Meaghan & Tanner’s Twilight Wedding at Steel Magnolia Barn

Tanner and Meaghan matched on Bumble—TWICE! Meaghan deleted her account before she and Tanner exchanged numbers. Their love was in the stars and a twilight wedding in their future. They then matched again and began talking a second time only a month later.

Following their first date at Barnes and Noble they just knew there was something special. Now they can be found, each year on their dating anniversary at the bookstore where loved bloomed. They get coffee, stroll the stacks and pick out books to add to their growing home library.

The first time they said “I love you,” they had been dating for several months but were each too shy to say it. One night, while waiting for friends to join them at their fire pit, it unexpectedly started snowing. It was in this magical moment that they expressed their true love for one another.

Meaghan and Tanner’s romantic twilight wedding at Steel Magnolia Barn was absolutely stunning. We are so glad that Abigail Bridges Photography was there to artfully capture all the beautiful details. Wonderful memories were made with those that they love the most.

The Day Begins…

The day began with the expert stylists from Looks By Liz. They primped and pampered the bride and her maids. Everything from beautifully braided and bejeweled hair to expertly applied makeup. They certainly looked amazing for this twilight wedding!

Meaghan Dons The Dress

Once hair, makeup and bridal bonding was complete Meaghan’s mother Tanya assisted her into her beautiful bridal gown. The entire gown floated as she walked adding an ethereal air to her look. With delicate sheer sleeves, floral lace and the softest tulle train you have ever felt she absolutely looked like a princess. You have to agree, this stargazer certainly was stunning!

Tanner Suits Up

While Meaghan was busy getting gorgeous, Tanner was donning his suit. Complete with twilight wedding accessories on a midnight blue background, we thought that he looked quite dapper. Don’t you? We know that while he certainly won’t be able to take his eyes off of Meaghan, the feeling will certainly be mutual!

The Wedding Ring

Everyone kept asking to see Meaghan’s engagement ring. Why wouldn’t they? It was absolutely lovely with the delicate spray of diamonds creating a starburst pattern. It was perfectly paired with the chevron diamond wedding band Tanner selected for her.

The Groomsmen and Groomswoman

The groom and groomsmen wore matching midnight blue suits. The groomsmen accented theirs with rust colored accessories that complimented the rust colored stars and constellations on the groom’s bowtie. They all looked quite handsome. And we would be remiss if we didn’t also mention the lovely groomswoman. She wore an organza jumper in rust, adding the perfect splash of color to their group. They were just perfect for this beautiful autumn wedding.

The Bridesmaids

The bridesmaids matched but were mismatched which created a delightful visual as they stood at the altar. With each of the lovely ladies in matching hemlines but differing necklines they perfectly complimented the beautiful bride. They were all such a fun group! They didn’t stop dancing, singing and joking around keeping the atmosphere light and festive the entire day.

Mother of Honor

When your momma is your very best friend you simply have to ask her to be your Matron of Honor. And who would possibly do a better job? Who would possibly be a more dedicated bridal party member? We loved working with Mrs. Tanya on this beautiful twilight wedding. We wish we could replicate her for each of our events!

Grandma of Honor

We would be remiss if we didn’t mention of Grandma Sharon. Not only is this special lady the matriarch of Meaghan’s family, a master story teller, and the giver of the best hugs, we also considered her an honorary bridal party member. She made sure that everything was just so. That everyone was all in line. That every detail was perfect under her watchful eye. We are fairly certain that no one…not even Meaghan and Tanner, were as happy for this beautiful wedding than she was.

The Wedding Ceremony

Steel Magnolia Barn was the perfect backdrop for their twilight wedding. While Steel Magnolia Barn offers many lovely ceremony locations, none are as popular as the pond side pier that juts out slightly into the beautiful turquoise blue water. With a fountain delicately sprinkling in the center, this is certainly the most romantic place on the property to exchange your vows.

Raina, owner and officiant from Weddings & Events by Raina united them in matrimony. The ceremony was laced with celestial metaphor, laughter and happy tears. Especially from Tanner, the moment he saw his beautiful bride appear before him. Sharing personally written vows and a ritual hand fasting to honor honor their Scottish heritage, it was a lovely ceremony. Once the rings were exchanged, they kissed and were pronounced husband and wife. Joyous shouts and cheers could be heard all around!!

Guest Book

Memorializing the most important days, Tanner and Meaghan had celestial charts drawn up. Their first date, their proposal and, of course, their wedding day. Guests were each invited to sign their names, leave a loving remark and good wishes. Their guest book will be displayed in their home to always remind them of those who were there on their special day.

Memories of Loved Ones Passed

A day as important as your wedding simply would not be complete without everyone you love in attendance. Whether it be in person or in spirit, Meaghan and Tanner made sure that no one was left out of their special celebrations.

Setting the Scene

We took full advantage of the decor package offered by the venue. It includes everything you can possibly dream of. Selecting from their carefully curated selection of linens, plates, glasses and flatware we set the stage for this beautiful twilight wedding. Adding gold taper candle holders, assorted colored glass votive holders and sheer organza table runners we set the scene. Sprinkling the tables with handpainted stars and moons tying in the celestial theme the reception took on a life of it’s own.

The sweetheart table, however, was a centerpiece to behold. Created specifically to celebrate the loving couple, beautiful bouquets of seasonal flowers burst forth and gently cascaded around their table. Such a stunning array of blossoms! These were truly the most perfect florals for such a wonderful bride and groom.

The Beautiful Venue

Steel Magnolia Barn is a beautiful wedding and event venue located on a 600 acre farm. It’s the perfect combination or rustic and glam. The main reception area is adorned with beautiful chandeliers, wood walls, twinkling lights and exposed brick. The open air patio that is perfect for a dance floor with string lights overhead. The covered pavilion is decorated with chandeliers that can also be used as a ceremony location in the event of inclement weather. With 600 acres available, and even a small white chapel for the perfect photo op, we couldn’t imagine a better place for Tanner and Meaghan’s twilight wedding.

The Floral Decor

The gorgeous crimson, periwinkle blue, sunset orange, ivory and rich royal blue floral displays created by Larson Floral Co. were set into gold crescent moons or held aloft on tall gold stands. Accented with lush greenery and eucalyptus, these beautiful bouquets were the perfect accent for an autumn wedding in Tennessee. They were the epitome of elegance and the perfect accent for a celebration of love!

A Beautiful Blessing

Colonel Rufus Bowers, Tanner’s grandfather and patriarch of his family, extended a beautiful welcome to Meaghan as she joined their family. He then proceeded to not only bless the wedding meal, but all in attendance.

Eat, Drink and Be Merry!

Offering signature cocktails as well as the happy couple’s favorite wines and beers, BarTenn had a sipping station set in the cutest little white and wooden paneled trailer. It was certainly as fun as the food! Pig N’ Pit offered everything from Nashville’s signature sides to the amazing brisket they are so well known for…in addition to pulled pork and chicken as well. With so many offerings the guests were well fed and glad to enjoy.

Everybody Loves Cake

Jenifer’s Cakes created a beautiful snickerdoodle spice cake for Tanner and Meaghan’s wedding day. Talk about the perfect flavor for an autumn wedding. Delicately adorned with edible stars and moons, this celestial confection was photographed almost as much as the bride! And for the guests who couldn’t wait until it was time to cut the cake, there was an assortment of chocolate dipper strawberries and gluten free cupcakes. Meaghan and Tanner wanted to be sure that no one was left out of partaking in dessert.

Tanner and Meaghan could hardly wait to cut their celestial wedding cake. A crowd not only formed to cheer on this sweet couple, but to taste this confectionary creation they had heard so much about. With guests coming back for seconds and even thirds, there wasn’t a single slice left at the end of the evening.

First Dance

Making a dramatic entrance to the opening strains of Andy William’s “Moon River,” Meaghan and Tanner took to the dance floor as if they had been in each other’s arms for decades. It’s hard to believe that they have only been a couple for a short while. Clearly fate knew what it was doing when it intervened. Putting them in each other’s path not once, but twice!

The Daddy/Daughter & Mother/Son Dance

This tradition always gets us tearing up. Meaghan and her Dad, Dan; Tanner and is mother Laurie were certainly no exception. It was absolutely clear that their children are their whole world. We loved how they shared their parent dances to “Blue Moon” by Billie Holliday. It was like something straight out of a movie. Not only did they have all the moves, they had everyone smiling like crazy!

The Happy Couple

Tanner and Meaghan are the perfect pair. We have never met two people who were better suited for one another than these two. Both free spirited, creative and incredibly caring. They absolutely love to read, have competitive board game nights and binge watch Master Chef while dining on Thai food. They are all in no matter what the activity! These two are just the sweetest couple. Both Ravenclaws, they are obsessed with their two Blue Heelers, Penny and Leonard and their two cats, Violet and Indigo. They love watching Star Wars and have fiery debates about Game of Thrones, however, their biggest line of contention just might be about the movie JAWS. Meaghan believes that the movie is perfect in every way. Tanner believes there wasn’t really an ending despite the fact that they killed the shark. (What do you think?? Care to weigh in?)

Mix, Mingle and Dance!

Choice DJ are multi tasking masters. Playing music that keeps everyone out onto the dance floor in one room and perfect mix and mingle music in another. They know exactly how to cater to your guests to make sure they are having an absolute blast! A great time was had by all, but most of all by Tanner and Meaghan who delighted in having all of those they love most in one place together. Guests mingled outside at on the patio under the string lights and danced after eating sweets and savories until they could no longer move. This was certainly a party for the ages!

Say Cheese!

Steel Magnolia Barn offers three fabulous backdrop options for a festive photo booth. The classic and ever popular green boxwood wall was featured at Tanner and Meaghan’s reception complete with a neon sign bearing their shared last name. This was definitely a draw for many many selfies as well as photo booth users. We love it when couples add a custom neon sign to make it even more personalized!

Nehi’s & Crackers

Just before it was time to send the newlyweds off on their honeymoon Tanner and Meaghan explained the nostalgic wedding favors set out for guests to enjoy. Since Nehi soda and crackers were all that his grandparents could afford at their wedding, and now that they shared an anniversary, the newlyweds thought it was only fitting that they serve them to their guests, too. (Yes, we absolutely adored this detail as much as I am sure you do as well.)

A Sparkling Send Off

Finally, it was time for the lovebirds to make their way to their honeymoon cruise to the Bahamas. Changing into a twilight blue sheer organza gown, Meaghan and Tanner were sent off to loud cheers and much love. Running through a tunnel of sparklers, they made their way to their getaway car ready to embark on their next adventure together!

MEGHAN & TANNER’S VENDORS

Planning & Design – Weddings & Events by Raina

Venue – Steel Magnolia Barn

Photography – Abigail Bridges Photography

Florist – Larson Floral Co.

Catering – Pig N’ Pit

Bartending – Bar Tenn

Cake – Jenifer’s Cakes

DJ – Choice DJ

Hair & Makeup – Looks By Liz