What started as a chance encounter while out with friends in Orlando (James was visiting from Seattle and Chantel was out with friends) turned into an instant connection and a long-distance romance with two people who knew they would spend the rest of their lives together. Chantel and James wanted a classic wedding style, and opted for shades of ballet pink and taupe. From the white ceramic pitchers filled with hydrangea and tea roses, to the lace overlays, to the quilted fondant cake, all of the details were soft and romantic for this waterfront garden wedding. The bride's bouquet consisted of her favorite flower, peonies, and was accented with a locket and photo of her late grandparents (who had the same wedding date/anniversary!). The gentlemen relaxed that morning by fishing off of the nearby seawall, while the ladies enjoyed mimosas. Overcome with emotion, the bride had tears of joy in her eyes as she prepared to walk down the aisle to marry the love of her life. The dinner under the trees featured a hilarious best man speech, before dancing commenced on the veranda. The bride and groom shared a last dance in a cloud of bubbles before departing on a water taxi send off at the end of the evening.
The happy couple celebrating being pronounced husband and wife
Guys wore classic black suits with blush rose and peony boutonnieres
The bride carried a bouquet of blush and ivory peonies accented with a vintage brooch
A vintage locket displayed a photo of the bride's late grandparents, who shared their wedding date
Bridesmaids wore mismatched cocktail dresses from J Crew in a soft shade of taupe
The al fresco reception was set under a canopy of oak trees with suspended lanterns in the branches
Escort cards were displayed in a vintage shutter draped with lace
The couple's Southern homestyle dinner menu was handwritten on a chalkboard and easel
A mason jar filled with DIY stir sticks accented the mojito signature drinks
Tables were dressed with neutral linens and delicate lace overlays
The wedding cake featured quilted fondant with pearl accents and blush spray roses
A water taxi whisked away the bride and groom at the end of the evening
Venue: Davis Islands Garden Club
Photography: Ashley Brooke Photography
DJ: Jam Entertainment
Catering: Catering by the Family
Cake:: Publix Greenwise
Florist: Arlene Floral Designer
Linens: Connie Duglin Linen
Transportation: Tampa Water Taxi