The Reception

Shana and her mother planned the wedding with a theme reflective of the couple's love of small Missouri towns and the wineries and antique shops they enjoy visiting. Reception tables were named after towns they'd visited and listed a few charming characteristics of each, including its location. A variety of flowers in old bottles from Shana's grandmother's and father's collections -- plus ones found at antique stores across the state -- dressed the tables. We added antique gold-painted lanterns atop wood slices to add to the rustic feel, Shana says. Guests then traveled to the city-themed reception where, Shawn confesses, the parents of the wedding party outdanced, outpartied, and outlasted even those of us half their age! Local libations from the vineyard were served. Shana recalls their amazing exit from the reception: Invited guests -- and even patrons of the winery -- lined the long walkway with sparklers and cheered us on as we left. The sparklers blazed beautifully against the star-filled sky. It was a wonderful moment.