1. Real Weddings

A Formal Wedding in St. Augustine, FL

Thanks to a last-minute schedule change, Ashley ended up in the same psychology class as Brandon. One day after class, they ended up chatting—for five

Thanks to a last-minute schedule change, Ashley ended up in the same psychology class as Brandon. One day after class, they ended up chatting—for five hours! More than two years later, Brandon took Ashley to her favorite restaurant and then they went back to her apartment to watch movies. Out of nowhere, Brandon placed a box in Ashley’s hand, but it wasn’t until she saw the ring inside that she realized he was proposing! The Bride Ashley Williams, 26, graphic designer The Groom Brandon Shafter, 26, in IT The Date January 3 Once they graduated from college, the couple backpacked through Europe for three months. When they returned, they dove into wedding planning. Finally, after several date changes and a four-and-a-half-year-long engagement, the couple chose to marry in old St. Augustine for its colorful history and romantic atmosphere. A signature color of light pink worked well in the charming setting.

Water bottles wrapped in personalized labels were placed on top of the ceremony programs, which explained the centuries-long history of the venue.
Lilac Wedding Shoes
The pink cymbidium orchid on Brandon’s lapel coordinated with his bride’s bouquet and provided a splash of color next to his ivory vest and tie.
Pink Menu Cards
White fabric was draped over the couple to mimic the look of an arch. Pink hydrangeas and tables with votive candles and Moroccan lanterns added extra decoration.
Moroccan Lantern Centerpieces
Ashley chose a vintage-inspired, modified mermaid–style gown with an overlay of beaded lace. Her custom, cathedral-length veil upped the elegance of her look.
Instead of a traditional white cake, the couple chose a dessert covered with chocolate ganache. A henna-inspired design in white icing and small clusters of roses gave the cake its romantic look.
Light-pink and ivory roses created a feminine look. A few pink cymbidium orchids were mixed in for extra texture.