Theresa and Samuel's fairy tale wedding mirrored many of the things they treasured as a couple. From the hints of "Beauty and the Beast" to the inclusion of their beloved dogs, it was truly a day they will remember forever.
Our planning journey together included Teri, the bride's mom. Teri who skillfully orchestrated many of the details of the on-site ceremony and the guest table décor. She entrusted many of her close family members with DIY projects the day of the wedding. They did not disappoint!
The couple originally chose a champagne and gold motif for their wedding. With their guest count hovering around 100+ guests, they had hoped to keep everyone seated at long feasting tables in the Great Room for the reception. As it turned out, some guest tables needed to be placed in the parlor room adjacent to the main area.
As we planned further, it was decided to introduce silver into the color scheme. It actually suited the champagne well and complimented the gold in the chiavari chairs. Red was also an accent color to add some "pop" to the Old World theming Theresa and Samuel envisioned.
The morning of the wedding, Theresa and her girls spent some leisurely hours getting ready in the venue bridal suite. The guys also had time for some pre-nuptial photos around the estate.
The ceremony took place facing the Loggia on the back terrace of the Crosley. We positioned a sign-in/gift table nearby so guests could offer their well wishes prior to the start of the wedding. The wind, as it is accustomed along Sarasota Bay, played havoc with the outdoor tables.
The family provided many of the small details that depicted the couple's Ever After theme. From colorful arrangements to signage, every table and aspect of the celebration held a special meaning.
The dj's set up remained in the same location throughout the event, on the southside of the outdoor terrace.
The late afternoon ceremony was reminiscent of a traditional Catholic marital rite. Althought Fr. Richard White is not an ordained Roman Catholic priest, he is frequently called upon to incorporate many of the Catholic elements including this vestments and readings.
After the ceremony, guests were asked to make their way to the Pavilion on the Northwest lawn. We set up high top cocktail tables and the Crosley had the initial bar there.
Our service staff hand-passed a number of hot and cold hors d'oeuvres that included demi-glace meatballs with pretzel handles, marinated mushrooms, mini quiche, drunkin' dogs, and bruschetta on crostini.
Meanwhile, the bridal party gathered to take pictures.
Inside the mansion, our staff was busy transferring the ceremony chairs to the pre-set feasting tables. Each long table featured a ton of small details that ranged from small rosette red cocktail napkins, to whimsical fairy tale touches.
All tables were covered in champagne satin cloths with silver chargers and champagne napkins. Centerpieces ranged from our five-branch gold candlelabras to cylinders filled with fresh bouquets of flowers furnished by the family.
It was decided that we would team up and intermingle a number of different décor pieces - both our in-house ones, and ones they furnished. At the end of the evening, our staff separated everything and returned all items to the client.
One of the highlights of station-styled meal was our French Onion Soup presentation where our chef Sait, torched the swiss cheese on the top of each boullion cup of soup.
Although most of the food was located on the loggia, the wind forced us to position the Paella station in the side parlor.
The magnificent wedding cake was the highlight of the reception. Wonder Cake Creations designed a tasteful Stanley Cup cake at the request of the couple.
Besides the cake, the groom's favorite mini doughnuts were displayed on a sweets table.
Thanks, Theresa and Samuel for allowing us to be a part of the start to your "Happily Ever After!"
Planning, Design, Coordinating and Catering: Catering By Robert / Event Concepts. FL
Alyssa Sue Photography
Rentals and Lighting- U.S. Tent Rentals
Father Richard White, Officiant
Wonder Cake Creations
Mario Gonzalez - DJ
Flowers Provided by the Bride's Family
