1. Real Weddings

Jill & Nate: An Outdoor Wedding in Dublin, OH

A deserted stretch of beach on Harbour Island in the Bahamas holds a special place in the hearts of Jill and Nate. They stumbled upon the beach, and t

A deserted stretch of beach on Harbour Island in the Bahamas holds a special place in the hearts of Jill and Nate. They stumbled upon the beach, and the lone tree that sits on it, during one of their first vacations as a couple. The beauty of the tree really struck me, and I took numerous photos of it, says Jill. When we came home I had one of the photos framed, and it now hangs above our fireplace. The Bride Jill Shien, 28, housewife The Groom Nate Lindamood, 34, mortgage officer The Date August 24 The couple returned to Harbour Island last year, and before dinner one night Nate suggested they stop at the tree and watch the sunset. It was there that Nate got down on one knee and proposed.

The couple exchanged vows in front of a fountain in the gardens of Corazon Club & Spa. Two large urns of colorful flowers flanked the altar, while guests sat in white chairs in a lush grassy area.
The Wedding Party Looks
Three large chandeliers hung from the top of the clear tent, adding a bit of formality to the garden reception. Yards of draped fabric, a wood floor, and dark brown chiavari chairs added warmth and richness to the décor.
Jill's seven maids wore champagne-colored, satin, tea-length dresses by Vera Wang. Each had a flirty bubble hem and a black velvet tie at the waist.
Everything from Lifehouse brought the newlyweds to the floor for their first dance.
At the center of each guest table, large silver candelabras overflowed with flowers in pink and ivory hues. Silver-beaded chargers added a touch of sparkle, and colorful damask tablecloths completed the look.
The bride carried a bouquet comprised of orchids, roses, and lilies in romantic hues like lavender, pink, and ivory.
A chandelier motif was printed on the ceremony programs, which also doubled as fans. Since we were having an outdoor wedding, we hoped the programs could help cool people off, says Jill.
At each place setting, guests found custom menu cards tucked inside artfully folded napkins. The menus were created in pink and brown and featured the same chandelier motif that adorned the rest of the wedding stationery.
The four-tier cake featured a round, beaded detail that mimicked the buttons on the back of Jill's gown. The couple's new monogram added an elegant touch to the light pink–iced confection.
A candy station, complete with boxed mini wedding cakes, was a hit with all of the guests.
The ring bearer carried a white silk pillow that was handmade by the mother of the groom. Pink bows were used to hold the rings in place, and the hand-stitched, pink and white sunburst details were accented with pearls.