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It all begain at (the lovely) Literati Cafe… Stef had emailed me a month out from her wedding and was looking for some last-minute inspiration and guidance. When I found out that both the bride and groom were Cal grads, we had instant clickage! Most importantly, I was quickly enamored with Stef’s vision for the day and was delighted at the thought of being able to contribute to the design of the wedding this late in the game. Together, we adopted a design direction for the day. The feel would be classic and elegant, suggesting a Victorian garden. Florals would be natural and loosely gathered, rich with texture. And the colors would range from cream to lavender to deep purples, accented by cool silver. We enlisted my favorite floral visionary, Kristin of The Treasured Petal, to help bring our charming vision to life. The results were magical!

Although my time was brief with these two, SO much was achieved together. Stef and I also became quick friends and I look forward to keeping in touch with this darling pair!

I’m excited to walk you through the day with beautiful photos courtesy of Christine Marie Photography. Christine perfectly captured the elegance and romance of the day in each and every frame…

How perfect is this vintage-feeling portrait of the bride??

Stef’s bouquet was a loosely-gathered mix of cream and champagne garden roses, accented by parrot tulips, anemones, ranunculus and touches of lilac.

Could Stef & Jason be any cuter? I love the sweep of Stef’s dress in this pic.

The bridesmaids’ purple bouquets were gorgeous contrasts against their forest green dresses.

The ceremony took place on the lush, green lawn at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, amidst the hotel’s famous bungalows. The aisle was lined by these hand-tied nosegays of blooms and vines, evoking a “Just plucked from the garden” feel.

Kristin created a chuppah that was truly a thing of beauty… four ceramic urns overflowing with purple and cream blooms supported the free-standing structure. The four poles were accented by luscious garlands of roses, hydrangea and lilac and topped with a billowing ivory cloth.

The momentous crushing of the glass. Mazel tov!

Lobster, anyone? A delightful cocktail hour was held under the hotel’s historic Moreton Bay fig tree on the circle driveway of the property. The valet was re-routed to the other side of the hotel so we could enjoy the area in all its glory.

Place settings were set with a silver charger and a lavender satin napkin pocketfold. Tucked inside were cream menus printed in aubergine ink. Favors were chocolate dipped fortune cookies; yum!

The centerpieces were placed in antique silver urns and featured free-flowing anemones, lilacs, sweet peas, hydrangea, roses, and tulips. Like all of the floral arrangements, they carried a natural and garden-inspired feel.

The simple and classic cake was frosted with smooth buttercream and was marked with the couple’s monogram. Kristin’s pretty little bouquet was an exemplary topper. I especially adore the charming fork-tail ribbon trailing down the side.

After dinner, a tempting dessert display was set up in the foyer. Fresh, juicy slices of fruit were juxtaposed with rich chocolates, cheesecakes, tarts, and pastries. I did my duty as taste tester… for quality control of course!

And I end with this breathtaking photo of Stef & Jason. <3

Stef & Jason… it was an honor to work with you! I wish you all the best!

xoxo, angel