Why a black and white wedding is the perfect palette for any season

Ashford Estate wedding

Kyle and Brooke’s love story began in college, but it was first built on the foundation of a deep and genuine friendship. As freshmen at Marist College, they quickly became inseparable, sharing countless memories and forging an incredible bond. During their sophomore year, Kyle lost his wallet. By chance—or perhaps fate—Brooke was the one who found it and returned it to him. Wanting to thank her, Kyle spontaneously leaned in and kissed her. Years passed, filled with adventures, laughter, and an ever-growing love. A last-minute getaway to Hawaii set the stage for a moment neither of them would ever forget. While exploring the breathtaking island of Kauai, Kyle and Brooke planned a romantic evening—dinner by the beach at sunset. They passed under a magnificent tree arch—a landmark Kyle’s parents had once admired on their honeymoon. As they arrived at the beach, strolling along the shore, Kyle suddenly dropped to one knee and Brooke gave an enthusiastic, wholehearted “yes!” After months of planning, their elegant and timeless black-tie wedding took place in late autumn at The Ashford Estate, all captured by Morgan Taylor Artistry.

black and white wedding invitations

Black-tie invitations

Brooke envisioned a black-tie wedding that exuded classic elegance and timeless sophistication. Every detail reflected her vision, from the refined ambiance to the thoughtfully curated touches that made the day unforgettable. The invitation suite from Zazzle was no exception, boasting a classic custom monogram and black and white details.

Featured Venue: The Ashford Estate

While the affair was undeniably polished and refined, it remained warm, intimate, and filled with joy. The décor was intentionally minimal, allowing the breathtaking beauty of The Ashford Estate to take center stage and ensuring that the true focus of the day—love and celebration—remained clear.

black silk pajama set lace bridal robe

chic black bridesmaid dresses

Dramatic black bridesmaid dresses

In keeping with the black-tie elements, the bridesmaids wore matching black silk pajamas short sets to get ready before changing into gorgeous one-shoulder floor-length dresses.

bridesmaid dresses with ruffles

Groom's style: Classic black and white

The groom and his groomsmen donned classic black tuxes from Generation Tux with simple white rose boutonnieres that continued the overall black and white theme.

wedding program with custom monogram

Where to place ceremony programs

Ceremony programs sat amidst a bed of greenery in wicker baskets for guests to take as they entered the ceremony space.

fireplace wedding ceremony

greenery wrapped around pillars reserved wedding aisle signs

white rose lined aisle

Minimalistic yet elegant ceremony decor

The couple let the grandeur of the venue take center stage by keeping their ceremony decor simple. They lined the aisles with white rose petals and votives while delicate greenery courtesy of Bloomers wound around the white pillars.

gazebo wedding portraits

Unique post-ceremony portraits

Brooke and Kyle opted for elegance over efficiency for their post-ceremony portraits. The couple explored the grounds with Morgan Taylor Artistry, capturing each of its unique elements, including the over-the-water gazebo.

mirror wedding signs mirror seating chart

Mirrored wedding signs

Kyle and Brooke used mirrors throughout for their wedding signage. Doing so created a sense of grandeur in the room and made the already large spaces feel even bigger.

white and greenery centerpieces

Reception: Modern accents & a classic touch

Floral arrangements by the exquisite Bloomers Florist featured a timeless palette of white blooms with modern accents, adding a fresh yet classic touch to the setting and complementing the candlelit glow that bathed the room in warmth. The result was a perfect fusion of luxury and intimacy, creating an atmosphere that felt both grand and deeply personal.

espresso martini wall

On trend: Espresso martini wall

A Gilded Age-inspired espresso martini set-up allowed guests to enjoy the couple's signature cocktail throughout the evening.

cannoli wedding vendor

Cannolis to go

Guests enjoyed a mobile cannoli station thanks to Fortunato Bros.

Ashford Estate wedding reception

Yes, you should hire a live singer

One of Brooke's favorite elements was having Jonni Drue ( I'll Be Frank) a talented Frank Sinatra singer, serenade guests during dinner—perfectly capturing the romance and grandeur of the occasion.

white rose wedding cake

Elegance + Love = A magic ambiance

Reflecting on the day, Brooke shared, "Looking back, I wouldn’t change a single thing. It was truly the most beautiful and unforgettable day—filled with love, elegance, and the kind of magic we’ll cherish forever."

wedding reception mini dress floral applique