City chic meets rural beauty at Michelle and Johns Formal Countryside Wedding in Indiana
It was a simple search online that introduced Michelle and John to our barn wedding venue. The Chicago-based couple were looking at locations on a whim during a visit to Indiana and found everything that they were looking for in The Wilds wedding venue in Bloomington! For this chic pair, the aesthetic of our unique barn wedding venue hit every note for a beautiful celebration. With lots of ideas for your own modern barn wedding in Southern Indiana, you won’t want to miss this post!
A true big city romance
John and Michelle met when she was bartending in their mutual neighborhood in Chicago. The pair found out that they lived in the same apartment complex and even had mutual friends, but their paths magically crossed one evening while she was working. They were engaged on a lazy Saturday afternoon in the park across from their house one afternoon in what the bride sweetly terms “true John fashion.”
The groom grew up in Indiana, so having the wedding in his home state carried a lovely significance. Our accommodating and helpful wedding day management and on-site coordination team made all the difference while the pair planned from a long distance.
The morning of their wedding, Michelle and John enjoyed a romantic first look under our iconic sweeping walnut tree grove before whisking off to their outdoor wedding ceremony. You won’t want to miss the magic, beautifully captured by Stephanie Axtell Photography.
Timeless moments at a modern barn wedding venue
Decorated with classic white florals and lush greenery, our outdoor wedding ceremony pavilion was breathtaking for Michelle and John’s vow exchange. The pair were strategic as they built their floral design plans with Laurilyn Farms. Arrangements were kept luxorious, yet simple and were the perfect accent the natural beauty.
Guests were greeted with delightful mock-tails and signature wedding cocktails to enjoy from their seats prior to the ceremony. This personal touch is a great way to care for your guests at the start of your event!
The married journey for Michelle and John officially started, and they can’t be more excited to see what the future will hold. From the bride when asked what she most looks forward to in their married life:
The thing I’m most looking forward to in married life is going through all of the peaks and valleys together! In 50 years, I see us still learning and growing as we both grow together and as individuals.
Sleek outfitting for a modern barn wedding venue
We love the styling choices that Michelle and John made for their wedding!
Michelle’s Jane Hill bridal gown was her choice for its clean lines, timeless style, and modern feel. In her words, “just like my venue!” Her Loeffler Randall heels brought some sweet romance to the look as well as her dramatic soft veil. Michelle then transitioned her hair from long soft waves into a chic high pony to kick off the party at the reception.
John’s tuxedo from The Black Tux was the perfect pop of color. The deep navy-teal tux kept him looking distinct and sharp among the neutral tones. We love the pop of white from his boutonniere against this classic look for the ultimate old-school cool groom.
For all twelve bridesmaids, ultra classic black gowns create a timeless look paired perfectly with black suits for the groomsmen. Consider using this classic pair of looks for your large party to create a sleek ensemble.
The Best Barn Wedding Venue in Indiana
Our Chicago couple knew they wanted to utilize chic neutrals. With their palette of black and white with accents of wood and greenery, our Indiana barn wedding venue immediately fit. To accomplish a chic minimalist aesthetic, consider choosing key focal points that guests will gather around to decorate. For Michelle and John, a few key favorites were their cigar bar and bespoke neon sign. Our free in-house decor rentals accomplished the rest, paired with utilizing the bridesmaid bouquets as additional table decor.
Some of the brides favorite moments were those that celebrated their parents. The dances with their parents and capturing family portraits were central to the celebration. In Michelle’s words, “I obviously loved celebrating John and my love, but those special moments with my family- the true unwavering support that truly allowed for our love to grow- were the highlight of my wedding experience.” This perspective is one that we love celebrating at The Wilds wedding venue!
Blue Water Kings Band had the entire party on the dance floor throughout the incredible evening. There is nothing quite like live music to bring your party to life, and the atmosphere created by the band did just that and then some!
Ready to see why The Wilds is Indiana’s most sought after barn wedding venue? Find transparent pricing, dates of availability and our extensive list of inclusions or book your private tour at www.thewildsvenue.com/details.
The Vendor Team
| Bar Service | — | Upland Brewing Co. |
| Wedding Day Caterer | — | Jeanette Molina Catering |
| Cake/Dessert Provider | — | Icing on the Cake by Kristina |
| Wedding Planner/Coordinator | — | Sincerely Yours Planning |
| Photographer | — | Stephanie Axtell Photography |
| Videographer | — | Imagination Designers |
| Florist | — | Laurilyn Farms |
| Band | — | Blue Water Kings Band |
| Transportation | — | Royal Transportation |
| Hair Stylist & Makeup Artist | — | Something Blue Stylists |
| Wedding Dress Shop | — | Alice in Ivory Bridal Boutique |
| Wedding Dress Brand | — | Jane Hill |
| Suit Shop | — | The Black Tux |
| Wedding Ring Shop | — | Bryn Mawr Jewelry |
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