golden lamb buttery.

Connecticut and Autumn just go together. A drive in the country is something we rarely make time for but with a destination like the Golden Lamb Buttery it is the perfect excuse to hit the road. This past Monday on a recommendation and a misty grey day, my parents, sister and I headed out for lunch to this quiet little treasure in Brooklyn, CT.

This first photo from Sarah Yates Photography reignited my post and beam barn obsession and how I have been meaning to share this Connecticut treasure with you all.

The remaining photos are of the Buttery where warm hospitality and genuine home-cooked, locally-sourced and organic foods are a given. The meal was just the right balance of haute cuisine and comfort food, the lunch prices were very reasonable (soups, entrees, glass of wine and two desserts for four for about $100) and the setting and the experience just felt authentic. {ie: you walk right through the kitchen on the way to your table like you are at a friends house}. And after lunch, the sweet town of Putnam known for antiques and charm is a short drive away. Known as the 'quiet corner' of Connecticut, this is just the kind of quiet we all may be craving this Autumn!

{erica}

wild wedding venue.

What else is there to do on a sunny and downright balmy late November afternoon then visit the zoo? Come noon on Sunday we were on our way to the Roger Williams Zoo with two first graders in tow. For me it had been years (decades?) but what a treat. While not the Providence Zoo is not really the ultimate in animal accommodations-it was well laid out and the wild animals seem generally content, clean and comfortable... a big plus as I am torn how I feel about the zoo concept, at times.

It never ceases to amaze me the enthusiasm you can tap into when you build a day around six year old girls. Lucy C. (ours) and Lucy T (her BFF- who, by the way, refer to each other by first name and first initial of their last name in case there is any confusion) were off and running.

The monkeys made us giggle with their teenage boy kinetic energy and clowning antics while the mama and baby giraffe were pure feminine elegance with their long eyelashes, gentle affection and graceful necks. It is easy to understand after a day at the zoo how Pixar gets such great inspiration for their animal animation.

I've always thought it would be fun to host a big event at an established Metropolitan Zoo and the creative inspiration you could have with invitations. Alas, on the new (to me) favorite blog, Erin Ever After today- she was all over it. Not for everybody, but how cool is it to have creatures big and small, nearby and in the far corners of the zoo settling into their evening rituals with their families- somehow a part of your wedding day?

{erica}

Laura + Chris: The Mansion at Harkness

Click to Play: Laura & Chris Highlight Film

Sometimes a couple on their wedding day is just dappled in sunlight, joy and calm. We love when that happens. Laura + Chris were just so relaxed, gracious and in love on their wedding day and it makes our job so much fun. We wish them the very best in their new lives together. Enjoy this short film highlighting their day!

Venue: Eolia Mansion at Harkness Park
Caterer: A Thyme to Cook
Floral Design: Hana Floral Design
Photographer: Tatiana Grigorenko

downtown celebration.

For the couples who may lean more towards describing themselves as 'foodies' and 'aspiring wine aficianados' and who may be considering a modest gathering (around 75)- choosing your favorite urban restaurant is a wonderful alternative to a traditional wedding venue. The intimate dinner party feel and de-emphasis on 'wedding rituals' (lets come clean- the bouquet toss lost all appeal after eighteen!) keeps the focus on connecting and celebrating in the most natural way. These photos from Event Designers Salt Harbor from North Carolina captured the concept beautifully! We love the removeable and elegant window appliques' as your guests are looking for the reception space from the road.

eat, drink and be married.

There are few settings quite as romantic and inspiring as a vineyard wedding. Jonathan Edwards Winery in North Stonington has one of the most unique settings in New England. Perched on a breezy hilltop with distant views of the Long Island Sound, the twenty acres of vineyards and restored barn (with English gardens and stone patio) is the perfect backdrop for your celebration. The winery limits the bookings to one wedding a weekend and attracts couples who love nature, good wine, artful food all in a setting of classic & elegant simplicity.
Eat, drink and be married!

|erica| (admittedly a bit biased as the event and marketing manager at the winery!)

Top Inspiration board. Created by photographer Maggie Conley
Bottom Black and white photo (Couple Kissing) Jen Fariello via Weddings Unveiled