Maddie and Noah’s journey to their dream wedding was nothing less than extraordinary – it wasn’t just the detailed planning that made the event uniquely their own, but also doing it all while also being medical residents fighting the pandemic on the front lines at New York City’s only public hospital. From the iconic venue that was once Ernest Hemingway’s hunting cabin to Maddie’s charming literary touches, like an ode to Hemingway in the invitations, this day radiated authenticity. Their feline companion Miss B even made her cheeky appearance in the decor. In three words, this wedding in Sun Valley, Idaho was timeless, summery, and profoundly joyful.
The Couple’s Vision: A Refined Mountain-Metropolitan Affair
Maddie and Noah coined their wedding theme as “Mountain Metropolitan.” Their vision aimed to seamlessly merge their adopted city of Manhattan’s elegance with the rustic charm of their Western roots. Under the expert coordination of Sprout Design, their thoughtfully curated aesthetic became the most heartfelt and authentic wedding weekend, celebrating the beauty of the West and the magnetic allure of the big city.
The Venue: Trail Creek Cabin in Sun Valley, Idaho– Ernest Hemingway’s Personal Hunting Retreat
Trail Creek Cabin, a charming mountain-style log cabin-turned-restaurant, has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1937. Nestled alongside the tranquil waters of Trail Creek, the cabin boasts a breathtaking vista of Sun Valley’s iconic Bald Mountain in the distance. Whether accessed by sleigh, wagon, or car, Trail Creek Cabin offers an idyllic year-round setting for intimate mountain weddings.
The charm of Sun Valley, where Maddie and Noah spent cherished childhood summers, deeply influenced their choice of wedding location. In Maddie’s words, “Long before we were engaged, we knew [we would get married] in Sun Valley. It’s a small town full of bookstores, coffee shops, beautiful hiking and biking trails, and fields of wildflowers.” This affection was further kindled by Sun Valley’s connection to literary legend Ernest Hemingway, who found solace in the area during his twilight years. Maddie and Noah’s shared admiration for Hemingway made their wedding destination a no-brainer. This cherished backdrop not only symbolized their love for Idaho but also embodied their shared love of a rugged mountain atmosphere and chic city vibes.
Getting Ready Moments: Authentic Attire and Thoughtful Details
The getting ready moments were a heartwarming blend of sweet and intimate. The bridesmaids wore matching cozy pajamas, while the family matriarchs sported floral robes – such a fun touch! Maddie’s meticulous attention to detail was on full display, with nods to Hemingway woven into the invites and intricacies. The invitations even included the Idaho bird with a stethoscope, an ode to them meeting in med school. And an honorable mention: her “something blue” was a patch of her hospital scrubs – a unique choice that showcased her chosen passion. Truly, no detail was spared when planning this event.
Maddie and Noah, are not just avid readers, but serial letter-writers too. On the morning of their wedding, they shared handwritten notes, infusing the day with an intimate and deeply touching gesture. The wedding was brimming with these meaningful details, and the love and emotion were practically tangible.
Maddie’s bridal look authentically represented her style. Short nails, dewy makeup, and individual lashes for subtle glam. Her choice of perfume, with its woodsy notes, suited the mountain ambiance to perfection. She wore bridal designer Sareh Nouri’s Dakota gown. While initially perceived as too simple, the dress ultimately captured her heart with its timeless and classic silhouette. Accessories like a hair comb, lace veil, and Swarovski bracelet, added the final touches to complete her ensemble. Her bridesmaids’ reactions to her bridal look were something to remember. There was not a dry eye in the room.
Maddie also did a sweet first look with her dad and incorporated their shared love for fly fishing on a bridge over Trail Creek at the wedding venue. Another thoughtful detail that made their day so special.
Noah’s attire was a navy shawl lapel tuxedo complemented by special accessories: engraved black monogram cufflinks and a Shinola Canfield Sport watch gifted by Maddie. The watch carried an Ernest Hemingway quote, symbolizing enduring love and their shared connection to the celebrated writer.
An Unforgettable First Look Filled with Anticipation
The lead-up to their wedding day stretched across 2020 and 2021, a prolonged journey of anticipation. As they navigated the uncertainties of planning a destination wedding during a global pandemic, they often imagined the moment when Noah would finally turn around and see Maddie in her dress. When that instant arrived, it transformed their dreams into reality. The overwhelming joy they both experienced was unforgettable, and it marked one of the most cherished moments of their wedding day. Noah fell to his knees, and the couple was so emotional. This first look beautifully captured the essence of their journey and set the tone for the rest of the celebration.
Newlywed Portraits
Capturing their journey and the palpable love surrounding them was the ultimate goal for Maddie and Noah on their wedding day. As they embarked on this long-awaited celebration, they wanted their photographs to not only portray their genuine selves but also encapsulate the heartfelt emotions shared by their family members.
A testament to the enduring power of photography, Maddie’s admiration for timeless wedding albums from her parents and grandparents underscored her desire for candid, authentic moments that speak volumes through the years. Reflecting on a cherished image of her parents looking over their shoulders before walking down the aisle, Maddie emphasized the irreplaceable value of capturing genuine, unscripted moments that embody the raw joy, excitement, and wonder of the occasion.
Alongside these candid snapshots, the couple expressed a desire for a blend of portraits that include classic camera-facing photos, noting the significance of traditional moments while entrusting our creative process to work its magic.
Learn more about our process–here!
A Neutral and Navy Wedding Party
Maddie’s considerate approach to her bridal party attire reflected her thoughtful and caring nature. Her intention was clear: to let the bridesmaids’ natural radiance shine without being overshadowed by the gowns. The bridesmaids and maid of honor wore long dresses in neutral tones like champagne, warm tan, and pinky beige. This choice allowed each member to embrace their unique style through different cuts, fostering a harmonious yet distinct ensemble. On the groom’s side, the groomsmen looked equally dapper in navy suits, perfectly complementing Noah’s tux.
A Gorgeous Outdoor Ceremony
The ceremony was a true highlight. Welcomed by a champagne greenery wall, guests then made their way to chic Chiavari chairs facing an altar framed by pastel-hued florals crafted by Rust & Thistle.
Noah, a skilled cellist, made his entrance to his favorite melody performed by a string quartet, while Maddie walked down to a piece that holds a deep connection for them both. This simple musical detail overflowed with intimacy and significance, a rarity in itself.
There was wildfire smoke in the region the week leading up to the wedding, and there were concerns for how it would affect the day. Yet after the morning’s overcast hue, a magical moment unfolded as Maddie graced the aisle. The sun emerged from the clouds, enveloping her and her father in a warm, radiant glow—a moment that truly felt like something out of the movies.
However, the emotional core of the ceremony lay in the vows. As previously mentioned, the couple has a history of heartfelt letters, and Maddie and Noah transformed this tradition into spoken promises. Maddie’s vows celebrated the beauty of everyday moments, while Noah’s echoed his commitment to cherish both grand adventures and quiet interludes. Amidst their declarations of love, Noah shared a quote from F. Scott Fitzgerald: “I love her, and it is the beginning and the end of everything.”
Their recessional song held significant meaning as well– an instrumental Taylor Swift song that had played on repeat during their early dating years. As they made their joyful exit, guests joined in the celebration with a classic petal toss from paper cones.
Cocktail Hour with a Custom Fishing Lure Seating Chart
Cocktail hour was a lively blend of personal touches and creative flair, reflecting Maddie and Noah’s commitment to avoiding the cliché. From a charming photo bus- a nod to childhood memories spent in her grandfather’s camper, to a thoughtfully curated seating chart, every detail was a canvas for family traditions and their unique story. As conversations flowed, guests sipped on signature drinks like the Sage Julep and Huckleberry Old Fashioned. And of course, the “Maddie & Noah” Coke bottles, inspired by the couple’s love of a cold soda during a long shift at the hospital. The seating chart, featuring actual fishing lures, playfully invited guests to “Cast a line and catch your seat,” with hand-painted watercolor flies. This event was truly inspiring and such a fun part of the day.
Dinner & Heartfelt Speeches
The dinner and reception was a heartfelt conclusion to a love-filled day. Maddie’s father and sister gave unforgettable speeches that resonated deeply, leaving everyone in awe. Laughter and tears followed Noah’s best friend’s and brother’s words. The outdoor tent exuded an airy charm with wooden chandeliers draped in greenery, and tables adorned with colorful florals and gold embellishments.
The couple’s first dance to “Closing Time” held a cherished significance. We were able to catch an emotional moment between Maddie’s bridesmaids all cradling one another with tears in their eyes. You’d think they’d been friends forever, but they actually met for the first time that weekend!
But the highlight of the reception was the simple elegance of the wedding cake baked by Maddie herself. Maddie is a hobbyist baker, and has made the cakes for multiple weddings of friends and family members Crafted with care, the naked cake design showcased both aesthetic simplicity and practicality, with flavors like lemon poppyseed, cherry pie, and almond vanilla with a sour-cherry filling.
A Festive Lantern Exit
As the festivities came to a close, the couple made their exit with a unique twist! They gave up sparklers due to fire restrictions and embraced the charm of mason jar electric lanterns– perfectly fitting for their Mountain-Metropolitan theme. The path from the cabin to the parking lot was lined with softly glowing lanterns, creating a whimsical and enchanting send-off for the newlyweds.
Read more about Maddie & Noah’s summer wedding in Sun Valley, Idaho in Brides Magazine
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| Venue & Catering: Trail Creek Cabin and Pavilion at Sun Valley || Wedding Planner: Sprout Design Bridal Designer: Sareh Nouri || Veil: Toni Federici || Bridal Salon: A Little Something White || Jewelry: Swarovski || Shoes: Charlotte Olympia; Jimmy Choo || Hair & Makeup: Janelle Ingram || Second Dress: Amsale || Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey; David’s Bridal; Kleinfeld || Mother of the Bride Dress: JS Collections || Groom’s Attire: Ted Baker || Groomsmen’s Attire: The Black Tux || Engagement Ring: Mociun Fine Jewelry || Wedding Bands– Bride: Mociun Fine Jewelry; Groom: Catbird || Floral Designer: Rust & Thistle || Stationery: Shindig Bespoke || Calligraphy: Wispy Letters || Guest Book: Archie’s Press || Music– Ceremony: Syringa String Quartet; Reception: Sound Wave Events || Cake: Homemade by the bride, Maddie Hunt || Rentals: Blush Creek || Photo Booth: Idaho Photo Bus || Videographer: Raven Rose Films |
