Sally Oakley Weddings Plans a Delicate Pink and Gold Wedding
Madison and Mark were raised on opposite coasts – Mark in Melville, New York, and Madison in Fresno, California. Tinder brought them together on the West Coast after Mark moved there for work. They dated for a few years, then moved to Raleigh together – Mark’s job at the time had a second headquarters in the city, which put it on their radar. “When we came to check it out, we fell in love with the city and decided to move,” Madison says. The couple got engaged on a November day during a walk at Falls Lake. The couple later said “I do” at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, NC. A delicate pink and gold wedding design was well suited to The Umstead’s classic setting.
The Umstead Hotel and Spa happened to be the first venue the couple toured. From the moment they set foot on the property, they were captivated by the elegance, picturesque grounds, and exceptional service. With guidance from expert planner Sally Oakley of Sally Oakley Weddings & Events, the couple got started on planning an elegant wedding with a pink and gold theme. Mark and Madison incorporated North Carolina-made products like Dr. Monkey’s Ridiculously Good Caramels in welcome bags for their out-of-town guests.
“Our family and friends are not from North Carolina, and most had never even been prior to our wedding,” Madison says. “It was very sweet to be able to show everyone this state that we love so much and now call home.” Their guests also got a good look at North Carolina’s beautiful natural spaces during Mark and Madison’s outdoor ceremony.
Sally Oakley provided invaluable guidance throughout the planning process, allowing the couple to relax and enjoy every moment. “Working with a planner from the beginning will help to put all the pieces together and make your event come together,” Madison adds. “And if you ever feel like there are so many different parts and wondering if it will in fact come together – it will, your day will be beautiful!”
Pink and Gold Wedding Reception Details
Officiant Kayelily Middleton personalized the couple’s ceremony, which featured Mark and Madison’s labradoodle, Remy, dressed up in a floral collar. The Umstead’s manicured grounds and on-site catering provided an ideal setting for an elegant event while also providing accommodations for the couple’s out-of-town guests. The pair incorporated personalized touches wherever they could, such as a late-night snack of cookies and milk, and custom chocolates that they gave guests as wedding favors.
Live Painting and Custom Paper Designs by Ashley Triggiano
North Carolina stationer and watercolor artist Ashley Triggiano created a live painting during the ceremony that the couple enjoyed on display during the reception. Ashley also designed all of the day-of signage and paper products for this pink and gold celebration. “Ashley was amazing to work with,” Madison says. “She is so talented and takes a dive into your vision and brings it to life from start to finish.
The wedding day overflowed with cherished moments. Madison and Mark’s first look, which was a private encounter before the ceremony, allowed them to savor the anticipation and exchange heartfelt sentiments. Laura Byrne Harpist provided enchanting melodies during the ceremony and cocktail hour, while Mr. Potato Head Band from East Coast Entertainment set the stage for an unforgettable reception before a sparkler send-off.
