Photos by Ace Photography

Cate Cunningham and John Dugan are a power couple –  she an attorney and he an engineer –  with successful careers. They know how to work hard and they know how to celebrate, especially the monumental event of their wedding.

Their August 22 wedding reception at Cedarwood was a one-of-a-kind celebration that lavished guests with an elegant  garden gala that flowed through several areas of our property.

The setting for the arrival of guests was a magical contrast of urban and countryside.  Imagine leaving the opulent architecture of The Church of the Assumption and arriving at Cedarwood’s country setting.  You breathe in fresh air as you make your way to the canopy of  twinkling trees.  Mason jar lanterns, strumming of live guitar, sounds of drinks being mixed and festive outdoor tables draw you into the front lawn cocktail reception.

As you wait for Cate and John to arrive, you sample canapes as silver trays circulate with smoked salmon on pumpernickel with dill cream cheese and capers, cucumber medallions with boursin and red pepper jelly, goat cheese and sun-dried tomatoes in belgian endive boats, roasted red pepper and mandarin chicken salad cups. Fantastic food+drinks+atmosphere = great welcome!  The party is just getting started!

After Cate and John arrive, the celebration kicks into high gear as guests gather for a champagne toast on the lawn. Dinner by A Dream Come True Catering is as delicious as anticipated and enjoyed on seriously beautiful reception tables in the Pavilion, styled by the Cedarwood Design Team. Cate’s color palette and custom paisley fabric runners are perfectly complimented with green orchid adorned branches, fresh pears and hanging candles. Paper lanterns over the dance floor pile on style. Stunning!

We love this simple but sophisticated cake design by Patty Cakes, adorned with green hydrangea flowers.  The whimsical napkin motif states the obvious: Cate and John are a “perfect pair.”

The August summer night air was fresh and mild. Cate and John made sure their guests were comfortable and even brought flip flops to replace those high heels so there would be no excuses for not dancing all night! The legendary deejay, “Mad Dog” kept energy high and a fireworks farewell ended the evening with an enthusiastic farewell.

Great photos by Ace Photography!

Cate and John, thanks for making Cedarwood part of your celebration. We are honored!

Linda & the Cedarwood Event Team