Christopher and Paiton's Wedding in North Miami Beach, Florida

Total guest count was 75 people, which included the bride and groom's closest family and friends. Guests traveled from 16 different states across the country to join in and celebrate the marriage of Paiton and C.J. The couple opted out of a bridal party other than the bride's 16-month-old twin nephew (ring bearer) and niece (flower girl), which was the most adorable duo.

The bride's father had passed away, so in place of his physical presence, Paiton replaced the face of a pocket-watch he used to carry with her favorite photo of him and some of his ashes. Her mother walked her down the aisle and had the first dance with her as well. Following the ceremony, a ladybug appeared magically on the bridal bouquet, which is a symbol of good fortune and prosperity.

The couple hired a string trio for the ceremony, which consisted of a harp, cello, and violin. To elevate the ceremony even to the next level, they hired an Italian opera singer to perform the bride's favorite song live, accompanied by the string trio, for the bridal processional, "Gira Con Me" - we’re pretty positive everyone had a tear in their eye! The singer also sang their first dance live, “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, which the couple had choreographed and taken ballroom dance lessons in preparation. A live cover band performed for the reception, which certainly brought the energy and had the guests on the dance floor all night!

Instead of boring, typical wedding food, the couple wanted to incorporate their favorite foods as a couple for the menu. Cocktail hour consisted of a grazing table with 4 passed hors d'oeuvres: grilled cheese & tomato soup shots, fried mac & cheese balls, gourmet mini pizzas, and soft pretzels & nacho cheese. There also was a chamboard champagne cocktail wall with acrylic escort drink stirrers to show guests their seating assignments. Salad was skipped and the entree options were chicken & waffles, penne alla vodka, or burger & fries -- YUM! To amplify the dining experience, there was also a station-style dessert room with a barista & coffee cart, donut wall with cookies & milk cart, build-your-own crêpe station, and chocolate fountain in addition to their 6-tiered funfetti with buttercream wedding cake. Drinks were poured all night featuring an open bar with extensive menu including 6 wine selections (2 reds, 2 pinks, & 2 whites). Great times were had and memories to last a lifetime.