At WM Events, Sarah Sadlock holds the title of Creative Synergist, which to us means that she’s an expert at blending color, style and design to eye-popping effect. She’s also known for her fondness for florals, so when Sarah imagines herself as an event, we know it’s going to be beautiful!
If I were an event, I would be … a wedding or vow renewal. I’m a sucker for love! My intimate ceremony, where not a dry eye would be found, would be followed by an elegant, seated dinner.
I would take place … in an industrial studio or warehouse space with lots of natural light and plenty of history and character. A blank slate is best when you have a specific look you’re trying to achieve … which “I do.”
My theme would be … boho-glam + romance.
My colors would be … moody, muted hues mixed with metallics. I would show off dusty neutrals, pinks, mauves and purples with touches of black and charcoal. A touch of mixed metals would bring the glam.
My florals would … continue the soft but dramatic palette with muted hues mixed with intensely dark purple and black. Some of my favorites that you could expect to find include ranunculus, anemones, tulips, orchids, antique carnations (swoon), scabiosa, blushing bride protea, anthurium, garden roses, pampas grass and other dried stems.
My entertainment would be … a live band that covers guests’ favorite songs in a fun and unique way. My RSVP card would ask guests for their favorite song so that the band has a good idea of what everyone wants to hear. A cigar bar complete with vintage boxes, accessories and custom wrappers will add to the vintage quality of the night.
There is no meal better than … a simple, refined, farm-to-table authentic Italian meal. This meal would include the many traditional courses: the aperitivo, which consists of a glass of prosecco or spumante, served with small dishes of olives, nuts and a variety cheeses. The antipasti, which would include dishes like prosciutto e melone and a simple but elegant bruschetta with fresh garlic and fava beans. The primi course would be a perfectly cooked risotto, followed by the secondi course with roasted veal or lamb. Dolce (dessert) would include an out-of-this-world caramel panna cotta. To finish up, guests would end with a strong espresso and grappa served with biscotti for dipping, to get them refreshed and ready to hit the dance floor!
Beyond dinner, my guests would partake in … couples cakes that perfectly match the décor- no traditional white wedding cake with a groom’s cake off to the side as an afterthought. And to completely surprise guests and satisfy late night food cravings before they head home, a food truck from an Atlanta staple like the Waffle House or the Varsity would arrive just in time!
Cocktails for the reception would include … a classic Negroni along with expert wine pairings throughout the meal.
My guest count would be … limited to 50 or fewer so that the intimate quality of the event would be maintained.
I would invite guests with … a traditional, full-suite mailed invitation. For a modern, on-trend touch, I would utilize either acrylic or vellum as well as metallic foil. Matte black envelopes with bespoke calligraphy would finish the look.
Special features would include … a show-stopping altar with vintage brass lights, flowers and pampas grass; a distinctive seating chart featuring mirror, metallics and a witty tagline; a romantic altar lined with sleek, clean-lined glass lanterns in matte black or brass; a statement-making ceiling installation featuring pampas grass and painted metallic and black palms; acrylic chairs and tables mixed with soft linen for the ultimate contrast in textures; vintage glassware and place settings in matte black and shades of pink; and a plush, feminine lounge grouping with layered bohemian rugs, ornate velvet chairs, and fur and gold accents.
When it’s time for selfies … I would encourage my guests to unplug for the evening and instead enjoy a roaming photobooth. One of my favorite ways to get photos from the guest’s perspective is with a mirror photobooth, which would also be a perfect complement to the décor.
My guests will go home with … vintage handkerchiefs with their monogram. These throwback linens do double duty as a ceremony necessity and a thoughtful take-home gift.
Overall, my event would inspire … love! At the end of the day, a wedding or vow renewal should be all about the connection the two people share. With an intimate guest list, thoughtful and romantic design, live music everyone can sing along to, and a variety of personal touches from the couple, guests will definitely be feeling the love.