Spring Wedding Showcase at The Umstead: A Walk Through Color, Design, and Timeless Elegance

Written By Nikki Whitt
 
Yellow velvet lounge sofa under botanical-inspired arbor with spring floral accents and modern Southern wedding decor at The Umstead Hotel & Spa Spring Wedding Showcase

Spring Wedding Showcase at The Umstead

A Walk Through Color, Design, and Timeless Elegance

Indoor wedding ceremony setup featuring botanical-inspired floral arbor with yellow spring flowers, gold velvet lounge seating, and warm ambient lighting at The Umstead Hotel & Spa Grand Ballroom

When The Umstead Hotel and Spa opens its doors for their annual Spring Wedding Open House, it’s never just a peek behind the scenes — it’s an experience. This year’s 2025 showcase felt like stepping into an editorial spread: every detail intentional, every color choice carefully layered to feel fresh, elegant, and uniquely The Umstead.

The Palette: Garden Greens, Sunny Yellows, and Hints of Apricot

From the moment guests arrived, the tone was set with cheerful spring yellows — daffodils, narcissus, and ranunculus in soft apricot and blush tones. Watered Garden Florist brought this palette to life in ways that felt both natural and luxuriously styled:

  • Minimalist glass vases lining reception tables

  • Sculptural centerpieces in both classic and modern shapes

  • Pops of citrus tones paired with deep greens for balance

Elizabeth Flake Events’ Thoughtful Design

Elizabeth Flake Events curated every space with a modern Southern lens: polished, inviting, and layered with texture. A few standout details:

  • Textiles: Blue and white floral linens added pattern and personality without overwhelming the space.

  • Furniture & Lounges: Gold velvet sofas tucked beneath botanical-inspired arbors, creating an indoor garden feel.

  • Glassware & Tabletop: Ombre blue glassware mixed with rattan chargers and scalloped plates, blending formality with a casual elegance.

The Umstead’s Signature Spaces, Reimagined

Each corner of The Umstead felt reintroduced through this design lens:

  • The Lakeside Terrace featured layered florals and cozy outdoor lounge setups, perfect for cocktail hours.

  • The Grand Ballroom glowed with candlelight and tall glass candelabras, framing long communal tables designed to feel warm and intimate rather than overly formal.

  • Custom signage and signature sips (Lakeside Lavender, anyone?) rounded out the experience with thoughtful, Instagram-worthy touches.

Elegant wedding table setting with white china, crystal glassware, and soft peach and ivory floral centerpieces by Watered Garden Florist at The Umstead Hotel & Spa Spring Wedding Showcase

Why This Showcase Matters

For couples looking for more than just a venue — for those wanting a complete aesthetic experience — this showcase offered a perfect preview. The Umstead isn’t just about square footage or menus (though, shout-out to Chef Steven D. Greene’s culinary team as always). It’s about feeling taken care of from the first tour to the final toast.

A Photographer’s Perspective

As someone behind the lens, what stood out most was how beautifully The Umstead photographs in natural light and candlelight alike. The subtle mix of wood, glass, and greenery makes every shot feel layered and rich without needing extra fuss.

 
Nikki Whitt
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