Outdoor wedding ceremonies can be risky. Ask Erin Winthrop, daughter of Harry and Deborah Winthrop of Newport. One thing she said she would never forget is ?the fact that it rained most of the day, but just before we were married, the skies opened up and the sun shined right down on us on the lawn of Astors?.? As it turned out, the blue taffeta sash of Erin?s Amsale satin gown and the bridesmaid?s baby blue dresses ultimately matched the skies overhead. The sash, longer than the gown itself, flowed elegantly behind her ivory, strapless A-line dress and was later bustled during the ceremony. Her cathedral length veil was sprinkled with Swarovski crystals. A touch of blue was also incorporated into the predominantly white floral bouquets of hydrangeas, parrot tulips and peonies. The bride?s stem-wrapped arrangement mirrored her attendants?, with the addition of blush pink roses. The bride and her groom, Jeremy Ward, who both grew up in Newport, chose the Astors? Beechwood because of its location overlooking the ocean, as well as the fact that the mansion has ?that old Newport feel.? To add a touch of modern technology to the occasion, the couple had colorful, mod-like lighting projected out onto the back terrace later that evening. In contrast, the elegant ballroom served as the stage for the dinner and dancing that followed the ceremony. The groom, son of Elizabeth Ward of Newport and Alvin Ward of East Greenwich, is a graduate of Florida Southern University. He is currently employed at Electric Boat. Erin, who holds a B.A. from Clemson University and a Masters in Education from James Madison University, is a guidance counselor. The wedding weekend began with a rehearsal dinner at Sardella?s restaurant and wrapped up with a relaxing, post-wedding celebration sail on the Viking Queen. After a two-week honeymoon in the Greek Islands, the newlyweds returned to their home in North Kingston.?LT

See the pages of your bridal magazine come to life, plus celebrate Valentine's Day with a romantic weekend. Whether you are recently engaged or just need a few final details to complete your wedding planning, The Newport Bridal Show is the bridal event you won't want to miss.

Details:

A Newport wedding takes months, sometimes years, of careful consideration and precise planning to ensure every detail is pure perfection. As friends and family descend on the City-by-the-Sea to celebrate your nuptials, welcome those from far and wide with a fun and festive rehearsal dinner. Here's your chance to thank your guests for the miles they have crossed to be here for the special day. Since the wedding will be all about pomp and circumstance, even if your planning a day of simple elegance, consider a fête that is unique and all about the bride and groom. A Mexican fiesta perhaps? Kick back and relax with a margarita and a smile. Loca, located in downtown Newport, offers harbors view and creative Mexican cuisine. Welcome gents in casual Hawaiian shirts and ladies in comfy sundresses before they have to get gussied up for the big day. Most importantly, have fun with your rehearsal dinner- every ?i? has been dotted and every ?t? crossed. The aisle awaits ladies!