Karen Greenoe of Lily Greenthumb’s Wedding & Event Design was inspired to create a romantic styled shoot against a picturesque urban backdrop. Located in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, the Foundation for the Carolinas offered the ideal venue for her “Uptown Elegance” vision.

Though indoors, the solarium gave the service an airy atmosphere. “The solid panel glass walls flood the room with a natural, soft light, and give the ceremony space an ethereal look,” notes Karen. The space also offered expansive views of the city skyline.

White swaths of fabric with rosy and ivory tiebacks were draped over the backrests of natural-toned chairs that complemented the hardwood floors. Beautiful arrangements of alabaster orchids and hydrangeas, and champagne roses in elegant silver stands adorned the aisle entrance. The same bloom compositions filled tall metallic vases, which framed a magnificent floral runner with a scroll design composed of creamy petals. The chuppah, which suspended a crystal chandelier, was embellished with pale pink draping and lushly lined with vanilla orchids and hydrangeas as well as blush roses.

An alfresco reception at a rooftop garden with verdant walls followed the vow exchange. Crystal candelabra were interspersed amid high and low arrangements of white orchids and hydrangeas, as well as pink roses along the center of a long table surrounded by chairs clad in sumptuously ruffled covers. Satin champagne napkins and menus with glittery gold borders – reflecting the style of invitations – were set upon clear beaded-rim chargers. Hammered flatware lent a modern touch to table settings. Besides savoring wine from elegant gold-rimmed stemware, sparkling water bottles with whimsical “Wet Your Whistle” labels affixed to gold-and-white straws kept guests well hydrated.

Another decorative element was served for dessert. Florid piping embellished the top five layers of the pearlescent confection, while the base donned a lacelike pattern. A round silver vase with ivory blooms finished the cake.

If you’re searching for more inspiration to create your own romantic celebration with a soft palette in a metropolitan setting, be sure to take a look at the magnificent collection on our weddings page and filter by location, style, and more!