Tahoe City–based Merrily Wed looked to Mother Nature when contemplating Katie Witmer and Chris Jones’ Ritz-Carlton wedding in Lake Tahoe. Remarkably, the couple was the first to opt for an outdoor reception and tent on the hotel’s large plot of land, which features scenic mountain views. “The design goal was to work with their natural surroundings, not compete with it,” explains Merrily Rocco. “We wanted to achieve an understated elegance with a touch of organic sophistication.” To maintain the Tahoe atmosphere, the team relied on natural materials, such as burlap, birch and bark, being careful not to let it get too heavy-handed. The romantic palette, composed of soft browns and beige, resulted in the perfect backdrop for pops of white and green. Wood lanterns were placed asymmetrically on the escort-card table to set off the angled miniature log holders accessorized with a polka-dot linen tablecloth and lush maidenhair fern. The bark- book centerpieces and birch vases were created with the help of local florist sara spurlock. pinecones, antlers and candles garnished the table runners. According to Rocco, “using wood and other varying textures in a soft way” was key. The result: a chic but earthy setting debuting a twist on typical rustic décor.
