Beautiful Summer Wedding at the Lyman Estate in Boston

HISTORIC COUNTRY HOUSE WEDDING IN BOSTON

This historic country house wedding took place at the Lyman Estate, just west of Boston, and it was chosen because they appreciate architecture and history.  The Lyman Estate includes an oval parlor with original, hand-carved woodwork. A Victorian library we used for the bar; the east parlor; and the dining room, with bay windows. In addition, the ballroom, with its crystal chandeliers, classical columns, and marble fireplace. A grand staircase with a Palladian window provides a perfect spot for photographs. On the second floor, there is a beautifully furnished bride’s room. They had exclusive use of the mansion and the grounds. It turned out to be the perfect setting for this intimate wedding.

THE WEDDING COUPLE

We loved helping Julia and Robert plan their historic country house summer wedding. Julia and Robert love to hike, hang out with friends, eat great food and travel. They met in college (at Harvard University) through a number of mutual friends during a party at Robert’s fraternity.  They were together 5 years before Robert proposed.  He planned to propose just as they were about to start their most recent adventure in Paris.  The whole trip became a sort of engagement trip – “it was perfect!” says Julia.  They were most looking forward to getting married.  They said it would be a nice change to celebrate them, but neither is really the type to throw themselves a party.

This wedding incorporated Julia’s passion for architecture, and the Lyman Estate was perfect.  She was in graduate school for architecture during the planning process.  We made sure many of the design elements incorporated an architectural feel. Whether the architectural element was in the design of the flowers, or on their stationery.  Julia designed their wedding invitations, ceremony program, and menu cards.  She also designed, laser-cut, and assembled all of the table numbers. 

Julia & Robert’s wedding at the Lyman Estate took place in the summer.  It turned out to be a hot and humid July day.  Thankfully they chose the only historic venue with central air conditioning!  They really wanted an outdoor, garden ceremony, but thanks to the unpredictable New England weather, we had to go with Plan B.  However, the ceremony was equally romantic. They were married in front of the marble fireplace inside the Estate’s ballroom.  Above all, they envisioned a classic, modern and understated wedding day.  The atmosphere was an important element.  For instance, adding enhanced lighting to the existing chandeliers and wall sconces.

THE WEDDING DESIGN AND DÉCOR

The color palette they chose was blue, grey, lilac and shades of whites and creams.  They felt this palette worked with the venue and was perfect for a summer wedding in New England.  The colors were light, soft and airy, a delicate balance against the more traditional colors of the Estate.

To incorporate Robert’s family’s heritage, the couple chose to include Asian inspired foods.  For instance, kalbi skewers and spicy pork bulgogi spring rolls were offered during cocktail hour.  After that, a late-night snack of Korean pork belly bao buns with pickled radishes.  The menus included New England summer-fare as well.  The couple chose to include special friends and family on their wedding day.  Particularly, to officiate, do a reading during the ceremony, and offer special toasts at the reception.

To us, there wasn’t one special moment that stood out, but lots of special moments.  Julia & Robert were thoughtful in every element they chose whether for design or tradition.  They stayed true to themselves and the vision they set out to create.  We were so grateful to be a part of their day. Click here to see more from this wedding at the Lyman Estate.

Venue: Lyman Estate
Planning & Design: Elegant Aura
Photography:  StopGoLove
Caterer: Capers Catering
Flowers: Copper Penny Flowers
Rentals: Party Rentals Ltd.
Hair & Makeup: Love Notes by June