When I first met Caroline, her sweet heart was the most noticeable thing about her, which is saying much because she is absolutely gorgeous. Her incredible smile was still outshined by her overwhelmingly lovely demeanor. The entire walk through of the venue, as we talked about possible plans, she oooh'd and ahhh'd at the suggestions, stating how much Bruce would love it and how she couldn't wait to marry him. That's when my excitement began to match hers.
The planning process with her was a dream. She was open to ideas, had her own and while she knew this was a day about their love, she genuinely cared about the experience of her guests. So, with a June date in South Louisiana and a historic venue that was mostly outdoor, we made amendments to make everyone the most comfortable. A garden ceremony, a tented reception and portable AC units to ensure the summer heat didn't disrupt the celebrations.
Tent and dance floor installations and all the deliveries started Friday, and finished just in time for a sneak peak during the rehearsal. What would come of it all the next day was a dream.
The next day came and as Caroline arrived for hair and makeup, she was as calm as they come. Her excitement to be married trumped every single nerve of an unnoticed detail and even better - she had complete trust that we would make it all she dreamed.
With a garden set up as beautiful as Arlington Mansion, she originally opted for no additional florals in the space, but a surprise deconstructed arch was an incredible addition of color. When we originally spoke of design, she hesitantly said that she was leaning toward color and I, not so discreetly, pushed her over that edge. Your day is yours. If you want color, we do color! So, pops of pink were interwoven through every detail. Bouquets, boutonniere, backdrops and Tablescapes all had varying hues of the shade with additional hints of orange and yellow to drive it home. Rose petals in multiple hues lined the aisle that led her to Bruce and as they kissed to seal the deal, there wasn't a single face not wearing a smile.
As formal pictures began and cocktail hour took form, the shade of the hundred year old oak trees and tent canopy were a welcome respite. The portable AC units kicked into overdrive to provide relief on a Southern Summer Saturday. But as the new couple were announced into the reception and took the floor for their first dance, no one cared about the temperature - all eyes were locked in on love.
Through the night guests were able to meander into the mansion for the buffet line and bar. The study became a popular place for the gentleman to gather as a grooms cake display was the topic of admiration and discussion. The parlor displayed the wedding cake and all the grandeur of the history of the house and era - a grande venue fit for a grande celebration.
As the night wrapped up, Caroline approached and asked if we could end it a bit early. "I've had such an incredible night, and I'm just so happy to be his wife. I'm ok with a bit of an early end." The important part for her was done - she had become Mrs. Bruce Schales and the celebration of that would never end. With sparklers shining over them, we ended the night and said farewell to the new Mr. and Mrs. - one couple I was certain was more excited about the marriage than the wedding which made the whole event that much more a celebration.
Venue: Arlington Mansion
Photographer: Elizabeth watts Photography
Planner: Bustle and Bloom
Florist: Bustle and Bloom
Caterer and Bar: Bon Temps Grill
DJ: Parish Line
Event Rentals: Parties Plus Bridal
Cake Designer: Sweet B Bakery
Oh Rebecca,
You made all of my wedding dreams come true. Our night was so much more beautiful than I could have ever imagined or hoped for. You went above and beyond for me and were an answered prayer. The whole process was a breeze. You’ve given us so many beautiful memories!!