Grace Harris is one to watch. As Tory Burch's Style Editor, Grace creates looks that are pulled together, yet offbeat and effortlessly cool. She has a keen eye for styling and an ability to take pieces we've seen before and pair them in ways to create editorial looks that feel refreshing and unexpected. It's no surprise then, that Grace's recent wedding—which took place at Four Winds Farm, her now husband’s family property in Salisbury, Connecticut—would be a beautiful, cinematic affair that felt simultaneously relevant and timeless. With design references pulled from the Bahamas, a Vera Wang Gown with a touch of black, and an afterparty in a lakeside cabin that went until dawn, it was a night of laid back elegance and raucous fun. We sat down with the style editor to learn more about her weekend of celebrations, her bridal style, and general wedding preferences.
At the outset, did you have a vision for your wedding?
I always envisioned being married outside, surrounded by rolling hills and big trees. I knew I wanted to bring a little bit of the Bahamas to upstate Connecticut.
What was the setting like?
One hundred tiki torches lit a path that lead from the cocktail hour to the entrance of the tent, where nine-foot tall white canvas palm trees stood anchoring the doorway. We used a green and pink batik print for the indoor bars, both of which were flanked by gigantic elephant ear palm leaves in skinny trumpet vases, inspired by the islands.
"I wanted to stay away from the rustic vibe that I have seen so many people do and introduce more of an island feel."
Tell us about the tablescapes.
My godfather, John Knott, owns a textile company called Quadrille, he and his divine husband John Fondas helped me choose the fabrics to do all of the tablecloths, napkins and bars. We decided on a custom hunter green and white bamboo print (reference: Lyford Trellis), for the tablecloths and napkins. Hundreds of candles in glass vases staggered at different heights lit each of the tables and created the most romantic glow throughout the tent all evening.
No flowers?
John and I are passionate about many things, but fresh flowers have never been a big part of our life. Since we did decide to get married in the country, I wanted to stay away from the rustic vibe that I have seen so many people do and introduce more of an island feel.
Tell us about your wedding dress.
The minute I put on the Vera Wang dress that I ended up getting, my mother, sister and I were in tears over a glass of champagne. The slim, trumpet silhouette felt very classic, while the oversized black organza bow gave it that unexpected elemental drama that was so important to me. I still look back at that dress and pinch myself, it was heaven on earth.
"I wish that night lasted longer simply because I could have worn that dress forever."
What shoes did you wear? Were they comfortable?
Since I rarely take into account comfort when buying or dressing, my main concern was having the shoes I wore be slightly outrageous. I decided on a pair of 4 inch high Dolce & Gabbana black suede, jewel embellished platform heels....and they surprisingly stayed on all night long!
Favorite outfit of the wedding weekend (if not your wedding day look)?
My Emilia Wickstead rehearsal dress without question. I am a real girl’s girl when it comes to dressing, I fell in love with the precious high neck, the romantic ball skirt and the delicate waffle crepe fabrication. I wish that night lasted longer simply because I could have worn that dress forever.
First dance song?
Sittin’ on the Dock of the Bay by Otis Redding.
Anything you'd go back and change?
The weather!
What time did you go to bed on your wedding night?
It was a decidedly loud, late and rowdy celebration that went until sunrise with almost all of the wedding guests in tow. I think we ended up in our honeymoon suite at the White Hart Inn at 5am.
Quickfire round:
Flowers: bright or pale? Pale.
Bridesmaids: to match or not to match? Not to match.
Preferred wedding cocktail. Aperol Spritz—sans orange slice.
Band or DJ? Band.
Wedding speeches: the more the merrier or less is more? Less is more.
Thank you notes should be sent within... 6 months.
Most iconic bride of all time. Audrey Hepburn to Mel Ferrer, wearing Pierre Balmain.
