~The following is a guest post from Rebecca Grant, New Creations Weddings, Weddings in Woodinville 2016 Guest Planner for Willows Lodge~
Willows Lodge was turned into an Asian-inspired “East Meets West” theme for this year Weddings in Woodinville. As the guest planner for Willows, and wanting to feature my specialty and knowledge in Asian weddings, I wanted to transform the space into a warm, inviting space with nods to Japanese traditions.
My favorite aspect of the design had to have been the outdoor pergola ceremony area. Guests were welcomed to the outdoor ceremony space featuring a chandelier made of 1,001 paper cranes that are always part of Japanese weddings. These cranes were actually used in one of my past brides weddings, and made with love by her family members. She then gifted them to me knowing I would use them more than her. What a gift and treat to be able to display these gorgeous handcrafted cranes for this show.
In addition to the show stopping crane centerpiece, Eleanor of Bash and Bloom provided draping of greenery that came out from the chandelier to the corners of the pergola, creating a very northwest and softer feel. Soft fabric draping from Aria Style was put as a backdrop to the greenery so it stood out against the dark wood. At night the pergola was stunning with warm fuchsia up lighting installed by Crimson Haze Event Lighting.
Inside, guests were welcomed to five display tables, with one being the main focal point. The beautiful, patterned focal point table was draped in linens and chargers from BBJ Linens, while the glassware and utensils were features from Pedersen’s Rentals. The side display tables were kept simpler but with different details that tied into the main display table with paper elements such as menus and place cards from Paper Passionista and calligraphy by Letters by Ellen. I even featured chopsticks and crane chopstick holders that matched the décor perfectly!
On either end of the room were additional décor elements with one side featuring a gorgeous greenery wall backdrop for the stunning display cake created by Kara from The Sweet Side. Directly next to the cake display was an exquisite gown from Le Salon Bridal that tied in with my Asian design. It was not only by a Japanese designer, but it also featured back detail that looked like origami.
On the opposite wall, guests could get off their feet for a bit and enjoy the delicious food offerings from Willows Lodge that tied in perfectly with the Asian-inspired theme. The Ahi tuna and the Mongolian beef bites were to die for! Guests could also wonder around the foyer area featuring entertainment from Nash Fung Magician and pop into the photo booth provided by 321 Foto, all while Brandon Ghorley DJ was playing upbeat tunes.
Monday, March 7, 2016 at 7:00AM 
