I have to admit, I’m a BIG fan of the formal, fancy wedding. There is just something so festive and grand about them. Jennifer & Michael’s wedding was just that. And I’m totally in love with the green and brown color palette. (And those perfect hits of pink).
Jennifer & Michael | April 24, 2010 | Tampa, Florida
How he proposed
After dating for 7 years, it was very hard for Michael to surprise me with a proposal, but he wanted to find some way to do so. He had called me from work on a Friday at 6pm and told me that his boss had wanted us to go to dinner with him and a potential client. Michael said I needed to be ready in 30 minutes.
Hurrying to get ready, I had no time to even think about a proposal. When Michael got home, he made me change outfits 5 times (in order to keep my mind off a potential engagement) until I was wearing his favorite dress. Once I walked out in his favorite dress, Mike got on one knee and said “I think this will look perfect with your outfit. Will you marry me?”
Completely surprised and taken-away, I accepted and we celebrated at BernsSteakhouse (without the boss, of course). Michael had planned for all of our friends to be at their favorite bar, so once dinner ended, the we celebrated with our closest friends and family. It was a night to remember.
The ceremony
It took place at St. Andrews Episocopal Church at 5:30 pm. This was a very special place for me because this is the exact church where my parents got married. The ceremony was very formal and grand. (No photography was allowed in the church).
The reception
It was very elegant and modern. It took place at the Marriott Waterside Hotel with 225 attending guests.The color scheme was green and brown, with a hint of pink. There was a white dance floor in the center of the room with a beautifully designed monogram in the center. The centerpieces were in tall, modern vases with floating orchids in the center. The vases sat on a square of green mums. There was lighting by Concept Bait done around the entire perimeter of the reception hall. A 12 piece band played music from all eras.
Splurges & Savings
We splurged on our wedding planner and my wedding dress (which were both worth every penny!). We saved on the flowers. We interviewed 3 different florist, finally to find one that would do our centerpiece idea at a reasonable cost. We also used the bridesmaid bouquets on the head table as fillers between the centerpieces, this definitely cut down on costs.
How she knew her wedding dress was “The One”
I tried on about 8 different wedding dresses. My favorite designer was Melissa Sweet, loving all her dresses that I saw in various magazines. I wanted a dress that made a statement but was also very timeless and elegant. I always try to wear things that people have not seen before. The dress I purchased was simply beautiful and I loved it at first glance. I loved the sculpted roses on the bottom of the dress. The silk organza layers made the dress very romantic. I felt beautiful in the dress and with the straps, the dress was very comfortable to wear. I knew I would be the only one in Tampa with that dress since the dress shop had to order it from California.
Her advice for other brides
Just enjoy every moment of your engagement and wedding planning. I know things get very hectic and stressful, but always remember why you are planning this event. It for you and your fiance. Make it a night to remember!
