Emilie & Cole: A Backyard Wedding in St. Pete, Florida

April 3, 2018

Groom detail photos || The Ganeys Spring bouquet with protea and spray roses || The Ganeys White wedding arch with flower details || The GaneysFor those of you that haven’t heard

Emilie and Cole’s story – about how the world got a whole lot smaller for these two to come together – you need to start off with that. For those of you that know these two gems, let me tell you about their wedding day! Emilie was the most relaxed bride I’ve worked with. I’m pretty sure she had the wonderful mindset that as long as she and Cole were married at the end of the day – that was all that mattered. These two simply adore each other. They laugh together – they cry together – the way they hug each other and sneak forehead kisses melts my heart. I am so grateful that I got to be a part of their backyard wedding in St. Pete last Tuesday!

The day started off with Emilie and Cole getting ready together – yup, you read that right! I walked in and Cole and Emilie were making their way around the house, doing final preparations. They had enjoyed breakfast together and had their morning coffee. Personally, I love that! Your wedding day is about celebrating each other – why not spend as much time as you can with the one you love?

After an hour, these two parted ways to have an element of surprise. Emilie put on her perfect lace fit and flare gown with the help of her mom (who flew over from France for the fete!) and her maid-of-honor.

Cole and Emilie shared their first look under a large tree, dripping with Spanish moss, in the backyard. Cole gave Emilie the biggest hug! Their joy radiated… it is so clear that these two just love living life together.

A few hours later, it was time for the ceremony, performed by Emilie’s father. Bridesmaids, all wearing white, stood by Emilie’s side. The light was glowing, as the sun set over the golf course. Cole and Emilie two exchanged vows that they wrote personally – making promises to love each other through highs and lows – and Emilie even indicated that she would nod along as Cole spouted on with medical language. Friends played the guitar and sang. Before we knew it, these two were officially husband and wife!

The backyard wedding reception was sprinkled with string lights – creating a romantic atmosphere. Everyone enjoyed a meal from Bodega (my personal favorite!!) before these two shared their first dance on the back patio.

At the end of the evening, the exited through a tunnel of sparklers to start their next chapter together.

Cole and Emilie, I am so excited that I had the opportunity to meet you two and be a part of your wedding day! I can’t think of anyone more deserving of each other – you are both so incredibly kind and welcoming – as everyone mentioned in their toasts. You two are goofy, in the best way, and it is clear that you were made for one another. I wish you both the best with your move! Felicitations!

Day of Coordinator: Michelle Carvin of Warm Welcome Events // Venue: Private Home in St. Pete // Florist: Anna Graham // DJ: Jonathan Talley // Videographer: Eric Beaton // Dress shop: Ivory and Lace // Dress Designer: Stella York // Bridesmaids dresses & gold hair piece: ASOS // Hair and makeup: The French Beauty Bar // Catering: Bodega // Wedding arch: Jeff Malague

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