L + R live in Japan but planned a rustic Tennessee wedding to represent both their personalities + Ryku’s Japanese heritage. Choosing Southall Eden, a venue 30 minutes outside of Nashville, gave them the chance to show all their out of town fam + friends the beauty of rural Tennessee in an intimate, personal setting. Sage Nines Event Production took care of the overseas planning, design, and florals, and Tec Petaja snapped these lovelies below…
Looks tasty!
One of their friends, illustrator Sarah McIntyre, drew cartoons that Southall Eden Paperie translated to the invites + cocktail napkins. What a cute idea!
Bridal processional: “Bridal Chorus” (Here Comes the Bride) by Wagner
Recessional song: “I’m Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves
First dance: “Running on Faith” by Eric Clapton
Going to be dreaming of this bouquet for days! The recipe: blue hydrangea, seeded eucalyptus, dahlias, cornflower, peony, garden rose, astilbe, delphinium, blue thistle, acacia, willow eucalyptus
A favorite memory, via Leisl…
Ryku’s uncle speaks very little English, but is a huge fan of country music. He has memorized the words to many of his favorites, and the band asked him up to sing “All My Exes Live in Texas”. The crowd absolutely loved it and it really set the mood for a truly memorable celebration with our family and closest friends.
Leisl + Ryku’s planning advice? Don’t be afraid to hire a professional. They’ve probably been in similar scenarios before—like planning a wedding on a different continent than where you live—and can help make it as stress-free as you’d hoped.
Wishing you two the best!
Photographer: Tec Petaja / Venue: Southall Eden / Planning, Design, & Florals: Sage Nines Event Production / Hair & Makeup: Stephanie Harrison / Stationery: Southall Eden Paperie / Catering: Kristen Winston / Cake: Dulce Desserts / Rentals: Liberty Party Rental / Caricature Illustration: Sarah McIntyre / Dress: Claire Pettibone Chantilly from The Dress Theory / Groom’s Fashion: All Purchased in Tokyo
