Ceara & Henry | An Elegant, Whimsical Wedding at The Sewanee Inn

Planning, Design & Florals by Jules Fern Events

Ceara and Henry’s key words when envisioning their wedding day were elegant, whimsical, fairy-tale, and fun, and somehow, the day exceeded even that vision. Their wedding felt like a joyful reunion of friends and family from all over, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Sewanee University, where their story first began.

Both alumni of the University of the South, Ceara and Henry were married surrounded by history, on the very campus where they met, dated, and built the life that led them here. From portraits taken at their favorite campus spots to exchanging vows on their dating and engagement anniversary, their wedding day felt deeply personal and full-circle in the most meaningful way. With spring blooms covering the mountain and sunshine filling the day, it was the perfect setting for a celebration rooted in love and intention.

One priority guided every decision they made: they wanted to spend the entire day together, and they truly did. From quiet moments to full dance floors, Ceara and Henry were side by side, soaking in every second, laughing and dancing their way through the night.

The Vision & Design

Ceara is a lover of all things pink, and yes, that included a pink wedding dress. (A detail that felt especially full-circle, since we first bonded over the fact that she almost chose the same dress I wore on my own wedding day before deciding on the pink one instead.) That playful, confident choice set the tone for a design that felt intentional, elevated, and just the right amount of whimsical.

The pink palette was thoughtfully layered throughout the day, never overpowering, but perfectly balanced. Formal ballroom elements and black-tie attire brought elegance, while whimsical details like a checkered dance floor, a custom-built stage front, Ceara’s hand-drawn illustrations on the seating chart, hanging disco balls paired with greenery chandeliers, and soft pops of pink added personality and fun.

To encourage connection, we incorporated lounge seating both inside and outside on the lawn overlooking the golf course. (If you’re ever wondering whether a lounge is worth it on your wedding day, the answer is yes. Cozy, functional, and always a guest favorite.)

Thoughtful Planning & Personal Touches

I was honored to serve as both planner and florist for Ceara and Henry. Our journey together began when Henry’s mom hired me to plan the rehearsal dinner, and it quickly became clear that planning the full wedding weekend together just made sense.

One of my favorite behind-the-scenes moments happened when The Sewanee Inn received brand-new pink napkins just hours before the wedding. The second I found out, I called Ceara to ask if she wanted to switch, and she was thrilled. It was a small change that made the tablescape feel even more elevated and perfectly on-theme.

From start to finish, this family’s kindness and gratitude stood out. One moment I’ll never forget was when Henry’s mom told me Ceara said, “You know why I love you most? Because you introduced me to Julie.” That kind of trust and appreciation is why I do what I do, and Ceara and Henry are truly the kind of clients you hope to work with forever.

The Wedding Day

The day began with Ceara and Henry getting ready at their respective Airbnbs, girls sipping mimosas, and boys gathered around a poker game. Final touches were made while the Jules Fern team completed setup for the ceremony and reception spaces.

Before the ceremony, the couple shared private vows at one of their favorite lookout spots on campus, Greens View. It was an intimate, grounding moment before the day unfolded, just the two of them, exactly how they wanted it.

Their ceremony was heartfelt and personal, officiated by two close friends from college. Cocktail hour followed with a fully stocked bar, incredible passed appetizers, relaxed lounge settings, and guests mingling under the spring sky.

After greeting their guests, Ceara and Henry slipped away for a private dinner together, overlooking the cocktail hour below. From their quiet table, they watched friends and family celebrate, soaking in their first moments as newlyweds, exactly as they’d hoped.

Reception, Dancing & Celebration

Dinner flowed into toasts that had everyone laughing and crying, followed by first dances that set the tone for the night. Then came the party.

With the band Entice leading the way, the dance floor was electric. Shoes were kicked off, laughter filled the room, and the guests even joined the band on stage a few times. Two hours flew by in what felt like one long, beautiful moment.

A sweet detail tucked into the evening was the cake, adorned with hand-piped buttercream wildflowers, echoing the garden-inspired design throughout the day.

Florals & Design Details

Ceara had one floral request: peonies. Her bouquet featured all white peonies, while the bridesmaids carried pink peonies. Everything was soft, romantic, and timeless.

The ceremony florals were later repurposed in front of the band’s stage, creating a dramatic focal point for the reception. To keep things light and whimsical, reception tables were styled with bud vases and candles, allowing the florals and atmosphere to shine without overwhelming the space.

A Wedding That Felt Like Home

Ceara and Henry’s wedding was more than beautiful; it was kind, intentional, joyful, and full of heart. From their love for one another to the way their families embraced the day, every moment felt meaningful.

Working with couples like this, who lead with gratitude, trust, and joy, is the greatest reward. Ceara and Henry will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m so grateful to still stay in touch with them today.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels elegant, joyful, and deeply personal, while allowing you to truly be present, I’d love to help bring it to life.

Kind Words

“I cannot recommend Julie and her team enough! She was the coordinator for my April 2025 wedding, and working with her was an absolute dream. I came into the planning process stressed about all the little details, but Julie was calm, confident, and incredibly reassuring every step of the way.

She took the time to understand my vision down to the finest detail and made it come to life flawlessly. One of my favorite memories from planning was just a few hours before the ceremony, while I was in the makeup chair. The venue had just received new napkins, and Julie quickly called to ask if I wanted to switch them. We agreed to make the change, and it ended up elevating the entire space. It was such a small yet impactful moment, and a perfect example of her sharp eye and thoughtful decision-making.

On the wedding day itself, she was there for every last-minute question or request and handled everything seamlessly. Thanks to Julie, the day was more beautiful and magical than I could have ever imagined. She truly went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I wanted, and more.

Julie is an absolute rockstar. If you're lucky enough to work with her, you’re in the best hands.” - Ceara & Henry

Vendors

Venue, Catering, & Bar: The Sewanee Inn

Wedding Planner & Florist: Jules Fern Events

Photographer: Ashley Holstein

Band: Entice

String Band: AP Strings

Lounge & Bar Rentals: The Copper Quail

Stage & Dance Floor Rentals: DJ T Rav

Ceremony Chair Rental: Master of Ceremonies

Cake: Designer Cakes

HMU Team: Black Tie and Blush