A Chic, Natural Wedding with Whimsical Flair at The Cooper Estate in Homestead, Florida

Inspired by their faith and nature, Kathleen Cardenas (24 and a production coordinator) and David Ajo (25 and an insurance agent) included plenty of greenery and plant life throughout the estate, including bringing the outside in to their reception.

Kathleen and David exchanged vows atop a bed of white flower petals in the estate’s grotto surrounded by palm trees and waterfalls. “We both enjoy nature, because it reveals the beauty of God’s creation,” Kathleen says. “It was extremely important to us that God’s presence be felt at our wedding.”

Succulents, black-berried privet, seeded eucalyptus and ranunculus made up the bride’s bouquet.

Nature made its way indoors for the reception. Centerpieces of manzanita trees, Spanish moss and succulents were arranged by the bride’s mom. She also hung 60 clear, glass ornaments with candles to create a romantic aura, while engagement pictures printed on wood served as table numbers.

“I wear boots all year-round, so it was only fitting that I wore boots on my wedding day,” Kathleen says.

A beautiful glow came from the numerous candles illuminating the reception tables, but dessert also made the guests light up. “Our cake was a mouthwatering lemon and rum flavor,” Kathleen says of the wood-inspired fondant confection. “It fit just right with our nature-themed wedding.”

Guests created an arch of sparklers as the newlyweds made their way to an antique Bentley for their grand exit.