June 29, 2016
Every aspect of Tommy and Rachel’s wedding day left a smile on my face. There was a special romance that lingered through the air, and it was truly magical to watch the day move along.
To set the tone for this gorgeous garden wedding, Rachel meticulously painted her own invitations and welcome map – as well as other signage for the wedding. She also recently opened her own business to create these pieces for other brides – so check her out and leave her some love!
Rachel opted to get ready at her parent’s condo along the river. The natural light poured into the room, which made me a happy, happy camper. Rachel and her bridesmaids wore matching robes from the Sandy Waters Store and enjoyed sipping on their coffee and popping champagne while Studio Bride worked along on their up-do’s and flawless makeup. Rachel’s mom and Natalie, her maid of honor and sister-in-law, helped put Rachel into her gorgeous beaded, illusion back gown. Rachel wore her grandmother’s stud earrings and Natalie’s drop pearl earrings.
The bridesmaids donned their mismatched blush dresses. I loved the variety and how they all complemented each other so well! They all carried beautiful, lush, organic bouquets flowing with greenery and garden roses made by Anything with Plants.
The ceremony took place right along the St. John’s River at the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Guests found their seats as they were serenaded by Alex Peramas, a musician that Tommy and Rachel had stumbled upon twice – in two different cities! The first night they heard him play was the night they exchanged their first “I love you’s,” so when they recognized him a second time, they knew it was meant to be and they asked him to play at their wedding.
The ceremony was short and sweet, led by Rachel’s uncle. Tommy was so excited to see Rachel for the first time – it was just adorable! Tommy wore his grandfather’s watch and wedding band. The band was previously engraved with his grandparent’s names and wedding date. There was just enough room to squeeze in “R&T 2016” to symbolize the second marriage that it would fulfill and represent.
To honor Tommy’s service in the Navy, Rachel and Tommy walked through a sword arch presented by other members of the US Navy, US Air Force, and Australian Air Force during the recessional.
Rachel and Tommy’s wedding was timeless and classic with a gorgeous, neutral color scheme. Pops of blush and gold added interest and glam to their decor. Instead of a traditional sit down dinner, the guests enjoyed endless heavy h’ordeuvres such as mini sliders and hot dogs, crepes and tomato soup shooters, and Chinese takeout. To top it off, they had a dessert table fit for a king and queen. Guests mingled in the museum while enjoying the art and others enjoyed dining al fresco under the cafe lighting (be still my heart) and tiled dance floor.
At the end of the night, Rachel changed into her honeymoon romper, and she and Tommy exited through a cloud of bubbles onto their getaway tandem bicycle! So adorable!
Rachel and Tommy, words don’t do you two justice. I absolutely love you both and feel so honored to document such an important day in your lives. You had the most beautiful wedding and I hope you have the best time on your secret honeymoon! Hugs!
Over the moon to see this wedding featured over on Style Me Pretty!
The fabulous vendors that put this gorgeous wedding together: Venue: Cummer Museum of Art // Gown: Alfred Angelo // Florist: Anything with Plans & Flowers // Hair & Makeup: Studio Bride // Guitarist: Alex Peramas // Band: Radio Love // Bridesmaid Robes: Sandy Waters Store // Officiant: Dave Barnheart // Cake: AlleyCakes // Catering: Chef’s Garden // Invitations & Signage: Creative Freedom Design