A Stunning Summer Garden Wedding Reception | June 25
Amanda & Brantley’s Classically Stunning Wedding Reception
“Ultimately having a built-in planner and full-service venue provided a base of organization with a clean slate where you could customize as little or as much as you wanted.
Not having to figure out all of the logistics or behind-the-scenes work is extremely valuable.” — Amanda
A June Wedding Reception In Elegant Neutrals With Fine Details
Amanda and Brantley both attended the University of Alabama, but it wasn’t until they moved to Nashville, separately, that the couple met… on a dating app! Brantley works in sales and says Amanda’s job as an ICU nurse is just one of the selfless ways she serves those around her. He says it’s what’s made him fall for her — that and the fact that she’s a big Alabama fan. For Amanda, she says working the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic tested them and Brantley’s support and care for her between shifts made her confident they were ready to get married.
The couple worked with CJ’s Off The Square planner Sidney Darby to create a classic black-tie-optional wedding reception that was simple yet stunning. They selected neutrals such as rich white, champagne, and barely-there blush.
“I chose CJs because when I met Sidney, I clicked with her instantly and loved her positive attitude and how she was open to making my vision a reality.” — Amanda
The Wedding Party
Brantley proposed at Arrington Vineyards in June of 2021. With the help of Amanda’s best friend and MOH Jackie, he planned a picnic set up with photos of many of their favorite memories together, a beautiful custom-designed ring, and a photographer to capture the beautiful moment. He also planned a surprise engagement party that followed, with all their closest family and friends.
Many of those friends were part of their bridal party. Brantley’s eight groomsmen complimented the groom’s tux, with a matching classic tuxedo and black bow ties. Amanda’s eight bridesmaids and junior bridesmaids wore strapless blush gowns from Amsale Jaylin.
The bride and bridesmaids’ bouquets were created by The Enchanted Florist and consisted of the bride’s favorite flowers: orchids, peonies, and roses. The lavish bouquets also featured pops of greenery to tie the neutral, elegant style into the garden venue.
A Church Wedding
The couple exchanged vows in front of their guests at Saint Matthew’s Catholic Church in Franklin, TN. The traditional ceremony included a full Catholic mass.
Amanda was a vision in a unique Fabulous Frocks Nashville gown. The fit-and-flare gown features a halter top neckline and open back with fresh water pearl buttons. She accessorized with a long, cathedral veil and tiara.
The couple left their ceremony in style in a vintage white Bentley from Matchless Transportation, complete with a “just married” sign. The couple and their guests traveled just 20 minutes to CJ’s Off the Square in downtown Franklin. When searching for venues, Amanda said she was looking for something she didn’t really know existed.
“I chose CJs for a couple of different reasons. First off, I was looking for a unique venue. I wanted something beautiful and different. I wasn’t a barn girl and have this unexplained hate for hotel carpet lol. So when I saw the classy old house and breathtaking pavilion surrounded by a lush garden, it wasn’t hard to chose,” says Amanda.
The Glamorous Outdoor Wedding Reception
The newlyweds entered their elegant wedding reception to guests seated at round tables facing the couple at their Head Table. The pavilion was decorated with gold place settings, stunning florals, and candles galore. A crystal curtain chandelier with dramatic draping created a moment under the Pavilion for the summer evening wedding. The entire design was a mix of lovely neutral tones including ivory, barely-there blush, and pops of white — which wowed even the bride herself.
“My husband and I both agreed it was the best weekend of our lives and it was ALL WORTH IT. Also, NOTHING could beat both myself and my mom walking into CJs and having all of our expectations and vision better then we could have imagined!”
After looking back on their planning experience, Amanda says going with a venue that offered a built-in planner and full-service was the way to go. Her favorite part of the process? “I enjoyed getting to make my vision come to life! The ability to customize my wedding.”
The Late Night Touches
The moment guests arrived at CJ’s Off The Square, they knew it was going to be a good time celebrating Amanda and Brantley. They were first greeted by a custom neon sign and champagne wall, along with passed appetizers such as Charred Beef Crostini, Crab Cake and Chicken Salad Wonton. They enjoyed a formal, seated dinner and an elegant white buttercream cake.
Amanda switched into a tea-length, strapless gown for the dancing portion of the evening. She recalls dancing with her friends and family and feeling like she was “in a music video.” When asked what her favorite part of the reception was, she simply said: “All of it.”
The couple surprised their guests with a late-night snack of Hot Chicken Bao to fuel the dancing and bouquet toss. As well as a live performance from Nashville songwriter, James Walker, who performed a custom song written for the Newlyweds. This was a special surprise to Amanda and Brantley from her parents.
The Classic Summer Wedding Dream Team
Photography: Kendall Parsons Photography
Venue, Planning, & Design: Sidney Darby for CJ’s Off the Square
Videography: Crown & Lace Wedding Films
Flowers: The Enchanted Florist
Catering: Dream Events & Catering
Rentals: Southern Events Party and Event Rental
Entertainment: Premier the Entertainment Company
Draping & Chandelier: Blue Nova Designs
Wedding Gown: Fabulous Frocks Nashville
Hair & Make Up: MHD Beauty
See more real garden weddings at our Nashville wedding venue
Or learn more about our venue and all-inclusive wedding packages:
Did you like this post? Is this the kind of wedding day experience you would love to have? Let’s chat! Call or click to learn more about hosting your wedding at CJ’s Off the Square.
(615) 216-7576
