A Whimsical, Watercolor Wedding at the Bonnet Island Estate in Manahawkin, New Jersey

Alexandra (Ali) Venables (25 and works in medical sales) and Joshua (Josh) Gray (26 and a business consultant) steered clear of traditional nautical décor for their beach wedding, opting to outfit their elegant waterfront day in shades of pink and ivory and whimsical touches.

The envelopes for the letterpress invitation suite featured custom floral watercolor liners and were addressed with matching calligraphy. “The custom envelope liners were really my inspiration for the whole day,” Ali says of the blush and berry hues that were included in the design. 

To ensure she felt comfortable and still looked like herself, Ali did her own hair in loose curls. 

Each bridesmaid wore a different blush dress. “They all looked beautiful together,” Ali says. 

A number of hand-painted signs and directional items were used to point guests toward the ceremony and reception areas. The signature drink sign showcased original illustrations of the Moscow Mule and Hollywood cocktails. The sign now hangs behind the couple’s home bar. 

For her duties as flower girl, Ali’s niece wore a crown of fresh greenery and an ivory dress with a heart cutout in the back. 

Hand-painted elements were used throughout the day, including the custom illustration of the ceremony chapel on the menu cards. “Have the day reflect you, have fun and when the day finally comes, enjoy every single moment because it’s over in a blink of an eye,” Ali says. 

The pair decorated the stacked stone fireplace that served as their ceremony backdrop with garland and a gilded antique mirror.