A Romantic Alfresco Wedding at Barnsley Gardens Resort in Adairsville, Georgia

Everything about the north Georgia wedding of Heather Holland (29 and a veterinarian) and Richard Stephens (33 and a biomedical engineer) evoked the elegance and romance of the South. The historic grounds at Barnsley Gardens Resort in Adairsville, Georgia, embodied their magical, timeless theme. Their heartfelt ceremony took place in a meadow under an oak tree, where they participated in a unity tradition, locking love letters to each other with letters from their parents and son to be opened on their anniversary. “There was something just so honest and pure about uniting our souls in this meadow surrounded by the sweet, thick Southern air," Heather says. Shortly after they said “I do,” their reception (read: dance party) took place on the lawn in front of the centuries-old mansion ruins, illuminated by string lights and candlelight. 54 Event Planning & Design helped Heather and Richard decorate with soft and vibrant hues of pink (Heather’s favorite color) mixed with champagne to set a summery tone. Their florists at Edge Design Group provided softly textured flower arrangements that enhanced the understated ambience throughout the day. One sweet standout moment? Heather and Richard included their son, Gavin, in their first dance to an acoustic mash-up of “Free” by Zac Brown Band and “Into the Mystic” by Van Morrison, performed by Richard’s brother. See the sentimental moments below, captured by photographer Victor Villatoro, including Heather and Richard’s towering six-tier cake.