Winter-Inspired Nuptials at The Barn at the Ackerhurst Dairy Farm

Grand views, soaring ceilings, a rich history and the warm ambience of a barn all appealed to Erynn Westfall and Aaron Mason when they sought a wedding venue. But “we wouldn’t consider ourselves country,” Erynn says, “so it was our goal to make the barn more of a black-tie venue.” They transformed the venue with twinkling lights on two dozen holiday trees and black and white décor with accents of mixed metals and greenery. On the eve of the winter wedding, they were blessed with a fresh dusting of snow, fit for their winter-inspired theme. The bridesmaids, in floor-length black gowns, matched the dapper groomsmen outfitted in black tuxes. “Every detail was perfect,” Erynn says. There were also some memorable surprises, like when their five-tier cake toppled (their wedding crew managed to salvage it); meanwhile, despite shoes that didn’t quite fit (ouch), Aaron didn’t let that slow him down. As a keepsake, Polaroid photos with a greeting and signature from every guest were added to their guest book. Loved ones sipped on signature drinks, inspired by the couple’s dog, Yogi (who also showed up in their custom cake topper), and read fun facts about the couple on cocktail napkins. An anniversary dance had people flooding the dance floor, and the last couple dancing — the longest-married couple there — were Aaron’s grandparents.  Everyone danced the night away and basked in the newlyweds’ bliss.