A Fun Beach-Inspired Wedding at The Lodge and Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida

Although Mary Morgan Head (25 and in real estate) and Philip Downs (25 and in business) became engaged after they graduated college and had a two year long engagement, the couple planned their beach-inspired wedding in just seven weeks! “While it was really busy, it was the way to go. We knew we wanted to get married at the beach the week between Christmas and New Years,” says Mary Morgan. The couple chose a neutral and navy color palette to complement the holiday season. “The venue was decorated for Christmas so we saved some money on decorations! It ended up being perfect!” says Mary Morgan. Mary Morgan and Philip had a first look by the beach before the rain caused their outdoor ceremony to be moved inside. Baby’s breath in tall silver urns were placed at the front of the ceremony as clear glass vases filled with white candles, pearls and beads lined the aisle. After Mary Morgan and Philip said “I do,” the couple had an indoor reception followed by an outdoor cocktail hour. Guests found their escort cards on a simple white display framed with pearls before entering the reception. Each navy linen-covered round table was accented with floating tea light candles, low white hydrangea centerpieces and simple black and white table numbers in fun beaded frames. Mary Morgan and Philip’s friend, a guitarist, entertained their 65 guests. “He turned into the impromptu DJ at the reception,” she says. The couple treated their friends and family members to an intimate dinner, hors d'oeuvres and a two-tier white wedding cake accented with fresh roses before each guest left with a glitter-accented champagne wedding favor. For a personal touch, the couple attached individual thank you notes to each mini bottle.