During this editorial, I embraced the charm of The Crane House with a beautifully curated wedding brunch. I initially envisioned a Cozy Brunch featuring coffee and the using the color green. This thoughtfully styled setup radiated a relaxed yet refined ambiance, creating the perfect setting for newlyweds and guests to unwind after a night of celebration.
Nestled along the coast, The Crane House provided the perfect setting for a beautifully styled wedding brunch infused with warmth and charm. Keeping with the alliteration theme—since we were at The Crane House by the sea—the vision came to life with a Cozy Brunch featuring Coffees and Mocktails. The ambiance was effortlessly relaxed yet refined, creating an inviting space for guests to gather and savor the morning after a joyful celebration. Keeping with the alliteration theme—since we were at The Crane House by the sea—I envisioned a Cozy Brunch featuring Coffees and Mocktails. This setup exuded a relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance, perfect for the morning after a wedding celebration.
Artistry in Every Detail: Custom Designs & Rentals
Once again, Michelle from MSD Design played a crucial role in bringing the concept to life. I crafted the initial mock-up of the bar sign, and she hand-painted delicate watercolor illustrations of the drinks, adding an artistic and bespoke touch before printing the final design.
For the brunch tablescape, I wanted to channel the romance of a cozy French morning, blending nature, literature, and delicate florals. The design incorporated antique books—locally sourced to maintain authenticity—alongside vintage teacups filled with baby’s breath, nestled among ivory and soft pink candles. Every element was intentionally chosen to evoke warmth and intimacy.
The rentals, sourced from Christina’s Rental Supply in Orange, CT, remained true to the natural and timeless aesthetic, with organic textures and neutral tones enhancing the inviting atmosphere. To elevate the experience, we utilized the balconies overlooking the ocean, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking views as they enjoyed their morning coffee and light fare. This thoughtful detail created a dreamy, cinematic experience—one that felt effortlessly elegant and uniquely special.
The Heart of the Brunch: A Coffee & Culinary Delight
Coffee, an essential part of any morning affair, was at the heart of this celebration. The carefully curated menu featured artisanal brews and handcrafted mocktails, each thoughtfully designed to complement the fresh air and golden morning light. The scent of freshly brewed coffee intertwined with the natural aromas of the outdoor setting, creating a sensory experience that was both comforting and invigorating.
To further enhance the brunch experience, the Sunrise Sips Menu offered a selection of morning beverages tailored to delight every guest:
- Morning Roast (Iced or Hot) – A rich and smooth coffee experience with the choice of almond, whole, cream, or sugar.
- Smoky Bramble (Cocktail) – A refreshing blend of whiskey, blackberries, rosemary, and honey for a subtle, smoky-sweet indulgence.
- Butterfly Tea (Iced or Hot) – A delicate and visually stunning beverage made with coconut milk or lemonade, offering a light and floral alternative.
To complement these delightful drinks, the menu was carefully crafted to offer a balance of indulgence and freshness, while still enjoying relaxed conversation and the serene atmosphere.
- Starter: English Crumpets accompanied by honey whipped butter and blackberry compote, offering a sweet yet delicate beginning to the meal.
- Main Course: Lobster Eggs Benedict presented on a green heirloom tomato, glazed with a Sauce Crème Fleurette, and served with a side of Nicoise Salad for a refined coastal touch.
- Dessert: An Assorted Toast Bar, where guests could mix and match flavors, adding a playful and interactive element to the brunch.
This thoughtfully designed menu not only delighted the palate but also reflected the effortless elegance of the occasion, ensuring each guest felt immersed in the warmth and charm of the morning gathering. The carefully curated menu featured artisanal brews and handcrafted mocktails, each thoughtfully designed to complement the fresh air and golden morning light. The scent of freshly brewed coffee intertwined with the natural aromas of the outdoor setting, creating a sensory experience that was both comforting and invigorating.
Thoughtful Layout
To enhance the organic beauty of the surroundings, I envisioned a setup of four to five six-foot tables, allowing guests to gather in an intimate yet spacious setting. The tables were adorned with soft, natural linens and delicate floral arrangements that blended seamlessly with the lush greenery. To create movement and variety in the space, I incorporated cocktail tables on the small patch of grass, encouraging guests to mingle and soak in the ambiance. A pristine white bar, positioned to face the pond, served as a focal point, seamlessly integrating into the natural setting and making it feel like a dreamlike escape—almost as if stepping into a Barbie or Polly Pocket world.
A Balcony with a View
The balconies of The Crane House played a crucial role in shaping the dynamic of this event. Guests who were still waking up or preferred to ease into the morning could enjoy their coffee from above while still feeling connected to the gathering below. This subtle architectural element added depth to the event’s flow, offering multiple vantage points from which to take in the experience.
A Picturesque Sendoff: Drifting into the Ocean Air
To complete this picturesque farewell brunch, we envisioned the couple’s sendoff to be as poetic as the morning itself—departing on a boat, gliding effortlessly into the ocean air. This elegant departure captured the essence of the event: serene, intentional, and infused with nature’s beauty. A farewell not just to a weekend of celebration but to a chapter of love, leading into a new adventure.
By embracing the natural backdrop and thoughtfully curating each element, this farewell honeymoon brunch became more than just a meal—it became an experience, a seamless blend of sun, coffee, and the beauty of a love story continuing to unfold.
Vendor Credits ~ Planning & Design AVENTZ Co. | Photography Simply K Studios | Film Katherine Donovan Photography | Rentals Christina’s Rental Supply | Venue Crane House Waterford | Attire A’Dor Couture & Zahners Clothiers | Styling Bards Clothing