I have to admit that I'm a little obsessed with backyard weddings... I love the comfort of sharing such a special time with just your nearest and dearest in a location that's meaningful and intimate. So, when I saw this little bit of Florida Keys loveliness from Bob Care Photography and Destination Wedding Studio in my inbox, and read the story behind it, I was so glad to be able to share it with you.
Cincinnati couple Lisa and Josh planned an intimate wedding at Lisa's grandparents' home in the Keys, where she had spent so much time vacationing and visiting with them. The home has a beautiful garden which was designed and lovingly cared for by her late grandmother.
The lovely bride, Lisa, shared their bittersweet story with us:
"Josh and I met through our mothers as kind of a set-up after we had met once. We had a wonderful time during our wedding. It was exactly what we wanted - mostly friends and close family. The house belonged to my grandfather and grandmother. She planted and tended the garden where we were married but she passed away in 2005. Josh and I got engaged in April but sort of rushed the wedding for November because we were hoping my grandfather (who owned the house but who had been ill for the past few years) could be there.
"Unfortunately, he died at around 10:30 on our wedding day, at his house in Cincinnati. It was sort of a tragic comedy that we had to live through, but in the end, we think (and hope) that he was there with my grandmother, watching over us. Luckily no one told me that he had died until about 10:00 that night so my smiles weren't forced during all the pictures."
Peggy from Destination Wedding Studio gave us all the details:
"The day was filled with blue skies and light breezes as the crews began the setting for another wedding in paradise, Florida Keys style. We worked with the couple to transform the family home to a romantic and elegant wedding celebration in paradise. Bob Care Photography was there throughout the day to capture every moment. Guests arrived to an assortment of refreshments, and proceeded down the walkway to the garden with overhanging trees and foliage, to the ceremony location which overlooked the Gulf of Mexico.
"Ribbons and lanterns adorned the trees to frame the couple as they took their vows. Marathon Florist added touches of hanging florals next to the lanterns and decor that highlighted the dinner reception which surrounded the pool and overlooked a private pond. Guests along with Bride and Groom danced the night away at a 'nightclub' designed area with desserts and candlelit tabletops as the DJ from 84 West Studios cued the music through the night. The entire evening was topped off with late night snacks from Catered Affairs/La Trattoria who custom designed the couples menu. A shuttle brought tired feet back late into the night and all was quiet under the stars as the couple bid goodnight to their guests."
And Lisa's advice for other couples? "Have so much fun and don't worry about having the biggest or best of everything. It's just one day, and spending a small fortune isn't worth it. Just do what will make YOU happy (and don't worry about anyone else)."
Lisa, I think that's about the best advice anyone can give. Thank you so much for sharing your story and lovely day with us... our warmest wishes and congrats to you and Josh.
VENUE/VENDOR INFORMATION:
Ceremony & Reception Venue: Private Home | Photography: Bob Care Photography | Event Planning & Coordination: Destination Wedding Studio | Catering: La Trattoria | Floral Design: Marathon Florist | DJ: 84 West Studios | Dress: Sue Wong from Saks | Groom & Groomsmen's Attire: Brooks Brothers | Submission: Two Bright Lights
Beautiful hair and makeup for the bride! Goes beautifully with the dress style and garden setting. Loved it!