Sometimes I have to pinch myself to believe I am living out my dream of doing wedding flowers. Never imagined I would get to this place of choosing what I would like to do. Raising my daughters was my priority and joy and I would choose them over flowers again, every time. However, they are all grown and I have been given the opportunity to try my hand at it now. I can honestly say, I have never been busier! It’s hard work but it is so rewarding. And the wedding I am featuring today is very special because it is the daughter of a dear friend of mine. Cheri and I were pregnant with our daughters together and the girls were born almost a month apart. They were connected at the hip, two peas in a pod, silly, girly girls, pretty much inseparable, until I went through a divorce and we had to move away. But here we are full circle, the girls grown, my daughter having gotten married nearly 6 1/2 years ago and here is Katie getting her “happily ever after” too! I was honored to be asked to do Katie’s wedding flowers. I never tire of doing them. I love them even more when it’s someone I know. She had a beautiful venue at Grand Traditions in So. Cal. Even if I had not done a single thing, between the love that was evident between Katie and Ryan, her beautiful gown, and the grounds of the facility, it would have been gorgeous! The days leading up to the wedding had been quite cold and very rainy and we were uncertain if the wedding would be held outdoors at all. After lots of hoping and many prayers being said the day proved to not only be dry but absolutely perfect weather! Enough of all the behind the scenes details. Here’s some pics of Katie and Ryan’s special day!
Her bouquet consisted of burgundy ranunculus, Black Magic Roses, spirea, Sweet Escimo Roses, Vendela Roses, burgundy dahlias, burgundy scabiosas, jasmine, pink pepper berries and burgundy amaranthus.
Coursages… Quicksand and Sahara Roses. They are the yummiest shade of blush.
Boutonnieres…
The groom’s. I actually made two because the groom gets hugged so much prior to the ceremony, you never know if it’s going to make it down to the aisle. I chose a burgundy dahlia with pepper berries and tiny wax flowers.
Groomsmen…
Mother and daughter. Beautiful inside and out!
All the girls together. Such a sweet picture! And these girls were so fun and kind.
Tight shot of the bridesmaids bouquets.
Dad and Mom walked Katie up the aisle to meet Ryan. I loved that decision.
Could the weather have been any better?
The new couple and the old couple…lol. Love ya Cheri! You both look fantastic!
The best man, the groom’s brother and the maid of honor. The best man gave one of the best and funniest speeches ever…think Ray Romano…lol. Honest.
What a beautiful, reflective moment.
And then there was the reception…
Sweetheart Table…
Upclose..
Reception Decor
Amaranthus, gladiolus and palm leaves. We had 17 of these to make in about 2 hours because they were too tall to transport. We did it! :).
The best part…
And just like that it was over but it was magical. And I will never forget this one. And yes, I cried. Love you Katie. The best to you and Ryan. Always.
XO,
Debi
P.S. A BIG shout out to my partner in crime, Betty Young. Without her help with the flowers, I could have never pulled this off. Thankful we are family. :).
Beautifully done, Debi! The arrangements are gorgeous and the photographs are, too!
Such beautiful arrangements! Love even the bridesmaid’s bouquets! I’m new to your blog and have been spending a couple of hours just enjoying your artistry. You have such a gift and it’s really amazing to see you put your creativity to use in so many ways!