Late-Summer Wedding with a Pop of Red

September 04, 2014
Eric Kelley
The stunning color scheme for this late-summer wedding was inspired by some of the greatest treasures of a Southern summer: heirloom tomatoes. 
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Home-Grown Inspiration

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

Lemon Drop, Redfield Beauty, Isis Candy, Black Krim, Moonglow ... The names of heirloom tomatoes are almost as scrumptious as their gorgeous colors. We can't think of a better place to draw late-summer wedding inspiration than from the ombré palette of ruby, persimmon, butter, chartreuse, and plum tomatoes seen at farmers' markets in every corner of the South. With bouquets and bridesmaid dresses to match, wedding ideas this delectable deserve to be passed down—just like the seeds of those sweet heirlooms.

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Bridesmaids' Dresses in Heirloom Shades

Credit: Eric Kelley

Letting your bridesmaids choose from a range of colors that work with your palette is a great way to be sure they'll love what they're wearing.

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Bridesmaids' Bouquets

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Each bridesmaid holds a bouquet that perfectly matches her dress's heirloom shade.

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Wild and Wonderful Flowers

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

All of the flower arrangements look as if they were freshly picked off the farm, giving the wedding a relaxed, casual feel.

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Make Your Own Decorative Envelopes

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

Editor's Advice: "Colorful envelope liners are a great way to jazz up a simple kraft paper envelope, and they're easy to make! Create a template, and then cut liners from patterned scrapbook paper and glue in." —Emily Thomas, Southern Weddings Creative Director

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Picturesque Setting

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

A peaceful farm location was the perfect setting for a wedding centered on heirloom tomatoes.

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Vibrant Shades

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From the flowers to the bridesmaids' dresses, this wedding's color scheme captured each shade of this stunning tomato display.

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Family Portrait with a Rustic Setting

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Editor's Advice: "Formal family portraits don't have to be taken inside your church or ceremony venue. A pretty outdoor space with a clean backdrop feels much more natural. —Lara Casey, Southern Weddings Editor in Chief

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A Touch of Southern Rhythm

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

A live bluegrass band adds an undeniably Southern feel to a cocktail hour or reception.

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A Sampling of Tomatoes

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Guests are not only tempted by the bright, heirloom colors, but they are given a chance to taste the different types of fresh tomatoes.

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Tomato Table Décor

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Table decorations don't need to be limited to floral centerpieces. The white table clothes get a hint of bright color from cartons of tiny tomatoes.

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Boxed Meals

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Each complete meal was served in a personal-sized box with a sweet gingham napkin.

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Reception Table

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At a small wedding, all guests can feel included in the bride and groom's celebration with a long, narrow dining table.

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Creative Party Favors

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Have a favorite flower or veggie? Heirloom seeds make a great favor. Bonus points for beautiful packaging.

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Sweet Southern Treat

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These sweet tea frozen pops were a hit and couldn't have been easier to make: Pour a batch of your favorite brew into plastic molds, and freeze overnight.

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Showcase Summer's Best Fruit

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

"Let the bounty of the season take center stage—and help cut your cake-decorating costs! This simple cake becomes a stunner with fresh Rainier cherries." —Lara

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Cheers!

Credit: Photo: Eric Kelley

An intimate wedding in a laidback setting gives the bride and groom the chance to share every moment with all of their guests.

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