Maddie and Joey’s quintessential autumn wedding

SEPTEMBER

Oak and Fern | The Woodlands | Rathvinden

Maddie is my cousin’s cousin…work that one out! Technically we’re not related, but who’s checking? We claim we’re more-or-less cousins. She lived in our studio apartment for a while and just came out to Montana for a change of pace, air, job. But lo and behold! She met a strong, fun and kind man and got married ASAP. We delighted in celebrating them, their love and the beauty that was their day. It was a quintessential fall day, hot in the sun, cool in the shade—I was sweating while I installed, but immediately recovered in the shade.

Our palette was saturated autumn colors with a dash of blushy peach. At the altar, we created a meadow-garden with moss as an accent for a nod to the Pacific Northwest, where Maddie was born and raised. Maddie trusted me entirely to create whatever struck my fancy, so I designed wild, cascading and soaring arrangements. I layered deep reds, burnt oranges, and warm gold tones with soft peachy blooms to give the bouquets a sense of movement and depth. The ceremony installation featured sweeping arches of greenery that framed the couple beautifully, while clusters of seasonal blooms added texture and richness.

Throughout the day, I focused on creating arrangements that felt alive and organic, spilling and reaching outward rather than sitting stiffly in vases. Even the smaller tablescapes and escort card florals carried that same energy, tying together the reception with the ceremony in a way that felt effortless yet intentional. Each piece reflected the joy and warmth of the day, complementing the couple’s personalities and the natural Montana landscape. By the time the sun started to dip, the flowers had settled into the space as if they had always belonged, perfectly capturing the intimacy and beauty of Maddie and Joey’s wedding. To honor Maddie’s dad who passed several years ago, we raised a glass of Talisker during the reception and their choreographed first dance was just the cherry on top.