Alissa + Hayden’s Cunningham Farm Wedding | New Gloucester, ME

Hello my sweet friends! We’re somehow already more than one month into the new year (??) and I can hardly believe it. We’ve been spending the last month the same way I’m sure many of you have as well: resetting, both mentally and professional. I’ve set new goals for myself and for the business, and I know my hardworking team has done the same. January is always a time of growth for me, and it’s been good for the soul to reset, reprioritize and re-energize for the year ahead.

As part of this process, I actually spent quite some time looking back on previous weddings over the past few weeks. I love to reminisce, but I also find such inspiration in looking at our own Clients, remembering how we worked together to bring their vision to life. Today, I figured I’d bring you along for the ride!

I’m going way back for this one: a sweet summer wedding in August 2019 to celebrate the love of Alissa & Hayden. These two incredible human beings made this day completely their own, which as you know, we love. Bright pops of color in the florals, design elements, and, yes, Alissa’s hair (!!) stole the show in this stunning day. They even caught the attention of Rock N’ Roll Bride – peep the recent feature here!

Let me just start by saying this: Alissa and Hayden are probably cooler than we’ll ever be and we are so here for it. They are spontaneous, adventurous, and vibrant in everything they do. They’ve traveled the world together (literally) and always made us laugh. They’re a whooole lot of fun and we knew from the start they’d be awesome to collaborate with. Huge shout out to Cody James Barry Photography for capturing all the beauty!

Some window peeping from our gorgeous Bride – how much should we bet that she was trying to catch an early look at her husband to be?!

Nothing like a sibling hug on the big day! Alissa’s sister was not only there for support, but actually was the genius behind all of the fabulous make-up for Alissa and her bridesmaids. Very impressive if you ask me! Alissa opted for a more natural look for the day, with a beautiful lip color that perfectly complemented her full floral headband.

Remember when I mentioned that the florals stole the show? This is what I’m talking about! The bouquet is probably an all time favorite of mine. Anika and her team at Bad Rabbit Flowers created some seeeerious magic. This bouquet was overflowing with colors and interesting textures, including everything from dahlias to succulents and airplants. She’s a beauty!!

Please just try and tell me Alissa is not one of the coolest, most genuine Brides you’ve ever seen… I’ll wait! Her fitted lace dress, vibrant headband and casual sandals made for a vibrant boho look.

And there’s our Groom!! Hayden opted for a grey suit and beautiful floral tie to complement Alissa’s look.

After a hug from mom (a requirement), we officially started out the day with a gorgeous first look on the sprawling lawn on Cunningham Farm. Cunningham Farm was a no brainer for Alissa and Hayden when it came to the venue selection. Alissa was born and raised in Maine, and knew she wanted to find somewhere in her home state to say ‘I do’. The grounds at Cunningham Farm are so vast, they’re almost playful, while the barn itself is romantic and intimate no matter how many guests are presentIt made the most stunning backdrop for the already picture perfect day!

I am quite honestly in awe of this entire first look. The love between these two is completely infectious – and uhm, so is Alissa’s smile if you didn’t notice! I am sitting here smiling ear to ear and sucking up as much joy from these pictures as I can get. These two radiated such positivity throughout the day, a sense of calmness in knowing their love was so deep and finally being cemented.

One of my favorite pictures from the day – such a fab girl tribe!

After enjoying some pre-ceremony photos and time with their closest friends and family members, Alissa and Hayden retreated to the barn while guests arrived. Guests were greeted by this stunning mirrored sign, as well as fruit infused water and champagne to sip as they took in all the beauty. The ceremony space itself was adorned with lush florals throughout, with the arbor florals absolutely stealing the show. The space was serene but lively, with a stunning backdrop of large trees and a quiet pond just behind the arbor. It was a dreamy setting, with hardly a cloud in the sky I might add, too!

We love special ceremony elements like this. It’s the small things that make a day so unique and personal!

Someone needs to let me where this FABULOUS hat was purchased?! I’ll take a few, please!!

“I was so nervous leading up to the ceremony, I was shaking visibly, Alissa shared. “Walking up to Hayden at the altar, I think he could tell how nervous I was. Standing up there, I took his hands, and planted my feet to steady myself.”

“After a few minutes, where I was starting to feel really woozy and lightheaded, Hayden leaned in and whispered ‘bend your knees!’ Luckily, he realized that in my nervousness, I had locked my knees and was on the verge of passing out! If he hadn’t said that, I definitely would have passed out at the altar, making for a different, much more embarrassing story. In that moment, I realized how well he knew me, and I felt so comforted and seen.”

Finally husband and wife! This ceremony was so touching and filled with emotion (did you see the way Alissa looked at her dad when he walked her down the aisle?!). Hayden’s sister shared a heartfelt reading and I can promise you there wasn’t a dry eye in sight. And the personal vows left us smiling for hours – filled with humor, sweet stories and the most radiating joy between these two. We loved every second of it! Alissa and Hayden floated out of the sanctuary to none other that ‘Don’t You Think It’s Our Time’ by Johnny Crash and June Carter Cash.

Tell me you’re not obsessed with this picture! Meme is rocking those flowers and may officially be the most lovable grandma around.

Post-ceremony, guest headed over to the Hay Barn for a festive, indoor/outdoor style cocktail hour. Beautiful cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were circulated as guests explored the property and listened to some rockin’ tunes from Larry Williams Band. An antique croquet set, Giant Jenga, and cornhole were spread out across the lawn as well for some added fun. Guests sipped, danced, and played games under the warm sun.

Are we obsessed with these bright, summery linens? Do we want them in our own house? I’ll let you figure that one out! 😉

Remember when I said drinks and hors d’oeuvres we’re passed? These are the beauties I was talking about! Trillium Catering stunned with their gorgeous displays and even more impressive flavors. Alissa and Hayden designed three speciality cocktails that guests truly RAVED over: Peach & Blueberry Whiskey Sour, Sparkling Basil Lemonade and Lone Star Beer. These were a hit! The food hardly took a back seat though. Guests enjoyed Maine crab cakes, lobster rolls, banh mi crostini, crispy polenta cakes, and beef picadillo Empanadas. YUM!

As cocktail hour came to a close, guests were invited into the barn for dinner. And this sight was truly a showstopper… we used our rustic barn board wall as a grand escort card display, adorned with (to no surprise) colorful florals at the base.

Collaborating with Alissa and Hayden on this design was so much fun. These two had our creativity flying with their ideas! We landed on a rustic yet charming design with large farm tables and chiavari wood chairs. La Tavola Tuscany Kiwi Runners adorned the tables for a bold pop of color, which was a fun complement to the bright centerpieces. We added simple mercury glass votives for some natural candlelight, as well as table numbers with floral accents to complete the look,

This place setting was a stunner! Vintage china was an absolute must from the very beginning, and these authentic, patterned dinner plates did not disappoint. Shiny gold flatware, vintage rose goblets and classic ivory napkins rounded out the look. And to top it off? A beautifully designed custom menu!

Peep those mood setting lights… they made the barn feel intimate and magical! Shout out to Griffin & Griffin Event Design Illuminated for this display.

Alissa and Hayden snuck off for some sunset pictures and all I have to say is…. WOW. I’ll just leave these here for you!

Back in the barn, guests enjoyed a variety of stunning desserts to add a sweet touch the the night. Yet another shout out to Trillium Catering here! These are seriously making my mouth water. Dessert consisted of a buttermilk cake with lemon and Swiss meringue, Maine blueberry pie, Texas pecan pie and some creamy ice cream to put on top.

Annnd let the best part of the night begin! Dancing the night away was a favorite for Alissa and Hayden, and clearly for the rest of this crew too!

Alissa & Hayden – we absolutely adore you! Being part of your wedding day was a true honor and an experience that I will remember for years to come. Thank you for allowing us to collaborate with you to create such a perfect day!

XO, Paula