April 14, 2012 found Villa Siena’s doors open for Rick and Stephanie’s wedding reception. For their first dance, they chose the song I Thought I Loved You Then, by Brad Paisley. The lyrics include the line taking you back to where I first met you and was apropos for the one of the most unique features of the couple’s wedding. The couple metaphorically took their guests back to where they first met by having beer toasts instead of champagne toasts. Each guest was given a pilsner glass filled with beer from California. When the couple first tried that beer years ago, they swore, “When we get married, this is what we will serve.” At the reception over 20 different types of beer were served, including a few home brews. The reception wasn’t just a celebration for tickling the palate with amber ales and dark stouts; it was a celebration of love. Stephanie wore a fitted strapless gown and a heart-warming smile. She chose a low veil with a feather fascinator. Her bouquet had a unique touch by incorporating a few aeoniums, a type of cactus, in it as a way of bringing in native flora. The bouquet reflected the color scheme for the reception with violet, lavender, red, orange and green flowers and plants. The groom was looking dapper in a black tuxedo with white tie and white vest and a violet boutonniere that matched the bridesmaids single strap violet gowns. Guests were transported to and from the reception in trolleys. The love and smiles were everywhere during the day and especially during the speeches when Stephanie was caught lighting up the room with her laughter. As the couple and the wedding party posed for their photo shoot there was tons of jesting. The energy of the crowd filled the day and later on the dance floor. Tall wedding centerpieces cast warm candlelight down on the tables. The cake was three flavors, a different flavor for each tier with delicate violet detailing uniting the tiers. Fresh red roses, orange tulips and a splash of violet for contrast were used to accent the cake. Dancing filled the night until guests were ready to depart with their party favors; a brandy snifter with an engraved ‘B’ on them. Thank you for celebrating your wedding day with us. We wish you the best for all the years to come.
Photography by: Jason Hicks Photography