By Elle Cashin // Photographed by Sharmila Taylor
Photography & Janet Kay

Nestled in North Barrington, Wandering Tree Estate is an idyllic Eden, awash with color across more than 10 lush acres. When she first toured it last year, Woodstock-based wedding photographer Sharmila Taylor (sharmilataylorphotography.com) was inspired to orchestrate a high-end styled shoot showcasing the beautiful property. A native of England, she was energized by the venue’s exquisitely landscaped gardens (it boasts a Japanese garden, herbaceous gardens and a sunken vegetable garden, among others) and enlisted a team of suburban vendors to bring her luxe vision to life. “The venue is open-air and full of these amazing, beautiful botanics,” Taylor says. “We wanted to create something that was traditional and timeless with a modern twist.”

In the gazebo overlooking the lake, a table is set with gilded glass chargers and gold cutlery, with stems of astrantia adorning each setting. Low centerpieces of dahlias, sedum, bronze fennel and blue hydrangeas allow conversation to flow. The Grove proves a picturesque setting for portraits and a dramatic snap of the marbled two-tiered cake by Toni Marie Cox. It’s those detail shots that matter, Taylor says. “When people are planning their weddings, every detail is considered—so you have to highlight that [in the photography]: the ring, the bouquets, the font on the stationery, the details of the dress.” When it comes to your wedding, she advises, don’t be afraid to think big. “Tell the photographer and vendors everything you’re dreaming of. They have great connections and have seen so many different types of weddings pulled together that no dream is too much. Put it all on the table.” A beautifully bedecked reception table, that is.

See the full article here: Botanical Beauty – Modern Luxury Weddings