Last Sunday In September: A Fall Wedding at Chautauqua Institution
Some weddings leave a lasting mark not only because of their beauty, but because of the people at the heart of them and for what they awaken in you.. Last September, I had the privilege of designing florals for my sister and brother-in-law’s wedding at the historic Chautauqua Institution—a celebration that became a turning point in my business and one of the most meaningful creative experiences to date. At the time, I was in a season of reflection—after several years designing events for other companies, I knew I was ready to build something of my own. What I didn’t expect was how much this weekend would clarify my vision.
This wedding became the beginning of Pastoral Co., and in many ways, the truest reflection of the work I wanted to bring into the world.
Photography by Alexandra
As landscape architects, the couple envisioned a celebration deeply connected to place. Our inspiration came from the textures, colors, and rhythm of the Western New York landscape in early fall. We wanted the floral design to feel effortless—natural and wild, yet intentional and elevated.
The ceremony was held at the Hall of Philosophy, an open-air pavilion draped in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens and mature trees. We lined the aisle with soft, garden-inspired floral moments that felt as if they had grown in place. At the altar, tall, branching installations framed the couple with an organic structure, echoing the quiet architecture of the trees above.
Photography by Alexandra
Photography by Alexandra
The reception took place at the Athenaeum Hotel, a venue full of charm, elegance, and timeless character. It offered the perfect setting for a design that balanced refined minimalism with seasonal richness.
The floral palette was built on tones of mauve, blush, and creamy blush, with an abundance of locally sourced flowers. Oakleaf hydrangea and Moab roses brought soft drama to the arrangements, while clusters of locally grown grapes—a nod to the region’s grape-growing heritage—were tucked along candlelit tables for a textural, grounded detail I absolutely loved.
Every element was designed to feel connected to the landscape and true to the couple’s aesthetic. The result was a deeply personal, effortlessly beautiful celebration.
Photography by Alexandra
This wedding didn’t mark the beginning of my floral journey—it marked the moment I knew it was time to bring my own vision to life. After years spent honing my craft, refining my approach, and designing with and for incredible teams, I felt ready to build something of my own. Something rooted in artistry, seasonality, and a sense of place.
Shortly after the wedding, I moved back home to Western New York and launched Pastoral Co.—a business grounded in experience, creativity, and care.
Photography by Alexandra
Chautauqua Institution will always hold a special place in my heart—not only because of its beauty, but because of what it represented: a shift, a turning point, and the clarity I needed to move forward. Creating for my sister and her husband was an honor, and this wedding will forever be a defining chapter in my story.
I can’t wait for the next time I get to design in this remarkable place.
Photography by Alexandra
A very special thank you to Photography by Alexandra (@pbyalexandra) for capturing these moments so beautifully.
