I want to feature Leslie and Ashley’s wedding today because they are one of the couples that skipped tradition and went for the “First Look”. They were kind enough to share their experience with us, and I’d like to pass that along to you! Scroll down to read about their special day!
The Daytona Estate Jewelry designed Leslie’s engagement ring using diamonds from her and from a vintage platinum band. Leslie’s wedding bands were also purchased separately from Daytona Estate Jewelry. All three are antique with diamonds set in platinum.
Leslie’s beautiful gown is from the Vera Wang collection at David’s Bridal
Leslie’s mother in law made her bouquet using artificial flowers from Michael’s Arts and Crafts and some of Leslie’s jewelry to decorate it.
Kathleen Bacca from Alluring Hair Designs styled Leslie’s messy updo with a birdcage veil from A Bridal Boutique for The Girls
Leslie writes, “Looking at our images at the this moment in time fills us with the emotions of excitement, love, and the energy felt on that day. From the beginning we wanted to make our wedding our own. That being said, following the tradition of not seeing each other before the ceremony was adjusted to fit our picture perfect wedding! We agreed to remain unseen all day up until an hour before the ceremony. Our magical hour was an intimate moment in the quietude late afternoon open air. Unlike the first look in the traditional manner, we were able to draw each other in and cherish one another while exchanging sentiments carried through one another’s gaze and felt deep within. We had the unique opportunity to extend our “First Look,” in our own secretive way and soak in the emotionalism. “
“Ashley was my first kiss as a teenage girl. Although that first kiss didn’t evolve into a romantic relationship then, it was the start of a lifelong friendship. When Ashley and I came back into each others lives as adults it was if no time had passed. We fell in love with each other and knew that without one there wouldn’t be the other”
“Our children were a big part of our Wedding Day. We each have 14 year old boys & they were instrumental in managing our SONOS system. My ten year old daughter and my niece carried a bountiful bouquet while Ashley’s 6 year old son acted as our ring bearer”
“We were supported by our family and closest friends in a intimate garden set ceremony. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect with a 5 pm ceremony and a 5:23 sunset. My photographer, Mark Dickinson, captured a beautiful image of the sunlight casting over my father and I as he escorted me down the aisle. The ceremony was emotional, with my father in law as our officiant, and our family and friends looking on. We also included his paternal grandmother whom is under the care of Hospice via FaceTime.”
“Our reception was immediately following, held in in the Tavern. Our guests were welcomed by a small fire outside the Tavern and a table with assorted cheeses and crackers. When we were ready to make our entrance we did so down the beautiful staircase. It was an amazing night, I wish it could have gone on forever.”
The centerpieces were DIY, inspired by Pinterest. Artificial flowers from Michaels Arts & Crafts. The tall glass pillars sported floating candles as well as green beads floating underneath the candle
Cupcake Tower-Chocolate Stout with Baileys Irish cream cheese frosting, Red Velvet with vanilla bean frosting, and coconut with kiwi infused frosting.
Leslie’s words of wisdom for future brides? “Don’t sweat the small stuff. Relish in the love and support bestowed on you and focus on the big picture.”
VENDORS:
- Hair Stylist: Alluring Hair Designs
- BRIDAL: Bridal Botique for The Girls
- Caterer: Aunt Catfish on the River
- Floral Designer: Michael’s Arts & Crafts
- Dress Designer: White by Vera Wang
- Shoes: TOMS
- Jewelry: Daytona Estate Jewelry
- Event Venue: Tavern & Chapel in the Garden
Congratulations. So pretty:)
Very Nice
Congratulations to both of you. It was a beautful wedding.
Congratulations! What a beautiful wedding! Thanks for sharing the pictures.