Independence Day holds a special place in the hearts of Charise Rhodes & Brian Alexander. The pair first met at the annual 4th of July barbecue of mutual family friends in Kansas City, Missouri. Fast forward 25 years, and the two crossed paths at a College Homecoming event ultimately leading to the couple reconnecting and dating. As word of the engagement and forthcoming wedding spread, one thing was certain – the date must be July 4th!
The very thought of styling a 4th of July wedding may render images of an explosion of traditional red, white and blue items to the extreme. Not so fast! Let your creativity shine by following the Alexander’s lead.
The Look:
Red, White and Blue remixed – The bride selected palette of Cardinal red, Tiffany Blue and White with Black accents. The balance of Tiffany Blue and Cardinal presented a softer version of the typical Independence day color scheme. Bridesmaids wore blue and white with accents displayed in the bride’s red daisy bouquet and groom’s boutineer.
Special Elements:
The reception featured a few well-placed elements to highlight and pay tribute to the theme of the day. A wedding cupcake tree featured multi-flavored treats with Tiffany Blue icing adorned with Cardinal accents. Table centerpieces included accents of red and blue on white table linens.
The signature cocktail quickly became a guest favorite featuring a delicious blend of cranberry and other fruit juices. The display was accompanied by a fresh fruit salad of blueberries, strawberries and whipped cream. A copy of a poem by the same name created an elegant, yet patriotic presentation.
The Tradition:
Over the years, the families continued to host their annual 4th of July barbecue, and wedding day was no different! The morning wedding and light hors d’oeuvres reception was followed by a traditional Kansas City-style barbecue that afternoon. A great idea that gave the visiting guests an opportunity to taste the food that the “Barbecue Capital of the Midwest” is known for. After the picnic, guests returned to the hotel to enjoy the city’s fireworks display.
Holiday celebrations can create a memorable backdrop for your celebration. Here are a few tips for themeing your 4th of July union:
Keep it simple
The key is to highlight a few items that reinforce the theme throughout various aspects of the day without overwhelming the guests. While the colors represented the 4th of July, the secondary colors – Black and White – provided a neutral background as a foundation.
Include elements of the theme that are natural to you
We love the fact that the family maintained its traditional family barbecue. By doing so, guests were able to meet and spend time with family members while enjoying the city.
Make it personal
Are there Military Veterans in your family? Consider a photo gallery or tribute delivered by the officiant or host during the reception. This is a simple way to acknowledge those who feel especially connected to the holiday.
Photography: Tiffany Adams, Venue: Sheraton Kansas City, Wedding Planner: A Royal Engagement, LLC.
The very thought of styling a 4th of July wedding may render images of an explosion of traditional red, white and blue items to the extreme. Not so fast! Let your creativity shine by following the Alexander’s lead.
The Look:
Red, White and Blue remixed – The bride selected palette of Cardinal red, Tiffany Blue and White with Black accents. The balance of Tiffany Blue and Cardinal presented a softer version of the typical Independence day color scheme. Bridesmaids wore blue and white with accents displayed in the bride’s red daisy bouquet and groom’s boutineer.
Special Elements:
The reception featured a few well-placed elements to highlight and pay tribute to the theme of the day. A wedding cupcake tree featured multi-flavored treats with Tiffany Blue icing adorned with Cardinal accents. Table centerpieces included accents of red and blue on white table linens.
The signature cocktail quickly became a guest favorite featuring a delicious blend of cranberry and other fruit juices. The display was accompanied by a fresh fruit salad of blueberries, strawberries and whipped cream. A copy of a poem by the same name created an elegant, yet patriotic presentation.
The Tradition:
Over the years, the families continued to host their annual 4th of July barbecue, and wedding day was no different! The morning wedding and light hors d’oeuvres reception was followed by a traditional Kansas City-style barbecue that afternoon. A great idea that gave the visiting guests an opportunity to taste the food that the “Barbecue Capital of the Midwest” is known for. After the picnic, guests returned to the hotel to enjoy the city’s fireworks display.
Holiday celebrations can create a memorable backdrop for your celebration. Here are a few tips for themeing your 4th of July union:
Keep it simple
The key is to highlight a few items that reinforce the theme throughout various aspects of the day without overwhelming the guests. While the colors represented the 4th of July, the secondary colors – Black and White – provided a neutral background as a foundation.
Include elements of the theme that are natural to you
We love the fact that the family maintained its traditional family barbecue. By doing so, guests were able to meet and spend time with family members while enjoying the city.
Make it personal
Are there Military Veterans in your family? Consider a photo gallery or tribute delivered by the officiant or host during the reception. This is a simple way to acknowledge those who feel especially connected to the holiday.
Photography: Tiffany Adams, Venue: Sheraton Kansas City, Wedding Planner: A Royal Engagement, LLC.
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