Ode to Opulence: Candlelight and Bold Blooms in Romantic Wedding Design at The Acreage

A candlelit bordeaux harvest wedding design conjures old-world romance at The Acreage.

Written by

Sydney Stevens

Rich reds, bold blooms and moody details created a romantic wedding design at The Acreage. Set in between Lincoln and Omaha, the grand venue opened its doors in 2024, boasting serene views and extraordinary architecture with a timeless feel. “Visually, it gave us a solid foundation to layer in our design story, allowing our theme to complement the space,” explains Amy Jacobberger, co-founder of The Gemini alongside Cydney Rule Weigand. And that it did—their unique “candlelit Bordeaux harvest” theme unfolded with a sea of flickering candles mixed with bountiful arrangements from Siren Florals and Farma Flowers.

Setting the scene, the ceremony space exuded vintage flair and old- world charm, adorned with silver candelabras and bronze candlesticks. Framed by ethereal layered drapery, the bride and groom stood as a picture of classic elegance in a dapper suit from Well Suited @ Lindley Clothing and a dramatic Basque waist gown from Olive & Grace Bridal. A sophisticated invitation suite by Nicole Reher Creative added to the mystique staged with jewelry from 14 Karat.

As designers, we’re always drawn to storytelling through visual elements, and this shoot was all about creating a romantic fall/winter wedding that brought warmth and movement into the space.

—Amy Jacobberger, co-founder of The Gemini with Cydney Rule Weigand

Flourishing burgundy florals decorated the standout bar setup. A flood of natural light from the wall of windows balanced out the dark theme, acting as a spotlight on the glorious arrangements garnished with fruit, wax-dripped wine bottles and a swath of drapery integrating unexpected texture into the design.

The floral design and use of fruits added richness in both color and texture, helping to bring our ‘candlelit Bordeaux harvest’ theme to life, evoking a romantic, wine-filled night full of depth, texture and intentional details.

—Cydney Rule Weigand, co-founder of The Gemini

With The Gemini’s bold vision in mind, Love More Sweets crafted an exquisite four-tiered cake. Like a still life painting from a bygone era, an abundance of fruit surrounded and bedecked the creation while edible red flowers embellished the work of art for a modern twist. A fanciful reimagination of the classic Champagne tower, silver coupes held an array of bright berries from Attitude on Food. “It was a fun, on-theme detail that doubled as décor and a playful dessert topping,” Rule Weigand says.

A gorgeous focal point, the grand staircase embraced the theme with lavish drapery and candlelight, casting an alluring glow over the reception. Adhering to the scheme, the groom donned a striking burgundy second look from Skeffinton’s Formal Wear. The bride opted for a fitted number with vintage-inspired lace sleeves from Olive & Grace Bridal paired with a dazzling diamond engagement ring, two mesmerizing bands with ruby stones and a custom-made ruby necklace outlined with diamonds from 14 Karat—perfect for the regal celebration.

Flickering candles lit up an otherworldly tablescape for an opulent evening of dining. “We swapped the traditional floral centerpiece for a dramatic arrangement of wax-dripped wine bottles and towering taper candles, creating an unapologetically theatrical moment that still felt warm and intimate,” Jacobberger describes. Name cards and menus echoed the sophistication from the invitation suite as big red bows graced every place setting for a touch of femininity. As the night continued, cherished family wedding photos were cast onto a cascade of drapery, infusing the design with a sense of storytelling. “We’re always looking for ways to incorporate meaningful, story-driven details, and the family photo projection is a trend we’re really into,” says Rule Weigand.