Real Wedding | Candice + Steven

Candice and Steven stayed true to their hearts when planning an intimate beach wedding celebration in Virginia Beach. Choosing LOVE as her wedding theme, Candice made bold choices for her color scheme and reception décor.  Don’t miss the adorable DIY apple place card holders (I’ve never seen this super cute and creative idea), or the bright and cheerful candy table. LOVE is sweet, indeed!

Candice + Steven | February 18, 2012 | Virginia Beach, Virginia

The ceremony

The theme for our wedding was LOVE. We wanted the ceremony to anticipate what was coming for the reception with out giving too much away.  This was accomplished by using hints of the color palette for the wedding programs and floral arrangements at the altar. It was held in a small room, so we didn’t want to overwhelm our guests with too much decor.

The reception

As you plan your wedding with a theme in mind, every little aspect from Save the Date cards all the way down to table placecards usually tie in together.  The reception (in my opinion) is supposed to be the climax of all these smaller aspects, and that’s exactly what it was for us.  Everything from the floral arrangements down to the candy table was bright and lush and exuded our theme of ‘Love’.

How Candice found her dream wedding dress

I started my search wanting a mermaid style dress from Priscilla of Boston and ended up being deterred because of the price.  I found a great deal on another gown (8 months before the wedding) which was very different (princess styled) but more affordable. I thought I could put that Priscilla of Boston dress behind me.  My husband and I paid 100% for our wedding in cash so lavish gowns were out of the question.  But just 4 weeks before the wedding I realized that I will only marry this man one time in my life and deserved to have the dress I wanted.  So, I sought after my Priscilla of Boston gown only to discover they closed all their stores!!  Finding the dress I wanted in my size was a miracle and my dream all at the same time!

How Candice felt in her wedding dress

In my dress I felt the most beautiful I have ever felt in my life.  It seriously felt like a Cinderella moment where the girl spins around and appears as a gorgeous princess.  The gasps from my mother and wedding party also added to suspense! 

Why Candice decided to sell her wedding dress

I decided to sell my dress because I know it will literally sit and never be worn again.  I have my pictures to look back on and remember that special day thanks to my fabulous photographer.  I won’t be able to pull out it years from now when my daughters get married to show them, but honestly, that day should be all about them anyways…Not about mom reminiscing about her wedding!

Candice’s wedding dress: Pricilla of Boston, Bettie

Photographer: Keith Cephus | Florals: Daevid’s of Norfolk | Wedding Coordinator: Claudia Alvarez | Ceremony & Reception: Courtyard by Marriott Oceanfront North | Cake: Antolina’s Cake (my mother!)