A Tented Coastal Celebration Blending Whimsy, Vintage Charm, and Editorial Design

Dec 3

This celebration at the Florence Griswold Museum unfolded under a sailcloth tent designed with romantic lighting, soft draping, whimsical florals, vintage-inspired elements, and a modern editorial approach to coastal design.

An Artistic and Coastal Occasion in Old Lyme, Connecticut

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Ally and Jeff envisioned a joyful, elevated experience that embraced the artistic, historic, and coastal character of Essex and Old Lyme, Connecticut. Upon arrival at the Florence Griswold Museum, guests were greeted with champagne and views of the artists’ gardens beside the landmark yellow house. The ceremony took place on the waterfront lawn with sweeping views of the Lieutenant River as the sun began to set.

Cocktail hour celebrated classic New England traditions with a full-scale raw bar, traveling oyster shuckers, and a personalized clarified cocktail bar featuring lemon shiso, rum punch, and carajillo-inspired signatures.

Under the sailcloth tent, soft draping, warm lighting, and vintage-inspired coastal details created an elegant environment for the evening. A round lantern installation floated above the dance floor, while twin mixology-style bars flanked the stage. Design elements throughout the tent included artful coastal florals, shaded table lamps, couture linens, European glassware, and garden bistro chairs.

Following a seasonal dinner and heartfelt toasts, guests enjoyed lemon cake and a petit-fours bar sourced from the bride’s favorite hometown bakery. As the dance floor filled, a petite floral station opened for guests to create small take-home arrangements. The celebration was captured with an editorial eye, highlighting the movement, color, and coastal atmosphere that defined the day.