Mr. & Mrs. Masuko

I met with Wayde, Alison, and Alison’s parents, Chris and Nancy back in June. This was the first time I had parents join the consultation meeting, and to be completely honest, I was a bit nervous! Fortunately, Chris and Nancy were wonderful and we all got along great.

It’s hard to predict Southern California weather in October. During the days leading up to the wedding, we anxiously kept our eyes on the forecast. It was bright and sunny during the dress rehearsal, but rain was predicted for the big day. Since Wayde and Alison were planning for an outdoor wedding, everyone was definitely a bit apprehensive.  Luckily, there was no rain! It was a little overcast, but as long as the raindrops weren’t falling, we were happy!

The couple were wed at the Fullerton Arboretum in Fullerton, California. The ceremony music was beautifully performed by Batavia Strings. I absolutely loved the rose ball bouquets created by Flower Allie which hung right above the bride and groom as they recited their vows.  The reception was also held outdoors, with luminaries and candlelight creating a romantic atmosphere. Wayde and Alison began the festivities by presenting lei’s to their parents and the entire bridal party. Guests enjoyed their meals from Country Garden Caterers while live music was provided by a San Diego based band  The Mar Dels throughout the entire evening.

Congratulations, Wayde and Alison! I hope you had a wonderful time in Jamaica!

Photos provided by Wayde & Alison Masuko; photographs taken by Drew B Photography.

Mr. & Mrs. Davis

I was especially looking forward to Jessica & Jason’s wedding because it would be my first wedding coordination in Chicago. Since Jessica had gotten in touch with me only six weeks prior to the big day, we tackled every last wedding detail by phone and e-mail.

The wedding took place at the beautiful Redfield Estate at The Grove in Glenview, Illinois. The venue is perfect for a small, intimate wedding. Jessica’s fabulous girlfriends arrived early to assist me with the setup. As Jessica would say, they are truly “indispensable.” Guests followed a candlelit path to the enclosed grassy area for the ceremony. Excerpts from E.E. Cummings, I Carry Your Heart With Me and Carl Sagan’s, Pale Blue Dot were read by the couple’s close friends, Anna and Ryan. As the sun began to set, guests mingled on the patio during cocktail hour. Everyone was encouraged to try the couple’s specialty drinks, which were named after their cat and dog, Ned & Lindy, respectively. So adorable!

The wedding was catered by Hel’s Kitchen. Hydrangeas, candles, and lanterns filled the place and created a warm, cozy atmosphere. Since Jessica has a gluten-free diet, the party favors were gluten-free cookies made by Whole Bakers. The wedding cake was also a flourless chocolate cake from Trader Joe’s. For everyone with a regular sweet tooth (including me!), a delicious assortment of treats was set up at the fruit and dessert station.

The couple was so sweet to send me home with a beautiful hydrangea centerpiece… Thank you, Jessica and Jason! Congratulations to you both! I hope you had a wonderful time in Italy!

The following photos have been provided by Jason Davis & Jessica Manvell; photographs taken by Michael Rastall Photography.