As summer approaches and temperatures heat up, we can’t help but get excited for all the outdoor weddings that the season will bring. To kickstart the countdown to summer, we’re highlighting the incredibly romantic wedding of Xiaoya (pronounced JOY-yah) and Kurt, held at Cranberry Creek Gardens in Lynedoch, Ontario.
Xiaoya and Kurt wanted a classic wedding in an elegant, natural space inspired by their love of travel. They found the perfect wedding venue in Cranberry Creek Gardens, known for its old world charm. Not only does it have the cutest vintage chapel, the venue is also home to a beautiful open wooden barn and the most magical gardens.
While barn weddings can often feel quite rustic, Xiaoya and Kurt wanted their wedding to go in a more sophisticated direction, inspired by both the herb-filled gardens of Southern Europe and Xiaoya’s Chinese heritage. The end result was absolutely breathtaking.
Photo: Cailiegh Langford Photography
A dreamy ceremony
The ceremony unfolded in front of the vintage wedding chapel at Cranberry Creek Gardens, a historic gem built in 1881. With its original white clapboard exterior, the chapel provided a beautifully imperfect backdrop for photos and the exchange of vows. And with the surrounding manicured gardens, meticulously cared for and nestled within the property’s sprawling seven acres, the dreamy location evoked plenty of European charm and the essence of a grand estate.
A celebration of citrus and nature
In their quest to be unique, Xiaoya and Kurt chose oranges as their central design element. Tables were laden with vibrantly-coloured oranges, creating a beautiful contrast with their verdant surroundings. The citrus theme carried into the couple’s invitations, dried orange place cards and vellum tags, making for a cohesive look from start to finish.
Captivating tablescapes and floral delights
Vivid & Vogue Weddings and Events rented soft woven table runners and exquisite balsam linen napkins to adorn the tables, infusing warmth and texture in the rustic barn setting at Cranberry Creek Gardens.
They also included fresh rosemary sprigs in the napkins for an aromatic touch and designed thoughtfully crafted menus. In addition to oranges, tables were accessorized with natural clay bud vases brimming with vibrant blooms that mingled harmoniously with potted herbs, creating a kaleidoscope of colours.
Embracing tradition and Chinese culture
Xiaoya’s Chinese heritage played an essential role in the celebration. Parasols were provided for the wedding party, not only as a practical touch but also as a nod to Chinese culture. Patterned fans were also thoughtfully placed for guests during the outdoor ceremony to help keep them cool.
The bride surprised guests with a striking red dress for her second look, symbolizing happiness, good fortune, and her love for Chinese tradition. Red paper lanterns adorned the path leading back to the chapel, illuminating the way for dancing and mingling around the enchanting fire. These vibrant accents paid homage to the rich tapestry of Xiaoya’s heritage, making the day even more special.
Inclusivity and love overflow
To add a modern twist to the time-honoured bouquet-toss tradition, Xiaoya decided to throw not one, but three bouquets, inviting everyone – regardless of gender – to participate. The sentiment behind this inclusive gesture was because, in her words, “there’s so much love to go around.” By breaking traditional gender boundaries and tossing three bouquets, the couple created an atmosphere that celebrated unity, love, and inclusivity.
After all was said and done, Xiaoya and Kurt’s Cranberry Creek Gardens was a magical affair. By infusing cultural elements with natural landscapes and European flair, they were able to pull off a celebration that was perfectly unique to them. Congratulations Xiaoya and Kurt!
Vendor Team:
Planning, design, stationery design, and styling: Vivid and Vogue
Wedding photography: Caileigh Langford
Flowers: Philia Flora
Venue: Cranberry Creek Gardens
Catering: Devlin’s Country Bistro
DJ: Black Creek Music
Linen rentals: Simply Beautiful Decor
Hair & makeup: Mavis Wu
Bride’s gown: Savvy – WToo By Watters
Bride’s shoes: Loeffler Randall
Groom suit: Garrison Bespoke
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