Caroline and Preston’s backyard in Columbia, South Carolina, turned into a lively garden party dressed in pink, tangerine, and yellow. The couple, who met at fifteen and got engaged ten years later in Central Park, chose a black-tie celebration on her parents’ lawn that was anything but ordinary.
Tara Guérard Soirée, a Little Black Book member known for thoughtful event design, transformed the space with custom draping, pillows, and umbrellas that pulled colors from The Lettered Olive invitation suite. Every element tied back to that palette, creating a cohesive look that felt both elegant and relaxed.
Liz Banfield, another Little Black Book member, captured the event in photographs that reveal the details you might miss at first glance. The round bar, named after the couple’s dog Henry, stood out as a playful nod to their life together. It wasn’t just the décor or the colors that made the day feel special but the personal touches that wove into the celebration.
Instead of a traditional ballroom or rented venue, Caroline and Preston’s choice of a family lawn gave the wedding an intimate, homegrown atmosphere. The black-tie dress code added a formal contrast to the casual backyard setting, making for an interesting blend of styles.
The color scheme itself was a fresh take on garden party hues. Pink, tangerine, and yellow appeared in everything from floral arrangements to linens and even the umbrellas scattered around for shade. This combination gave the space warmth and energy without feeling over the top.
The invitation suite by The Lettered Olive set the tone early, with matching design elements carried through to the event details. It’s a reminder of how important the little things can be when pulling together a wedding that feels cohesive.
Caroline and Preston’s story, starting young and unfolding over a decade, adds a layer of meaning to their choice of venue and style. The backyard setting wasn’t just a backdrop but a place tied to family memories and comfort, making the formal celebration feel more genuine.
The photos show guests dressed to the nines, mingling amid the bright décor and soft drapes that moved gently with the breeze. The umbrellas weren’t just practical but contributed to the overall aesthetic, blending function with fashion.
This wedding is a good example for couples who want something that balances formality with a relaxed vibe. Using a family property, working with a designer to carry a clear color story, and adding personal touches like naming the bar after a pet are all ideas that bring personality to a day.
For those dreaming of a garden party feel without losing the black-tie edge, Caroline and Preston’s wedding offers a clear blueprint. It’s about mixing unexpected colors with classic elements and making sure every detail reflects the couple’s story.
If you want to see the full set of images and get a closer look at this bright, cheerful celebration, head to the gallery captured by Liz Banfield. It’s a reminder that weddings don’t have to fit one mold to be stunning.
Let’s just say, this backyard bash in South Carolina proves that a garden party in pink, tangerine, and yellow can feel both elevated and inviting. Who knew a lawn could hold so much style?
According to Style Me Pretty.
