Monday, July 16, 2012

J&D farms first publication! 


We couldn't have been more excited to learn that one of our very first weddings on the farm was just published in a brand new wedding magazine "Birmingham Weddings & Events".  The wedding actually took place last October, and we had just opened for business! Wedding Planner and Stylist Ginny Au (of Bits & Bobs) did a great job with event, and in fact she was just out this past weekend for her second wedding on the farm!  Photography was provided by Mandy Busby & husband Joel ( MB Photo) who did a simply amazing job with the photography. In addition both she and her husband are incredibly kind and extremely modest given their amazing talents! Even though we are photographers ourselves, we can't recommend them enough! Be sure to check out the Bennett Wedding on our website for more photos from her wedding. 








Saturday, July 14, 2012

Wilder/Mattox Wedding-  Friday July 13th 2012

With the threat of rain forecasted for Michelle and Paul's 6:30 pm wedding, there were some thought's of  abandoning her idea of holding a picnic style reception on the front lawn of the barn. We are certainly glad she didn't and the risk paid off, as they were treated to one of the prettiest afternoons we've had in many weeks! The rain fortunately went just south of us, and a break in the clouds produced one of the most amazing sunsets we've seen at the farm..possibly ever!


This wedding was full of first for J&D farms, as not only was it the first wedding to be held on a Friday, it was our first Friday the 13th wedding! This date apparently held special meaning to both Michelle and Paul, as it was the date that he proposed to her. In addition, Michelle was our first bride to hold her wedding service on the back lawn of the Carriage House. This is the perfect setting for an intimate wedding held under our rose arbor! Approximately 120 guest were seated in a semicircular seating arrangement facing the pool terrace.



Following the wedding guest were treated to a picnic on the front lawn of the barn, where Michelle had baskets speical prepared with the names of each guest.  Baskets were filled with tasty treats prepared by Glenda Bird, a family friend.  Each basket contained grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken bites, Cesar salad, pasta salad, fresh fruit and homemade brownies for desert! Vintage quilts and picnic tables (both provided by Michelle's family) were artfully arranged on the lawn for a perfect view of the setting sun. Entertainment for the evening was provided by the Bailey Easterwood Band (contact),  personal friends of Michelle and Paul. Song selections included "Come Away with Me" by Norah Jones and "You and Me" by Dave Mathews ( the Couples first dance song). 
Picnic tables were set on the front lawn for a view of the sunset.


Michelle's official wedding photography was provided by renowned, Simply Bloom Photography from Huntsville, Alabama. Simply bloom specializes in vintage inspired wedding photography throughout the United States... and the rest of the world for that matter! We truly can't wait to see the images!




Games offered on the lawn included Horseshoes, Corn Hole, and Croquet~ all provided by J&D farms 
















Sunday, July 8, 2012

 Duren / Tyler Wedding

A little rain certainly didn't dampen the spirits of Laura & Tyler as they tied the knot in the orchard at yesterdays wedding. The weather actually couldn't have been more perfect following a brief rain shower that created a picture perfect sunset for the Orchard Ceremony, which took place at approximately 7:30pm.









This was such a fun wedding full of personality and very special moments. It was obvious the officiant, as well as the guest ( approximately 150) all knew and shared a very special relationship with the couple. As he told their story, it became clear that the two  not only cared deeply for each other, but that everyone in the orchard knew and cared very much for them as well. At several points during the ceremony, the couple took time to simply embrace each other, and guest often broke out into laughter as the two shared written vows that each had written. 


The attire for the wedding party was an eclectic mix of casual khakis and suspenders for the guys, and mismatched patterned teal dresses with cowboy boots for the girls!












  Music during the ceremony was provided by two acoustic guitarist ( family members) and Laura walked down the isle to "Somewhere over the Rainbow".  The reception in the Barn was rocked out by "Bleach and Bourbon"  featuring Robert O'Neal of  Over the Mountain Music. Set list included a wide assortment of songs such as : Ophelia, Under My Thumb, Folsom Prison Blues, I got my Mojo Workin & Caledonia just to name a few!



   Laura's detailing and personal touches throughout the barn, were the perfect blend of simplicity and creativity.  Though we are sure much work and planning went into every detail, it was presented with a charm and elegance that made it look natural and effortless, and was a perfect match for a Barn Wedding!


Catering for the reception was 
provided by Smokeneck BBQ, located in Southside (just minutes from the barn). Classics On Noble handled the rehearsal dinner that took place in the Barn following the rehearsal on Friday evening. Reviews on each this morning were excellent by both the bride and her mother! ( the only two that count). Laura also came up with an excellent seating arrangement for her rehearsal dinner in the barn. So good in fact we are going to add it to our suggested seating plan online. Be sure to check those out under the "Venue" tab if you haven't already.  
Photos of the couple clipped to vintage window panels.  
Custom made signage by Laura and Tyler






Ring bearer and mother share a special moment just before the ceremony



.
Precession to the orchard, escorted by her father. 

The newlyweds! 
Duren / Tyler Wedding

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

The latest addition to J&D farms!
 
1924 Model T Ford Depot Hack

This 1924 Model T Ford (know as a Depot Hack) was purchased a few weeks ago, and has found its home at J&D farms. Believe it or not we are the third owners of this amazing piece of history. It was purchased originally in 1924 straight from the Ford plant in Michigan. It's new owners drove it from Michigan to Florida if you can believe that! ( talk about a road trip). It is completely in original condition with the exception of the wiring and the new starter we had to replace to get her rumbling again. The cab ( made entirely of wood) is in AMAZINGLY good condition, and the detailing is just incredible!