Alice in Wonderland is one of Brando’s favorite stories. So what better way to celebrate the renewal of his wedding vows than with a beloved story of absurdity, cleverness and fun? And that’s how welanded on the theme of Alive inWonderland. Excited vendors were quick to pitch in and help make this wedding the most fantastical night of Brando and Ash’s life–so far!
To set the tone of dreamy fantasy, we first choose Courtyard D’Oro as our location. We planned to have the ceremony in ‘the round’ in Courtyard’s courtyard, surrounded by candelabra and tall clear vases of oranges, limes and lemon with apple and cherry tree branches adding little white flowers and height. The twinkle lights and four-tiered water fountain add the final touch. The idea was to create the feel of a romantic fantasy forest, and then use the vases and candles as center pieces and decoration during the reception.
But the darned wind and rain forced us inside where the folks at D’Oro quickly set the stage for an indoor ceremony. I highly recommend D’Oro to couples thinking of getting married–Old Sacramento has many great photography options, and The Courtyard itself offers indoor and outdoor areas for a ceremony or reception. And if you’re considering anApril-May wedding, when the weather is most unpredictable, The Courtyard clearly knows how to handle a quick change. Of course, this event would not have run so smoothly if it weren’t for Linda, event coordinator for White Orchid Events. And if you’re looking for fantastic pricing for fantastic services, talk to Linda about the Courtyard D’Oro’s wedding packages starting around $12,900 for a full-wedding (meal, DJ, photographer, florist, and more) and a coordinator to boot!
One our favorite parts of the night? The vows. Adding a dash of humor to heart-warming honesty, Bride and Groom exchanged vows using lines and themes from Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures inWonderland. So cute, and SO them!
To see images from the Alive in Wonderland wedding, follow this link: Alba on SmugMug
And how to decorate for a fantasy wedding? By hiring professionals, of course, and by talking to Gaby at Mimi & Co.. This year a mix of purples, greens, golds… basically the ROYAL palette… is in high demand.
And that’s exactly what we wanted for Brando and Ash’s night in Wonderland (sorry, Red Queen,you weren’t invited).
Just check out this couture floral centerpiece by Sandi of Sandi’s Design, a great lady and awesome florist.
By using sliced oranges mixed in with key limes and lemons for a splash of juicy color (not to mention the apple blossoms), Sandi created an eye-catching centerpiece while remaining budget-conscious.
And it looks scrumptious surrounded by rich purples, greens and golds – provided by Mimi& Co., a couture linen company known for their fabulous table and chair fashions. Kathy at Classic Party Rentalscompleted the table design withbeautiful gold-leaf plates and green-hued glassware. The theme was carried through to the gold chairs and green covers, with purple lace flowers. The reception location was straight off a magazine cover. Simply gorgeous.
Raymond, with Perfect Sounds Mobile Disc Jockey, kept us dancing withhis mix of the couple’s favorite music. Ash and Brando didn’t dance at their first wedding. By this point in the evening the sky had cleared, so we moved the candles outside, turned on the twinkle lights and started the party. The great thing about shooting images in the courtyard at Courtyard D’Oro is that the photographer can get a bird’s-eye view of the dance floor. It made for some awesome shots.
The cake was provided by Divine Desserts in Loomis–by and far one of the BEST cakes I have ever tasted! And Sally Laporta, from Monks of Age Calligraphy created a beautiful 10×10″ hand-written invitation displayed at the event and perfect for framing.
Of course, the bride would not look so flawless if not for the stunning make-up artistry of Michelle Draper. Michelle travels around the world for Laura Mercier. She’s an awesome woman and I highlyrecommend her.
I couldn’t believe the time and effort all the vendors gave in order to make things come Alive in Wonderland! The night flowed smoothly, even with the rain and the couple had a fantastic time.
Congratulationsto our beautiful bride Ash and stunning groom Brando! We hope your life together is filled with singing roses and bread-and-butterflies.
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