November 3, 2012 at Villa Siena welcomed Marissa and Justin for their wedding ceremony and reception. While much of the country was battling cold temperatures and snow, the sun was shining in Arizona and the couple was able to enjoy an outdoor wedding ceremony.
As the flames burned in the stone fireplace in the Piazza Toscana, flower arrangements were set upon the altar. Elegant stone vases with elaborate flower arrangements were set on either end of the shelf on the altar while candles burned and a smaller floral arrangement was placed in the center.
While guests were being seated, the bride was putting the final touches on her ensemble. Marissa wore a perfectly fitted beaded strapless gown. The detailing came to her hips, where a satin skirt flowed out and was swept up to the side. A ribbon around the waist added a pretty detail. Diamond drop earrings and a bracelet accessorized the look. The bride wore her hair up, with a flower tucked behind her ear. Mauve floor-length dresses for the bridesmaids were the perfect compliment in color, not overshadowing the bride at all, yet still looking chic. The bouquets for the bride and bridesmaids were a combination of fuchsia, orange and yellow flowers.
Marissa was radiant as she walked down the white runner, edged with pink and yellow flower petals towards her groom, Justin. Justin was flanked by his groomsmen who wore black tuxedos, while the groom chose grey with a striped tie. After the bride, groom and bridal party had left the ceremony, the officiant took the time to offer some words of wisdom to the guests.
A string quartet played during the occasion. Guests entering the reception were greeted with a vase of flowers to honor Justin’s grandmother. After everyone was seated, the couple had their first dance to Michael Buble’s The Way You Look Tonight. The cake was four tiers of alternating mocha colored and dark chocolate colored frosting with cream accents and cream flowers. Crystals were sprinkled down the front of the cake. As guests enjoyed their meal, a video played of the bride and groom through the ages.
Congratulations Marissa and Justin. A beautiful day for a beautiful couple. May your life together be filled with joy.
Photography by: Karie Denny Photography