Karen + Michael | Lazaro Wedding from Chris and Kristen Photography

In the words of today’s featured bride, this Tuscan-inspired wedding was ‘beautiful, elegant and intimate’.  I couldn’t agree with you more Karen! Surrounded by shades of cream, blush and gold Karen looked sweet and feminine in her Lazaro gown…complete with a sweetheart neckline, gorgeous pleated satin bodice and a light as air tulle ballerina skirt.  I love the pairing of the satin and tulle of this gown or how the bridesmaids dresses in pale pink compliment the bride’s look perfectly with matching neckline and fine ruched bodice. Just beautiful, enjoy!

Karen + Michael | September 7, 2013 | Orange County, California | Dress Listing: Lazaro, LZ3061 + LZ3108

The Ceremony
Our ceremony was held outdoors on the lawn of a gorgeous Tuscan-inspired private estate overlooking San Clemente.  I wanted the feel of the ceremony to be light, pure, and just simply focused on our guests and us.  My florist kept the decor simple yet elegant by incorporating beautiful arrangements in shades of cream, blush, and gold set on tall clear columns so that they don’t take away from the stunning views of the city.  Our ceremony was both special and emotional because I was so overwhelmed by the sweet moments that tears wouldn’t stop streaming down my cheeks.  All Michael could do was pull out his white pocket square to wipe my tears away.  There wasn’t a dry eye in the house while we laughed and cried through our personal vows and sand ceremony.  It was definitely a love-filled day.

The Reception
I didn’t have a specific theme in mind when I started planning our wedding but I have always dreamed of having it at a private estate.  Estate weddings are more intimate and special since the venue is yours and only yours for the entire day.  Our venue took my breath away from the moment I drove up the driveway and walked through the double doors into the beautiful foyer with crystal chandeliers.  It was the perfect setting because we wanted to keep our guest list small and it was definitely the best decision we’ve made.  Our reception was beautiful, elegant, and intimate.  Every time a guest approached us, it was someone we love and have known for many years.  I would say that the photo booth and open bar were definitely a huge hit during the reception.  I’m a huge fan of Hello Kitty so my photo booth vendor provided Hello Kitty props and our guests were very thankful that we had a selection of premium cocktails, beer, wine, and champagne.

Karen’s Dress Search
I started my dress search almost immediately after I was engaged and I’m so glad that I did because it took months before I finally decided to have my gown custom made.  I imagined myself either in a ball gown or a fitted dress, and after trying on almost 50 dresses, I realized that I felt the most comfortable in a ball gown.

How Karen Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Elegant, Beautiful, Unique.

Why Karen Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I honestly grew attached to this dress since it’s custom made and a lot of thought went into its design process.  However, I just can’t imagine it sitting in a box tucked away in my closet for the rest of my life.  I rather pass this on to another bride who will love it as much as I do and look stunning in it.

Wedding Dress: Lazaro, LZ3061 + LZ3108 | Photography: Chris and Kristen Photography  | Event Planning: Sanya Strelec  from VIP Events and Weddings | Floral Design: Tustin Florist | Cake: Pacific Patisserie  |  Hair + Make-up: Yuri Sinata

See all of our wedding dresses by Lazaro…