thrilled when we added an industrial edge to lush greenery and white accents.

Design: Our unique black pedestal puts an industrial twist on relatively monochromatic arrangements. The key to making this centerpiece stand out is using rich greenery. We've added a wrought iron and brass telescoping table number stand, gold votives and simple table number. The rustic pedestal adds much needed height and definition without overtaking the table. You won’t be able to find this rare centerpiece anywhere else!


Fête GARDEN

Floral: A natural wooden planter box overflowing with a variety of fresh-picked buds and blooms makes this centerpiece charming and full of joy! Best used for a "farm stand" kind of look, it lends itself well for a more natural and free flowing floral approach. The flowers meander and flow wherever they desire, spilling over the sides wherever it suits them.

Design: It's hard to improve on this one for a countryside event. We added some additional depth to the tablescape by alternating wooden boxes with multi-height bottles with single blooms. This helps reduce the overall number of blooms required without diminishing the impact. The table numbers mimic the whimsy of a chalkboard while the votives add a nice sparkle to the table. 


Fête RUSTIC

Floral: Elegantly rustic. The charming cream crackle finish vase complements the lovely muted shades of sage green, soft tan, ivory, burgundy and other colors. 

Design: Perched atop two varying sizes of log rounds adds more definition to the table, and the raffia ribbon complements this rustic tablescape. We chose to pair it with a bronze picture frame table number and bronze votives. Nobody said rustic couldn't also be elegant!

 

GALLERIES:

Fête ELEGANT GALLERY


FêteCLASSIC GALLERY


Fête VINTAGE GALLERY


Fête WILDFLOWER GALLERY


Fête MODERN GALLERY

Fête INDUSTRIAL GALLERY


Fête GARDEN GALLERY


Fête RUSTIC GALLERY

Top 5 Wedding Venues for WVU Grads

With Fête being a mere 35 miles from campus, we see many WVU students and alum planning their weddings.  If you're a proud blue and gold wearing, first down chanting, Hail, West Virginia singing Mountaineer fan, here are our top venue choices for hosting your big day.

1. WVU Touchdown Terrace

Our first choice is a no-brainer.  For the true football fanatic, Touchdown Terrace at Milan Puskar Stadium is a perfect choice with great views of Mountaineer Field.  Many couples choose the stadium as the perfect backdrop for their engagement photos- what better way to highlight your love for each other and WVU football.

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

2. Erickson Alumni Center

WVU's Erickson Alumni Center was built to mimic the architecture of Woodburn Hall, one of the university's most popular buildings.  The Alumni Center is only 400 yards from Mountaineer Field, and has some great views.  Ruby Grand Hall is a banquet space that can accommodate up to 400 guests.  Mountaineer Courtyard is a gorgeous open square featuring a working outdoor fireplace.  This area can be tented and accommodates up to 200 guests.

Photocredit: JB Gallery

Photocredit: JB Gallery

Photocredit: JB Gallery

Photocredit: JB Gallery

3. Stonewall Resort

Stonewall Resort is a perfectly blended combination of the gorgeous natural beauty that is West Virginia and the convenience and amenities of a four diamond resort.  Located in Roanoke, WV, Stonewall has picturesque lake and mountain views, and several different venue options.  The Grand Hall is a popular ceremony space, with stunning architecture and large windows.  During warmer months, the Terrace Lawn has a great lake view, and can be tented.  For those wanting a more traditional feel, Stonewall also has a Ballroom option.  There are several smaller rooms and patios for more intimate events, and the Little Sorrell Cruise Boat is great for smaller parties and cocktail receptions.  We're a big fan of the fact that the Resort has everything in one location: great restaurants and lounges, activities such as swimming and golf, and room blocks so guests don't have to worry about travel.

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Is it any wonder then, how my heart with rapture thrills, as I stand once more with loved ones on those West Virginia hills
— Ellen King

4. Cooper's Rock

Many a WVU student has taken a break from their studies to visit nearby Cooper's Rock.  The breathtaking views are perfect for clearing your mind and calming your soul, and are the ideal backdrop for couples looking for an intimate ceremony.  A true Mountaineer has an adventurous spirit, and this venue will certainly convey that.  Make sure your guests understand that the terrain can be a bit rocky, and encourage comfortable shoes.  If everyone in your party is willing to venture out to the overlook, the backdrop for your "I Dos" will be one they never forget.   

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

Photocredit: Jessica Fike

5. Chanteclaire Farm

Although technically in Maryland, Chanteclaire Farm is a popular spot for WVU couples to say "I Do".  Chanteclaire is located a short half hour trip down I-68, but will convince your guests that the hills of West Virginia have merged with a European farm estate.  Unlike any of the other venues on our list, Chanteclaire focuses exclusively on weddings, and they have perfected the art of wedding planning.  Guests will be wowed by the gorgeous views, eclectic decor, and barn reception which manages to be both quaint and chic.  The renovated silo was transformed into a steampunk themed bar, which is always a guest favorite.  Mountaineers will identify with the farm's appreciation of their history- the cabin and farmhouse available for bridal parties are historic buildings that have been lovingly restored.  Owner Leigh Clarke tells us that Country Roads is the most often requested last dance at a Chanteclaire reception.

Photocredit: Rebecca Kiger

Photocredit: Rebecca Kiger

Photocredit: The Oberports

Photocredit: The Oberports

Interested in having Farmhouse Fete style your big affair?  Give us a call at 301-750-6790, or email info@farmhousefete.com.

9 Reasons to Get Married in Deep Creek, Maryland

We may be biased, but here at Farmhouse Fête the general consensus is that there is no more beautiful place to say "I Do" than Deep Creek, Maryland. Here are just a few of the reasons:

1. Location, location, location

Garrett County has long been a top-pick for couples in Pittsburgh, DC, and Baltimore.  We're a two to three hour drive from these cities, which is just far enough away for your guests to feel like they're getting away from it all, without being inconvenient.

2. More than just summer

Many of our brides tell us that they chose Deep Creek for their big day because of fond memories of visiting the lake with family during summer vacation. While summer remains a popular time for tying the knot, there are other beautiful times to host your wedding here.  

If you're dreaming of a Winter wonderland wedding, we're certainly the place for you.  Imagine a dreamy picture captured by your photographer of you and your spouse cuddled up in your wedding duds in the dazzling snow. 

Photocredit: Karlo Photography

Photocredit: Karlo Photography

The beautiful green of the first spring foliage is unlike any other time.  Aim for mid-May to catch the beautiful spring blooms.

Photocredit: Karlo Photography

Photocredit: Karlo Photography

Fall may be the most beautiful season of all, and if you don't believe us ask Good Housekeeping, who named Oakland as one of the 50 Small Towns with the Most Beautiful Fall Foliage this year.  And in 2014 Travel + Leisure listed us in America's Best Towns for Fall Colors.  We love the way a white dress pops against the beautiful fall hues.  To capture the most vibrant colors, schedule your big day during the first half of October, when leaves tend to be at their best.

Photocredit: Karlo Photography

Photocredit: Karlo Photography

3. Gorgeous venues to suit any taste.  

Looking for a combination of French elegance with the casual beauty of an American farm?  Check out Chanteclaire Farm.

Photocredit: Mountain Soul Media

Photocredit: Mountain Soul Media

Wisp Resort is a great choice for large weddings, and has several different venues to chose from such as the McHenry Lodge and Yurt village.  

McHenry Lodge Styled by Farmhouse FetePhotocredit: Shannon Gray Photography

McHenry Lodge Styled by Farmhouse Fete

Photocredit: Shannon Gray Photography

If you're drawn to the dazzling waters of the lake, there are several options for hosting an outdoor ceremony.

Photocredit: Lauren Smith PhotographyBouquet by Farmhouse Fete

Photocredit: Lauren Smith Photography

Bouquet by Farmhouse Fete

4. Plenty of fun activities to keep the party going.  

Whether your friends and family are into skiing, boating, horse back riding, kayaking, or hiking, there are plenty of activities to turn your wedding day into a wedding weekend that everyone will be talking about for years.  And if shopping is more your group's speed, we have plenty of shops to interest you.  Of course bring them by to see all the goodies here at Farmhouse Fête, and stop by our next door neighbor to the right, Klotz's, for great produce, and our neighbor to the left, Schoolhouse Earth, for unique gift shop items.

An inside view of Farmhouse Fête 

An inside view of Farmhouse Fête 

5. Local Favors

A wedding trend that we love is using local products as a favor for guests.  We have so many local artisans in the area to provide fun and unique favors.  Some of our favorites are local honey and maple syrup.

Photocredit: Cassandra Poling Events

Photocredit: Cassandra Poling Events

6.  Adorable locations for showers and brunches 

Today's weddings have become much more than a one day celebration.  In addition to bridal showers and bachelor/bachelorette parties, many couples host events prior to and after the wedding festivities such as welcome dinners and good-bye brunches.  Consider holding a tasting/pairing experience for your bridal party at Firefly Farms, or a brunch for the ladies at the Deep Creek Lavender Farm, complete with their signature lavender lemonade!  

Deep Creek Lavender Farm Styled by Farmhouse FetePhotocredit: Jessica Fike Photography

Deep Creek Lavender Farm Styled by Farmhouse Fete

Photocredit: Jessica Fike Photography

7. Mind-blowing Wedding Photos

Many couples choose the Deep Creek area for the natural beauty of the area.  This translates into not only a beautiful backdrop for you and your guests to enjoy on your wedding day, but swoon worthy wedding photos to enjoy for a lifetime.

Photocredit: Cassidy Duhon

Photocredit: Cassidy Duhon

8. Vendors Who Care About Your Wedding

When you love weddings and events as much as we do, you learn to appreciate working with people who share your enthusiasm.  We are very lucky to work with a variety of wedding professionals who genuinely care about making your event a beautiful and memorable day for you and your guests.  Although vendor enthusiasm may not be something you've weighed in your planning process thus far, please consider that vendors that are truly engaged in your event are often willing to go the extra mile to make sure everything is picture perfect.

Chanteclaire Owner Leigh Clarke helps a bride clean up after her new husband was enthusiastic with the wedding cakePhoto credit: With Love & Embers Photography

Chanteclaire Owner Leigh Clarke helps a bride clean up after her new husband was enthusiastic with the wedding cake

Photo credit: With Love & Embers Photography

9. A great design and planning resource on site

Here at Farmhouse Fête we pride ourselves on carrying product and creating floral designs that are unique and elegant.  Our clients love that in addition to our florals and decor items for sale, we have larger architectural pieces available for rent.  We are also familiar with local vendors, and our clients have learned to trust our recommendations.  If you're getting married at Deep Creek, make us your first stop in the planning process. Call 301-750-6790 or email info@farmhousefete.com to make an appointment.