1. Real Weddings

Kristen & Seth: A Green Wedding in Slanesville, WV

While Seth was leading a ministry in New York City, Kristen was called in as a guest speaker. The two became fast friends, and all it took was Kristen

While Seth was leading a ministry in New York City, Kristen was called in as a guest speaker. The two became fast friends, and all it took was Kristen accepting a date from another guy for Seth to make his move. The Bride Kristen Somody, 31, photographer The Groom Seth Whalen, 27, model, actor, and small business owner The Date July 21 It was Kristen’s birthday and Seth had decided to propose in Central Park. He told her he wanted to play her a song. Pulling out headphones and an iPod, he played “Darlin’ Companion,” covered by Johnny Cash and June Carter. When he took off the headphones mid-song, Kristen was surprised to hear the song still playing behind her -- performed by five of their friends singing and playing the guitar. After the song, Seth read Kristen a poem and proposed.

Kristen’s bouquet was comprised of orange berries and various types of roses in colors ranging from yellow-orange to red.
Kristen made the ceremony programs, which were printed on natural-looking paper and rolled into a scroll-like shape, bound with wooden sticks.
Fruit baskets served as the reception centerpieces. Orange fruits like kumquats, peaches, tangerines, and even dried sliced oranges were placed in large glass containers. Greenery adorned the fruit and surrounded the base of the centerpieces as well.
Kristen and Seth hung a sign adorned with yellow and red blooms that guided guests toward the ceremony site. It was made out of wood found on the property and Kristen’s uncle used a wood burner to label the sign.
Kristen accessorized with a silk headpiece, a pair of vintage droplet diamond earrings, and bright orange shoes from Aldo.
Kristen and Seth were married next to a river under a natural canopy made from white cloth and giant, fallen tree branches.
Silver buckets of rose petals were tied to the chairs at the ends of the aisles at the ceremony. Guests tossed the petals at the couple during the recessional.
Kristen cut a swatch from the cream-colored ribbon on her dress and asked her 10 bridesmaids to find their own dresses to match. They carried bouquets made from the same flowers as the bride’s.
For the reception, Kristen’s mom made personalized napkin holders for each guest. The florist then tucked a sprig of rosemary in each napkin to enhance the natural feel of the wedding.