Brookshire Gardens Wedding

Kimberly and David’s California wedding is straight out of a retro dream: a short flirty dress from Ellana Couture, floral arrangements by friends and family, and images from Jaquilyn Shumate which capture everything to perfection. Peeping through these images was like stepping into a fifties fantasy world, so let’s get started on the journey, shall we?

From the bride, Kimberly: The feeling we went for was a 1950’s garden party full of personal touches that spoke to our style and passions. We aren’t super formal or fancy so it was important that our day reflected our comfortable and easy-going style.

Devin and I love to spend our free time treasure hunting at thrift shops and yard sales for antiques so it was perfect that our wedding was full of vintage goodness. We both adore all shades of teal, aqua, turquoise, and mint so any of these colors were approved. I love the way red and coral compliment these so we incorporated splashes of both as well. For months I scoured thrift stores, garage, and estate sales hunting down vintage milk glass and bottles for table decor. Etsy and Ebay were my best friends in finding the vintage 1950’s table cloths and antique camera’s. I am a photography junkie so I loved that the cameras spoke to this.

In order to stay on budget we did quite a few DIY projects: We painted furniture found at estate sales (and behind a dumpster believe it or not) that were used for our sign in tables. We caulked vintage milk glass plates to candle sticks for cake plates for our sweets table. We cut fabric into strips and tied them together to make a garland backdrop, then also attached them to lathe which was then attached to an existing arbor for the dance floor canopy. I made the boutonnieres for the groom and groomsmen out of ribbon glued to lapel pins of vintage cars and a Winnebago for my groom. I used my photo shop skills to make our table numbers, programs, various signs around the event, even our cake topper.

Any advice for brides planning their weddings now? If something becomes too stressful or difficult, don’t be afraid to chuck the idea. In the end no one else will know what details didn’t make it. If your family and friends want to help, let them. You will not only appreciate having less on your plate but the day is that much more meaningful for everyone when loving hands have pitched in to make it all happen. Most important force yourself to take a moment or two to just soak it all in. The big day will fly by and if you don’t make yourself savor a few special moments it will be a blur. Thank God for great wedding photographers!

Wedding Music:
Bridal Processional: “Close to You,” The Carpeneters
Recessional: “Happiness,” David Crowder Band
First Dance: “That’s How Strong My Love Is,” Otis Redding

Wedding Location: El Dorado, CA / Wedding Photographer: Jaquilyn Shumate / Ceremony Venue: El Dorado Community Church / Reception Venue: Brookshire Gardens / Wedding Flowers: Bride’s friends and family / Wedding Dress and Veil: Ellana Couture / Wedding Shoes: Shoes of Prey / Bride’s Earrings: Iloniti / Wedding Caterer: Bocca Catering / Wedding Invitations: Three Eggs Design