Live music, boho inspiration and local cuisine help create the magic of Tessa and Cole’s summertime forest fete.
Photographer, musician and artist Tessa Barton grew up with husband Cole, a software developer-by-day, musician-by-night. It wasn’t until college, when Cole became roommates with Tessa’s brother, that Tessa and Cole clicked. “We started playing music together and performing shows,” Tessa says. “The relationship began very naturally after that.”
Two years later, Cole proposed during a surprise trip to New York on New Year’s Day. “We ran around the city all day until our feet just couldn’t walk anymore,” she says. “The sun was right at that perfect moment when everything seems golden. And like magic, no one was around. Next thing I know, I’m screaming, running around like a little kid because Cole is down on one knee.”
As musicians and foodies, the duo dreamed of an enchanted woodsy gathering filled with lively tunes and summer’s bounty. For weeks leading up to the wedding, the bride and groom’s families sewed and erected a food tent—the focal point in the garden—covered with hand-fringed canvas and layered with fabrics that Tessa collected. Tessa says, “We wanted guests to feel as if they happened upon something magical in the woods.”
Photography: Jessica Janae Photography
Catering: Ramblin’ Rose Cafe
Cake: Le Loup Cakery
Venue: private residence
Flowers: Sarajane Johnson for Lily and Company
Rentals: Diamond Rental
Rings: Linda Hoj Rings
Invitations: Chas Barton
Gown: Stone Fox Bride
Suits: True Gentleman Supply
Bridesmaids’ gowns: Urban Outfitters
Entertainment: St. Boheme; Changing Lanes
Videography: Jared Fadel
