June 5, 2020

Katie & Bryan came from neighboring towns in Long Island, New York. But who would’ve thought they would find each other at the University of Central Florida? Katie & Bryan met during their sophomore year of college and once they found out they were both from the same hometown, they instantly became friends.

These two “friends” always felt that one day their friendship would evolve into something more. They made it official their senior year of college and just 6 adventure-filled years later they held their wedding with help from their adorable Corgi, Arnold.

I had the pleasure of meeting with Katie & Bryan back in December of 2019 to have our final details meeting. These meetings might just be my favorite part of being a Planner. It’s always a delight when we get to go through all the booked wedding vendors, and this is my chance to talk to the couple, see the excitement on their faces, and hear all about their dream day! Katie & Bryan had an impeccable vision for their big day at the Bella Collina in Montverde, Florida. Their magical wedding featured Italian influences, an elegant style with an abundance of floral from the Chuppah to the reception centerpieces which was all planned to take place outdoors on the Bella Collina Event Lawn.

Anyone who has visited or lived in Florida knows the weather here has a mind of its own, and it changes day by day. A few days prior to the wedding a surprise cold front was coming through, with a low 40°f forecast we had to make the decision to call the wedding inside. As a bride, you have dreamed of this day since you were a little girl and as plans start to come together you visualize what you want… and that doesn’t usually include your backup plan.

We began looking at interior options. The Mother of the Bride, the perfect creative and hands-on partner, met with me the week of the wedding and we added flowing drapes, accent lighting, additional floral, and rentals to spruce up the Ballroom!

It was a touching scene as Katie got ready with her Mom and bridesmaids close-by, all in matching robes. With the help of her bride tribe, Katie slipped into her gown and looked like a true princess!

One of my favorite moments on a wedding day is when the bride and groom see the reception space for the first time. We call this the “room reveal.” This time it was truly special because a reception space that wasn’t even considered was transformed into an elegant dream come true.

Reception tables embraced with rose embellished garlands. White chiavari chairs were paired with white linen-covered tables and a sheer blush table runner. The tables featured candlelit cylinder centerpieces and gold-rimmed chargers.

At each place setting, guests were offered a menu card, and to add to Bella Collina’s Italian influence, there was a champagne wall for guests to help themselves.

The sweetheart table was unforgettable. Featuring a farm wood table, dusty rose chairs, and a backdrop of greenery draped with white wisteria and hanging candle globes. To say it was magical is an absolute understatement.

Don’t be afraid to “fall in love with your backup plan”, for it may surprise you and be even better than the dream you had been planning all along. Katie and Brian left their big day in the hands of their vendors, their Planner, and the Mother of the Bride. Together, with a stunning venue, beautiful florals, and spectacular attention to every detail their wedding was an enchanting fairytale from start to finish.