Rustic Amazement

Richard and I fell HARD for Camp Kon-O-Kwee as a wedding venue when introduced to it by The Orchowski family.  Father of the bride Bob is a member of the camp management board, and his commitment to the camp is evident in his pride of this amazing facility.  There is so much gorgeousness in the new dining lodge, and in the outdoor “chapel.”  Natural sunlight, stone and rustic interiors, spaciousness…I could go on an on…but I know you are saying “Get to the pictures!”

Camp Kon-O-Kwee in all it’s gorgeousness.  Love that sun flare on the metal roof of the rotunda!  And no, I did not photoshop that blue sky– it’s the real deal!

So lets get to the wedding.  Lindsay and Shannon are a lovely couple that were so nice to plan with.  We really looked forward to jumping in on the rustic vision they had for the decor that was obviously perfect for the venue.  (Engagement photos taken by Pamela Marie Photography at Chatham College.)

The marriage ceremony took place in the outdoor, open air chapel of the camp.  Breathtaking.  We were spellbound when we saw the spot during set-up.  Too lovely for words.

Meanwhile, back inside the lodge, tables were being set with soft burlap, and fresh florals of fiddle fern, white hydrangeas, lemon leaf, and other rustic elements were being displayed pristinely on the tables.  We utilized our favorite modern square china for a sparkling juxtaposition to the rustic.  The couple also incorporated wonderful personal touches like their campfire smore favors, custom menus, and a stunning escort card display of birch and moss.  Guests were seated at round tables, while a family style square head table was formed for the bridal party.

The lodge has so many beautiful spaces within, and amazing roof lines with inset windows that allow views of the sunny sky and more natural light into the space.  The rotunda was the perfect area for the dance floor, and the fire pit with stone surround, and copper top blazing with a roaring fire would be perfect for a winter wedding or holiday celebration.

After the ceremony, guests were greeted on the courtyard by JPC Event staff hand butlering champagne, wine and beer for their enjoyment during appetizers.  An appetizer display of organic vegetable crudite, fresh fruit selections, and cubed cheeses followed the rustic theme of the event with moss and natural slates incorporated into the display.  Mini brioche grilled cheese were also served with our house tomato basil creme soup.

Bride and groom were then announced and the festivities began with their first dance, father daughter dance, cake cutting and toasts.

Dinner was served family style with a delicious menu commencing with a Fall mesculan apple salad with pecan and bleu cheese garnish in a balsamic vinaigrette, and then moving into the main courses and side dishes of oven roasted beef tenderloin, honey lemon salmon filets, pasta primavera alfredo, harvest blend of herb roasted potaotes (yukon gold, yam, and purple fingerlings), and fresh haricot verts with olive oil and mushrooms.  Really yummy!

The wedding cake was an ivory stunner that I really enjoyed creating.  Four tiers enrobed in ivory white chocolate fondant with over 100 handmade gumpaste hydrangea blossoms in three sizes that had been pearl lustred.  The design of falling florals somewhat mimiced the bridal gown. The flavor profile was lemon with lemon curd and raspberry puree, and chocolate fudge with raspberry truffle.  Surrounded by white rose petals and garnishes with edible pearls, I loved the classic elegance of it.

Cookies, dancing, tableside wine service, Shannon’s green and navy striped socks (which I sadly did not get a picture of), Lindsay’s couture bridal shoes!…we had it all and more which added up to this reception making my 2010 top 5 list!

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Scott, and best wishes from the whole JPC team for a lifetime of love and happiness.  It was our pleasure to work with you to create a scrumptious and stunning day!

Warm Regards, Jody and Richard Wimer

*Thank you also to the Camp Kon-O-Kwee staff and camp director for so graciously accomodating us during set-up and tear down!*

Blog Photographic credits: Jody Wimer, Caitlyn Wimer, Allison Bernstein, JPC Event Group
Venue: Camp Kon-O-Kwee Spencer YMCA camp
Linen installation, chair ties, pipe and drape and other rental equipment: JPC Event Group
Burlap overlays: Chaircover and Linens, Inc.
China, flatware, stemware: JPC Event Group
Wedding cake: Jody Wimer, JPC Event Group
Event Photographer:Pamela Marie Photography  (see the engagement shoot for Lindsay and Shannon here.)