Kathleen and Ryan’s Belle Meade Historic wedding was a refined blend of presidential history, timeless Ralph Lauren style, and Southern tradition. From their Cathedral ceremony to a reception steeped in iconic details, every moment was designed with classic elegance and personal meaning.
Kathleen Porter and Ryan McAvoy’s distinguished love story began in a unique environment, working for the President of the United States in the White House.
Amid the fast-paced world of politics and public service, their connection grew in one of the most iconic settings in America. Kathleen and Ryan attended many presidential events, leading to a sophisticated and traditional style for their wedding design. Their wedding was deeply inspired by the rich tones of Ralph Lauren and the history of the United States, specifically the equestrian features of Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery located in Nashville, Tennessee.
Attire
Influenced by the timeless style of Princess Kate Middleton, Sareh Nouri custom-designed Kathleen’s wedding gown in New York City to complement the classic elegance of their ceremony at The Cathedral of the Incarnation. Additionally, Ryan and his groomsmen wore custom Ralph Lauren tuxedos that echoed the rich design of the reception.
Design Inspiration
Kathleen and Ryan were engaged in Paris, France and on their trip they visited Ralph’s Restaurant, an iconic eatery. When describing his restaurant Ralph Lauren said, “the welcome is warm and of a refinement that is both glamorous and relaxed.” It is a well known sentiment of Ralph’s to give his guests a one of a kind, unique experience. This was the concept for The McAvoy’s wedding design. The tablescapes were intentionally selected with textured basket vases for florals, gold candle holders, and a beautiful deep blue plate for dinner to resemble the character of Ralph Lauren’s aesthetic. Guests entered the reception and were greeted by an atmosphere that balanced refined elegance with an inviting warmth, encouraging connection and meaningful conversation.
Dinner at Belle Meade Historic
Upon arrival at cocktail hour, guests received a personally written note from the bride and groom guiding them to their assigned table, each named after a former President of the United States.
Town and Table Catering served a mixture of Southern Tennessee traditions, Irish staples, and Italian sorbet to cleanse the pallet- inspired by Ryan’s deep family roots.
Their decorative food station displays were adorned with weathered leather, equine ornamentation, and authentic southern aspired decor.
Town and Table’s servers wore blue and white striped aprons to match the BBJ La Tavola head table linens and the deep green bars were decorated with custom made Ralph Lauren inspired lamps.
Following dinner, guests enjoyed freshly brewed coffee served in personalized green mugs inspired by Ralph Lauren’s signature coffee shop in New York City and Paris, Ralph’s Coffee.
Reception at Belle Meade Historic
As guests entered the carriage house for dancing, they were greeted by a Nashville based country band, Brassfield Band, and one last surprise Presidential nod. Behind the stage hung an enormous American flag creating the perfect backdrop for dancing the night away to American Country music.
The McAvoy’s exited in a 1973 vintage Rolls Royce getaway car and spent their honeymoon in Paris.
Kathleen and Ryan’s wedding was not only a reflection of their personal journey but also a testament to the power of thoughtful design rooted in story and tradition. If you’re envisioning a wedding that captures the heart of your love story with timeless elegance and intentional detail, we’d love to help bring it to life. Reach out to EBJ & Company to begin planning a celebration that feels personal, memorable, and uniquely yours.
Ceremony Venue: Cathedral of the Incarnation
Reception Venue: Belle Meade Historic Site
Photography: Jordyn Smalling Photo
Videography: Marvelous Light Media
Planning & Design: EBJ & Company
Florals: Blume and Willow
Rentals: Curated Events
Linens: Nuage Designs
Lighting: Bright Events
Draping: Events Plus
Catering: Town & Table
Band: Brassfield
Cocktail Hour Entertainment: Craig Duncan
Cake: Puffy Muffin
Hair & Makeup: Kerra
Stationery: Minted and Rock, Paper, Scissors
Transportation: Grayline TN
Dress: Sareh Khajehnouri
Groom & Groomsmen attire: Ralph Lauren
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