Categories
Real Weddings

What I liked about Lauren and Jonathan’s wedding

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Have you ever worked with one of those “dream” couples wishing that all of your clients were like them? This is what Lauren and Jonathan are: a dream bride and groom! From the moment I met them (actually, Jonathan is the brother of another “dream” bride of mine, Jordana) I knew their wedding would be just perfect!

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They selected the San Diego Zoo Safari Park as their wedding location. Jonathan’s love for felines was one of the reasons why they choose the park, and the natural scenery played a very important role in their vision.

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We took advantage of the fantastic backdrop at the African Plains Overlook to create the perfect ceremony site. They exchanged their vows while Minister Bob Stevens officiated and a string quartet played in the background.

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Cocktail hour was all about the breathtaking view and fun music with steel drummers honoring Jonathan’s Caribbean side of the family.

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Geraldine with Dolldine Designs did an amazing job with the invitation and all the paper items on the wedding day. Each table was named after an exotic animal and guests had to match their escort card with the corresponding figurine displayed at their table.

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The reception area (Mombasa Pavilion) was transformed into a magical outdoor space with soft, flowing draping, and a multitude of lights hanging from the ceiling with paper lanterns and grapevine balls. The natural earthy palette was accented with wood, metals, jungle-inspired elements, and beautiful florals by Cherry Blossom Floral Designs. Specialty linens by Sweet Ribbon Events complemented the sophisticated safari look.

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Guests were treated to some special animal appearances before dinner including Jonathan’s favorite: a cheetah! Very cool 🙂

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It was a memorable night with lots of dancing thanks to JMC Events, and guests enjoyed the hora loca towards the end of the reception which is a carnival-style celebration following the Venezuelan traditions (Jonathan’s family roots).

We also provided a very delicious dessert table that I will feature in my next blog post – Stay tuned for all the details!

You can see more pictures from Lauren and Jonathan’s wedding on my website. Lauren’s testimonial is on my fan blog 🙂

Design, Planning & Coordination: La Dolce Idea
Venue: San Diego Zoo Safari Park
Hair and Makeup: Patricia Norvell
Paperie: Dolldine Designs
Officiant: Robert Stevens
Decor / Rentals: Raphael’s Party Rentals
Specialty Linens: Sweet Ribbon Events
Floral Design: Cherry Blossom Floral Designs
String Trio: Caprice Strings
Steel Drum Band: Mirage Band
DJ / MC: JMC Events
Photo Booth: A Little Scene
Transportation: Epic Limo
Photo: True Photography – Thank you for the fabulous pictures!