1. Real Weddings

Aisha & Quincy: A Formal Wedding in Los Angeles, CA

Aisha loves surprises -- including surprising others. So it was typical of Aisha that she decided to hand out small presents to her beau Quincy for a

Aisha loves surprises -- including surprising others. So it was typical of Aisha that she decided to hand out small presents to her beau Quincy for a number of days before his birthday. Little did she know that this time, the surprise would eventually be on her. THE BRIDE Aisha Andrews THE GROOM Quincy Smith THE DATE July 28 We were on top of the Empire State Building in New York City celebrating Quincy's birthday, Aisha remembers. That's when Quincy asked me if I had anymore presents for him. After Aisha hinted that she might have something waiting at home, Quincy declared that he knew exactly what he wanted. I remember thinking 'What in the world could he want?' says Aisha. To her astonishment, Quincy pulled out a garnet-colored box that held a diamond solitaire ring and replied, I want you to be my wife!

The Couple
Copper-colored urns filled with luscious orange and rust-hued roses dressed the tables as guests dined on coconut shrimp and herb-grilled chicken. A sumptuous four-tiered wedding cake adorned with jewel-toned blooms became the evening's sweetest centerpiece. I'd seen that cake in a magazine before I was even engaged, says Aisha. I always knew I had to have that cake! The layers included white cake filled with fresh berries, and chocolate cake filled with dark chocolate mousse, all covered in fondant.
Aisha's nine bridesmaids each wore a unique, champagne-colored gown from Janet Domino Couture.
Los Angeles' gothic-style First Congregational Church was the dramatic setting for the ceremony. The venue features powerful arched doorways and luminescent stained glass that made you feel as though you were in Europe, according to the bride. Just minutes before the ceremony began, Aisha was informed that the minister had not arrived. Luckily, her mother's pastor happened to be attending as a guest, and happily filled in. The amazing thing is that my mother had a dream the night before the wedding that her pastor married us, recalls Aisha. It was just meant to be. Instead of waiting at the altar for the ceremony to begin, the groom chose to join the processional and accompany his mother down the aisle, after which a bridal party of eighteen friends and family members followed. Friends Portia and Danielle performed songs by Celine Dion and Whitney Houston, while another friend, Marsha, recited a heartfelt poem.
The First Dance
Afterward, guests filled the opulent Park Plaza Hotel's ballroom for an exuberant celebration. The groom, schooled in architecture, instantly fell in love with the ballroom the first time he saw it. Quincy really appreciates a building with character, explains Aisha. Polished wood floors, detailed archways, and dim lighting created a romantic atmosphere, highlighted by a dramatically lit bar.
The Flower Girl